The Groundbreaking Ceremony Announced Plans to Generate Over 800 Local Jobs and Include Comprehensive Native Flora Restoration Initiatives

Yesterday, Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Island Shipping, S. de R.L., officially broke ground on the highly anticipated Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan in Honduras. The all-inclusive resort is set to open in fall 2027, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development. Dignitaries, local officials, and key stakeholders gathered to celebrate the start of this transformative development.

The Ceremony

The event was a vibrant affair, with music, food, drinks, and entertainment setting the stage for the unveiling of this landmark project. Guests gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony, where a series of remarks highlighted the resort’s significance for Roatan. Margaritaville CEO John Cohlan, along with Karisma Hotels & Resorts CEO Esteban Velasquez, spoke about the vision for the resort and its impact on the local community and tourism sector. Key government representatives also delivered a keynote address and marked the commencement of the project with a toast.

“The groundbreaking of Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan marks an exciting moment for both Karisma Hotels & Resorts and the island,” said Velasquez. “Beyond creating a world-class resort, this project will offer immersive experiences, boost Roatan’s global appeal, and enhance the island’s infrastructure. With efforts like native vegetation planting, we’re fostering long-term prosperity for the community and the environment.”

Commitment to Sustainability & Community

Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan will create 400 permanent resort positions and an additional 400 indirect jobs in the local economy, including roles in construction, hospitality, and support industries. The project will prioritize local talent, providing stable employment opportunities that allow island residents to contribute their skills. As Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan enhances tourism infrastructure and integrates sustainable practices, it will serve as a catalyst for growth, elevating the island as a premier Caribbean destination while preserving its heritage.

Further, the resort’s development is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental restoration, preserving the natural beauty of Turtling Bay. Key efforts will include planting native vegetation to create habitats for marine life, including sea turtles. A productive landscape design incorporating agroforestry principles will enhance soil health, promote reforestation, and establish an edible forest to support biodiversity by attracting pollinators and native fauna. Through workshops and training sessions, local residents will be actively involved in conservation efforts, reinforcing the resort’s alignment with Regenerative Tourism principles and the UN’s 2050 Sustainability Goals to build a resilient coastal destination.

“For the Hynds and McNab families, it is an honor to be part of this important project, which represents a great development opportunity for Roatan,” shared Jerry Hynds, CEO of Island Shipping. “The arrival of the Margaritaville brand to our island not only creates jobs but also drives the economic and social development of the community. It will be a new source of employment and a boost to tourism. This investment reflects the trust that island entrepreneurs have in Honduras and our firm belief in Roatan’s potential to continue growing and thriving. We remain committed to the island’s future, with a dedication to creating more opportunities and improving the quality of life for all its residents.”

An Unparalleled Resort

Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan will be the third property in Margaritaville’s all-inclusive collection managed by Karisma. The luxurious family-friendly resort will span 8.8 acres along 200 meters of shoreline and feature 170 guest rooms, including oceanfront suites and honeymoon swim-up accommodations. Guests will sip and savor signature Margaritaville dining venues, including Frank & Lola’s Italian Trattoria, JWB Steakhouse, The Boathouse Market Dining, and Cheeseburger in Paradise.

Additional resort amenities will include the St. Somewhere Spa, Fins Up! Fitness Center, Parakeets Kid’s Club, multiple pools, pickleball courts, and 575 square meters of meeting space. The resort’s Sky Wedding venue will provide couples with a picturesque setting for their dream island wedding. Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan will also feature the region’s first LandShark Brewery, offering guests an exclusive craft beer experience with locally brewed selections. The LandShark Brewery terrace will provide a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the scenic views and signature brews.

“Today marks a important moment for Margaritaville. As we break ground on our first resort in Honduras, we’re setting a course for a destination where guests can experience our signature laid-back lifestyle and the natural beauty of this incredible country” added Shamim Lodin, Executive Director of Development at Margaritaville. “This resort will offer a unique blend of local culture, sustainability, and world-class hospitality. We’re excited to bring the Margaritaville experience to Roatan and look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to this paradise.”

Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan will blend coastal style with the island’s scenery and cultural heritage. The design process is spearheaded by Mario Mathieu, SVP of Business Development, Design, and Construction at Karisma Hotels & Resorts, and Edward Ake, Project Director for Island Concrete, S.A. de C.V., in collaboration with Eric McBride of The McBride Company and a distinguished team of architects, including Carlos Aguilar of GVA Arquitectos. The resort’s elevated design will reflect Roatan’s marine life and fishing traditions. Alfonso Maya of AI Arquitectura de Interiores will craft interiors featuring wood tones, textiles, and nautical elements, while Juan Pablo Gómez Servín of Estudio ECO will plan landscaping inspired by the island’s tropical surroundings. Every detail will be thoughtfully planned to immerse guests in an atmosphere where elevation meets relaxed charm, creating a true island retreat.

The Margaritaville Beach Club

The Margaritaville Beach Club will position Roatan as a premier hub for large-scale events and music festivals, combining state-of-the-art facilities with the destination’s breathtaking landscapes. With a capacity for 800 guests, a covered stage for concerts, VIP cabanas, a commercial retail area featuring handcrafted goods and local brands, a splash pad, a main pool, and a snack gazebo, the club is designed to host world-class gatherings that draw international audiences. Island guests can also enjoy Margaritaville’s iconic bars, 5 o’Clock Somewhere, License to Chill, and LandShark Brewery, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. 

For more information as the development of Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan moves forward, visit www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resort-Roatan.