Along the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula, Mexico, lies a hidden gem that redefines luxury living and adventure: Costa Palmas. 

Having recently visited Costa Palmas, I can attest to its unique blend of luxury, adventure, and exclusivity. The property’s vast stretch of swimmable beach is a rarity for the region; the integration of organic farms within the community adds a refreshing touch to the overall experience; a combination of leading hospitality brands delivers top-notch amenities; and with the recent addition of a marina, the development is now the exclusive harbor for superyachts in Los Cabos.

Redefining residential resort living

At the heart of Costa Palmas are the residences. The community boasts prestigious names such as the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Los Cabos and Amanvari Resort and Residences, along with the bespoke Costa Palmas–branded residential and hospitality offering Casa Blake, set in its Marina Village.

Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas offers an ultra-luxury experience in Baja’s undiscovered East Cape. Designed by Brooklyn-based Guerin Glass Architects, this resort features 118 guest rooms and 23 suites spread across a low-density layout, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. Since its opening in October 2019, the resort has set a new standard for luxury with amenities like multiple pools, five unique dining outlets, a full-service spa, and a comprehensive fitness center. The residential offerings, ranging from turnkey residences to custom-designed villas, provide owners with unparalleled access to the resort’s services and amenities, encapsulating the essence of sophisticated comfort and elemental luxury.

Amanvari Resort and Residences is a serene escape between the mountains and the sea, offering a peaceful oasis. With 25 bi-level hotel pavilions, Amanvari blends space, luxury, and design seamlessly, surrounded by nature’s beauty. The resort’s main pavilion is the heart of Amanvari, housing three restaurants, a library, a lounge, and a striking infinity pool. The Aman Residences offer a permanent slice of this paradise, with options ranging from beachfront to golf lots, designed to meld into the landscape with expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces. 

Aman Residences epitomize an unmatched standard of architectural design, offering a complete immersion in the Aman lifestyle. Each residence serves as a gateway to exploring the world while providing a personal sanctuary for moments of tranquility.

These residences redefine luxury living, with from two to eight bedrooms and ranging from 13,000 to 20,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor living space. Currently undergoing construction, the resort and residences promise a haven of privacy and relaxation.

Casa Blake the latest addition to Costa Palmas, is a curated lifestyle destination inspired by the refined luxury synonymous with the community. This marina-side haven offers residential and hospitality options, from water-view studios to three-bedroom residences. Casa Blake is a vibrant spot within the Marina Village, featuring a lively pool and bar, a secluded garden oasis, and dining options that capture the essence of seaside living. Ownership at Casa Blake comes with the privilege of joining the exclusive Costa Palmas Club, enhancing the lifestyle with access to the East Beach Club and sports center.

World-class yachting destination

Inspired by the elegance of Europe’s most distinguished yachting destinations, the Costa Palmas Marina is the first private marina under the Four Seasons and Aman brands and the exclusive harbor for superyachts in Los Cabos. This 250-slip port will soon be able to accommodate yachts up to 300 feet, complemented by the vibrant Marina Village, a focal point of the locale and a standout feature among renowned marina destinations.

Strolling through the vibrant Marina Village, I was captivated by the elegance and sophistication reminiscent of Europe’s distinguished yachting destinations—from the Martin Brudnizki-designed nightclub Chiki to Michelin-starred Nancy Silverton’s Mozza Baja at Costa Palmas to the forthcoming French-themed bistro La Plage envisioned by Fabien Cerato. 

Adventure meets luxury

Costa Palmas perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Residents and guests enjoy a variety of excursions and experiences—from sunset cruises and snorkeling to pickleball and tennis. 

I opted for a tequila tasting session led by the in-house agave master, a guided hike to the nearby flat rocks with awe-inspiring views of the East Cape, and an exhilarating ATV ride through the property’s dunes. 

If golf is more your speed, the Costa Palmas Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, offers an 18-hole journey through diverse landscapes, from sea dunes to farmlands against the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains backdrop. It’s a golf experience that’s both scenic and challenging.

Resort living redefined

Costa Palmas is not just a destination: It’s a lifestyle, thoughtfully and sensitively designed to embrace the elemental beauty of its surroundings. Whether it’s the sophisticated residences, the allure of the marina, the tranquility of Amanvari, or the vibrant lifestyle at Casa Blake, Costa Palmas is not just setting a new standard for resort living: It’s redefining it.

For more information, visit costapalmas.com

A stunning resort on an island that once was the hideaway of notorious pirate Black Sam Bellamy has come on the market for $50 million, perfect for an upscale commercial hospitality operation or a sprawling and elite family compound.

