Where to stay in Antigua: the luxury hotel guide
White sand beaches, azure waters, lush greenery and that joyful Caribbean spirit – there's a reason that Antigua remains a perennially popular spot for holidaymakers. For that reason the island, which is the most populous of the country of Antigua and Barbuda, is home to a number of luxury five-star hotels, each with it's own unique character and charm.
Here, we review three of the very best that Antigua has to offer...
Best for relaxation: Curtain Bluff
A boutique resort with buckets of charm, Curtain Bluff is an unpretentious five-star haven with a strong sense of community.
About the resort
After searching for the best part of a decade for the perfect slice of the Caribbean to call home, Howard and Chelle Hulford opened Curtain Bluff in 1962, naming it after the rocky ridge that divides their two beaches. From then on, they lived and worked at the hotel, building it into the successful 72-bedroom, five-star resort that it is today. While, sadly, they are both no longer with us, their presence is keenly felt in every detail, the torch now carried by the resort manager Rob Sherman, who has overseen operations for the past 25 years.
It's a remarkable level of consistency that's reflected in many of the resort's staff, and is rare to find in the hospitality industry – the result of which is a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that radiates a quiet confidence, and a high number of happy, returning guests, the names of whom the staff will undoubtedly already know.
Dining and drinks
Curtain Bluff features two locally inspired restaurants. Tamarind, set around the hotel's central courtyard and under the canopy of a magnificent tamarind tree, is the perfect place to start your day with some mouthwatering banana pancakes or French toast. By evening, the restaurant becomes a more elegant affair, with candlelit tables, a dress code and a rotating five-course menu of traditional island dishes, followed by a spot of star-gazing from the terrace if you're blessed with a clear evening. Sea Grape, situated right on the sand at the far end of the bay, is the more casual of the two, but the food is no less special, with a fusion of Italian and Antiguan cuisine. The weekly beach barbecue, accompanied by a steel band, is a highlight, as is the open-air dinner, which is offered several nights a week. Both restaurants feature live music from gifted local performers, featuring a mixture of Antiguan Soca, Calypso tunes and lounge music.
You won't find a cocktail menu at Curtain Bluff. Instead, the resort operates an ask-for-anything policy, which the talented and convivial bar staff will attempt to deliver should they have the required ingredients. Otherwise, simply tell them what you're in the mood for and they'll present their own concoction with glee (if in doubt, I highly recommend requesting a Coconut Crush – a thirst-quenching blend of white rum, coconut cream and crushed ice). The hotel also has an extensive wine cellar with an expert team of sommeliers offering recommendations, pairings and tastings.
Accommodation
Curtain Bluff features 72 rooms, all of which are ocean-facing. We stayed in the Grace Bay suite, an elegantly designed space occupying part of the third floor of a Caribbean-style villa, featuring an open-air living area, a palatial marble-lined bathroom, a sweeping veranda overlooking the sea, and a private jacuzzi. Guests here can fall asleep to the sound of the waves lapping – or crashing, weather-depending – from the comfort of your sumptuous four-poster bed. Jet-lag causing an unreasonably early wake up, we ventured down to the beach below our balcony one morning for a peaceful sunrise walk along the water's edge, before returning to the room for pastries and fruit on the terrace.
The suite was one of many areas of the hotel that underwent an extensive multi-million dollar renovation in 2023, and this was clearly evident in the quality of the decor and furnishings, all of which were immaculate.
Activities
Another area of focus for the renovation efforts was the adults-0nly spa and wellness area, which now features new state-of-the-art fitness facilities and a standalone Yoga Pavilion (the morning Pilates class here gave me the post-flight energy boost I needed), with a quaint Zen garden on one side and infinity pool and jacuzzi on the other, both of which have 180-degree ocean views. While wellness is the main focus on this side of the resort, it's worth noting that this is also the best spot from which to enjoy a spectacular sunset with a glass of wine. Additionally, the adjacent 5,000 square-foot waterfront spa offers a selection of rejuvenating treatments – including the signature CB Firm and Glow Body Wrap and the deeply hydrating Jet Lag Facial – in serene rooms overlooking the neighbouring Montserrat island.
