Carlisle Bay Antigua Embarks on Multimillion-Dollar Transformation to Redefine Caribbean Luxury and Wellness
Carlisle Bay, one of Antigua and Barbuda’s premier luxury beachfront resorts, has officially launched a transformative multimillion-dollar renovation project, aimed at reimagining its offerings for the next generation of high-end travelers. The multi-phase project, set to be completed by November 2027, signals a new chapter for the iconic property, renowned for its blend of barefoot elegance and tropical tranquility.
Positioned along the serene southern coast of Antigua in Saint Mary Parish, Carlisle Bay is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and has long been a cornerstone of the island’s upscale tourism appeal. With Antigua’s tourism industry contributing over 60% to its GDP, this strategic revamp is expected to elevate the island’s standing as a luxury and wellness destination in the competitive Caribbean market.
Phase One: Reimagining the Signature Suites
The first phase of the project began in mid-2024 and focuses on a complete overhaul of 55% of the resort’s 87 guest suites. This includes a redesign of the Ocean, Bay, and Garden Suites—some of the most sought-after accommodations situated directly along Carlisle Bay’s stunning shoreline.
The design overhaul is being led by London-based artist and interior architect Miminat Shodeinde, founder of Miminat Designs. Known for her ability to merge contemporary aesthetics with cultural nuance, Shodeinde’s vision for Carlisle Bay centers around earthy sophistication, using locally inspired textures, natural wood, soft stone, and light-filled interiors to reflect Antigua’s natural beauty.
Each revamped suite will offer a seamless connection to the surrounding environment—bathed in Caribbean sunlight and framed by views of lush rainforest or turquoise waters. The renovations, timed with the resort’s annual seasonal closure, are scheduled to be guest-ready by October 2025.
Future Enhancements: Dining, Spa, and Remaining Suites
Once the first set of suites is completed, attention will shift to the Beach Balcony, Beach Terrace, and Carlisle Suites in 2026. The final phase of the accommodation upgrades will ensure that all room categories offer a consistent and refreshed guest experience.
The resort’s culinary and wellness facilities will also undergo extensive upgrades through 2026 and 2027. Carlisle Bay’s four dining venues—currently offering a fusion of Caribbean, Asian, and Mediterranean flavors—will be redesigned to elevate both aesthetics and gastronomy. Emphasis will be placed on farm-to-table cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and immersive dining experiences reflective of Antigua’s culture.
The resort’s CARA Organic Spa will also be transformed into a modern wellness sanctuary, aligning with global wellness tourism trends. The redesigned spa will include new holistic therapy rooms, expanded wellness programming, and eco-conscious design, appealing to a growing segment of wellness-driven travelers from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
Economic and Community Impact in Antigua
According to the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Carlisle Bay’s renovation is expected to significantly benefit the local economy. The project is forecast to boost resort revenues by more than 20% upon completion, while generating job opportunities and increasing demand for local goods and services.
By enhancing its luxury offerings, Carlisle Bay is reinforcing Antigua’s global tourism positioning. The country has seen a steady rise in international visitor arrivals in recent years, with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority reporting over 330,000 air arrivals in 2023—most from key source markets like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
Local stakeholders believe the reinvestment in high-end tourism infrastructure will help offset regional competition, particularly from nearby destinations like St. Lucia and Barbados, which are also vying for upscale tourism growth.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability is central to Carlisle Bay’s transformation. The renovation project integrates green building practices, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials to ensure minimal environmental impact. The initiative aligns with the government’s National Sustainable Tourism Policy, which emphasizes the importance of eco-conscious development in protecting Antigua’s biodiversity and coastal ecosystems.
As part of the revamp, the resort is also expanding its community outreach initiatives, partnering with local artisans and wellness practitioners to offer guests authentic experiences that support local livelihoods.
Positioning for a New Generation of Travelers
The renovation comes at a time when Caribbean travel is rapidly evolving. Wellness tourism, in particular, has become a key growth sector globally, with the Global Wellness Institute projecting the wellness tourism market to exceed $1.3 trillion by 2025. Carlisle Bay aims to ride this wave, repositioning itself as one of the region’s leading wellness-oriented resorts.
“Our goal is to redefine what luxury and well-being look like in the Caribbean,” said a spokesperson for the resort. “This renovation isn’t just about design—it’s about transforming Carlisle Bay into a holistic retreat that enriches both the soul and the senses.”
Looking Ahead
Carlisle Bay’s revitalization represents a forward-looking investment not only in the property itself but in the broader Antiguan tourism sector. As work progresses through 2026 and into 2027, the resort promises to offer guests an immersive Caribbean experience that harmonizes luxury, sustainability, and wellness.
With upgraded suites launching in late 2025 and expanded amenities on the horizon, Carlisle Bay is well on track to set a new standard for upscale hospitality in the region—reaffirming its status as a world-class destination in one of the Caribbean’s most naturally stunning settings.
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