Exuma is preparing for a fresh chapter in its tourism story following the official signing that will transform Sandals Emerald Bay into Beaches Exuma, the first Beaches-branded resort in The Bahamas. The agreement marks a significant shift not just for the property itself, but for the island’s wider economic and social landscape, signaling renewed confidence in Exuma as a family-focused destination with long-term investment potential.
For years, Sandals Emerald Bay was known as a couples’ retreat, catering to romance and luxury in a quiet corner of Great Exuma. With the Beaches brand now stepping in, the vision expands to welcome families and multi-generational travellers seeking immersive, all-inclusive experiences tailored to all ages. This pivot aligns with a growing global trend where parents, grandparents and children are choosing to travel together, and The Bahamas is positioning itself smartly to meet that demand.
The redevelopment will involve an investment well into the hundreds of millions, with significant upgrades planned across the resort’s infrastructure, accommodations and amenities. Guests can expect modernised rooms, family suites and villas, expanded dining options, a vibrant waterpark, kids’ camps and interactive recreational spaces. The addition of a large conference and banqueting facility also opens doors for group travel, destination events and corporate retreats, expanding Exuma’s appeal beyond the traditional leisure market.
While the physical transformation is important, the real impact lies in what this development means for the people of Exuma. Construction and redevelopment will generate hundreds of jobs, followed by long-term employment opportunities once the resort is fully operational. Beyond direct employment, the ripple effect will be felt across small businesses, suppliers, tour operators, transportation providers and local artisans who support the tourism ecosystem.
A particularly encouraging element of the agreement is the focus on workforce development and housing support. Plans for staff accommodations help address ongoing challenges around affordable living for tourism workers, while training and apprenticeship opportunities for local youth create pathways into hospitality careers. These initiatives offer more than just jobs, they provide stability, skills development and sometimes a return of young talent to the island.
Beaches Exuma also brings with it increased global visibility. As an internationally recognised family brand, Beaches attracts a different audience and introduces Exuma to markets that may not have previously considered it as a family destination. This exposure strengthens the island’s position on the world stage, supporting broader efforts to diversify tourism products across The Bahamas and ease dependence on major hubs like Nassau and Paradise Island.
For investors, the signing sends a clear message: Exuma is on an upward trajectory. Improved infrastructure, expanded tourism offerings and strengthened government-private sector partnerships create an environment ripe for complementary developments such as vacation rentals, restaurants, retail outlets and residential communities. The transformation also enhances property values and increases demand for supporting services, making the region even more attractive for long-term investment.
At its heart, this agreement is about more than bricks and mortar. It represents a renewed relationship between the island and global tourism leaders, one that prioritises sustainable growth, community integration and economic resilience. While the full transformation will take time, the signing itself stands as a symbol of momentum, a reminder that Exuma continues to evolve while preserving the charm and authenticity that makes it special.
As construction begins and the vision unfolds, anticipation is already building among residents and stakeholders alike. Beaches Exuma promises to reshape not only the physical landscape but also the tourism narrative of the island, positioning it as a premier destination for families seeking unforgettable Bahamian experiences.
For Exuma, this is not just a rebranding, it is a reimagining. And for The Bahamas, it is another confident step toward a more diverse and dynamic tourism future.
Publish Date: February 4th, 2026
