Antigua is an idyllic location for a couples holiday with 365 pristine beaches, romantic excursions, luxurious hotel accommodation and unique, secluded holiday rental properties. Days can be spent relaxing by an infinity pool or snorkelling off the shore from a white sand beach. At night indulge in well seasoned fresh fish from a waterfront restaurant, cook a special dinner at home or dance beneath the stars.
Flights from London to Antigua
British Airways' economy flights from London to Antigua can be snapped up for less than £600 depending on the time of year. Premium Economy flights though more expensive, offer passengers a little more comfort, include airport lounge passes and a welcome glass of bubbles on boarding the aircraft.
Accommodation in Antigua
To help you decide on the type of accommodation that may be best for you, ask yourself a few questions...
If your preference is to stay at a resort, do you wish to be within an adults only or family friendly one?
Do you like to be around other people or stay largely within your own company?
Do you like to prepare some meals at home or have a 'cooking free' holiday?
Do you intend on spending lots of time exploring the island or are you expecting a more relaxed getaway?
Now that you have considered the above, here are some top recommendations of where to stay as a couple when visiting Antigua.
1. Privately owned holiday rentals for couples
Holiday rental properties are ideal for those who largely like to keep within their own company, spending quality time together without following a schedule. They offer freedom and flexibility, having meals at times that suit you and exploring the island at leisure. Renting a property is a way to live like a local and put money back into the local community. It can also be a more cost effective way of travelling overseas.
Here are three highly recommended holiday rental properties for couples, a brand new, spacious studio apartment at Johnson's Point, a rural studio in Crabbe Hill Village and a luxury one bed cottage in Bay Gardens.
Newly built studio apartment for rent at Johnson's Point
This brand new, eco-friendly studio with fully equipped kitchen and sumptuous four poster bed, has been carefully designed to create an environment where couples can disconnect from the busyness of everyday life and rejuvenate. Tucked into a hillside on the south western coast of Antigua, its rural, elevated position offers uninterrupted sea views and a chance to reconnect with nature. Stroll hand in hand early morning along deserted white sand beaches and spend early evenings settled on the verandah with a glass of wine, watching a glorious sunset. For a romantic day trip, book a power boat tour of the island from Jolly Harbour and lunch Robinson Crusoe style on an uninhabited island. At night, prepare a romantic meal at home or take a short drive to one of the island's most intimate dining spots, Sheer Rocks.
Reasons to come here as a couple...
Rural location
Walking distance to stunning beaches
Four poster bed
Verandah with loungers, table and chairs and far reaching views of Montserrat
Ocean views and incredible sunsets
Close to excellent restaurants
Close to Jolly Harbour
Click on the link to read more about the studio apartment, check prices and availability.
Studio apartment for rent at Crabbe Hill Village
A rural retreat where you can escape the stresses of everyday life. The studio accommodation is beneath a family home in the heart of Crabbe Hill Village on Antigua's South West coast. On waking, pick fruit for breakfast from plants and trees surrounding the property, perhaps watermelon, papaya, plums or banana. After, cross the road to Crabbe Hill beach, one of the best on the island. Wander along the long stretch of powdery white sand and swim in the turquoise hued water. Later relax on a beach lounger (complimentary for residents) or hire a paddle board or windsurf from Crabbe Hill Beach Rentals at a discounted rate. Evenings can be spent watching a golden sunset from the terrace with your favourite tipple, cooking a delicious meal on the bbq and lighting the chiminea before cosying up on the day bed under the night sky.
Reasons to come here as a couple...
To reconnect with nature
Romantic evenings under the stars
Beach walks
Close to restaurants
Sea views
Incredible sunsets
Click on the link to read more about the studio apartment, check prices and availability.
1 bed cottage for rent, Hodges Bay
This upscale Caribbean style cottage is located within the gated village complex of Bay Gardens to the North of Antigua, with its cafes, arts and craft market and salon. Set amongst lush gardens, with a private pool, it oozes luxury. The vaulted ceilings throughout enhance the property's sense of space and natural light. Perhaps indulge in a bbq lunch poolside or cook a romantic evening meal from the chef's kitchen and dine alfresco. When it's time to rest, recline to the bedroom with its grand four poster bed. Doors from the bedroom open onto the verandah where you can enjoy a peaceful coffee on waking. Hodges Bay beach, restaurants and a supermarket are close by. Activities such as a private sunset sail and power boat tour with lunch on an uninhabited island can be pre-booked and picked up from Dickenson Bay, just 12 minutes by car.
