Developer Rockwell Island Development Group (RIDGE) has appointed five-star, global hospitality brand Banyan Tree to manage its new luxury island retreat in Bimini in the Bahamas.

Immersed in nature and surrounded by pristine beaches, Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences will be situated on a 750-acre property on the secluded Rockwell Island.

RIDGE is planning to deliver 54 waterfront residences, a 50-key five-star hotel and Bonito Beach Club, all with bespoke services and amenities, while a second phase will include a deepwater superyacht marina, private 18-hole golf course and members’ only clubhouse.

The island is 48 nautical miles east of Miami and accessible by seaplane, private charter jet, helicopter or boat.

Sales and construction have already begun, and the first five complete residences will be delivered in early 2025.

RIDGE has engaged Miami-based architectural firm Oppenheim Architecture to lead the development's architectural design and creative direction and Raymond Jungles as its landscape architect.

“Since beginning work on Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences, we have held true to the philosophy that the architecture should celebrate the island’s spirit of place,” said Chad Oppenheim, founder and principal of Oppenheim Architecture.

“Our mission has been to celebrate the essence of Bimini through design that becomes hidden in the landscape. There is artistry in the change of sky, water and light, and we translated those qualities into timeless homes and bungalows that celebrate the island’s natural beauty.”

Banyan Tree’s North American debut

This opening will mark Banyan Tree's entry into the North America market as it continues to expand beyond Asia

The brand already operates luxury resorts, residences and spas in China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mexico and Morocco, as well as Mozambique, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Thailand, the UAE and Vietnam.

Eddy See, president and CEO of Banyan Group, said: “Banyan Tree is going global as the advocate of sustainable travel. The brand embodies intimacy, nature and local traditions and Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences will reflect these values by embracing the local culture and natural environment, inviting guests to immerse themselves in this sanctuary for the senses."

In other news, Banyan Group recently appointed industry veteran Paul Hawco to spearhead its wellness strategy, read more here.

About RIDGEOver the past two decades, RIDGE has been involved in residential, hospitality, marine and aviation development in The Bahamas.

Its projects include more than 400 luxury residences, a 308-key hotel, a 15,000sq ft casino and a 242-slip marina – the largest in the Family Islands. RIDGE is noted for its experience with complex properties in remote island locations and its commitment to development and community improvement in the Bahamas.