The Caribbean and Central America face major changes in 2026. Multi-billion-dollar investments in luxury tourism drive this shift. New projects focus on sustainability, new technology, and exclusive services. These efforts make the region a global leader in high-end travel.
The Dominican Republic leads the market. The country received 11.6 million visitors in 2025. Flights increased, cruises grew, and hotel occupancy passed 70%. This success attracted global brands and builders. Several main projects will launch or move forward in 2026.
The Grand Aston Coral Golf Resort & Spa by Cáicu is a key site in Punta Cana. Archipelago International and Cayacoa Group Dominicana announced this $160 million project at FITUR 2026. It includes 200 rooms, 325 residences, and an 18-hole golf course by PB Dye. The suites use smart technology. The resort also introduces asset tokenization to the Dominican Republic. Investors buy digital parts of the property for projected returns between 7% and 14%. This model makes luxury real estate easier to buy. The resort focuses on golf and overlooks a large lake.
Moon Palace The Grand Punta Cana is another huge addition. The investment totals nearly $1.5 billion. The resort opens in spring 2026, and official operations start around June 1. It has 2,171 rooms, and many have ocean views. The builders protect mangroves and local plants. The property will switch to renewable energy like solar and wind in 2027. This step reduces carbon emissions. The resort mixes all-inclusive luxury with responsible building practices.
Hyatt expands its adults-only sector with Secrets Macao Beach Punta Cana. This resort has 406 rooms and opens in 2026. It offers high-end suites with swim-out or panoramic options. Guests find many dining and entertainment choices. The site sits next to Dreams Macao Beach. It targets travelers who want sophisticated, adults-only trips on a top Caribbean beach.
Destinations outside the Dominican Republic also improve luxury travel. These places focus heavily on nature.
In Belize, the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel is under construction on a private island. It sits near the Mesoamerican Reef. The project partners with the Fabien Cousteau Nature and Conservation Institute. It includes overwater bungalows, private homes, and a golf course by Greg Norman. Marine protection is a main goal. The resort aligns with luxury and conservation standards. Full operations may start in 2027, but residences and amenities are currently in progress.
Costa Rica adds important projects like the JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort in Guanacaste. This all-inclusive hotel offers 415 rooms and multiple restaurants. The water facilities include 17 pools across 44,000 square feet. It has 885 feet of beachfront in a private community. This property is one of the first all-inclusive JW Marriott hotels in the world. It focuses on mindfulness, service, and design.
Santa Lucía Jungle Hacienda also opens in early 2026. This Autograph Collection hotel was formerly Villa Lapas. It sits near Carara National Park. The building combines colonial style with modern details. Guests experience nature through river safaris, wildlife tours, and birdwatching on a private reserve.
These openings show a change in the Caribbean and Central America region. Tourism now values distinct, sustainable luxury over high volume. New financing methods like tokenization help these projects. Nature protection and technology create strong, high-value trips. The Dominican Republic secures its lead in the Caribbean. Belize and Costa Rica highlight nature and exclusivity.
Overall, 2026 establishes the Caribbean and Central America as a premier global destination. This active hub connects millionaire investments with modern tourism. It mixes luxury with environmental care and uses new models for global popularity.