Known today as Black’s Island, the seven-acre property, ringed with white sand beaches, sits just miles off the coast of the Florida panhandle. Accessible only by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, the island is a secluded escape. It is occupied by a four-star resort including 26 recently remodeled waterfront bungalows, each with two or three bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, living room, dining room, and laundry room. The round bungalows sport balconies allowing visitors to take in 360-degree views of the palm-dotted island, the luminous waves, and vibrant sunrises and sunsets.

Beyond the individual accommodations, the resort includes everything guests need for a relaxed and luxurious getaway. A four-story clubhouse includes a bar, dining areas, game room, and lounge. Outdoors, guests can enjoy the playing some cornhole in the game area, picnicking on the spacious green lawn, floating in the 40-fott-by-16-foot pool, or relaxing on the surrounding sundecks, in the dappled shade of the palm trees. Kayaking, paddle-boarding, beach volleyball, and a water trampoline all add to the fun.

The island was once the territory of famous and feared pirate Samuel Bellamy, known as Black Sam. The richest pirate in recorded history, Black Sam was often seen as a Robin Hood figure, stealing from rich shipowners and sharing the booty with his fiercely loyal crew of some 200 men, all of whom had a vote in how the ship was run. Bellamy commanded a flotilla, including the Whydah, a former slave ship captured by the pirates after its first two voyages. After only a few months as a pirate ship the vessel went down in a storm off Cape Cod in 1717, taking its notorious captain and most of the crew with it.

Today, the island that was once a pirate’s refuge can be your escape as well. For more details and photos, visit the original listing at Jon Kohler & Associates.

Photographs courtesy of toptenrealestatedeals.com.

When a puffball cloud hovers above the terracotta roof, with a blue sky above and a luxuriously tranquil swimming pool below, a sun-starved Northerner knows she has found her slice of heaven on earth.

Everything is a sensory experience at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, a Forbes Five-Star property located on the barrier island of Manalapan, Florida. From entering the resort, where guests are enfolded in dreamy interiors and fragrant fresh flowers, to the spa, where an expert massage therapist’s hands knead away post-flight stress, we are encouraged to revel in a decadent “self-centered” stay. Eventually thoughts center on dinner to come: perhaps a plate of expertly prepared local fish and fresh greens, served with a glass of good, cold white wine.

From the start, your only task at Eau Palm Beach is to drop your bags, clear your mind, and start building fresh, happy memories. Service is abundant, skilled, and delivered in a warm, welcoming manner.

It’s no wonder that many of Eau Palm Beach’s guests return year after year. A group of young women in the spa, wrapped in white robes and sipping champagne, were there for a bridal party. A mother and daughter had traveled from New Jersey to relax and catch up, as they do every year.

We’re all here to rejuvenate and refresh; but the way to that special state of well-being is very individual.

At Eau Palm Beach, with tennis courts, a gym (with chef-made cupcakes!) and equipment for paddleboarding, surfing, and snorkeling – plus two large 86-degree swimming pools – visitors can be as active as they choose.

Quieter pursuits are a joy: admiring the color-splashed flower gardens, gazing at a formation of pelicans overhead, relaxing with a book in your Jonathan Adler-designed suite (the fabrics are exquisite), or simply lounging in an oceanfront cabana to watch the waves.

Guests seeking a truly personalized experience may visit the Eau Club, on the fourth floor, accessible by special arrangement.

Eau Spa – measuring 42,000 square feet and one of just 51 Forbes Five-Star spas in the country – is a destination in itself for many guests, with enough treatments and experiences to return again and again. In the women’s spa, water is the center of the experience, with a sauna, a whirlpool bath surrounded by heated stone loungers, and a steam room with personalized body polishes. (Men have their own spa.)

The women’s spa is anchored by a palm-lined courtyard, with pools, fountains, and the soothing soft sounds of lapping water. It is best experienced at leisure, perhaps with a glass of champagne, offered upon arrival at the spa, or a bite of food from Savor, the spa’s cafe.  

Spa treatments begin with a personalizing session: You choose your scent, color, and music, depending on your mood. Beyond spa treatments are places to embrace the moment, including a delightful pool with swing chairs that let your feet move lazily through a shallow pool.

Eau Palm Beach is large enough to accommodate singles, couples, and families in their own environments. Children have their own pool at the Teens & Kids Club. Now and then, a guest is walking the halls with a dog in arms, obviously a bone fide family member; dogs are welcome here with no additional charge. (Eau Palm Beach supports the nearby Big Dog Ranch Rescue, as well as Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Jupiter.)

