In 2026, The Caribbean is continuing to be defined by intentional expansion, low-density luxury, and experience-driven development. Across the region, resorts are debuting marina and boating infrastructure, branded residences continue to see strong demand, and destinations like Eleuthera are gaining traction as alternatives to more saturated hubs like Nassau. Below is a snapshot of noteworthy updates shaping the Caribbean’s next chapter and a few story angles for consideration.
News and updates:
- The Strand | Providenciales, Turks & Caicos – Ranked the Caribbean’s top luxury market, TCI saw a 33% spike in $/sq. ft. since 2019 (now $1,280, Savills). The Strand, Turks and Caicos opened in late 2024 and is currently over 80% sold out. After recently celebrating its one-year anniversary, The Strand Turks & Caicos debuted a new private marina and its third and final accommodations building.
What’s Happening
- Luxury Beneath the Surface | Select destinations across the Caribbean offer immersive cave and underwater exploration, including Punta Mita’s hidden beach caves and Jack’s Bay’s limestone cave and blue hole systems in South Eleuthera
- Turks and Caicos Luxury Real Estate Market | Turks and Caicos has become the Caribbean’s most expensive luxury-home market, fueled by strong demand for beachfront properties and new high-end developments
- Properties Protecting Local Habitats | Luxury residential communities across the Caribbean are increasingly prioritizing conservation initiatives that protect ecosystems and promote regenerative development.
Jack’s Bay | Eleuthera, Bahamas
South Eleuthera is gaining momentum within The Bahamas, led by the evolution of Jack’s Bay, a 1,200-acre private club and residential community spanning four miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline. Newcomers are looking forward to the unveiling of the Atlantic Clubhouse, Spa Village, The Pink House beach shack, and a collection of design-forward cottages, alongside a limited rental program offering select guest access. The Tiger Woods-designed short course is now open, with the Jack Nicklaus Heritage 18-hole course partially debuting in Winter 2026. Surrounded by blue holes, coral reefs, hidden caves, and protected natural habitats, and Jack’s Bay reflects Eleuthera’s growing appeal as a refined, low-density Caribbean destination.,
Buoy Haus Beach Resort | St. Thomas
Set along the turquoise shores of Morningstar Bay, Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas offers a boutique barefoot luxury escape with passport-free access for U.S. travelers. The resort’s recently debuted Salt Shack features wood-fired, seafood-forward cuisine and curated daily entertainment, creating a lively social hub on property. At Buoy Haus, guests can enjoy direct beach access, an oceanfront pool with cabanas, wellness programming, locally inspired culinary experiences, and access to water activities including paddleboarding, snorkeling, and sailing excursions. Timed to the upcoming St. Thomas Carnival, taking place April 26 to May 2, guests are perfectly positioned to experience waterfront J’ouvert celebrations, colorful parades, live calypso and reggae, and the island’s vibrant Carnival Village, while returning to direct beach access, sweeping views of Charlotte Amalie Harbor, and full privileges at the neighboring The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa, including the 10,200-square-foot Heavenly Spa.
The Strand Turks and Caicos | Providenciales
After recently celebrating its one-year anniversary, The Strand Turks & Caicos debuted a new private marina, elevating Providenciales’ boating experience with eight slips currently available and 24 additional slips opening next year, including two reserved exclusively for guests. Visitors can explore the surrounding turquoise waters aboard The Strand’s Boston Whaler with private snorkeling excursions, luxury boat trips to the Caicos Cays, Catch & Cook experiences, and sunset cruises. Outside boaters may also dock and dine at The DelMar Restaurant, making The Strand one of only two resorts on the island to offer this amenity. Set along 2,230 feet of secluded coastline on Cooper Jack Bay, the resort features ocean-facing suites, multi-bedroom villas, and private residences designed for privacy, sustainability, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Caye Chapel Private Estates | Caye Chapel, Belize
Caye Chapel is a 280-acre private island club community off the coast of Belize and home to the forthcoming Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel. Following unprecedented demand for Caye Chapel’s first collection of Four Seasons branded residences, the landmark development recently introduced a second collection of luxury beachfront homes, The Private Estates. Designed by Rodrigo Vargas Design with fully turn-key interiors by Beatriz Peschard Arquitectura and Meyer Davis, the two-story Private Estates are positioned along the island’s coveted eastern coastline, offering panoramic views of the Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve in three-, four-, and five-bedroom floor plans. Owners of the Private Estates will gain access to exclusive, member-only amenities offered at the Caye Chapel Golf & Ocean Club, which is anchored by a championship 10-hole golf course from Greg Norman, along with offerings at the Resort, including world-class water adventures, a cenote-inspired spa, and a collection of restaurants and bars, tennis courts, retail outlets, and the brand’s signature, Kid’s For All Seasons Club. Opening in 2027, Caye Chapel is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated island addresses in the world.
