Rockley Beach, Barbados – The Rockley opened on March 27 on the South Coast of Barbados, celebrating the local vibe with a hip new hotel experience in the Rockley Beach area known for its lively bars, signature restaurants, and authentic island experiences. The Rockley, previously known as the South Beach hotel, features a playful new design after an extensive renovation and rebrand. The property is situated just steps from the white sand and sparkling water of Rockley Beach, with rates starting at £200 a night. 

"We've reimagined The Rockley as an experiential, culture-rich hotel connecting our guests with the vibrant surrounding community,” said Ocean Hotels CEO Patricia Affonso-Dass. “From the cuisine to art and music, we welcome guests and locals to join us as we showcase and celebrate the very best of Barbados' eclectic South Coast.”

The modern 49-room boutique hotel was brought to life by Michelle Leotaud of Apple & Iron, a Barbados-based design firm that created the interiors for the hotel's nearby five-star sister property, the O2 Beach Club & Spa. Rooms at The Rockley feature colourful local touches including Bajan sayings on throw pillows, the island's iconic Bus Stop sign, and locally sourced amenities that celebrate Bajan culture. Guests can relax in style in junior suites with kitchenettes or the spacious, 700-square-foot one-bedroom suites with full kitchens and separate living areas.

To create a true sense of place, the design incorporates the island's vibrant culture into its social spaces to build a dynamic hub for mingling between guests and locals. The hotel's new outdoor covered bar area offers a trendy beach club atmosphere with daily and nightly entertainment. The stylish air-conditioned interior dining area is ideal for guests and remote workers to grab a quick snack or coffee with its hand-painted black and white mural showcasing some of Barbados' most iconic items and symbols, including sheep, dominoes, chickens, and more. The Rockley has also upgraded its reception, pool deck, and communal spaces, including the fully equipped fitness room and games room.

To further integrate guests into the local community, the hotel features an innovative "Dine and Sign" programme whereby guests can visit partner restaurants across the neighbourhood and seamlessly charge their meal to their room, just as they would if they were dining at the hotel itself. Engaging with the local community is central to The Rockley experience, and the hotel's staff can provide insider tips to discover the best of the South Coast.

In the lobby, a new “Art for the People” gallery will spotlight local artists through rotating installations. Examples of the artwork include a piece on the central column with all the points on a compass representing that the journey to Barbados starts at The Rockley, as well as a clock reflecting the hotel's mantra “It's always the right time at The Rockley”.

Bookings are available now via www.therockleybarbados.com. Room rates start at £200, with breakfast included. For reservations and more information, please visit the website, email stay@therockleybarbados.com or call + 246 428-9441.