Reasons to come here as a couple...
Private, village-style location amongst tropical gardens
Swimming Pool
Four poster bed
Chef's kitchen to prepare romantic meals at home
BBQ for poolside meals
Close to Hodges Bay Beach, restaurants and supermarket
Romantic activities close by
Click on the link to read more about the cottage in Hodges Bay, check prices and availability.
2. Large all-inclusive resorts in Antigua
Large all-inclusive resorts as you might expect are usually very busy, popular with couples, families and groups of friends. They tend to be more lively with well run activity and entertainment programs. With food, beverages and activities being included many guests may prefer to stay within the resort rather than spending additional money on excursions and meals out. They can be restrictive in that sense. However, for those who prefer to leave their wallet in the safe, spend time at the pool and beach and have organised things to do throughout the day, it can be the perfect holiday solution. With most costs already having been paid for at the time of booking, it can be a good way to avoid overspending.
For those who wish to explore the island a little more, perhaps consider splitting your time between a hotel and one of the recommended rental properties listed above.
St James's Club
St James's Club is a luxurious, sprawling resort on the south eastern coast of Antigua. Popular with couples, friends and families, it is sandwiched between two stunning beaches, Coco Beach and Mamora Bay. Within the grounds are six swimming pools, tennis courts, a gym and spa. Pavements are palm tree lined and there are wonderful relaxation areas for couples to gaze out over the ocean. Evenings can be spent dining in one of several restaurants, perhaps a fine dining experience at Piccolo Mondo or a themed evening such as Caribbean calypso night at The Docksider.
Rooms and Suites at St James's Club
The spacious rooms and suites are tastefully decorated with mahogany furniture, terracotta tiles and splashes of blue. Some have garden or sea views and for an even more indulgent stay, check out the Royal Suite, with stunning views over the golden sands of Mamora Bay. Residents of these suites have exclusive perks such as their own check-in desk and a private, quiet pool with waterfall.
Why St James's Club is good for couples
2 beautiful beaches
A romantic stay in the Royal Suite with quiet pool and waterfall
Picturesque resort with relaxation areas overlooking the ocean
Dine at Piccolo Mondo for an intimate, fine-dining experience
Visit the spa together and indulge in a luxurious massage in the couples treatment room
Click on the link to read more about St James's Club and to check availability or to book a stay.
The Verandah Antigua
This adult's only, all inclusive resort has 186 luxurious suites set amongst 30 acres of lush, tropical gardens fronted by two white sand beaches, Rasta and Lover's. Each of the Caribbean style cottages is privy to resort, garden or water views, many of which are wheelchair friendly. A varied activity programme is available for those who wish to keep busy by day while evenings can be spent dining in one of several quality restaurants followed by nightly entertainment. Night owls can head to The Wavy Wicket Pub afterwards, open until 1:30am.
Suites at The Verandah Antigua
The Caribbean cottage style suites are accessed via ramps or steps leading up to a covered porch. Each of the elegant properties is air-conditioned with vaulted ceilings comprising sumptuous King or Queen sized beds and en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers. Additionally, rooms are equipped with robes, flat screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, mini-fridges and private furnished verandahs. Rooms have views of the sea, resort or the gardens. Tropical plants within the gardens are grown at the resort at its on-site nursery.
Why The Verandah Antigua is good for couples
2 beautiful beaches
4 pools, one with sunken loungers, another with a waterfall
Luxurious suites
Nicole's Restaurant for fine dining
3. Compact all-inclusive resort in Antigua
Pineapple Beach Club
Adults only resort, Pineapple Beach Club is located on Long Bay Beach, a stunning stretch of powdery sand with a spectacular sunrise. Situated on the East coast of Antigua on the Atlantic side of the island, the area is protected by a band of coral making it a great place for snorkelling.
