Carlisle Bay Antigua

Carlisle Bay’s impressive entrance sets a tone of relaxation that extends throughout the entire property. A picturesque wooden walkway passes over a large, tranquil pond stocked with vibrantly colored koi before reaching the huge, airy lobby. Calm turquoise waters gently lap against the large white-sand beach, which is visible from all the suites and most areas of the property. Featuring separate family-friendly and adult-only areas, it’s easy for guests to find the right level of activity (or lack thereof) to suit their needs. A two-story spa complex is on hand to up the relaxation level even more, and all-inclusive packages allow guests to kick back and focus on nothing but enjoying their vacation. 

Set on a secluded bay of the same name on the south shore of the island, Carlisle Bay feels isolated while still offering easy access to surrounding areas, thanks to its convenient location where two major roads meet. Jolly Harbour Marina and Jolly Harbour Golf Club are about a 20-minute drive away. The town of English Harbour, a yachting and sailing hot spot, is a half-hour drive away. It’s also the site of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes preserved 18th-century British buildings and the Shirley Heights lookout, which offers some of the best views on the island. The capital city of St. John’s and V.C. Bird International Airport can each be reached by car in 35 to 40 minutes.

With a palette of whites, neutrals, and a few pops of color inspired by the resort’s surroundings, the polished suites at Carlisle Bay are simply decorated (some guests might say underwhelming). All units have living areas, private terraces or balconies featuring daybeds and dining tables, and partial or full sea views. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, tea- and coffee-making equipment, and yoga mats come standard. Some suites include espresso makers. Closets are equipped with safes, irons, and ironing boards. Bathrooms decorated in subdued gray tones feature separate tubs and showers, hairdryers, robes, and high-end Molton Brown toiletries. Evening turndown service is provided. Entry-level Garden Suites feature sunken living rooms and are set back a bit from the beach, though they still offer partial sea views. Upgraded Ocean Suites and Bay Suites have the same layout as the Garden Suites, but are closer to the beach and offer full sea views. Bay Suites are adult-only, and also include modern four-poster beds, a vodka and rum bar, and private butler service. Beach Terrace and Beach Balcony Suites (on the ground or second floor, respectively) are two-bedroom suites located on the family side of the resort. Each features one bedroom with a king-size bed and one bedroom with two twin beds. The top-of-the-line suites are the Carlisle Suites. These premium units each have three bedrooms, full kitchens, and larger terraces than the other suites, and they sleep up to six guests, making them ideal for families or groups. As a fun touch, conch shells placed outside the suites' doors take the place of traditional do not disturb tags.

Carlisle Bay offers a wide range of upscale features that guests would expect from a high-end resort. Standard room rates include breakfast, afternoon tea, Wi-Fi throughout the property, and water sports. All-inclusive packages add three-course lunch and dinner, wine by glass, cocktails, liquor, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. There’s a supplement for premium wines by the bottle. There are four restaurants on the property, the main one being Indigo on the Beach. As the name implies, the casual, open-air eatery looks out directly over the beach and the sea, and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner (the dress code is fancier at night). It also features a bar with a large, airy lounge where nightly entertainment is offered. Other dinner options include East, an air-conditioned, upscale Asian restaurant; Ottimo! serving Italian fare; and The Jetty Grill, an open-air, adult-only eatery on the beach. Dinner reservations are required at all restaurants. Room service is offered 24/7.In addition to the Indigo Bar, there’s a small bar on the beach and a larger bar at the end of the lobby, featuring lounge seating and piano. It faces out to the resort’s large freeform pool, which is surrounded by padded sun loungers and umbrellas. Additional sun loungers and hammocks can be found dotted along the long stretch of white-sand beach, which also offers non-motorized water sports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling. There are also separate adults’ and kids’ pools on the property.The tranquil, two-story Blue Spa offers an extensive menu of massages, wellness treatments, and facials. Separate men’s and women’s changing rooms each feature a plunge pool and a sauna, and there’s a beauty salon in the complex. Guests have plenty of options for staying active while on vacation. A modern fitness center includes Technogym cardio machines, TRX equipment, and weights. There’s also a dedicated pavilion for yoga and Pilates, a scuba diving facility, loaner bikes, and nine tennis courts offering free scheduled clinics.The amenities don’t end there. The resort also has a 45-seat cinema, a kids’ club, and a small yacht available for charter. Free activities include yoga and Pilates classes, guided nature walks, movie screenings, and a range of kids’ activities. Parking and Wi-Fi are also included.