This Resort on Barbados' 'Platinum Coast' Just Reopened With Beach Access, Swim-up Suites, Lagoon Pools, and a Rum Vault

"Long before Marriott International acquired Colony Club-and gave it a top-to-bottom renovation, which was just completed in September-the hotel began as a private residence in the 1930s. Originally known as The Clouds, the stately home overlooked what has become one of Barbados' most luxurious coastlines. Barbadian magistrate and horseman J.R. "Bunny" Edwards acquired the property in the early 40s and transformed it into a residential club. (One of Edwards's friends suggested the name Colony Club after her favorite New York City restaurant at the time.) And it evolved from there-from a boutique hotel in the mid-1950s to the sprawling retreat it is today."

""As one of Barbados' most iconic properties, we carefully preserved its colonial charm, like the coral stone architecture and lush gardens, while enhancing comfort and elegance for today's traveler. Our team worked closely with local artisans to ensure the soul of the property remained intact.""

"I appreciated that the resort felt luxurious but laid-back. The lagoon-style pools scattered throughout the resort, flanked by comfortable chairs and cabanas, offered enough space from fellow guests. There wasn't a single scuffle for a lounge chair during my stay. With both beach and poolside service, there are plenty of places to lounge and soak up the sun."

Colony Club sits about 40 minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport on one of Barbados' most luxurious coastlines. The property began as a 1930s private residence called The Clouds and evolved through ownership by J.R. "Bunny" Edwards into a residential club and later a boutique hotel before becoming a sprawling resort. Marriott oversaw a top-to-bottom renovation completed in September, restoring coral stone architecture, lush gardens, and colonial charm while improving comfort. Lagoon-style pools and cabanas provide ample space and both beach and poolside service. The resort offers 96 renovated rooms and suites, some with direct lagoon access or ocean-view balconies.

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