Getting to Know
Breathing New Life into South Caicos
Salterra’s visionary leader is a trailblazer in sustainable development.
By Davidson E. Louis ~ Photos By Peter Wagner
Michael Tibbetts, an eighth-generation Caymanian, is not only a steward of island heritage but also a trailblazer in sustainable development. From his early roots in the Cayman Islands to his groundbreaking work in South Caicos, Michael’s story is one of passion, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to creating a brighter future for island communities. Now at the helm of Salterra, an eagerly anticipated Marriott Luxury Collection Resort, he is combining historical reverence with forward-thinking innovation to reshape the narrative of South Caicos.
A legacy of resilience

Michael Tibbetts’ leadership ensures that Salterra becomes a promise to honor the past while paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for South Caicos and its people.
Michael, born in the United States, spent a significant part of his childhood and formative years in the Cayman Islands. He began his career as a physician studying molecular biology at Princeton University, graduating from Harvard Medical School and eventually completing an ophthalmology residency. However, his deep connection to his Caymanian roots remained unwavering. Every visit home strengthened his sense of belonging and pride in a heritage that traces back to the late 1700s. His family’s enduring legacy on the islands is a tapestry of resilience and resourcefulness. From physician to developer, Michael embodies the perseverance instilled by his family’s remarkable history.
A pivotal figure in Michael’s understanding of this legacy was his grandfather, a man who turned a modest $17 into one of the Southeast United States’ largest building materials companies, later sold to Home Depot. Before that, Michael’s great-grandfather exemplified grit and adaptability, transitioning from shipbuilding to shopkeeping after losing an arm in a tragic accident. These stories became the foundation of Michael’s values, instilling a profound respect for history and a drive to build something meaningful.
“Understanding where you come from is invaluable,” Michael reflects—a guiding principle that shapes his approach to development and sustainability. Such lessons continue to influence his vision for Salterra.
Discovery of South Caicos
Michael’s journey to South Caicos began serendipitously in January 2020, when he first visited the island to explore East Bay Resort. Initially unfamiliar with South Caicos, he was immediately captivated by its untouched beauty, rich history, and cultural parallels to his native Cayman Islands. What some might see as a remote island with challenges, Michael saw as a canvas for revitalization—a chance to blend preservation and progress.
Historically a bustling hub for salt production, South Caicos faced economic decline with the fall of the salt trade. However, Michael views these struggles not as deterrents but as opportunities to breathe new life into the island. His vision for Salterra is to catalyze economic growth while safeguarding the island’s environment and cultural identity.
A new chapter for the “Big South”

Salterra is more than a resort to Michael Tibbetts—it’s a carefully curated experience designed to engage the senses and tell a story at every turn.
Under Michael’s leadership, Salterra is designed to be more than just a luxury destination. It represents a new chapter for South Caicos—a model of sustainable tourism that aligns with the island’s unique character and potential. As we walked and explored the project together, Michael’s passion and vision became palpable. Each space we visited seemed to spark a new level of excitement, his eyes lighting up as he described the thoughtful details that make Salterra a one-of-a-kind destination. This is more than a resort to him—it’s a carefully curated experience designed to engage the senses and tell a story at every turn.
Carefully arranged on the floor of the soon-to-be Regatta Restaurant, the deep-ocean-blue tiles glisten like the serene, endless waters embracing South Caicos. The completed restaurant will create a serene yet invigorating atmosphere that invites guests to savor not only their meals but also the beauty of their surroundings. The restaurant and menu are indeed a nod to the island’s coastal charm and vibrant marine life.
Stepping into the Cobo Bar and Grill, Michael spoke with pride about the carefully curated furniture, each piece thoughtfully chosen to embody comfort and style, enhancing the space’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can look forward to Latin-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and stunning views. The bar, crafted from natural materials, creates an inviting space where visitors can gather, unwind, and immerse themselves in the relaxed energy of the island.
Then there’s Brine, the salt-themed restaurant, a concept that pays homage to South Caicos’ history as a major world salt producer. The space features design elements that evoke the texture and palette of salt flats, seamlessly blending history and modern sophistication. Guests are encouraged to experience culinary innovation while connecting to the island’s roots.
Michael’s approach to design goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that evoke emotion and foster connection. Each restaurant, bar, and gathering area is a testament to his commitment to curating adventures of the senses through flavors, textures, and stories that celebrate the island’s unique identity. His passion shines through in every detail, transforming Salterra into not just a resort, but an immersive celebration of South Caicos.
Continuing our tour across the construction site, we eventually arrived at my favorite part of the project: the Spa and Wellness Retreat. This interconnected series of buildings will become a sanctuary where guests can rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit in a setting designed for ultimate relaxation.
The retreat will feature an aqua-thermal circuit, a revitalizing experience that combines therapeutic water treatments to promote healing and balance. Guests can also indulge in couples massages and a variety of bespoke treatments tailored to their needs, blending modern wellness practices with tranquil island influences. Nestled in a secluded corner of the resort, the space already exudes an air of quiet and serenity.

