Where is it?
Sitting just off Antigua’s northern coastline, minutes from the international airport, this 300-acre private island is the perfect place to kick off your Caribbean charter. The keyless island offers the ultimate all-inclusive experience, giving guests the same amount of freedom as the flock of sheep that wander around its gently rolling hills and reef-lined beaches.
What’s the hype?
Taken over by the Oetker Collection in 2017, the group has added its usual touch of pizzazz to this much-loved Antiguan institution. Updates have included the addition of 12 brand-new Ocean View Suites, which showcase a contemporary beach house vibe – think cream tones with pops of colour added by local artist Jan Farara, open-air bathrooms, and vast verandas with views over the turquoise waters beyond.
Alternatively, if you are looking for ultimate privacy then book one of the island’s private residences. Each with their own personal style, dictated by their individual owners, there is a home away from home to suit anyone. One of the most expansive is the nine-bedroom Mariposa. Sitting in a 10-acre plot it has a tennis court, basketball half-court and an infinity pool fit for any Instagram grid.
What to have?
Set slightly inland, the spa’s elevated position means you can unwind in one of its ocean-view treatment rooms while being gently cooled by the salty sea breeze. It is the first spa in Antigua to harness Tata Harper’s (aka. The Queen of Green Beauty) products. For the full experience try the Energise Body Ritual. It starts with a head-to-toe powerful, biodegradable body scrub followed by a soothing massage with revitalizing body oil.
Or, if you are missing time at sea, you can opt for the Castaway Escape for Two experience, on board the resort’s private yachts. Find yourself “shipwrecked” on the white sand shores of Maiden Island and enjoy a side-by-side couples massage with Champagne and a tailored picnic.
What’s the USP?
Not only is Jumby Bay Antigua’s only private island resort but its “nothing but the swimsuit” policy creates a unique relaxed vibe. As part of its all-inclusive programme guests can enjoy à la carte dining, fine wines, Champagne and watersports, without a soggy dollar in sight. Lying by the beach waiters arrive with fresh morsels of deliciousness, and plenty of cocktails to keep the holiday spirit alive. As the sun sets guests can head to the Estate House, which date back to 1830, and serves up classic cuisine with modern island flavours.
Best by boat?
Only accessible by boat, you can tender directly to the island’s jetty (although you will need to stay overnight to sample island life).
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