Bay Gardens Resorts 30th Anniversary Launching

This year, Bay Gardens Resorts embarks on an extraordinary journey as it celebrates 30 years of delivering exceptional hospitality, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories in Saint Lucia.

Over the past three decades, the St Lucian-owned and managed resort group has welcomed countless guests to its island paradise, fostering cherished moments and building lasting connections.

This milestone reflects the unwavering support of the local community, dedicated staff, and loyal visitors, and the celebrations planned for 2025 promise to be as vibrant as the legacy it honors.

The festivities officially began on January 30, 2025, with the launch of Bay Gardens Resorts' 30th Anniversary celebrations at the Bogainvilla Conference Room at the Bay Gardens Hotel. A highlight of the event was the introduction of the Bay Gardens Community Fund, a charitable initiative focused on empowering youth, promoting sustainability, and preserving cultural heritage.

As part of this initiative, Bay Gardens Resorts introduced three esteemed ambassadors to champion the fund's mission and raise awareness about its programs. Ezra D' Fun Machine will serve as the Cultural Ambassador, Daren Sammy will take on the role of Youth and Sports Ambassador, and Helen's Daughters will be special partners for Sustainability.

At the celebration launch, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resorts, Mr. Sanovnik Destang, reflected on the company’s journey, stating, “It has been such a pleasure over the last 17 years to see the business’s development and to be allowed to grow as a professional. More importantly, I have had the privilege to lead a remarkable group of professionals who have become my extended family.”

He expressed gratitude for the team and the company’s impact, emphasizing that, “The most rewarding part of this journey hasn’t just been our expansion or improved business performance, but rather the development of our people and the impact we continue to have on the community.”

Looking ahead, Destang shared his excitement for the future, saying, “We’re turning thirty—no longer teenagers or young adults, but a full-grown business. And we don’t plan on going into our ‘dirty thirties’ quietly!This year will bring several firsts for Bay Gardens, and perhaps the most anticipated is the opening of Sapphire Sands Villas, which promises to bring a new wave of luxury to the BG brand—at a level we’ve not seen before.”

He also acknowledged the dedication of the staff, calling them the heart of Bay Gardens. “I always say my biological family may be the shareholders of record, but this is your hotel. The pride and ownership you take in delivering the Bay Gardens experience is our secret sauce.”

Founder of Bay Gardens Resorts, Mrs. Joyce Destang, also shared her thoughts, reminiscing about the company’s humble beginnings.

“Listening to Sanov and Jason, you can tell that Bay Gardens is in good hands. It will survive with or without me.”

She recalled her transition from teaching into hospitality, inspired by the late Neville Skeete.

“Most of you know my history—I was not a trained hotelier or an accountant. But after years of teaching, I wanted a change, and with Neville Skeete’s encouragement, we decided that a hotel would be a more economical investment than apartments.”

She reflected on the early days of Bay Gardens, saying, “In 1994, my husband and I took every penny we had and started with 45 rooms on this plot of land.”

Expressing deep appreciation for the team, she added, “To my loyal staff of 20 and 30 years, I am grateful, I am thankful, and I am blessed for having you. I thank the good Lord for guiding and inspiring Desmond and me in making decisions that are beneficial not only to our immediate family but to the community in general.”

Minister of Tourism, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, highlighted the importance of local ownership in the hospitality industry, stating, “When looking for an example of successful local ownership, one should look no further than the Destang family.”

Adding to the celebrations Mr. Medford, Assistant Deputy Managing Director at Bank of Saint Lucia (BOSL), acknowledged the long-standing partnership between BOSL and Bay Gardens. He shared that the bank was proud to have been a partner from the very beginning and reaffirmed its support, pledging sponsorship for Bay Gardens’ food festival, Taste The Bay, as well as its community fund.

The celebration is just the beginning. Bay Gardens Resorts has planned a year-long calendar of activities designed to delight and engage guests. Throughout the year, you can look forward to cultural showcases, special offers and flash sales on the 30th of every month starting March 30, and community-centered initiatives that celebrate the spirit of Saint Lucia.

For the latest updates on events and activities, stay tuned to Bay Gardens Resorts' social media platforms and website at https://www.baygardensresorts.com. Whether you're a long-time guest or a visitor planning your first trip, 2025 is an exciting time to experience the magic of Bay Gardens Resorts.

Bay Gardens Resorts invites everyone to join in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a bright future together.