Rooms at Pineapple Beach Club
Rooms are comfortable with sumptuous king sized beds, rattan furniture and splashes of pastel hues. The spacious bathrooms are equipped with walk in rainforest showers. On arrival towels are folded in fancy shapes decorated with bougainvillea petals on the bed. Couples and honeymooners looking for something that bit more special may like to consider the Chairman's Suite located on a hilltop. The most spacious of the rooms benefits from three balconies offering panoramic views over the resort.
Things to do
A daily entertainment program operates including an early morning hike to Devil's Bridge National Park. Unwind with your loved one at the relaxation stations within the grounds or by one of the quiet pool areas. Hammocks hang between swaying palm trees and love seats overlook the ocean. On the beachfront, a water sports desk loans out paddle boards, kayaks and catamarans while water hammocks float in the ocean for those who seek something water based and less energetic.
Lunch at Outhouse for a mouth watering bbq on a hillside with far reaching ocean views then at night before the evening entertainment, indulge in an intimate dining experience at Chef Pietro or Pineapple Grill. The latter is lit up at nightfall with candles atop tables set around a sweeping verandah.
Why Pineapple Beach Club is good for couples
Walk along the beach at sunrise
Hammocks in the shade within the gardens
Intimate dining experience at Pineapple Grill
Love seats overlooking the ocean
Floating water hammocks
Chairman's suite with panoramic views over the resort
Evening entertainment
Click on the link to read more about Pineapple Beach Club, to check availability or to book a stay.
Hammock Cove
At Hammock Cove, an all inclusive resort for over 21s, relaxation is of paramount importance. With a personal Ambassador dedicated to each couple, a tailor made experience is ensured based on the guests' individual needs, from dinner reservations and booking excursions to room service with a champagne brunch. It is the place to come for those seeking a retreat, a luxurious space to withdraw from the stresses of daily life, indulge in gourmet food and feel at peace in tropical surroundings.
Villas at Hammock Cove
41 water view and water front suites exude luxury. The King size suites are waterfront or with water views. Externally, each has its own private plunge pool, wet bar re-stocked daily with guests preferred drinks, loungers and chair swing. Inside, the air-conditioned suites comprise King size beds, high definition TVs, huge bathrooms with impressive his and hers showers and sinks, a walk-in closet, hairdryers and cozy bathrobes. A twice daily turndown service is included throughout your stay.
Why Hammock Cove is good for couples
Personal Ambassador
Tranquil setting
Gourmet dining - Michelin Star Chef
Luxurious suites with private plunge pool and personal bar
Infinity pool and waterfall pool
Private 3 course meal under a gazebo overlooking the ocean
Click on the link to read more about Hammock Cove Antigua, enquire about availability or to book a stay
4. Self-catering hotels with kitchenette
Self-catering resorts with kitchenettes are ideal for those seeking a balance between a hotel stay, home comforts and flexibility. The hotel provides a private pool for guests, spa facilities, house keeping, a manned reception and security. The living area and kitchenette within the suite allows for some meal preparation at home with flexibility to dine off resort and book excursions at leisure.
Buccaneer Beach Club
Buccaneer Beach Club Resort is a relaxed hotel located on the North West coast of Antigua, approximately 20 minutes drive from VC Bird International Airport. Suites are within pastel hued, low rise buildings, situated around a curvy pool and pretty gardens. Just a few steps away is one of Antigua's most popular and beautiful white sand beaches, Dickenson Bay with the most incredible sunsets and calm water. The staff here are incredibly welcoming, truly a resort where you can expect to arrive as a guest and leave as a friend.
Rooms at Buccaneer Beach Club
Pool and Garden Suites
Spacious suites frame the gardens and swimming pool, each with a separate bedroom complete with a King sized bed, wall mounted TV and ample closet space. Bathrooms are generous in size with a shower. The kitchen is open plan comprising a countertop dining space, two ring hob, fridge freezer, microwave, toaster and tea and coffee making facilities, ideal for simple meal preparation at home. The living area is furnished with a coffee table, flat screen TV and a comfortable sofa that can easily be converted to a double bed. A door leads onto a private, covered terrace or balcony with table and chairs for morning coffees and sundowners.
