Living on sponge cake, watching the sun bake…
Margaritaville resorts from Karisma are great if you like Jimmy Buffett. But they’re just as appealing if you aren’t looking for that lost shaker of salt and don’t know a Parrothead from a Sparrowhead.
From on-site breweries to the finest seafood restaurants with the freshest ingredients, and from adults-only to family-friendly, Margaritaville resorts have plenty to keep you occupied. Or plenty of places that offer what resort officials call a “license to chill.”
The newest Margaritaville property is Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize. It’s a sustainable, family-friendly hideaway on a spectacular beach that fronts the world’s second largest coral reef.
One of the world’s best secrets, Ambergris Caye is surrounded by shallow, crystal-clear Caribbean waters and a 190-mile (306 kilometer) barrier reef teeming with marine life. After reaching the resort by private boat shuttle, visitors can recharge in the gorgeous, Victorian-inspired open-air lobby; naturally, with a margarita in hand. Indulge in soothing services at the best spa on the island. Enjoy dips in two lagoon-like pools — one oceanfront and one exclusively for families — and fill every moment with live music and entertainment.
It’s a boutique property with 55 rooms, two bars, two pools and a spa. Shannon Cunningham, WestJet, Agency Sales Manaager at WestJet, said they have the resort for sale for the Fall of 2023.
Karisma offers up three Margaritaville Island Reserves in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
“Island Reserve By Karisma is unique in that it has all the world- class amenities of a luxurious, all-inclusive hotel coupled with a laid-back, beachy vibe. That makes it the perfect place for people who value exceptional quality without any pretense,” said Marisol Calderon, Karisma’s Regional Sales & Marketing Manager, Canada.
The brand was created and inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and bestselling author Jimmy Buffett.
Margaritaville Island Reserve By Karisma, Riviera Cancun provides the perfect setting for guests who want to escape the everyday with a tropical change.
You’ll find live music every day and night, pool parties, evening bonfires, a “flip-flop Olympics” and more. Try a mixology class or an immersive culinary experience.
The resort features four restaurants. You’ll find a wide selection of delicious eats from all over the world at The Beach House, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Rita’s Taco House offers authentic Mexican dishes paired with an extensive list of tequilas. You also can try an elevated taste of Italy at Frank & Lola’s, or sample a unique fusion of Latin and Asian flavours at Latino.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun has 148 suites, four restaurants, six bars, four pools and one spa.
Located just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport, Margaritaville® Island Reserve Cap Cana offers an incomparable resort perspective with its unique, authentic, “no worries,” tropical vibe.
“The feeling of escape is experienced immediately upon arrival,” Calderon said.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana offers an adults-only section called Hammock, which includes their exclusive Island Reserve Villas, and a family-friendly section called Wave.
Highlights of the resort include a Cheeseburger in Paradise restaurants, JWB Steakhouse. You’ll find a wide selection of delicious dishes from all around the globe at The Boat House. An elevated taste of Italy at Frank & Lola’s, decadent Asian street food at Mon So Wi, and so much more.
Guests also can sample local and international rums at Rum Runners. Or unwind with a pre-dinner cocktail at Punch Bar & Lounge. You also can take your poolside drinks to the next level at their iconic 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar.
The SOS Swim-up Bar is a nautically inspired affair that even has hanging beds. SOS is exclusively for guests staying in their villas area.
“For a fun-filled experience in both properties we offer as an amenity welcome “Margarita popsicles” and a pair of flip-flops,” Calderon said.
“We also have the Entertainment Village, which we can consider as the heart and soul of the resort, and the first Landshark Brewery& Grill,” an on-site brewery.
WestJet’s Cunningham said Margarita Island Reserve “is spreading its wings quickly.”
“The concept of Margaritaville Island Reserve Inclusive Experience is five-star global dining, unparalleled service, luxurious amenities, spectacular entertainment, and immersive experiences and activities,” she said. “It’s an upgraded, elevated take on the traditional ‘all-inclusive’ concept, infused with Margaritaville’s hallmark sense of adventure, escapism, and laidback luxury.”
Calderon said she’s excited to announce that on 01May Karisma will open Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya. It’s an adults-only resort that will “deliver a vibrant, world-class Island Reserve Inclusive experience.”
The resort will boast 355 suites, five restaurants, four bars, two pools and a 10,000 square foot spa.
Offerings include the Landshark Brewery & Grill, License to Chill Wet Feet bar, St. Somewhere Spa by Karisma, conference facilities for up to 400 people, and a private rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the Caribbean.
“The suites are designed to create the ultimate travel experience to meet and exceed the most seasoned traveller’s needs and wants,” Calderon said. “We’re really excited!”
Joe Merchant’s features an extensive, exclusive and carefully selected variety of beverages, snacks, and gourmet items, for guests to customize their own in-room bar experience as well. Live music and weekly events also are featured at the new property.
Last, but most definitely not least, is Margaritaville St Somewhere Punta Coco, Holbox Island by Karisma. It’s under the umbrella of the Margaritaville Island reserve By Karisma and is a boutique hotel on the western tip of Isla Holbox, northwest of Cancun
“I love this property because of its open-air concept and boho-chic style,” Calderon said. “It’s an intimate resort with 39 suites and features decor inspired by the island’s tradition and culture. The colours and accents are inspired by the sea and the greenery that surrounds the property, and there’s a divine selection of luxury bedding and whitewashed furniture.”
All told that’s five fabulous Margaritaville properties. You just might want to stay here all season.
