“Live music, no distractions. That’s where the magic happens.”
JAYMA CARDOSO moved to New York from Brazil to study biology and fell head over Louboutin heels for the city’s nightlife. She launched Cain, GoldBar and Lavo, then in 2008 opened the Surf Lodge, singlehandedly turning then-sleepy Montauk into the coolest fishing village in America. From Saint Barth’s, where the Queen of the Scene has decamped for NYE at Surf Lodge’s newest pop-up, Cardoso chats with ALEXANDER HANKIN.
Surf Lodge in St. Barths – how fabulous!
I’ve always loved St. Barths and Hotel Le Toiny. Bringing the Surf Lodge vibe to the Caribbean is a dream. We’re teaming up with Ferragamo – doing a pop up boutique through January 5th and a one-night-only celebration. Toes in the sand, tropical cocktails, BLOND:ISH spinning under the stars. Pure St. Barth magic: intimate chic and unforgettable.
And now Snow Lodge is the hottest place to be in Aspen.
It felt like a natural winter counterpart to the Surf Lodge. Taking the same warmth, music and lifestyle and bringing it to the mountains.
How is the scene different from Montauk?
They’re different kinds of challenges. Both places have high expectations and require careful planning. The pace and logistics shift with the seasons and the weather. Aspen is intense in the winter when everything is packed. Montauk comes alive in summer and brings its own seasonal rhythm.
Surf Lodge is a Hamptons destination.
Hotels can create unforgettable experiences. Montauk felt familiar, very relaxed, natural, soulful. I leaned into that energy, building around lifestyle and community. It’s the combination of nature, music and people being truly present. Sunset, live music, no distractions. That’s where the magic happens. Artists play just because they want to be there. Those intimate, unexpected performances always stay with me. It’s grounding, creative and freeing all at once.
“Success comes from being brave, working hard and always staying true to your values.”
Snow Lodge has Caviar Kaspia in the infamous Jade Room this year.
It has been my dream to collaborate with Caviar Kaspia and finally the stars aligned. The product, the lifestyle and the brand ethos – they’re perfect for us. If you want the true caviar potato you can only get it with us. I only work with brands I genuinely admire. If the values align, it feels natural. Timing is key. I have a few dream partners in mind, just waiting for the stars to align.
Après Ski Club debuts in Snowmass this season.
High-energy après, rooftop style. Great music with top DJs, global talent, high energy performances mixed with great food and a social, effortless vibe. It’s about the feeling. Matching the music to the energy of the space and the moment.
You have a 13-year-old son.
I want him to know that success comes from being brave, working hard and always staying true to your values.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY BFA
