An exclusive conversation with Nikheel Advani of Grace Bay Resorts on new additions, residential-style stays and the evolving luxury experience at South Bank

Turks and Caicos has no shortage of beautiful places to stay. The more interesting question is what a resort does with that beauty once you arrive. At South Bank, Grace Bay Resorts has built its answer around the water itself. The 31-acre residential resort and marina on the southern shoreline of Providenciales spreads across four waterfront neighborhoods and deliberately trades the conventional hotel rhythm for something more private, more spacious and far more self-directed. You can wake in a villa that functions like a home, step directly toward calm lagoon water, move through the property by bicycle or golf cart, book time on the complimentary tennis or pickleball courts, head to the spa, or simply stay put and let the day come to you.

That concept is now expanding. South Bank is preparing for the debut of Arc, its newest beachfront neighborhood created in collaboration with architect Piero Lissoni, while a recently launched Family Club adds complimentary and concierge-curated programming for travelers with children. Those additions matter because they sharpen what already distinguishes the property. South Bank is not organized around a single tower, lobby or central pool.

Its accommodations range across the Boathouses, Lagoon Villas and Ocean Estates, with Arc completing the collection. The resort also incorporates a full-service marina, white sand beach, a man-made swimming lagoon, wellness and fitness facilities, racquet sports, water activities and on-site dining.

My own stay centered on a three-bedroom Lagoon Villa, a two-story, 2,968-square-foot residence with three ensuite bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a full kitchen, private pool and direct lagoon access. It sleeps up to six and comes with the practical details that change the texture of a group trip: daily housekeeping and turndown service, dedicated butler service, a washer and dryer, generous indoor and outdoor gathering space, and complimentary access to non-motorized water sports. The distinction becomes readily clear: you retain the privacy and autonomy of a vacation residence, yet the resort infrastructure remains immediately available when you want it.

On-site, Lua Beach House  gives that same idea a social center. Positioned beside the lagoon, the restaurant moves easily from breakfast to lunch, cocktails and dinner, with waterfront seating, open-air dining, and a menu that ranges from fresh seafood and globally influenced dishes to wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Breakfast can be as substantial as eggs Benedict or as light as fruit, smoothies or an açaí bowl. Later in the day, the mood loosens further. The setting makes it easy to linger, which is exactly the point at a resort designed around choosing your own pace.

To look beyond the physical product and into where South Bank is headed, I spoke exclusively with Nikheel Advani, COO and Co-Founder of Grace Bay Resorts. Our conversation covered Arc and the Family Club, the resort’s residential model, the distinct waterfront neighborhoods, the Lagoon Villa experience, butler service and the thinking behind Lua Beach House.

MK: South Bank is entering a new chapter. What about the property are you especially excited to spotlight now, including additions travelers may not yet know about?

NA: We are especially excited about the debut of Arc, our newest beachfront neighborhood designed in collaboration with renowned architect Piero Lissoni, opening later this year. Arc represents a new chapter for South Bank, blending striking architecture, elevated design, and luxury amenities in a way that further enhances the guest experience. We’re also proud of the recent launch of our Family Club, which offers complimentary and concierge-curated experiences designed specifically for families traveling with children.

MK: South Bank is very different from the traditional beachfront luxury resort model in Turks and Caicos. What was the vision behind creating a residential resort and marina lifestyle instead of another conventional Caribbean resort?

NA: Our vision was to create a vibrant waterfront resort where guests experience the Caribbean as more than just a destination and instead experience it as a way of life. South Bank was designed around biophilic living, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces while embracing the natural beauty of the island. From the world-class amenities, one-of-a-kind manmade lagoon, picturesque beachfront, and marina to the waterfront residences, every element encourages guests to slow down, connect with the water, and enjoy a coastal lifestyle.

MK: The property spans four distinct waterfront neighborhoods, each with its own personality. How do you help guests determine which accommodation style best matches the type of vacation they want to have?

NA: Each neighborhood offers a unique experience tailored to different travel styles. The Ocean Estates are ideal for larger families and groups seeking expansive oceanfront residences with sweeping Caribbean views. The Lagoon Villas overlook our one-of-a-kind swimmable lagoon, making them especially appealing for families with young children looking for calm, protected waters, as well as offering private pools and complimentary butler service. The Boat Houses offer spacious townhouse-style accommodations that are perfect for mid-sized groups who appreciate direct marina access. Completing the collection later this year is Arc, featuring private pools or Jacuzzis for many residences, seamless indoor-outdoor living, dedicated amenities for Arc guests, a fully serviced beach and two distinctive dining concepts.

MK: South Bank places a significant emphasis on connecting guests with the water through everything from the marina and lagoon to beaches and outdoor experiences. How has that philosophy influenced the way the resort was designed from the ground up?

NA: Connection to the water has been at the heart of South Bank’s design from the very beginning. Whether it’s our tranquil man-made lagoon, full-service marina, secluded beaches, or direct access to the open ocean, guests are never far from the water. Every neighborhood was intentionally designed to celebrate Turks and Caicos’ natural beauty while creating opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

MK: Many luxury resorts focus almost exclusively on accommodations, yet South Bank appears to have invested equally in experiences, wellness, dining, recreation, and concierge services. How do you define luxury for today’s traveler, and how has that evolved?

