Highbourne, a 500-acre private cay at the northern gateway to the Exumas, is entering a new chapter with the launch of its first residential offering. Long known among yachtsmen exploring the Bahamas, the island is now offering ownership opportunities through a limited collection of just nine villas and 10 estate lots. Located 35 miles southeast of Nassau, Highbourne combines direct access to the Exuma Cays with a development approach that places the island’s natural environment at the center of every decision.
Rather than maximizing the number of homes, Highbourne has intentionally limited the community to 19 ownership opportunities spread across more than 500 acres. The residences are carefully positioned throughout the island so the landscape remains the defining feature, with architecture, interiors and landscape design conceived together to complement the surrounding environment rather than compete with it.
A Collaborative Design Vision
The project brings together architecture firm Olson Kundig, interior design studio Studio Valle de Valle and landscape architecture firm Raymond Jungles, Inc. Each was selected for an approach that emphasizes restraint and a close connection to the natural setting.
The villas are designed to respond to the island’s climate and topography, with floor-to-ceiling glass framing ocean views while capturing prevailing breezes. Interiors incorporate sun-washed woods, textured stone and natural fibers inspired by the surrounding landscape, while the landscape design relies entirely on native plant species chosen to strengthen the island’s ecosystems.
Conservation Shapes the Community
Environmental stewardship is a defining element of the development. Bahamian naturalist Elijah Sands continues to lead conservation efforts across Highbourne, where he has documented more than 300 species of plants and wildlife spanning coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, coastal scrubland and rare living stromatolites.
His ongoing work includes protecting native habitats, removing invasive species and preserving the ecological diversity that has made Highbourne one of the most distinctive islands in the Exumas. That conservation philosophy also informed the residential plan, ensuring development remains limited while preserving the island’s sense of place.
Villas and Estate Lots
The nine planned villas, priced from $18 million, occupy approximately two to three acres each and feature four bedrooms, expansive terraces, private outdoor living spaces and open-air showers that blur the distinction between indoors and out. Each residence will be delivered fully furnished and professionally managed, allowing owners to enjoy a turnkey private island lifestyle.
The 10 estate lots begin at $12 million and range from approximately 10 to 20 acres. Each offers roughly 430 feet of beachfront, providing owners the flexibility to create a custom residence on their own timeline without any requirement to build immediately. Highbourne also offers optional construction management for those who choose to develop their property.
Expanding the Island Experience
Construction begins this fall with a series of improvements designed to enhance both residential ownership and the visitor experience. Plans include a new Beach Club featuring a pool bar, racquet courts and an indoor-outdoor fitness center, alongside a $20 million redevelopment of the marina with floating docks designed to accommodate larger vessels and upgraded shore power.
Additional enhancements include renovations to the island’s restaurant and general store, a new welcome center and infrastructure improvements throughout the property. Highbourne will remain open to day visitors and overnight guests during redevelopment, continuing its longstanding role as a destination for those exploring the Exumas by sea.
By combining internationally recognized design talent with a conservation-first philosophy, Highbourne offers a distinctly different vision for private island ownership. With just 19 residences and estate lots, the community prioritizes preservation as much as luxury, creating an opportunity for homeowners to experience one of the Bahamas’ most remarkable natural settings while helping protect it for future generations.