The resort caters well to families, with a dedicated kids camp as well as countless sport and leisure activities, from paddle-boating, water skiing and tubing to squash, bocce and pickleball. A trip out to the reef for a spot of snorkelling is a lovely way to spend an afternoon; we were lucky enough to see a turtle gently meandering through the water beneath us. There are also five high-quality tennis courts for use by guests – four of which overlook the Caribbean sea – with lessons available from one of the resident pros for those hoping to improve their serve. Curtin Bluff also plays host to several tennis tournaments each year, the next being the annual Tennis Challenge Week taking place 2 to 9 November 2024, which is open to players of all levels and will see world-touring professionals and coaches descending on the resort.
Don't miss...
...the weekly manager's cocktail hosted at Bluff House, a private residence located at the very tip of the bluff, with panoramic views of the surrounding water and neighbouring islands. This popular hour of drinks and canapés is hosted by Sherman and is where the community fostered by Curtain Bluff is most evident; while newcomers are invited, returning visitors are celebrated here and presented with a gift as well as given the opportunity to speak. We were joined by a couple celebrating their milestone 10th year visiting the property, where they got both engaged and married, and who shared fond memories of their trips to this very special slice of the Caribbean.
Double rooms from £580 in low season; and from £1,265 in high. All-inclusive.
Save up to 25% with a seven-night, all-inclusive stay at Curtain Bluff in a Deluxe Room, Ocean View, plus complimentary fast-track meet and greet service. Prices from £3,859 per person, based on two people sharing a room and flying from London Gatwick with British Airways on 17 November 2024. Book with Kenwoodtravel.co.uk or via 0203 8683 202.
Best for endless entertainment: Carlisle Bay
A family-friendly five-star hotel with activities aplenty, Carlisle Bay takes inspiration from its picturesque surroundings to offer its own brand of laidback luxury.
About the resort
Just one cove away from Curtain Bluff you'll find Carlisle Bay, a five-star hotel set against a dramatic backdrop of lush rainforest. Since its opening in 2003, the property has become a firm favourite among holidaymakers visiting the island, thanks to its laidback brand of luxury, warm hospitality, and evident respect of local culture. The property remains a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World collection, and is currently overseen by the knowledgable and welcoming managing director Andrew Hedley, who's been an Antiguan resident for two decades – meaning that guests are in good hands.
Dining and drinks
Carlisle Bay has a diverse array of dining on offer, with four restaurants to choose from. Indigo on the Beach is a low-key ocean-front grill serving seafood, salads and pasta that you can stroll to directly from the beach (sandy feet are practically a prerequisite). Step through a set of imposing, carved wooden doors and you'll find yourself in East, a contemporary spot that serves up a mouthwatering selection of Japanese, Indonesian and Thai dishes created by the expert international culinary team; the fresh sushi selection is not to be missed. Those looking for a less formal setting should head to Ottimo!, the poolside eatery offering Italian fare and excellent wood-fire oven pizzas. Finally, The Jetty, situated at the quietest end of the resort, is the place to head for a romantic beach-side barbecue, where you can sample local Caribbean specialties while sipping sundowners (don't miss Firepit Fridays, where the night is enhanced with live music and yes, you guessed it, a firepit).
The cocktail and wine menus are extensive and best sampled at the Pavillion Bar, a light-filled area with open sides and a lofty wooden roof that sits at the heart of the hotel. As the sun sets, sink into one of the sofas with a glass of wine and enjoy the rotation of accomplished local musicians that perform there nightly.
