Club Med announced plans to return to the United States through the redevelopment of the historic Carambola Beach Resort in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, in partnership with experiential real estate investment trust VICI Properties.
Under the agreement, VICI Properties acquired the Carambola Beach Resort and entered into a long-term triple-net lease with Club Med. VICI will fund the redevelopment of the property, while Club Med will operate the resort once completed. The project will transform the 150-key beachfront property into a member of Club Med’s Exclusive Collection portfolio, the company’s premium all-inclusive brand.
The redevelopment marks Club Med’s return to U.S. soil and represents a significant milestone in the company’s North American expansion strategy. Club Med said the future resort is expected to attract travelers from the United States, Canada, and international markets seeking an upscale all-inclusive vacation experience.
Originally developed in 1986 by philanthropist Laurance Rockefeller, the Carambola Beach Resort occupies a location between tropical rainforest and the Caribbean Sea. Club Med said the renovation plans will preserve the property’s natural setting and historical significance while modernizing the resort to meet the standards of its Exclusive Collection portfolio.
The partnership also represents the beginning of a new relationship between Club Med and VICI Properties. VICI said the project aligns with its strategy of partnering with leading experiential operators and expanding its portfolio beyond gaming and entertainment assets.
Club Med noted that the project is expected to create approximately 200 direct jobs and at least as many indirect employment opportunities. The company also plans to work with local businesses, excursion providers, farmers, artisans, and service operators to strengthen the broader St. Croix economy.
The redevelopment is being carried out in coordination with local government officials and is expected to emphasize sustainable tourism and community development. Club Med said the resort will target BREEAM and Green Globe certifications as part of its environmental initiatives under its Happy to Care sustainability program.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2026, with the resort expected to reopen during the fourth quarter of 2027.
KEY QUOTES:
“The U.S. Virgin Islands represent an exciting new chapter for Club Med. For more than seven decades, we’ve welcomed North American travelers to our destinations around the world, and now we’re bringing that experience back home. With St. Croix’s natural beauty, strong community spirit, and deep cultural roots, together with the longstanding legacy of this hotel, this project reflects our vision for thoughtful growth, and meaningful connection across the Americas.”
Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean
“We are very excited to begin our partnership with Club Med, a true pioneer of the premium all-inclusive resort experience and the brand leader in the category. Club Med’s approach to growth aligns directly with how VICI partners with best-in-class experiential operators, and Carambola Beach Resort is an ideal asset to launch our relationship. We have tremendous respect for what the Club Med team has built, and we look forward to opportunities to support their continued growth across North America for years to come.”
John Payne, President and Chief Operating Officer of VICI Properties
“The arrival of the Club Med brand to the U.S. Virgin Islands marks another significant milestone in the continued economic growth and revitalization of our islands, particularly St. Croix, where tourism remains a key driver of opportunity and investment. We are proud to welcome the Club Med team to the territory and look forward to growing this partnership as we continue elevating the U.S. Virgin Islands, celebrating our people and culture, and welcoming new and returning visitors to our beautiful shores.”
Albert Bryan Jr., Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands
