One&Only Resorts has confirmed plans to open its first property in the Caribbean, with a hotel and community of private homes in development on the island of Antigua. 

The resort will be located in Half Moon Bay on the south-east side of the island. The 132-acre site overlooks a secluded, semi-circular beach adjacent to a protected national park.

It is scheduled to open in 2027. 

Parent company Kerzner International said the architectural design of the resort would “respect the terrain” and have minimal impact on the location’s ecosystem during development.

The resort will “blend seamlessly with nature” and “reinterpret the island’s vernacular design” with indoor and outdoor spaces, chic living areas and wide-ranging views. 

Unique experiences will also be created encompassing nature, wildlife, cuisine and culture to help guests experience the wider island. 

Kerzner International chief executive Philippe Zuber said: “This is a significant moment for the considered growth of the One&Only portfolio, we have been searching for a location in this region for a long time, and we have now found a destination that not only meets, but exceeds our vision for creating one-off resorts and experiences.

“I am delighted to introduce the One&Only brand to Antigua and to offer our loyal guests and homeowners an opportunity to uncover this extraordinary island, curated by One&Only.”

The prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Gaston Browne, added: “We welcome and eagerly anticipate the One&Only resort at Half Moon Bay, which promises to be a marquee hospitality project in the Caribbean and the flagship of Antiguan and Barbudan tourism product.”

The upcoming opening in Antigua joins a number of new resorts for One&Only, including One&Only One Za’abeel in Dubai, opening in January 2024; One&Only Kéa Island in Greece, opening in spring next year, and One&Only Moonlight Basin in Big Sky Montana, United States, which is expected to welcome its first guests in 2025.