If you're looking for a posh Caribbean resort where you would feel equally comfortable on a romantic getaway as you would on a family vacation, or more likely, you're looking for both wrapped up into one vacation, Carlisle Bay is your spot. Located on the Southern side of Antigua in the British West Indies, Carlisle Bay, a sister resort to One Aldwych Hotel in London, is truly a unique gem among high-end Caribbean hotels. Its contemporary design sets it apart from any other resort on the island and its attention to detail and customer service set it apart from hotels everywhere.

If you are envisioning a typical "family resort", you may think you have booked the wrong hotel when you enter the property. Entering the open-air reception, having just crossed over a lily pond framed in flaming torches, you're met by a cool, chic design that mixes high-end contemporary design with classic colonial touches. This is not your typical Caribbean family resort. But never fear.

From reception you spy an outdoor bar area that leads to a series of pools, the ocean straight ahead and a line of children parading to and fro activities. The cool neutral colors, paired with dark wood furniture, set against the turquoise sea in the background certainly adds to a feeling of tranquility, but there's a secret ingredient in Carlisle Bay as well. They've mastered a difficult balance: an upscale resort where families and honeymooners feel utterly comfortable with each other and completely accommodated by the resort.

Opened in 2003 the property is not yet showing any serious wear and tear, and fortunately has been spared from hurricanes so far. The 82-luxury, ocean-facing suites range in size from a junior suite to a three-bedroom suite. Rooms are outfitted with Frette bed linens, Bespoke furniture and ocean views from every suite.

The hotel is just 30 minutes from the airport and the capital town of St. Johns, and just 20 minutes from the must-see Nelson's Dockyard, a preserved colonial dockyard that was used by the Royal Navy in the 18th and 19th century, and English Harbour, one of the best spots in the Caribbean for yacht-spotting. There are many direct flights to Antigua now including from London, Atlanta, JFK and Newark and connecting flights through Puerto Rico for other cities. Carlisle Bay provides complimentary shuttle service from the hotel and cars are available for hire onsite.

More Information

Family Activities

Rooms

Map

Family Dining

Planning & Tips

Reviews