ST. CROIX — Club Med and real estate investment trust VICI Properties Inc. have announced the acquisition and planned redevelopment of Carambola Beach Resort, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, marking the return of Club Med to U.S. shores with Club Med St. Croix.

Carolyne Doyon and Eileen Kett at the official signing for the development of Club Med St. Croix

Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean, says Club Med plans to elevate the property to Club Med’s Exclusive Collection standards. Club Med will run the future operations of the historic 150-key resort.

“The U.S. Virgin Islands represent an exciting new chapter for Club Med,” said Doyon. “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.”

Carambola Beach Resort was originally built in 1986 by philanthropist and conservation pioneer Laurance Rockefeller. Club Med’s redevelopment plans envision a comprehensive renovation that preserves the property’s natural beauty and historic roots, according to the company.

Club Med St. Croix will mark the brand’s re-entry onto U.S. soil and aims to attract travellers from the U.S., Canada and internationally. USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. said 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.”

Construction on the newest Club Med is expected to begin in summer 2026, followed by a targeted reopening in Q4 2027. The all-inclusive pioneer now has close to 60 resorts worldwide. Global expansion plans include Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari, Club Med Borneo, Club Med Koh Samui, Club Med Tremblant, Club Med San Sicario, Club Med Musandam and Club Med Manado.

Lead image caption: The future site of Club Med St. Croix