South Caicos’ untouched beauty and rich history is seen by Michael Tibbetts as a canvas for revitalization.
Salterra’s design integrates seamlessly with the island’s natural environment, inviting guests to immerse themselves in its untouched beauty. But that is not all. From exploring and restoring pristine coral reefs to participating in marine conservation efforts, Salterra offers experiences that educate and inspire. Initiatives like “Snorkel for a Cause,” where proceeds fund local marine preservation, highlight the resort’s commitment to community impact.
A holistic approach
Michael’s approach to development is strikingly holistic. He views Salterra not as an isolated project but as a cornerstone for South Caicos’ broader growth. Partnerships with organizations like the School for Field Studies support marine biology research, while initiatives to train local fishermen as tour guides and scuba instructors empower the community.
His vision extends beyond Salterra to include a South Caicos community where eco-tourism and environmental stewardship will thrive. He hopes Salterra will inspire like-minded developments that collectively foster a self-sustaining economy benefiting both residents of South Caicos and visitors alike.
From his Caymanian roots to his transformative work in South Caicos, Michael Tibbetts exemplifies the power of blending historical awareness with innovative thinking. Salterra is not just a resort—it is a symbol of hope, progress, and a commitment to a flourishing future.
“What does success look like to you?” I asked him. For Michael, success isn’t defined by accolades but by meaningful progress in South Caicos—economically, environmentally, and socially. “I want to do something my kids are proud of,” he reflects. “And I want South Caicos to thrive in every sense.”
In fact, Michael’s two young daughters, Caroline and Lydia, are becoming engaged in the project, with an innate understanding of its significance. Lydia, an inquisitive and passionate nine-year-old, knows Salterra inside and out, from the carefully selected font that defines its brand to the family activities she helps curate, ensuring the resort offers connection and joy for all ages.
Under Michael’s leadership Salterra is far more than a business venture. It’s a legacy—a commitment to honoring the island’s rich history while building a sustainable and prosperous future for its people. Through Salterra, Michael Tibbetts is breathing new life into South Caicos, proving that a visionary leader can create meaningful change, one inspired step at a time.
Thanks to efforts by Michael Tibbett and Saltera in recruiting the airline and putting up a deposit, starting February 15, 2025, American Airlines will operate two flights per week on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Miami (MIA) to South Caicos Airport (XSC). All flights to XSC will operate on Embraer 175 aircraft with room for 76 passengers, including 12 first class seats. Customers from across North America will now have faster and more convenient access to this idyllic island and the new Salterra resort via bookable flights through Philadelphia, Dallas, and Charlotte.
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This spectacular shot was captured by Seth Willingham, also known as @waterproject on Instagram. He’s been a professional photographer for 15 years, traveling the world capturing images of nature from beautiful destinations. He says, " From the moment I first saw Turks & Caicos from the airplane window I knew this place was going to be different. On our first night at Grace Bay, we were blessed with a glorious sunset and the colors of the sky and water were truly mind blowing."
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