NA: Today’s luxury traveler is seeking more than just beautiful accommodations. They’re looking for meaningful, personalized experiences that create lasting memories. Luxury is no longer defined solely by where you stay, it’s about how a destination makes you feel. At South Bank, we focus on delivering exceptional service, thoughtfully curated experiences, bespoke culinary concepts, and authentic connections that guests can’t replicate elsewhere.

MK: Looking ahead, what do you believe will make South Bank stand out as one of the defining luxury destinations in Turks and Caicos five or ten years from now?

NA: Innovation has always been central to Grace Bay Resorts’ philosophy. As travel preferences continue to evolve, South Bank will continue listening to our guests, staying ahead of industry trends, and introducing new experiences and amenities that enhance every stay. Our commitment to thoughtful design, personalized service, and continuous evolution will ensure South Bank remains one of the Caribbean’s top luxury destinations for years to come.

MK: What other things might people not know or consider about the property, but should?

NA: Many travelers might not realize that South Bank is part of the Grace Bay Resorts collection, which also includes Grace Bay Club, located on the world-famous Grace Bay Beach, and Rock House, a Mediterranean-inspired cliffside resort on the island’s north shore. Each property offers a distinct experience while sharing the same commitment to quality hospitality and personalized service.

MK: What is your personal favorite aspect of the physical attributes or guest experience at the property?

NA: One of my favorite aspects of South Bank is that you’re never far from the water. Whether you’re enjoying lunch at Lua Beach House overlooking the lagoon, sipping cocktails at Island Bar as the sun sets, or simply strolling through our waterfront neighborhoods, there’s a constant connection to the natural beauty of Turks and Caicos. The South Bank team’s commitment to providing exemplary service is truly special. This sense of place and community is what sets South Bank apart from the rest.

MK: The Three-Bedroom Lagoon Villa feels more like a private waterfront residence than a traditional hotel suite. What design decisions were made to create that residential experience while still delivering five-star resort service?

NA: From the early design stages, the vision for the Lagoon Villas, as well as all the villa-style accommodations at South Bank, was to create a true luxury waterfront home rather than simply a larger hotel suite. The three-bedroom villa spans two stories and was thoughtfully designed with expansive indoor-outdoor living areas, a full residential-style kitchen, private ensuite bedrooms, and its own pool, giving guests the space and comfort of a private residence.

At the same time, guests enjoy all the benefits of a luxury resort experience, including dedicated butler service, daily housekeeping, and access to South Bank’s amenities including dining experiences, the Spa at South Bank, family club, the South Bank Marina, and more. It is the combination of privacy, independence, and personalized service that really defines the South Bank experience.

MK: Direct lagoon access, a private pool, expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces, and a fully equipped kitchen create a very different vacation dynamic. How have you seen guests use these features differently than they would in a conventional luxury hotel?

NA: The Lagoon Villas’ biophilic design and positioning alongside the lagoon encourages guests to enjoy a slower, more personalized vacation itinerary. Rather than planning each day around a hotel schedule, guests staying at one of these villas are able to create experiences, with the help of your own butler, that truly feel their own. South Bank features Turks and Caicos’ first ever man-made lagoon, bringing a unique twist to luxury waterfront vacationing. Guests can step outside and immediately enjoy the calm waters with complimentary non-motorized water sports. The spacious layout gives all guests room to spend time together without ever feeling crowded. For an even more private outdoor experience, the private pool, fully equipped kitchen and outdoor living space, with optional private chef services, make it easy to never leave the villa. For those who’d like to dine solo, Lua Beach House is conveniently steps away from the villa’s doorstep.

MK: Dedicated butler service is available with the Lagoon Villas. Can you share how that service enhances the guest experience beyond what people typically expect from concierge assistance?

NA: At South Bank, butler services are highly personal and intuitive. While a traditional concierge typically helps guests plan activities or make reservations, the butler becomes an extension of the villa experience, helping ensure every stay unfolds seamlessly from arrival through departure.

Whether coordinating dining reservations, arranging in-villa experiences, assisting with booking excursions, or simply helping to steam a wrinkly pair of trousers, the butlers at South Bank allow guests to focus entirely on enjoying their time together. Plus, the butlers strive to include small surprises to make a stay feel special. With many guests traveling as larger family or group units, having a dedicated point of contact creates an effortless experience where every detail feels thoughtfully handled while still preserving the privacy and comfort of a private residence.

MK: The villa accommodates families, couples traveling together, and multigenerational groups. What types of travelers tend to choose this accommodation, and why has it become such a popular option?

NA: One of the greatest strengths of the Lagoon Villa accommodations is its versatility. We see multigenerational families celebrating milestone vacations, couples traveling together who want shared gathering spaces without sacrificing privacy, and groups of friends looking for a luxury escape that’s both social and relaxing.

