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.

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.

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a day meant to honor the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The world of design has been enormously impacted by the contributions of smart, creative, and innovative women. And to illustrate that influence, here are six women-led brands and collections that are bringing energy, color, and functionality into our homes with their bold and personal visions.

Ashley Stark Home

Les by Ashley Stark Kenner, the company offers a selection that juxtaposes classic style with modern colors and shapes for tableware, rugs, lighting, and more that is fresh and compelling in any home.

ashleystarkhome.com

Folk and Flora by Carmen Nash for Troy Lighting

For her lighting line, designer Carmen Nash of decor brand Loft and Thought draws inspiration from folks stories and Black writers and artists like Zora Neale Hurston and Bill Traylor. The result is a high-personality collection of lamps featuring bold shapes, organic materials, and joyful details.

hvlgroup.com/Products/Designer/LoftandThought

Mustard Made

Sisters Becca and Jess Stern launched their line of colorful, versatile lockers in 2018, and have found success with an audience that appreciates their nostalgic value, functional value, and playful appeal.

mustardmade.com

Eny Lee Parker for Mitzi

Designer and artist Eny Lee Parker grounds her work in traditional ideas of slow-paced, intentional craftsmanship (craftswomanship?). In her collaboration with lighting brand Mitzi, she has created lamps, sconces, and ceiling lights that combine soft, natural shapes and neutral palettes for striking pieces that can work in many homes.

enyleeparker.com

SSS Design for Lulu and Georgia

Inspired by the patterns, textures, and patina of nature, Sarah Sherman Samuel has partnered with Lulu and Georgia on a line of outdoor furnishings that combine luscious curves, wood grains, and handwoven textiles to channel the lush and breezy Italian summer.

luluandgeorgia.com/pages/sarah-sherman-samuel

Élan Byrd for Lulu and Georgia

In her second collaboration with Lulu and Georgia, artist and textile designer Élan Byrd creates a collection of richly tactile and strikingly graphic rugs, wallpaper, pillows, and lighting that just beg to be touched.

luluandgeorgia.com/pages/elan-byrd-collection

Address: 41 Arvida Parkway, Coral Gables, FL 33156
Price: $57,000,000
Area: 18,963 square feet
Acres: 1.2
Bedrooms: 8
Bathrooms: 9 full, 1 partial

Realtor contact: Audrey Ross, audrey.ross@compass.com, 305-206-4003

Perched on a V-shaped lot jutting into Biscayne Bay, this exclusive retreat wraps residents in stunning views and unmatched luxury, indoors and out. The home, designed by Ramon Pacheco, creates a sense of approachable, yet undeniable elegance, including a sweeping grand staircase, a fabulous Mick De Giulio kitchen, and spacious inviting bedroom suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows blur the line between the interior and the outdoors.

Outdoors, a stunning bayside, one-of-a-kind pool designed by Estudio Arque, landscaped gardens, and multiple outdoor entertainment areas yield a relaxing escape. Yachting enthusiasts will appreciate the private, 140-foot boat dock that can accommodate a 170-foot mega-yacht.

Located just moments south of Miami, the property balances privacy and security with easy access to world-class dining and nightlife, a thriving arts scene, and international air travel.

All photos by Become Legendary, Mike Ruiz

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.

The new Morningside collection of fabric and coordinating wallpaper designed by textile designer and artist Kristen Leigh, has been released by Stout Textiles, within its The Art of Color line. The collection, two years in the making, features scalloped, floral, and soft geometric designs in colorways such as harbor, lilac, denim, and spring – patterns and hues intended to evoke a sense of joy and lightness completely without stuffiness.

The Morningside collection, named after a street in Steen’s close-knit neighborhood in Houston, began life as watercolors on paper. “I designed with colors that are calming to me, colors that I could live with day in and day out, relax by in the evenings, hues that evoke a sense of joy,” says Kristen Leigh Steen. “For me, that’s a lot of blue tones, greens, and some neutrals as well.”

Steen began her work as a designer when she took a break from her job as an elementary school teacher to stay home with her two children in 2015. A self-taught watercolor artist, Steen spends hours each day working on ideas with her paints, sketching in her notebook, and drawing inspiration from the homes around her, her family, and her travels. She admires homes that are beautiful but lived-in and her work often injects a sense of fun into traditional symbols and motifs.

