February 20, (THEWILL) – Jara Beach Resort, a leading coastal retreat in Lagos, has marked its fifth anniversary, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for local and international travelers.
Co-founded by Mark Slade and his wife Millie, the resort has expanded from a modest six-room facility to a 17-room luxury getaway, setting new benchmarks in Nigeria’s hospitality industry.
Reflecting on the resort’s journey, Slade underscored the importance of professionalism and consistency in tourism. He emphasized that Jara Beach Resort adheres to global best practices, ensuring guests receive top-tier experiences.
“If you expect a certain level of service abroad, the same should apply here. It’s about mutual respect and professionalism,” he noted.
The resort operates on a strict pre-booked, pre-paid policy to maintain order and security.
“Check-in is at 2 p.m., and if someone arrives at 9 p.m. without a booking, they won’t be allowed in. Our environment is secure, and we uphold these rules,” Slade explained.
To guarantee safety, Jara Beach Resort has a robust security structure comprising armed police, local patrol officers, and uniformed operatives.
Located in Museyo, Eleko, Lagos, the resort has developed a reputation for exclusivity, with guests planning their visits well in advance.
“People don’t just drive an hour and a half along the expressway hoping for a vacancy. Our availability is always updated on our website, Instagram, WhatsApp, and email, with a dedicated team responding promptly,” Slade said.
Jara Beach Resort officially opened in November 2019, evolving from the couple’s beach hut into a top-tier hospitality establishment. The site, formerly an annex of Shaka Hotel (Shakaville), was revitalized rather than rebuilt, preserving its history and character.
Starting with five standard Ocean Deluxe rooms catering to couples and young families, the resort expanded rapidly. Room six, featuring an additional bedroom, became a favorite among larger families.
The COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 posed significant challenges for the hospitality sector, but Jara Beach Resort adapted swiftly.
“We reopened in June 2020 with just six rooms, and for nearly four months, we were fully booked, prompting expansion,” Slade recalled.
The expansion included the addition of cabins (rooms 7–9) and premium villas, designed as exclusive honeymoon-style accommodations. These feature luxury amenities such as double showers, walk-in closets, and king-size four-poster beds, offering panoramic ocean views.
Further developments introduced deluxe family rooms (12a and 12b), catering to up to five guests, while the latest additions—studios (rooms 14–17)—completed the resort’s 17-room portfolio.
“These studios offer direct ocean views and flexible accommodation for families and groups,” Slade remarked.
A defining feature of Jara Beach Resort is its all-inclusive hospitality model, a first for Nigerian beach resorts.
“We were the first in Lagos and Nigeria to introduce an all-inclusive beach resort experience, making luxury more accessible,” Slade said.
Guests enjoy a seamless experience, from a welcome lunch to an extensive snack station, gourmet dinner options, and a 12-hour premium alcohol service, all designed to enhance relaxation.
Beyond hospitality, Jara Beach Resort actively collaborates with tourism agencies to promote Nigerian travel experiences.
“We have long-standing partnerships with agencies, and just last week, we hosted an open house with 45 organizations to showcase what we offer,” Slade shared.
He encouraged travel sector professionals to incorporate Jara Beach Resort into their packages, positioning it as a key attraction in Lagos and beyond.
Jara Beach Resort’s five-year milestone is more than a celebration—it is a testament to its commitment to excellence, security, and world-class hospitality. As the resort continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to delivering an unmatched coastal experience while upholding the high standards that have defined its success.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
