Gov’t Signs $120m Heads Of Agreement For Beaches Exuma Resort 

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A $120 million Heads of Agreement has been signed for the redevelopment of the Beaches Exuma Resort. The property, which previously operated as the all-inclusive Sandals Emerald Bay, will be transformed into a family-oriented Beaches brand.

Officials say once completed, the resort will create more than 1,500 direct and indirect jobs and help attract new air arrivals to the island. The redevelopment is expected to generate over 400 construction jobs and more than 900 permanent positions when the resort officially opens.

Prime Minister Philip Davis said independent assessments show that once fully operational, the resort will support more than 1,500 jobs annually and attract tens of thousands of visitors. He added that the project’s transformation will take up to 24 months and represents a continuation of the government’s longstanding partnership with the Sandals brand.

Sandals Executive Chairman Adam Stewart announced that construction is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with completion set for late 2027. The upgraded property will feature ten new restaurant concepts, a 15,000-square-foot banqueting and conference center, a waterpark, pickleball and archery facilities, and other outdoor activities. Stewart added that the Greg Norman Golf Course will remain in full swing and that multiple rooms will be converted into two-, three-, and four-bedroom villas to cater to families and generational travel.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation Chester Cooper noted that the project complements broader infrastructural upgrades on the island. He revealed that new homes are set to be constructed in George Town, behind the Exuma Health Facility, where the government owns extensive acreage.

Stewart also confirmed that the resort’s first phase will include expanded staff accommodations, with over 100 new units being added to the existing facilities.

The redevelopment of Beaches Exuma is expected to further strengthen Exuma’s economy, create employment opportunities, and solidify the island’s position as one of the country’s premier tourism destinations.