The new collection is as functional as it is lovely. “As we photographed the finished collection with Kristen, the versatility became apparent as our imaginings took us to different places and homes where we could envision the designs being used,” says John Greenawalt, Stout Textiles’ vice president of operations. “For me, that was a cozy New England living room, while Kristen saw them in a southern breakfast nook or daughter’s room.”

The Morningside collection of fabrics is made of linen-cotton blends and the wallpaper is digitally printed paper sold by a 9-yard double roll. Both the fabric and wall paper are made in the United States.

Founded in 1927, Stout Textiles is a fabric, wallpaper and drapery hardware brand servicing the interior design industry. Based in Colmar, Pennsylvania, Stout is one of the American interior design industry’s oldest family-owned companies, now operating under the fourth generation of leadership.

For more information, visit stouttextiles.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.

Address: 3027 Kalahiki St., Koloa, HI
Price: $9,500,000
Area: 5,778 square feet
Acres: 0.82
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4 full, 1 partial
Sales contact: Kuki’ula Realty, 808-742-0234, info@kukuiula.com

Embracing the full peaceful potential of the home’s location, this home was planned in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui, with design elements carefully chosen to channel energy to create harmony between residents and the natural surroundings. Officially Feng Shui-certified, the home includes a Zen meditation garden, meaningful art instead of mirrors, a bamboo water feature, and an energetically balanced color palette.

The home takes full advantage of its location nestled into the hills of Kukui‘ula on the southern end of Kauai. More than 1,200 square feet of covered lanai space, including ample seating and an outdoor kitchen, make indoor-outdoor living easy. Inside, expansive windows and doors offer stunning panoramic views and let abundant light and breeze flow throughout. Lush secluded gardens surround the whole.

Indoors, lofty vaulted ceilings create an airy living and dining area. The chef’s kitchen includes a spacious central island for preparing a feast or gathering with friends. The bedrooms feature luxurious amenities including bespoke cabinetry, outdoor showers, direct pool access, and more of the breathtaking views that characterize the entire property. Remote workers can set up shop in the second-floor tower office – if they’re not too distracted by the 360-degree views.

More information about this contemporary Hawaiian idyll can be found online.

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.

Visitors and owners at the first-of-its-kind, 31-acre South Bank Resort and Marina community on Long Bay in Turks and Caicos will be able to enjoy the sun, sea, and luxurious amenities sooner than expected. In under five years, South Bank – which is home to the island’s first ever man-made beach lagoon and Lagoon islands – has quickly taken shape with four neighborhoods either nearing completion or outpacing its expected development milestone. 

In total, the four distinct South Bank areas will have 92 residences. The Lagoon, made up of 18 villas – each with gardens, pools, docks, and direct access to the lagoon beach – has already sold out, as have the 19 villas of the Ocean Estate, set along the striking Long Bay beach and iron shore.

At The Launch, a 38-boathouse, village-style community located on the marina waterfront, only two homes remain available. Arc, South Bank’s six-story, low-density residential building, has only nine of its 17 Sky Villas still on the market, with a starting price of $3 million.

“Arc at South Bank is leading sales on Providenciales as we see a thriving demand for condominium luxury residential offerings,” said Ingo Reckhorn, director of Windward.

Arc will be the first completed project in the Caribbean designed by world-renowned Italian architect, Piero Lissoni. The Sky Villas at Arc create indoor/outdoor vertical villa-like living, with expansive outdoor spaces including outdoor kitchens, showers, pools, gardens, living and dining spaces on all levels. Buyers at Arc will have access to the resort services and amenities at South Bank, including on-demand butler and private chef service; the swimming lagoon with lounging islands in its center; two gyms and a spa; a fully serviced marina and boat concierge; two signature restaurants and bars as well as direct access to the serene Long Bay Beach.   

The nine remaining Sky Villas vary from 3,280-square-foot, two-bedroom residences to the one-of-a-kind 12,540-square-foot penthouse that comes equipped with its own super-yacht slip. All residences feature north and south-facing water views thanks to Arc’s unique position on the ocean, Juba Sound and the South Bank inlet. The residences range from two to five bedrooms, and each features a unique layout, dedicated underground parking, dedicated elevator access for select units and bespoke finishes by Lissoni.

Once Arc is completed in 2026, buyers will enjoy inclusion in South Bank’s exclusive rental and management program by Grace Bay Resorts. 

The property is a project of Windward, the developer of some of the finest, exclusive, residential waterfront estates and communities in Turks and Caicos. Windward projects stand out for their Caribbean contemporary design, impeccable quality in execution standards, and environmental and ethical integrity.    

For more information, visit livesouthbank.com.