Half Moon’s Hibiscus Accommodations Completely Renovated
The iconic Half Moon, A Salamander Resort, has announced the latest in a series of improvements and renovations, this time to one of its most popular accommodations.
On November 22, 2021, all 68 rooms and suites of the storied Hibiscus neighbourhood, located within Half Moon’s legacy Founders Cove resort, re-opened after a total transformation. These spacious one- and two-bedroom beachfront accommodations, which feature adjoining options, were remodelled to reflect the evolving tastes of the luxury traveler yet still retain quintessential Jamaican design elements.
“At Half Moon, we have the luxury of space and our Hibiscus suites are no exception,” says Shernette Crichton, Half Moon’s General Manager. “The view is spectacular, while the new décor is both stylized-Caribbean and Half Moon-elegant. We know our new and long-returning guests will be delighted with the enhancements.”
The renovation is the latest in successive improvements that the legendary Half Moon has made, including the celebrated 2020 opening of its newest resort, Eclipse at Half Moon, which has been named as the one of the finest new properties in the world by multiple publications. Just a ten-minute drive from Sangster International Airport, Half Moon now features a triumvirate of resort options across its 400 acres: Founders Cove, Eclipse and Rose Hall Villas.
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea on one side and soaring foliage on the other, the Hibiscus neighbourhood is adjacent to many of Half Moon’s original and exclusive cottages. The suites feature access to gardens and with many opening onto secluded, private islets which are perfect for both sunrise and sunset viewing. The renovation features expanded views, new furniture and fresh decor, reimagined patios and balconies, a revitalized exterior, and upgraded technology including larger, smart TVs.
Tastefully decorated with both black and white furniture representative of Jamaica’s design history, the new Hibiscus suites are significantly brighter with more useable space. The complementary color accents are soft and reflective of hibiscus flowers, including pinks and yellows. As is traditional at Half Moon, the rooms prominently feature the work of local artisans, including handmade weaves that add substantive texture to the furniture and cabinetry. Additionally, the suites feature artwork from Dready, which is a character and a style of art created by Jamaican-born artist Shane Aquart.
To offer an unobstructed and expansive views of the Caribbean Sea, stunning glass doors have been installed. The generous outdoor patios and terraces offer hanging daybeds or rocking chairs that sway to the rhythm of the waves, while the white curtaining and shell-stone floors invites the cool breeze inward. The already extraordinarily spacious bathrooms have undergone a complete transformation with the addition of generous double showers or larger showers and claw foot tubs, while four ground-floor units have also had outdoor showers fitted with private garden trellises.
Managed by Salamander Hotels & Resorts, Half Moon is renowned for its legacy of excellence and hospitality. The property was founded nearly 70 years ago, and three of the original founding families still remain owners, including the Steuart family. Renowned for its legacy of hospitality, Half Moon is rated as Jamaica’s finest property, according to both Forbes Travel Guide and Travel + Leisure. It is also a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
Founders Cove features its own crescent-shaped beach, swimming pool complex, swim-up bar and is directly adjacent to Half Moon’s tennis and fitness amenities, as well as the Anancy Children’s Village. Eclipse at Half Moon includes 57 new accommodations, a stunning infinity-edge pool, natural swimming cove, seven bars and restaurants, including the highly acclaimed Delmare. Half Moon also features 27 Rose Hall Villas, which are available with 5-, 6- and 7-bedrooms and feature spacious living and dining areas, outdoor living space and private pool. Each villa also comes with a dedicated staff of butler, housekeeper and private chef.
All guests at Half Moon can also enjoy a variety of additional activities, including equestrian, watersports, tennis, pickleball and squash; and a wide range of dining options such as the legendary Cedar Bar and Half Moon’s award-winning signature restaurant, The Sugar Mill, known for its modern twist on Jamaican cuisine. For relaxation and restoration, guests can also enjoy a Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course, and Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa, which features two dramatic overwater bungalows for massage treatments and yoga classes. — JP