If the inward traveler urges you to see a bit more of the Palm Beach area, plentiful cultural and culinary adventures await you, all within a 30-minute drive from Eau Palm Beach. The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum stands as an opulent gesture to the Gilded Age, a 75-room mansion called Whitehall, which – along with Flager’s extension of the railroad to Palm Beach – ushered in Palm Beach as a winter getaway for high society in the early 1900s. If you’re hungry, you’re in luck. Shortly down Cocoanut Row is Café Boulud, a haven of fine French food in plush, art-filled surroundings.

Shoulder-to-shoulder with Palm Beach Island is The Palm Beaches, a collection of communities that shine in their own way with museums, gardens, and good food. The Norton Museum in West Palm Beach offers a collection of beautifully curated art, including an outdoor sculpture garden. Also in West Palm Beach is Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County, a hidden gem with 25 display gardens and more than 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants.

Back at Eau Palm Beach, it’s almost time for dinner, and we mull the menus from six unique restaurants, each with excellent food and always-attentive service. At your dinner table, the pristine attention to detail may relax you as much as did your spa visit. Eau Palm Beach staff are plentiful and always helpful, kind, and filled with good suggestions. All you have to do is ask. As an Eau Palm Beach staff member said, “It really is all about you.”

eaupalmbeach.com

We’ve rounded up the latest in oceanfront residences and resorts.

HAVN Residences & Yacht Club, Palm Beach Shores, Florida

HAVN Residences & Yacht Club is a collection of five, three-story revitalized waterfront buildings set along the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach Shores. Comprised of 36 residences, HAVN offers two- and three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 1,823 to 2,662 square feet. Each unit will be finished by interior design firm Shim Projects. Residents will have access to a 52-slip marina managed by F3 Marina, swimming pool, hot tub, fire pit, and fitness center. Pricing starts at $2 million with anticipated deliveries beginning mid-2024. havnresidences.com

The Strand, Turks & Caicos, Caribbean

The Strand, a private residential community located on Cooper Jack Bay, Turks & Caicos, recently introduced a new home design, the four-bedroom signature residences. Starting at $6.5 million, the signature residences include four single-family homes with four bedrooms, a fifth flex space, bonus office, courtyard with an outdoor kitchen, and terrace overlooking a private infinity pool. Additional homes are available at The Strand, ranging from two to six bedrooms, including two-bedroom villas starting at $2.525 million, three-bedroom villas starting at $3.3 million, and grand residences starting at $10.5 million. The Strand is on track for a fall 2024 debut. thestrandtci.com

Baccarat Residences, Miami, Florida

The Baccarat Residences is the brand’s first collection of residences to the Miami market developed by Related Group and GTIS Partners with interior design by Meyer Davis and Architecture by Arquitectonica. Part of SH Hotels & Resorts. Located in Brickell, the property will have 324 flow-through residences, eight penthouses, and twenty-eight waterfront flats. Residents will enjoy over 75,000 square feet of five-star amenities throughout five levels of the 75-story tower, including exquisitely appointed social spaces, a fitness center, La Mer spa facilities, and a private marina. Prices run from $3.425 to $21.7 million. The expected completion of the property, part of SH Hotels & Resorts, is 2028. baccaratresidencesmiami.com

The Abaco Club, Great Abaco Island, Bahamas

The Abaco Club, situated on Winding Bay, is adding The Cays, a new beachfront neighborhood consisting of 36 villa residences. Developed and managed by Southworth, the private Bahamian club’s master plan expansion also includes the Winding Bay Beach Club, which-will offer a resort-style infinity-edge pool, beach bar, and retail outlets, the renovation of existing dining venues, and the multi-phase development of an enhanced amenity corridor. 

Members of The Abaco Club enjoy annual events including wellness retreats, golf and fishing tournaments, and culinary celebrations like the Lobsterfest Food & Wine Festival, while families can partake in extensive kids programming such as “mini members” councils, themed parties and sports activations. The club’s ongoing expansion exemplifies Southworth’s “programming first” mentality, prioritizing extraordinary experiences to foster a genuine community and ultimately reimagine the private club experience. 

