76 I SALAMANDER 2024 hotel ’ s immense growth over the years and its impact on the island ’ s development as a result of tourism . He jokes that the hotel now offers a parking lot , which may seem simple but , in reality , Half Moon , he says , “ is an interesting case study over the years of entrepreneurial success and contribution to the region ” as the hotel is a home-away-from-home for both travelers from afar and their local staff from the town over .
From 1954 to 2024 , the hotel has hosted celebrities from political figures to royalty , and continued operating through cultural , political and natural events that have all become a significant part of its history . The British Royal Family have visited multiple times , including Queen Elizabeth II , ( now ) King Charles III , Prince Harry , Prince William and Princess Catherine . Politically , George H . W . Bush also visited while , in 1960 , John F . Kennedy , his wife Jacqueline and their daughter Caroline stayed over a month at Cottage 9 . Hollywood heavyweights Paul Newman , Noel Coward , Patty Page and Rock Hudson all enjoyed vacations at the resort , too .
Today , Half Moon offers three distinctive resort experiences : Eclipse at Half Moon , Founders Cove at Half Moon and Rose Hall Villas by Half Moon . In total , the resort offers 210 elegantly appointed rooms and suites , including multi-bedroom villas , two miles of beachfront , numerous restaurants and bars , Fern Tree – a Salamander Spa , a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr . and much more .
Yet there ’ s a reason beyond its idyllic location that , during peak periods , 85 % of guests are return visitors . “ We represent a cultural crossroads in Jamaica ,” Steuart says . “ Whether your intellectual eye is drawn to art , music , cuisine , drinks , architecture or nature , you ’ ll find it throughout your stay here .”
It ’ s just how Steuart ’ s grandfather envisioned it all those years ago .