Peter Island Resort: An Ultimate Caribbean Escape Returns After Seven Years
Peter Island Resort, a beloved private island retreat in the British Virgin Islands, has returned triumphantly after a seven-year closure. Once a cherished hideaway for luxury travelers, the resort was forced to close its doors following the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017. After an extensive renovation, Peter Island is welcoming guests back to its pristine beaches, world-class spa, and elegantly redesigned accommodations.
The resort has joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts' Legend Collection, soon after reopening its doors for the first time since Hurricane Irma devastated the resort in 2017. The private island property, which is fresh off a multiyear transformation, reopened on Dec. 1 after a seven-year closure. According to David Van Andel, president of Peter Island Resort, the refresh has elevated the resort to "a new level of luxury."
A Legendary Private Island Reimagined
With only 300 of the island’s 1,800 acres developed, Peter Island remains an exclusive sanctuary of natural beauty, offering unparalleled seclusion and sophistication. Guests arrive by private boat or luxury water taxi, immediately stepping into a world of turquoise waters, fragrant tropical gardens, and impeccable service.
A New Era of Caribbean Luxury
The resort’s transformation balances modern elegance with its signature barefoot luxury. The original A-frame cottages have been replaced with sleek, contemporary beachfront villas and suites, most of them nestled along Deadman’s Beach—a picturesque crescent of white sand and crystal-clear water.
Designed with a seamless indoor-outdoor concept, the 52 reimagined rooms and villas feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open directly onto the sand. Interiors are a sophisticated blend of natural materials, ocean-inspired art, and island textures—driftwood tables, raffia light fixtures, and palm-printed fabrics enhance the coastal aesthetic. Many accommodations include private outdoor hot tubs and showers, inviting guests to fully immerse themselves in their tropical surroundings.
For those seeking the pinnacle of exclusivity, the resort’s premier accommodations—Hawk’s Nest and Falcon’s Nest Villas—offer expansive living spaces, private infinity pools, and panoramic ocean views. The latter, spanning 22,000 square feet, includes a swim-up bar, a cascading waterfall, and accommodations for up to 12 guests.
Dining: Caribbean Flavors with a Refined Touch
With two signature restaurants on the island, culinary experiences at Peter Island are as elevated as the surroundings.
The Drake Steakhouse:
A refined dining experience featuring premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and a curated wine list. Breakfast is served here daily, with a spread ranging from tropical fruit and pastries to made-to-order dishes like eggs Benedict and thick-cut French toast with house-made tamarind sauce.
The Drunken Pelican:
A casual, open-air restaurant with an emphasis on Caribbean flavors. Guests can savor local specialties like jerk chicken wings, conch chowder, and freshly caught lobster while soaking in ocean views.
For travelers looking to explore beyond the resort, private excursions can be arranged, including deep-sea fishing trips and organic farm tours on nearby islands. Villas with full kitchens also allow guests to pre-stock ingredients or request a private chef for a personalized dining experience.
A Sanctuary of Wellness and Relaxation
The resort is a retreat within a retreat. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic, it features seven serene treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon, steam rooms, and an infinity pool. The cliffside hot tub offers an unparalleled spot for relaxation, where guests can soak while gazing out over the endless blue horizon.
Signature treatments incorporate locally sourced ingredients—sea salt scrubs from nearby Salt Island and hot stone massages using volcanic minerals. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Celestial Black Diamond Life Facial, using products from the renowned 111Skin brand, provides a luxurious boost of hydration and radiance.
Unparalleled Privacy and Adventure
Peter Island’s coastline is adorned with five stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience. The secluded Honeymoon Beach can be reserved for a completely private escape, while the lively Deadman’s Beach provides easy access to complimentary watersports, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
For those who prefer poolside relaxation, there are three main pools across the resort, plus an exclusive fourth pool for Falcon’s Nest Villa guests. The fitness center, newly outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, offers breathtaking views over Big Reef Bay, making morning workouts all the more inspiring.
Guests looking to explore beyond the island can arrange customized excursions, such as sailing trips to The Baths of Virgin Gorda, snorkeling adventures in Norman Island’s legendary caves, or guided hikes to Anegada’s flamingo reserve.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Peter Island Resort is not just a luxury destination—it’s an eco-conscious retreat. The resort is home to one of the first wind turbine systems in the British Virgin Islands, capable of generating up to 75% of the island’s power. An on-site water purification plant ensures responsible water usage, and in the coming months, the resort will launch a new water bottling plant, reducing plastic waste by providing guests with reusable glass bottles.
Getting to Peter Island and Going to Tortola
Despite its secluded feel, Peter Island is easily accessible. The island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Tortola, with both public and private transfers available. Luxury water taxis and helicopters provide additional transportation options, making the journey as seamless as possible.
Conclusion: The Return of a Caribbean Icon
With its thoughtful redesign, commitment to sustainability, and timeless island charm, Peter Island Resort has reemerged as one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive getaways. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family retreat, or a solo wellness journey, the island offers an unmatched combination of privacy, luxury, and natural beauty. After seven years of waiting, Peter Island is once again ready to welcome discerning travelers to its shores—where world-class service, breathtaking landscapes, and ultimate relaxation await.