Nobu Beach Club And Wellness Retreat Developing On Barbuda

The tiny island of Barbuda–Antigua's quieter sister, which lies 27 miles to the north–has long lured celebrities looking for an off-the-radar retreat in a quieter corner of the Caribbean popular with yachties and other intrepid travelers. 

And it turns out Robert de Niro is a fan of the hideaway, too. The legendary American actor and director is behind the Nobu Barbuda project, which opened a seasonal restaurant on the island last year and recently unveiled its first beach club here, too–a chill and sophisticated locale designed to lure as a day trip destination, with private cabanas fronting a silky stretch of pristine pinkish white sand. 

"We are excited to introduce Nobu Barbuda," said Robert De Niro in an official statement about the project, pointing to the island's natural features and remote appeal as the inspiration for planning such a project in this location. 

"In addition to the natural beauty of the island, we were drawn to the quiet and secluded atmosphere Barbuda offers," he explained. "This vision for this peaceful hideaway will remain authentic by offering a sense of place, coupled with informal, yet impeccable service." 

With just five cabanas, including one with a VIP experience complete with a lounge and private dining, the beach club is designed to be a personal base camp for a luxe oceanside experience, with personal hosts and even massages on request. You can hit the Caribbean style lounge bar between dipping into the sea, too, to sample Nobu-style dishes featuring fish from the surrounding waters. (Barbudan lobster, conch ceviche and tempura? Yes, please. And Nobu's famous miso black cod will also be served.)

There's more in the works for Nobu Barbuda, which happens to sit on the same location as Princess Diana's favorite getaway, The K Club, and will likely draw a similar jetset crowd. 

In coming years, look for a build-out of the project, Nobu Beach Inn, to add a resort hotel and spa for a complete wellness retreat as well as private residences and an organic farm on one of the Caribbean's most coveted islands.