Accommodation
Carlisle Bay has 87 rooms on offer: all suites, all generously sized, and all with a full or partial view of the Caribbean sea. We stayed in one of the Ocean Suites, which offers postcard-worthy views of the palm-strewn beach, framed by vibrant pink bougainvillea – and which, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, you don't even need to leave your bed to see. The split-level suite also features an open-plan bedroom and bathroom, with a walk-in shower and bathtub set against a backdrop of tropical greenery thanks to the fragrant gardens at the rear.
Those travelling with families will be well accommodated in the Beach Suites, which include a second bedroom for up to two children, plus the addition of a crib, and are ideally located on the seafront, so kids can tumble out straight onto the sand. Alternatively, the adults-only Bay Suites are the ones to book if you're looking for a little more solitude; ideal for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special milestone, they're situated at the quieter end of the beach and come complete with butler service – so you don't ever have to go out if you don't want to.
Activities
Carlisle Bay excels when it comes to entertainment, with a daily schedule of activities ranging from cooking experiences and creative art workshops to soca zumba classes and aqua aerobics. The more adventurous among you could sign up for one of the guided hikes through Mount Obama National Park, the highest point on the island, while those who are feeling competitive can sign up for the weekly tennis tournament, which plays out across the five manicured courts. Kite-sufing, zip-lining, horse-riding: you name it, they can organise it.
Naturally, there are also activities of the more mindful variety, like the yoga meditation with sound therapy. Watersports are, of course, a popular choice and guests can charter a boat for the day or join a group reef snorkelling session. We opted for a private sunset boat cruise, complete with champagne and canapés – the perfect way to unwind after a full afternoon of activities (or, a hard day of doing nothing, whatever your preference).
A special mention goes to the Cara Organic Spa, which features an impressive menu of treatments all inspired by the elements and designed to restore inner harmony and balance, in partnership with the holistically minded ESPA. Therapies range from salt scrubs and body wraps to advanced facials, reiki and reflexology – but the extensive massage menu is where the spa truly excels. The hot stone massage is truly restorative, and not to be skipped.
Don't miss...
... the chance to leave with a unique souvenir. The Bay Boutique features a well-curated selection of resortwear brands – from Melissa Odabash to Heidi Klein – and gifts, including select exclusive collaborations with contemporary labels like Taylor Morris eyewear, which are only available to buy at the resort. Each pair of sunglasses from the collection, all inspired by the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean, features Taylor Morris x Carlisle Bay neatly etched on one of the arms. The hotel also regularly hosts a selection of handpicked local arts and crafts vendors during the weekly manager's welcome drinks by the jetty, who sell everything from handmade jewellery to Antiguan wine.
Save up to 35 per cent on a seven-night, bed and breakfast stay at Carlisle Bay in Antigua, staying in a one-bedroom garden suite. Prices from £2,049 per person, based on two people sharing a room and flying from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic on 4 November 2024. Book with KenwoodTravel.co.uk or on 0203 8683 202.
Best for privacy: Jumby Bay
An private island paradise, Jumby Bay is the luxurious all-inclusive escape with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living and unparalleled service.
About the resort
Stepping out of your private boat onto the dock at Jumby Bay is one of those unforgettable holiday experiences that has you humming with anticipation for what's to come.
Before it became the site of a five-star hotel, back in the late 1980s the secluded island was home to the Jumby Bay Hawksbill Project, created to monitor female sea turtles and track their nesting visits to the idyllic spot. The resort opened its doors in 2002 and now privately funds the important work of the conservation group (indeed, guests have the opportunity to participate in 'turtle watch' beach patrols).
A sprawling, 300-acre site, Jumby Bay – which has been a member of The Oetker Collection since 2017 – now features 40 suites, 14 villas and 21 private residences, as well as a protected and cultivated flock of sheep that has inhabited the island for more than 400 years.
Accommodation
A simple sophistication is the order of the day when it comes to the Jumby Bay rooms – although describing them as 'rooms' might be a stretch; all come with spacious living areas, sun terraces of varying sizes, and outdoor showers or soaking tubs, and many require either a bicycle or golf cart to get to. Those at the upper end of the scale feature private pools and wraparound patios, and naturally, each suite has a memorable view – whether ivory sand, sapphire water or emerald gardens. We made particular use of the two bicycles that came with our suite, hopping on them to explore all that the beautiful surroundings had to offer.