Phase one of The Cays will open this year; home prices range from $3.5 to $12 million. theabacoclub.com

St. Regis Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Located on the Punta Espada Golf Course, the Residences at the St. Regis Cap Cana, the first and only five-star branded real estate offering in Cap Cana, is set to be complete this year. The property will include 70 luxury residences, with a collection of eight penthouses. The Astor collection, some of the most expensive homes in the history of the Dominican Republic, includes the Astor Penthouse, the Caribbean Penthouse, and six Astor Penthouse Residences. These Astor units, all three- to seven-bedroom homes, range in price from $7.6 to $25 million. srresidencescapcana.com

Amanyara Turks and Caicos has reopened after a seasonal closure, unveiling a complete refurbishment of its communal spaces and select private villas, reinvigorating the lush, secluded oasis. From the dramatic welcome of the entrance pavilion to new culinary offerings and more ways to enjoy the stunning ocean views, no detail has been overlooked.

Set on the shores of a 7,200-hectare nature reserve on the island of Providenciales, Amanyara reopens this season reinvigorated by its collaboration with Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston Architects.

Amanyara includes 20 Villas tucked along the coast or situated slightly inland overlooking tranquil ponds, affording maximum space and the utmost seclusion and privacy, coupled with access to the resort’s luxurious amenities. All include a dedicated host, and the three- to six-bedroom villas come with the services of a private chef.

Fantastic first impressions

The resort’s newly refreshed Entrance Pavilion has been transformed by renowned landscape architect, Raymond Jungles. To make the most impactful first impression, Jungles elevated the Entrance Pavilion, with large mahogany trees now framing the picturesque views across the central tranquility pond. Wooden backgammon and chess boards add opportunities for playful relaxation, amidst an open-plan layout reconfigured to allow for enhanced privacy and a restful atmosphere.

From the pavilion, a new path draws visitors in to the kitchen and a shaded, casual dining area. A full interior renovation in the main restaurant includes eye-catching art pieces and bespoke lighting design by international designer, The Flaming Beacon. New furniture completes the warm and welcoming ambience.

Culinary delights

Guests of all tastes will welcome the reinvigorated gastronomy concepts that offer the chance to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean alongside an array of other cuisines.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience down on the sand, the Beach Club has been upgraded, with multi-level decking shaded by new pergolas designed to maximize the panoramic views over the breathtaking natural scenery and turquoise waters. An expert mixologist is on hand to create traditional and bespoke cocktails using local and rare spirits, including the resort’s own barrel-aged selection. A new drinks menu, with after-dinner cocktails and specially crafted Amanyara aperitifs, provides the perfect evening delight.

Eager to serve guests, no matter their needs, Amanyara will cater to all dietary and lifestyle preferences, with the resort’s kitchens upgraded to incorporate a specially designed and dedicated space for preparing Kosher cuisine, using the freshest ingredients and produce, giving all guests the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of culinary delights. 

Private villas

Elsewhere, three of the resort’s luxury private Villas have undergone renovations. Located amidst the resort’s verdant gardens and serene ponds, the spacious, multi-bedroom villas offer seclusion in serene natural surroundings, with new facilities and outdoor living spaces perfect for lounging.

Nestled on a private lakefront position and offering the upmost privacy, Villa 14 has been fully refurbished, with the addition of a private pathway leading guests directly to a new yoga pavilion and an exclusively designed water feature flowing into the private tranquility pond.

The four-bedroom Villa 8 has been completely refurbished inside and out, taking inspiration from the distinct natural beauty of the lush, surrounding landscapes. The space includes high ceilings, wood paneling, and a curated collection of contemporary, eclectic, and textured furniture indoors and an expansive outdoor terrace space complete with infinity-edge swimming pool, large Jacuzzi, and fire pit. The meticulous lighting design imbues the architecture with a gentle and inviting warm glow.

Among Amanyara’s largest residences, the Artists Villa is perched on its very own stretch of white sand beach, with a five-bedroom villa situated among three acres of lush private gardens, with a 108-foot infinity swimming pool directly overlooking the sea. Complementing the expansive sundecks, multiple outdoor dining areas, and recording studio are a new private world-class wellness and fitness area, an expansive steam room, and a cold plunge pool, encouraging guests to feel refreshed and renewed during their stay and beyond.

Learn more or book a stay at aman.com/resorts/amanyara.

As my husband and I made our way along the wide stone path lined with lush ferns and approached the grand wooden doors that marked the stately entrance to Impression Moxché by Secrets, I knew we were in for a treat.

Indeed, as soon as we crossed the threshold into the modern and airy lobby with its marbled floor, natural stone accents, cozy seating area, full bar, and an array of beautifully presented snacks, sandwiches, and desserts available to guests all day long and into the evening, I turned to my husband and said, “We need to extend our stay by another night.”

