Peter Island Resort’s restoration has been a long journey. When it reopens next October, it will mark seven years since Hurricane Irma, a devastating Category 5 storm, forced its closure. The hurricane inflicted significant damage on this iconic British Virgin Islands (BVI) landmark, which has been a staple since the 1970s. Fortunately, the resort’s owner, the billionaire Van Andel family (co-founders of Amway), had the resources and patience to undertake a comprehensive rebuild.
One of the significant changes is the complete reconfiguration of the resort’s layout. All 52 rooms and suites, along with most of its villas, are now beachfront. This makes perfect sense given Peter Island Resort’s prime location on the largest private island in the BVIs, surrounded by five white sand beaches. Deadman’s Bay, fringed with palms, will be the hub of the resort’s activities, offering guests an immersive Caribbean experience.
For the first time in its history, the resort’s marina will feature a full-service yacht club. This new addition includes a commissary, boutique, and the Drunken Pelican bar and grill. The marina has also been upgraded to accommodate larger vessels, such as 200-foot-long super yachts, with the entrance channel dredged and over 250 feet of new dock space added. These enhancements cater to the growing demand for luxury yachting in the Caribbean.
The main lodge has also been transformed. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, from sumptuous breakfast buffets to surf-and-turf dinners at the newly introduced Drake Steakhouse, led by executive chef Frank Sham. Outside, a new infinity pool overlooking the bay offers complimentary snacks each afternoon, with beach cabanas serviced by butlers. The resort has expanded its recreational offerings, including a new area for basketball, bocce ball, and pickleball, ensuring guests can stay active while enjoying their stay.
The wellness facilities have also seen significant upgrades. The revamped 10,000-square-foot spa now features seven treatment rooms, two relaxation lounges, a fitness center, a saltwater pool, and a beauty salon. The spa will use products from 111Skin, a brand popular among celebrities. For events, a new 3,000-square-foot conference center with theater-style seating and a new lawn space have been added, making the resort a versatile venue for both relaxation and business.
One of the highlights of Peter Island Resort is the luxurious mountain-top Falcon’s Nest Villa, completely rebuilt with contemporary aesthetics. Offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Virgin Islands, it remains the best spot on the island for stunning vistas. Another upgraded option is the Hillside Hawk’s Nest Villa, offering luxurious accommodations with rates from $5,645 per night. To ensure future resilience, all new structures, including the villas, are being built to Miami Dade High Velocity Hurricane Zone guidelines, preparing the resort to withstand potential future hurricanes.
