Work gets underway on new Club Med in St. Croix

Club Med has launched the next phase of its US$75 million redevelopment of the historic Carambola Beach Resort in St. Croix, marking a significant milestone in the company's return to the U.S. market.

A First Stone Ceremony, held Wednesday (July 15), celebrated the symbolic start of construction on the project, which is expected to create approximately 200 full-time jobs once completed.

The event brought together Virgin Islands Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach, Senate President Milton E. Potter, members of the 36th Legislature, and executives from Club Med and VICI Properties, alongside local business and community leaders, the St. Croix Source reported. 

The renovation will upgrade the resort to Club Med's Exclusive Collection standards.

Once completed, Club Med will manage operations of the 150-room resort, repositioning it as a premier all-inclusive destination that emphasizes sustainability, cultural authenticity and elevated hospitality in the region.

"The U.S. Virgin Islands represent an exciting new chapter for Club Med," said Carolyne Doyon, president and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean, in a press release last month.

"For more than seven decades, we've welcomed North American travellers 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."

An iconic setting, reimagined

Originally built in 1986 by philanthropist and conservation pioneer Laurance Rockefeller, Carambola Beach Resort reflects his enduring vision for the U.S. Virgin Islands, where hospitality and preservation exist in balance.

Club Med's redevelopment plans envision a comprehensive renovation that preserves the property's natural beauty and historic roots.

The resort, nestled between a crescent beach and tropical rainforest, will be part of Club Med's Exclusive Collection, the brand's most refined portfolio of premium all-inclusive resorts.

A flagship & U.S. homecoming

Club Med St. Croix will mark the brand's reentry onto U.S. soil and aims to attract travellers from the United States, Canada, and around the world seeking a high quality, all-inclusive experience in a unique island setting.

Beyond its touristic appeal, the resort is expected to act as a key economic driver for St. Croix and the broader Virgin Islands, fuelling job creation, local partnerships, and sustainable growth across the territory. 

The reimagined property is scheduled to reopen in Q4 of 2027.

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