Thankfully, the adults-only all-inclusive resort just a few miles north of downtown Playa del Carmen, Mexico, had room for us, and we had the flexibility to tack on one more night at this secluded beachfront haven that caters to couples.

While I’d highly recommend a week’s stay at the 198-suite property to fully decompress — not to mention sample all of the incredible restaurants available to Impression Moxché guests — my husband and I made the most of a three-night visit that featured plenty of relaxation, romance, and, atypical for us, late-night revelry.

Impression Moxché by Secrets opened in December 2022 as the sister property to the next-door 485-room Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, both part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection. Guests who upgrade to the smaller, quieter Impression Moxché building not only have access to exclusive restaurants and pools, but they can also dine and play anywhere on the collective Riviera Maya property.

The added services that come with a stay at Impression Moxché elevate the guest experience. We felt pampered by our assigned butlers, who kept us apprised of daily activities via WhatsApp messages every morning. Since we’d already been traveling for several nights before our arrival, we gladly handed over a bag of dirty laundry that was returned to us 24 hours later, clean and folded in a neatly wrapped package.

Our attentive butlers also made our spa reservations: Every Impression Moxché guest receives a complimentary 20-minute wellness experience. I opted for a quick foot massage and lamented not having paid for a longer treatment to make full use of the spa’s comprehensive outdoor hydrotherapy facilities and relaxation areas. (Next time!)

Our favorite place to spend the day was the Impression Moxché rooftop pool deck. Comfy cabanas with flowy drapes and plush lounge chairs under broad umbrellas flanked a long rectangular pool, while another infinity pool overlooked the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Accommodating staff served us gourmet burgers and tacos poolside, while other friendly folks stopped by to spritz us with cooling facial mist, clean our sunglasses, and whip up custom cocktails served in hollowed-out pineapples. The acoustic duo playing music at adjacent Cielo restaurant set a tranquil tone in this serene setting.

Another afternoon we lounged at the ground-level Impression Moxché main pool with its huge deck and still more spots for kicking back in cabanas and chaise lounges. Nearby Seaside Beach Club — with a small beach area and yet another pool — is one of the two restaurants exclusively available to Impression Moxché guests. A la carte breakfast here was stellar, with healthy options like açai bowls and veggie omelets. The roving pastry and doughnut cart was a huge hit, too. All food and drink are included here, so why not sample it all?

Impression Moxché guests would be remiss if they didn’t venture over to the Secrets Moxché property to experience its plethora of fine-dining restaurants, serving everything from French and Japanese to Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine. The core group of indoor-outdoor eateries are set next to each other facing a manmade swimming lagoon. At night, just off the sandy beach, food carts serving tacos al pastor and pop-up bars with aqua del dia (and cocktails) are set up for a street scene reminiscent of a traditional Mexican town plaza for grab-and-go quick fixes before or after dinner.

While all of the food we experienced at the two resorts was excellent, the most memorable was a small-group, 7-course tasting menu at Dos Almas, the Mexican restaurant. At bar seating, just five of us watched as our personal chef prepared three-bite tacos in homemade tortillas. Each was filled with delicious items like lobster, pork belly, and short ribs accompanied by traditional ingredients such as squash carpaccio, tamarind adobo, and pumpkin seeds. Each taco was paired with a sample of a beer, wine, cocktail, or non-alcoholic beverage. This premium experience is an additional cost outside of the food and drinks that come with the all-inclusive package.

Returning to our suite each night — slightly sun-kissed and with full bellies — was always a pleasure, as accommodations feature modern decor in beiges and browns, with plenty of earthy textures like rattan, jute, and natural wood. Though all suites are spacious, starting at 947 square feet, we felt especially spoiled in our Oceanfront Panoramic Suite with its corner location on the sixth floor. The wrap-around balcony offered expansive views of the ocean and the next-door resort grounds, as well as the Impression Moxché pool deck below.

It’s typical for all-inclusive resorts to have drinks and snacks available in each room’s minibar. But here, those in-room offerings are taken up a notch. In our full-sized fridge were natural fruit juices, still water, Coke, Diet Coke, and Dos Equis. Our wine fridge housed full bottles of red and white as well as a half-bottle of Moët & Chandon. When we got peckish, we nibbled on gourmet peanuts, crunchy corn, and gummy candy. A bottle of aged rum, sparkling water, and Nespresso coffee rounded out everything we could eat and drink in our room. While we naturally didn’t finish it all, it sure was nice to choose from all the options.

