The Caribbean has long been synonymous with escape; a place where travelers seek turquoise waters and the promise of slowing down. But beyond the familiar appeal, a new wave of luxury hotels and resorts emerged across the region over the past year. Several long-standing properties are reopening after extensive renovations, looking to meet shifting expectations from travelers while striving to preserve their legacies. Others are entirely new, setting out to reimagine what a stay in the Caribbean can be.

From boutique retreats on lesser-known islands to iconic resorts unveiling carefully considered updates, the latest additions to the Caribbean’s luxury hotel scene reflect a commitment to modern elegance and a connection to their surroundings. Design plays a central role, with spaces that balance indulgence and comfort while incorporating details inspired by local cultures.

What travelers will notice is a deliberate departure from opulence for opulence’s sake. Instead, there’s an emphasis on refinement and relevance. Sustainability, culinary innovation and understated comfort are top of mind for these properties. Guests who return to familiar favorites may find them subtly transformed, while those drawn to the region’s newest hotels will encounter destinations that feel both of the moment and timeless.

If you’re looking for the Caribbean beyond its postcards, these properties set a new standard for what luxury should look like.

Opened in October 2024, Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort from Marriott, introduces a refined take on all-inclusive resort luxury to Isla Mujeres, a small island celebrated for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The adults-only, 109-suite resort offers a seamless arrival experience, starting with a private boat transfer from Cancun. Each suite at the new hotel is designed for comfort and privacy, featuring expansive outdoor spaces with sweeping ocean or mangrove views, while the Presidential Suite spans over 1,600 square feet for the ultimate retreat. Six dining options range from a rooftop spot serving Mediterranean-Mexican fusion to a beachfront club, ensuring variety without leaving the property. Activities include paddleboarding, sunrise yoga and eco-friendly excursions, while the Alma Spa provides a........

© Observer