Shaka Caye (formerly Royal Palm Island Resort) is a "paradise redefined" that specializes in effortless luxury. Spanning 7 acres of white-sand beaches and a private lagoon, it is one of the easiest private islands to reach in the Caribbean, yet it feels worlds away from the bustle of the mainland. The resort’s philosophy is built on "sea-to-plate" dining and hyper-personalized service, with a staff of at least 12 dedicated to pampering your group. It is a destination where you can spend your morning fly-fishing on the flats, your afternoon at the on-site spa, and your evening enjoying a community dinner under the stars.
Accommodations & DesignThe island features a collection of luxury beachfront villas designed with a modern, chic décor that emphasizes comfort and Caribbean views.
The Beachfront Villas (3): Spanning over 1,000 sq. ft., these two-bedroom, two-bathroom villas feature private decks with hammocks and large windows that frame the sea.
Presidential Villa (The Primary Suite): The island’s crown jewel is a 2,000 sq. ft. estate featuring two bedrooms, a separate dining and lounge area, and a majestic wrap-around deck. The master bedroom offers a king bed with premium linens and 360-degree views of the turquoise horizon.
Design: Bright, airy interiors with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and private patios. The layout ensures that every guest is just steps away from the water.
Amenities & InclusionsShaka Caye offers a robust suite of on-island and off-island activities:
The Concierge Team: A dedicated On-Site Concierge, Private Chef, and Boat Captain handle all tour bookings and meal reservations.
Marine Activities: Unlimited use of sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling gear. The resort also features a "life-size" outdoor chess game and a volleyball court.
Wellness: A full-service spa offering Swedish and hot stone massages, facials, and reflexology, which can be enjoyed in-villa or at the spa facility.
Adventures: Guided tours include manatee searches, sandbar lunches, and excursions to the Great Blue Hole or ancient Maya ruins on the mainland.
How Private Is This Island? Shaka Caye is a boutique resort. While the resort can host multiple parties, the Full Island Buyout option transforms the 7-acre cay into a completely private enclave for up to 30 guests. The villas are strategically positioned to provide seclusion, and the resort's daylight-only boat transfer policy ensures a secure and controlled environment. For high-profile groups, the Presidential Villa provides an added layer of internal privacy.