For a more personal experience, the 14 villas offer a bespoke approach to island living, with a dedicated butler service and private chefs on call. Each is individually decorated with its own unique charm and can accommodate groups with up to five bedrooms.
For the ultimate in exclusivity, the private residencies are among some of the most spectacular holiday homes you're ever likely to encounter. Like the villas, each is entirely different, with its own design, decor and character, ideal for longer stays and bigger groups. Take Evangeline, a romantic beach-front sanctuary that sleeps 12 and has its own private dock. Or the refined Dragonfly, perched up high on a hill with mesmerising views and set within four acres of tropical gardens. Then there's Morning Glory, an impressive colonial-style residence with private flood-lit tennis courts. Or the grand Tŷ Compton, which comes complete with its own swim-up bar, golf-simulator and outdoor cinema...
Dining and drinks
Everything at Jumby Bay is fully inclusive during your stay – and top-quality dining is all part of the experience. There are several restaurant options of varying formality, all featuring an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. We enjoyed a long, candle-lit evening on the terrace at The Estate House (widely considered one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Antigua), which fuses classic fare with modern island flavours; if it's on the menu, I urge you to try the black cod. Once the centre of the island's sugar plantation, the former plantation house was first built in 1830, and now features a restaurant, three private dining rooms and a truly excellent bar – beautifully designed to evoke a sense of colonial elegance, inspired by the house's rich history. Before you eat, I recommend arriving early and pulling up a seat at the bar with an Antigua black pineapple daquiri or a glass of the house champagne, Tattinger.
For more casual dining, The Veranda is the relaxed beachside spot for breakfast and buffets; The Pool Grille is, as the name suggests, a poolside bistro offering lunch, snacks and cocktails; while the Beach Shack serves daytime food and drinks to those that can't bear to leave their loungers. There are also pop-up dining events, such as beach barbecues (where an all-white dress code is encouraged) and farm-to-table experiences (did I mention the resort has its own farm?)
Activities
While it's tempting to spend all day in your private pool, or reclining on one of the beach beds (and some days, we did), this is an island of recreation as much as respite. Biking is the best way to explore the abundance of nature on offer, while the expert staff at the Jumby Bay Water Sports Centre are available for lessons, guided tours and boat trips. Snorkelling gear is freely available, as are kayaks, wind surfers and paddle boards. A weekly schedule of activities features everything from fishing to fitness, rum tasting and painting, and the island even has it's own sailing academy. I'd also be remiss not to mention the spa, which blends modern therapeutic practices and West Indies tradition, and offers signature treatments in partnership with the organic beauty brand Tata Harper.
Don't miss...
... a golf-cart tour of the island, guided by one of the knowledgable team. There really is so much to see, do and explore at Jumby Bay and having a welcome tour proved a useful and educational experience, allowing me to really make the most of my stay.
Enjoy a seven-night, all-inclusive stay in a Beach Suite at Jumby Bay from £10,549 per person. Price based on two people sharing a room and flying from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic on 12 November 2024. Book with KenwoodTravel.co.uk or on 0203 8683 202.
Antigua, multi-stop package* Enjoy a 12-night, all-inclusive getaway to Antigua and experience three stunning hotels. Start your trip with two nights at the secluded Carlisle Bay, staying in a one-bedroom garden suite, followed by five nights at the luxury and intimate Curtain Bluff in a Bluff Room. For the final five nights, experience the private island paradise of Jumby Bay, staying in a Beach Suite. Prices from £14,359 per person based on two people sharing a room and travelling from London Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic on 12 November. Book at KenwoodTravel.co.uk or call 0203 683202.*Package includes transfers between Curtain Bluff and Jumby Bay.
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