The Story of Palm Island
Palm Island was originally known as Prune Island. It was leased in 1966 for 99 years by Americans, John and Mary Caldwell, from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines government for US $1/year. The caveat was that they built a hotel to provide employment for local people. At that time the island was uninhabitable with a swampy, low lying interior, but with stunningly unspoilt white sand beaches on the shoreline.
The Caldwells planted coconut palms to reclaim the land, a practice John had learnt from previous projects, giving him the nickname “Johnny Coconuts.” And so Palm Island evolved, and by leasing a few select building plots for private homes, the funds were raised to construct a ten-bedroom hotel, The Palm Island Beach Club, which they ran for the next 30 years.
In 1999, the hotel was purchased by British hotelier James Lane, and his then partner, Caribbean hospitality legend Sir Rob Barrett of Antigua. The island underwent extensive renovations to create 41 luxurious rooms and suites, a sumptuous Spa, and beautiful facilities for hotel guests. Two of the private residences were also purchased to create spectacular villas for small groups of friends or family. Whilst a plant nursery was crafted to cultivate fresh produce and herbs for the restaurants. The resort is now owned by James Lane, Jr., and managed by James and his team of highly accomplished Caribbean hospitality experts. Mr. Lane’s vision for style and excellence ca be seen and enjoyed throughout the property.
Although the geography of this area can sometimes be challenging, the ethos here is always to come back stronger. And so the story of Palm Island is ever moving forward and it is this element which we hope you, as our guests, will love and appreciate and want to be part of, as much as we do. We are passionate about preserving the island’s natural beauty, flora and fauna, and famously warm hospitality. We are also very proud of our wide array of environmental initiatives, our commitment to sustainable tourism, and the many employment and ancillary industry opportunities that Palm Island provides in the Southern Grenadines.
Getting Here
The recommended route is via Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados (BGI). Upon booking with Palm Island Resort & Spa, your inter-island travel to Union Island is included. Please note that you must arrive into Barbados no later than 3PM and upon your return, you must depart Barbados prior to 2PM. You will be met upon arrival at BGI and our team will ensure your comfortable travel to Union Island and then onto Palm Island.
TRAVEL TIPS
Do I need a passport to travel to Palm Island?
Yes. A valid passport is required for all travelers going to Palm Island, The Grenadines.
We strongly recommend that all members of your party travel with a passport with a validity date of at least six months past the date of your departure from the island.
For information on obtaining or renewing a US passport please click here.
Is there any shopping available on island or nearby?
You can take the short boat ride to Union Island and visit the town and shops there. Guests can also visit our on-site Gift Shop for local sundries, snacks, souvenirs and more.
Should I bring my medication and a change of clothes in my carry-on?
Yes, we highly advise you to do this. Sometimes the connection time between the arriving flight to Barbados and the departing inter-island flight to Union Island can be tight for all checked luggage to make the connection with you.
How do I get to Palm Island?
The recommended route is via Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados (BGI). Upon booking with Palm Island Resort, your inter island travel to Union Island is included. Please note that you must arrive into Barbados no later than 3PM and upon your return, you must depart Barbados after 2PM. You will be met upon arrival at BGI and our team will ensure your comfortable travel to Union Island and then onto Palm Island.
How far away is the nearest ATM machine?
There is an ATM machine on Union Island. Please visit Guest Services to arrange travel to Union Island. Also, the hotel can provide a cash advance on your Credit Card however a 5% commission will be applied.
Do you provide transportation to nearby churches on Sunday?
Yes, if you wish to attend a local service, we will take you to Union Island.
