On the southern shores of Boa Vista, Tarafo Bay is taking shape as more than a place to visit. It is being created as a refined luxury lifestyle and experience destination; one rooted in nature, sustainability, and community. We sat down with founder Tim Strawson to talk about the journey behind Tarafo Bay and the vision guiding its future.
A Vision Born from Passion
For Tim and his family, the story of Tarafo Bay began in 2007, on their first visit to Boa Vista.
“We instantly fell in love with the island,” Tim recalls. “The beautiful beaches, clear blue ocean, and perfect year-round climate made it the ideal destination for our family.”
That first trip quickly turned into many. Just two months later they returned, and since then, Boa Vista has become a place the family visits year after year, building a deep connection with the island and its people.
Before founding Tarafo Bay, Tim built a successful career as an entrepreneur and public figure. He is the founder of the Bradbury Group, a UK-based manufacturer of bespoke security and fire-rated doors, and served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; an honour held by only a select few.
“Boa Vista is still an emerging tourist destination,” Tim explains. “That creates a unique opportunity to offer something different from the traditional all-inclusive model. Tarafo Bay is about an affordable luxury lifestyle, where guests can be active, explore, or simply relax and indulge. It’s a chance to create an exceptional holiday resort that not only delights visitors, but also delivers lasting benefits for the people of Boa Vista.”
Tim with his wife Kerry, enjoying a cocktail at Toca da Garoupa in Sal Rei, Boa Vista
More Than Just a Resort
Tarafo Bay is not only about luxury living; it is also about making a lasting, positive impact. Central to this commitment is the Boa Vista Trust, which focuses on supporting local communities across the island.
Tim has a long history of community involvement, including founding the charity Youth Engineering Scunthorpe in 2014, which helps young people access careers in engineering, and Warm Spaces in 2022, a programme providing warm, comfortable environments during the winter months.
“With Tarafo Bay, it was essential that we give back,” says Tim. “We want to work in harmony with local communities to support better housing, improved education and employment opportunities, and enhanced medical facilities.”
The first phase of the Boa Vista Trust will focus on supporting medical services for the island’s residents.
What Makes Tarafo Bay Unique?
One of the defining features of Tarafo Bay is its complete independence in energy and water. The resort will generate renewable power through dedicated solar farms and produce fresh water using state-of-the-art desalination systems.
“This guarantees a sustainable, cost-efficient, and uninterrupted supply of resources,” Tim explains. “By removing reliance on external providers, we can ensure a consistently premium experience for our guests. Moreover, it presents an opportunity to transform how energy is generated in Boa Vista for the long term.”
This level of autonomy is unmatched on the island, and by few resorts worldwide. Importantly, Tarafo Bay is also designed to supply surplus energy and water back into the local community, reinforcing its social and environmental commitment.
“Our vision is to create a world-class, fully self-sustainable luxury golf, beach, and wellness resort,” says Tim, “one that delivers exceptional guest experiences while generating long-term benefits for the local community.”
Sustainability at the Core
At Tarafo Bay, sustainability is not an afterthought; it is fundamental to every decision. The resort will prioritise eco-friendly materials and responsible waste management. “Every effort will be made to minimise waste, recycle wherever possible, and ensure that all operations protect the island’s natural environment, setting a high standard for sustainable tourism in Boa Vista” says Tim.
Guests will also be encouraged to take part in conservation and community initiatives during their stay. “We want people to enjoy themselves, but also to leave knowing their visit has contributed to something meaningful.”
Experiences to Enjoy
Tarafo Bay is designed to offer something for every kind of traveller.
“We want guests to truly make the most of their time here,” says Tim. “Whether that means golf, windsurfing, wellness, or simply relaxing by the pool, there’s something for everyone.”
Planned facilities for the first phase include an 18-hole golf course with panoramic ocean views, guided nature excursions, wellness retreats at both the hotel and beach centre, water sports and sea fishing, and even a game of padel.
Looking Ahead
The coming years mark an exciting chapter for Tarafo Bay.
“In 2026, we will begin construction of the resort, including our first golf course and Phase One of the development,” Tim shares. “At the same time, we’ll start actively delivering impact through the Boa Vista Trust.”
Plans also include the thoughtful renovation of the popular beach bar Toca da Garoupa in Sal Rei, transforming it into a Tarafo Bay-inspired destination on the north of the island.
“There’s a lot to do,” Tim adds, “and it’s an exciting journey ahead.”
The Tarafo Bay Experience
Ultimately, Tarafo Bay is about creating meaningful and memorable experiences.
“We hope guests and owners leave feeling inspired, relaxed, and deeply connected – to nature, to culture, and to themselves” says Tim.
It is this blend of luxury, sustainability, adventure, and wellbeing that makes Tarafo Bay a destination unlike any other.