That’s the beauty of an all-inclusive vacation, especially one as comprehensive as the dual-property offerings here: Options abound. We chose to kick back by the exclusive Impression Moxché pools and generally keep to ourselves, but we could have sought more activity next door with Spanish classes, pool biking, and beach volleyball. Other lounging spots we might have checked out were sheltered swimming nooks designed to look like freeform cenotes.

All-inclusive resorts are also opportunities to try new things without dishing out extra money. One night after sunset, we slipped on silent-disco headphones dancing with other guests on the sand, grooving to our own beats and giggling a lot.

The live music offerings are great: Each night, a series of singers and bands performed chill background music at one of the centrally located outdoor restaurant venues, and one evening we listened to a moving candlelight string quartet concert at the spacious indoor theatre

Perhaps most entertaining was the on-property speakeasy. A working pharmacy by day and a hidden dance club by late night, Gypsy was packed with not only couples but also wedding parties, extended families, and multiple generations tearing it up on the dance floor that pulsed with loud music and never-ending light shows. In the upbeat atmosphere where drinks flowed, everyone seemed to have such fun — including me, who’s typically in bed by 9 p.m.

Unsurprisingly, we saw three wedding celebrations during our short stay at this luxe resort that’s popular among engaged couples who don’t mind excluding children from their guest list (recall, all Secrets properties are adults only). Similarly, Impression Moxché would make a splurge-worthy honeymoon, anniversary, or milestone birthday celebration destination.

Indeed, this secluded haven for grownups does not come with a low price tag. But for an ultra-indulgent getaway at a remarkable adults-only, all-inclusive resort on the Riviera Maya, Impression Moxché by Secrets is a stellar choice.

For more information visit Impression Moxché by Secrets.

As someone who has traveled the world visiting coastal resorts and residences, I am often asked how I define luxury. To me, luxury is time spent in a setting that fosters a sense of connection and tranquility. It embodies a meticulously crafted experience where every detail is thoughtfully considered and executed.

Recently, I spent a few days immersed in luxury at Mayakoba, a resort enclave located just north of the seaside village of Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Imagine a sprawling 600-acre paradise where lagoons, lush jungles, and pristine beaches combine in a symphony of natural beauty. At the heart of this exclusive, gated oasis are its four award-winning hotels: Andaz, Banyan Tree, Fairmont, and Rosewood, each offering a distinct combination of carefully curated experiences and amenities.

But Mayakoba is more than just a temporary vacation retreat. It invites you to make it your home with its array of branded private residences, including the elegant Rosewood Residences Mayakoba, the serene Fairmont Residences Mayakoba, and the exclusive Fairmont Heritage Place Mayakoba.

Fairmont Residences: A Rare Real Estate Opportunity

Fairmont Residences Mayakoba represents a pinnacle of design in this exclusive community—and the last opportunity to own a piece of this paradise. With three newly constructed buildings, the final phase of homes offers a range of private residences and signature penthouses.

The thoughtful design and architecture of the homes at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba honor the natural environment surrounding them, with ample outdoor space and private plunge pools that perfect the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The new interior design package, courtesy of Room 1804, infuses contemporary aesthetics into these homes. Each home features upgraded, fresh designs, with three- to four-bedroom homes ranging from 2,559 interior and 1,292 exterior square feet. Only two three-bedroom full-ownership residences remain, starting at US $2.19 million.

“When you purchase a home at Mayakoba, whether full or co-ownership, you buy a piece of an extraordinary resort destination. Buyers fall in love with Mayakoba the minute they step foot onto the property and are drawn to the exclusive luxury lifestyle the destination provides, from the homes’ impressive design and architecture to the world-class amenities, making it the perfect place for a vacation home,” says Tomas Capella, sales manager at Mayakoba.

Living the Mayakoba Dream: More Than a Home

Over the last three years, Mayakoba has been transformed through a significant $120 million refurbishment, enhancing the resort’s offerings and amenities. This upgrade by owners RLH Properties is a major event in the development’s history.

“Mayakoba is a destination where you can always find something new and exciting. We recently unveiled a fresh and contemporary redesign of the interiors at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba,” says Kappner Clark, chief marketing officer of RLH Properties. “The renovations and upgrades we make throughout the property allow Mayakoba to stand out among other resort destinations, continuously providing an experience like no other. In addition to the physical improvements to our properties,” Clark says, “we also always strive to innovate our programming offerings in order to explore new ways to engage guests and residents of all ages, such as the recent concert series with A-list Latin artists like Ricky Martin and Luis Miguel.”

Mayakoba offers an array of amenities like world-class restaurants, a LIV golf course, high-design spas, and multiple pools. And while I thoroughly enjoy the indulgences of spas, beach clubs, and lounging on daybeds, my Mayakoba favorites are centered around the natural beauty of the property’s many outdoor amenities.