Each bedroom features its own ensuite bathroom, while the generous common areas allow everyone to come together comfortably. Parents appreciate the calm swimming lagoon and spacious layout for younger children, while adults enjoy the privacy, outdoor entertaining areas, and easy access to the water.

For even more versatility, South Bank also offers Ocean Estate Villas that can accommodate up to 14 guests for those looking to travel with larger groups or multiple families and couples, as well as the Boathouses which can accommodate between 2-6 people depending on the number of bedrooms. Opening this December, South Bank’s Arc will also have studio suites through five-bedroom penthouses, perfect for couples looking for the full suite of amenities and privacy, without the unnecessary space. There is a perfect villa style for every type of group at South Bank.

MK: Lua Beach House blends Mediterranean influences with flavors from across Asia, North Africa, and the Caribbean. How did the culinary team approach creating a menu that feels globally inspired while still remaining authentic to Turks and Caicos?

NA: The vision for Lua Beach House’s culinary offering was to celebrate the spirit of travel while remaining deeply connected to its setting in Turks and Caicos. Rather than focusing on a single regional cuisine, our culinary team drew inspiration from coastal destinations around the world, where fresh seafood, vibrant produce, and open-fire cooking are central to the dining culture. In addition, South Bank works with chefs from all over the world, and their individual cultural flavors shine throughout Lua’s menu.

What ties everything together is the fresh, locally inspired ingredients and a relaxed island environment. You’ll find globally influenced dishes sitting comfortably alongside fresh local seafood and tropical flavors, creating a menu that feels both internationally inspired while remaining rooted in the beauty and lifestyle of Turks and Caicos.

MK: Dinner at Lua is as much about atmosphere as cuisine, from the waterfront setting and fire tables to the open-air design overlooking the lagoon. How intentionally was the guest experience designed to extend beyond simply serving exceptional food?

NA: This was done very intentionally. At Lua Beach House, every dinner feels like an experience rather than simply a meal. The restaurant was designed to embrace its breathtaking waterfront setting, allowing guests to dine in an open-air environment where the lagoon, ocean breezes, and natural surroundings become part of the evening.

MK: Breakfast is often overlooked at luxury resorts, yet Lua offers everything from indulgent classics to lighter wellness-focused options. How did you approach creating a breakfast experience that appeals to such a broad range of travelers?

NA: We recognize that every South Bank guest begins their day differently, so flexibility was central to our breakfast menu. Some guests are looking to ease into the morning with freshly baked pastries, classic breakfast favorites, and great coffee, while others want lighter, nutrient-rich options before heading out to explore the island or enjoy a wellness activity. With the wide range of activities and excursions available at South Bank, it was important for us to provide options that align with any itinerary.

MK: Your wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas have developed something of a following despite the restaurant’s elevated fine dining reputation. At the same time, guests can enjoy signature cocktails at the Beach Bar and Island Bar. How do these more relaxed offerings help create the approachable, all-day social atmosphere that distinguishes Lua Beach House from a traditional luxury resort restaurant?

NA: It was our plan for Lua Beach House to never feel overly formal. While the culinary program is elevated, we wanted the overall experience to remain welcoming, relaxed and reflective of the way people naturally gather, especially in a waterfront setting.

The wood-fired pizzas are a perfect example, they’re crafted with the same attention to quality and technique as every dish on Lua’s traditional menu, but they encourage a casual, shared style of dining that is ideal after a day on the water or for families and groups enjoying the evening together. Paired with handcrafted cocktails, guests can easily transition from a leisurely lunch to sunset drinks and then into dinner without ever feeling the need to venture elsewhere for a meal.

Taken together, the additions at South Bank feel less like a reinvention than a deliberate extension of the original idea. Arc adds another accommodation style and a new architectural point of view. The Family Club gives parents more structured support without forcing a family resort identity onto the broader property. The existing neighborhoods continue to serve very different travel parties, from couples and smaller groups to multigenerational families that need real bedrooms, real gathering space and enough privacy to make a longer stay comfortable.

The strongest part of the South Bank proposition remains choice. You can build a highly serviced itinerary around excursions, dining, wellness and the marina, or make surprisingly few plans at all. A Lagoon Villa can carry much of the vacation on its own, particularly when a private pool, kitchen, lagoon access and butler service sit within the same footprint. Lua Beach House then supplies an easy change of scene without requiring you to leave the resort, whether you want breakfast before heading out, pizza after a day on the water or a more polished dinner as the light shifts over the lagoon.

That flexibility is increasingly relevant to luxury travelers who want high service without surrendering control of their time. South Bank’s next phase appears designed around exactly that tension. More amenities. More ways to stay. More reasons for families and groups to settle in. Yet the experience still comes back to a simple advantage that Advani returns to repeatedly: the water is always close, and the resort gives you room to decide how you want to live beside it.

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Entrepreneur Leadership Network member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / X http://www.X.com/MerileeKern / Facebook www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided at no cost and/or arranged to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way as per the disclosure policy on our “Legal” page***