The Bahamian government has inked a heads of agreement for the $100 million first-phase redevelopment of the former Sandals Emerald Bay into Sandals Beaches Exuma. This ambitious project is set to create 450 jobs during construction and over 900 permanent positions once the resort is fully operational. The redevelopment will enhance room occupancy from two to 4.2 people per room, catering to a broader demographic. Sandals executive chairman Adam Stewart revealed that extensive deliberations took place regarding whether the property should adopt the adults-only Sandals brand or the family-oriented Beaches brand. Initially, the Beaches brand was favored, but Sandals’ superior marketing influence at the time led to the resort’s launch as Sandals Emerald Bay in February 2010. Stewart assured Bahamians that the new venture would be a remarkable investment, promising a water park, pickleball, archery fields, and a fully operational Greg Norman golf course. The resort will also feature ten new restaurant concepts and a 15,000 sq ft banqueting and events conference center. The project is slated to go to tender in the first quarter of 2026, with construction expected to commence shortly thereafter, aiming for completion by the end of 2027. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis highlighted the resort’s transformation into a family-focused destination, projecting it to support over 1,500 jobs annually and attract tens of thousands of visitors, thereby bolstering Exuma’s economy. Sandals Beaches has partnered with L.N. Coakley High School to offer 25 paid apprenticeships and an exchange initiative for Bahamians to receive training at Sandals resorts across the Caribbean. Tourism Minister and Exuma MP Chester Cooper emphasized Sandals’ pivotal role as the island’s tourism anchor and largest employer, noting that the first phase includes over 100 staff accommodations to address housing issues. The government is also planning new housing developments in Georgetown, further alleviating housing shortages across the islands. Next year marks the 30th anniversary of Sandals Royal Bahamian, which has experienced a phenomenal year, with customers from Emerald Bay exploring other Sandals locations across the Caribbean.
Sandals to convert Emerald Bay into Beaches resort in $100m redevelopment deal