I love the simple joy of grabbing one of the many beach cruisers available and pedaling around the resort, kayaking through the lagoons nestled in the mangroves, or whizzing around the shores on a sea scooter. The experience is almost dreamlike—one moment you’re enveloped in the lushness of the jungle, and the next, you’re feeling the sand between your toes.

Owning a residence in Mayakoba is not just about the property; it’s also about embracing a lifestyle. Wake up to birdsong, wander on sandy beaches, and immerse yourself in a community that values luxury and nature.

A Final Chance at Paradise

The last few residences at Fairmont Mayakoba represent more than just real estate; they are the final gems in this crown of luxury. For those seeking an exclusive, nature-intertwined sanctuary, Mayakoba awaits.

mayakoba.com, rlhproperties.com

Vie L’Ven, a luxury resort and residences with 280 units, has launched sales on the 90 private residences in the development. Slated for completion in 2028, the property is the project of Altree Developments, a Toronto-based, multi-generational, full-service development company that says Vie L’Ven is set to redefine luxury living in St. Maarten.  

Set on Indigo Bay, on the southwest, Dutch side of the island, Vie L’Ven will feature a collection of fully furnished residences, alongside a luxury five-star hotel. Designed by award-winning architectural firm HKS Architects, with interiors by Toronto’s internationally renowned, award-winning Studio Munge, the development is inspired by both French and Dutch cultures.

“Vie L’Ven seamlessly coalesces the influences of both French and Dutch cultures which are truly represented in this incomparable development through exceptional living, dining and wellness experiences,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder of Altree. “Serving as a love letter to St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven encourages homeowners and guests to embrace living life to the fullest, while soaking in the island’s natural beauty and tranquility.” 

The residences will range from one-, one-and-a-den, and two-and-a-den-bedroom suites that will span from 600 to 6,000 square feet and will be available for purchase in a variety of layouts. Pricing ranges from $800,000 to over $2 million. Sales and marketing arebeing led by St. Maarten’s Sotheby’s International Realty.

The luxurious suites create a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a combination of playful patterns, energetic corals or oceanic blues, and woven textures all against a backdrop of soothing cream-white. Homeowners will have the option to upgrade with custom furniture packages, including full bedroom sets, living and dining room additions, and more.  

Exclusive amenities on a captivating islanfd

St. Maarten is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world, and is widely known for the friendliness of its people. Although petite in size, the island is easily accessible by air and sea and offers an experience for everyone, whether it be exhilarating nightlife, breathtaking views, prestigious sailing, and more. Upon completion, Vie L’Ven will be one of two five-star resorts on the island, and will provide residence owners and visitors a new standard of unmatched luxury.  

Embracing the island’s energy and diversity, Vie L’ven aims to provide a one-of-a-kind, world-class experience. Visitors and homeowners will be Immediately struck by awe-inspiring sculptural artwork, As well as touches of exquisite design: textural coral stone floors, natural oak, and more are implemented in the design and architecture to embrace the natural beauty of the setting.

Amenities will include three swimming pools, 24/7 concierge services, a kid’s center, event spaces, a superb fitness center and world-class spa with an outdoor experiential bathing garden and treatment spaces. The resort will also be home to three restaurants, including a signature restaurant, by a Michelin-starred artisan chef. 

Visit vielven.com for more information.

The Strand Turks & Caicos, a private residential community located on 2,230 feet of pristine shore frontage on Cooper Jack Bay, announces the completion of four 5,404-square-foot luxury residences, which feature an open-air indoor-outdoor layout with five ocean-facing bedrooms, two spectacular pools and a spa, lush courtyard with outdoor kitchen, and a grotto beach. The first homeowners were welcomed in October 2023 and the other three homeowners moved into The Strand this month. 

With more than 50% of inventory sold on its limited collection of 41 villas and residences, the highly anticipated luxury resort community is introducing a new home design based on buyer demand, the four-bedroom Signature Residences.

Following a successful pre-opening campaign surpassing $100 million in residential sales, The Strand is on track for a fall 2024 debut. Prior to the grand opening, homeowners and guests will have access to a la carte club services, including butler service, housekeeping, pre-arrival shopping, private chef services, and catering, while enjoying spacious, contemporary villas on an unspoiled stretch of coastline on a protected Cooper Jack Bay.

“The delivery of the first four completed Luxury Residences marks a major milestone for this Turks and Caicos real estate development,” says John Fair, managing director of The Strand. “We set out to create a place that feels like a home away from home with intimate, private residences complemented by social gathering spaces and resort amenities. It’s been incredible watching our vision come to life over the past year, and we’re excited to see The Strand in action with owners and guests enjoying the community this summer.”

The newly introduced Signature Residences, starting at $6.5 million, include four, single-family homes with four bedrooms, a fifth bedroom/flex space, bonus office/media room, courtyard with an outdoor kitchen, and spectacular terrace overlooking a private infinity pool. With a double primary bedroom layout, Signature Residences are ideal for two families or multi generational family living. 

Additional homes are available at The Strand, ranging from two to six bedrooms, including two-bedroom villas starting at $2.525 million, three-bedroom villas starting at $3.3 million and Grand Residences starting at $10.5 million. Lastly, there are two remaining Beachfront Estates, starting at $11.35 million, that offer a rare ownership opportunity with more than 100 feet of coastline to the front and a private yacht slip in the rear of the home.

For what will be one of the Caribbean’s most sustainable developments to-date, eco-friendly design elements are a major emphasis throughout the homes and community and roughly 75% of power will be run from solar. Each residence features solar integration from local-leader Renu Energy TCI utilizing Tesla Powerwalls and smart home technology integration from Intelity. Additional features include flow-through ventilation, low heat conductivity for building materials, and smart landscape irrigation systems. The Strand is also designated as the first “pollinator sanctuary” in the Caribbean. 

As a residential resort, The Strand is the first of its kind on the island, offering owners and guests full resort-style services and programming in a relaxed coastal setting. New community amenities include the announcement of a spa with elegant outdoor relaxation areas in a lush garden setting, as well as saunas. The Beach and Racquet Club will serve as the social hub of the community, anchored by a resort-style swimming pool surrounded by native limestone and towering palms. The Club will feature two pickleball courts, a tennis court, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with yoga deck and scheduled fitness classes.

With access to the top sport fishing and diving spots on Turks and Caicos, The Strand’s pristine location makes it ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, and various other water sports for active spirits. Water amenities include an accessible beach, 1,400 feet of canal and marina frontage, offering boat slips for owners and access to The Strand’s own Club Boat with a private captain, catamarans, kayaks, paddleboards, and more. The beach itself is one of the best fishing spots in Providenciales and Cooper Jack Bay is known for its crystal-clear water that doesn’t get over five feet deep. The kids’ club will take advantage of the water, beach, and nature as well, providing daily activities and supervision for children of owners and guests. A two-bedroom apartment will be home to the Club’s Artist-in-Residence Program with thoughtful cultural activities available year-round. 

An upscale Mykonos-inspired restaurant and bar in the Beach Club will feature an outdoor dining terrace and a kitchen buried into the hillside under a lush green roof. The restaurant will source fresh catches from local fisherman and vegetables, herbs, and fruits from an on-site garden. 

With rich airlift and tax benefits, Turks and Caicos is an ideal choice for those seeking a second home island paradise. Remote yet easily accessible, The Strand is located a short five-minute drive from the Leeward Highway, the main east-west thoroughfare through the island. Cooper Jack Bay is just ten minutes from the Providenciales International Airport and 15 minutes to the world-famous Grace Bay Beaches and shopping area.

thestrandtci.com

The Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod has been awarded the coveted accolade of Five Stars in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Star Awards for the second year in a row.

“We are delighted to once again celebrate our distinction as a Forbes Five Star resort,” says Gary Thulander, managing director of Chatham Bars Inn. “I applaud the unceasing efforts of the entire Chatham Bars Inn team, who have solidified the resort as one of the most spectacular destinations in the world.”

The Forbes star rating system for luxury hotels and resorts is based on the first-hand experiences of highly qualified, anonymous inspectors who evaluate properties on 870 rigorous standards. Chatham Bars Inn has been recognized for for its luxury accommodations, gracious service, thoughtful amenities, personalized experiences, and attentive guest engagement.

Originally opened in 1914 as a luxury hunting lodge, Chatham Bars Inn evolved over the decades into a luxury destination for all. The 25-acre oceanfront property includes 217 individually decorated guest rooms and suites, ranging from charming, standalone New England cottages, to beautiful rooms in the historic Main House. Guest can indulge in seasonally-inspired cuisine often featuring produce from the Chatham Bars Inn Farm, treatments at the resort spa, and immersive experiences including whale watching, beach clambakes and Orvis Salt Water fly-fishing.

For more information on Chatham Bars Inn visit chathambarsinn.com.