Bedrooms and living space both have an air-conditioning unit and ceiling fan ensuring maximum comfort for guests.
Why Buccaneer Beach Club is good for couples
Beachfront Resort
Private swimming pool
Spacious apartments and cottages with kitchens and air-conditioning
Walking distance to restaurants and bars
Beach loungers and parasols reserved for Buccaneer guests only
Stunning sunsets
Click on the link to read more about Buccaneer Beach Club, enquire about availability or to book a stay
5. Room only hotels - Admiral's Inn and Copper & Lumber Store
Room only hotels are ideal for those people who wish to stay largely within their own company while having the security within a hotel environment, housekeeping and a manned reception desk. Guests have the freedom and flexibility to dine at the hotel restaurant or elsewhere.
Admiral's Inn
Admiral's Inn is a boutique hotel located within English Harbour's UNESCO World Heritage Site of historic Nelson's Dockyard. It is close to a supermarket, bars, restaurants and two white sand beaches. It is a great base to explore local activities and nightlife.
Rooms and Suites
Admiral's Inn has 23 unique rooms and suites. Within the main building, rooms have been stylishly converted from engineer's offices to guest accommodation with crisp white bedding offset against mahogany furniture. Rooms are without televisions for a digital detox to allow couples to spend quality time together.
By day take the complimentary boat across the harbour to the infinity pool or a little further to lively Galleon beach. This beach has excellent snorkelling opportunities with regular turtle sightings and the beachfront restaurant, Loose Cannon with DJ serves excellent food.
An alternative beach within walking distance is Pigeon Point, much quieter and book-ended between two great dining spots. Bumpkins is a casual cafe serving great cocktails with the best view of the sunset and high end French inspired Catherine's Cafe offers a fine-dining experience alongside regular live music.
Other recommended activities are kayaking from the small beach within the grounds, exploring hiking trails, browsing the dockyard and taking a visit to Shirley Heights for a party with bbq, steel pans and a reggae band. Rum in the Ruins is the place to be on a Friday night for 75 minutes of historic storytelling while sipping rum punch at sunset.
At night, there is a wide choice of restaurants in English Harbour including the hotel's waterfront restaurant, Pillars. Wednesdays are Caribbean themed with an additional menu and steel band while you dine under the stars.
Reasons couples will love to stay at Admiral's Inn
Luxurious accommodation
Free shuttle to the infinity pool and hammocks
Couples massage at The Powder Room Spa
Free shuttle to Galleon Beach for snorkelling
Close to Pigeon Point beach
Picturesque setting
Fine dining waterfront restaurant on-site and walking distance to others
Within picturesque Nelson's Dockyard National Park
Close to activities such as Shirley Heights, Rum in the Ruins, Clarence House
Walking trails
Copper & Lumber
Olde-world charm meets modern at historic Copper & Lumber Store, located within the grounds of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nelson's Dockyard. The Georgian building has been sympathetically restored and as the name suggests, it once stored lumber to repair wooden warships and copper, to cover the wood extending its lifespan. The upper floors were used for sailors' sleeping areas.
Rooms and Suites at Copper & Lumber Store
Entering Copper & Lumber Store is like walking into a fairytale. Many of the 14 Georgian and Contemporary Suites have vaulted ceilings, petite balconies, exposed brickwork and touches of brass. Some rooms have views of super yachts and are located around a courtyard with atrium.
Copper & Lumber store is a great choice for couples and honeymooners. They offer packages that include an on-site wedding planner and the location is particularly appealing for wedding photo opportunities.
By day take a boat across the harbour to the slipway for lunch at one of the restaurants or Galleon beach. Pigeon Point is within 15-20 minutes walking distance with restaurants Bumpkins and Catherine's Cafe at either end. It is a special spot to watch the stunning golden sunset from here. Other activities during the day could be swimming with horses, exploring a hiking trail and browsing Nelson's dockyard.
On Sunday or Thursday evenings, pay a visit to Shirley Heights, a former military lookout with bbq party, steel pans and a reggae band.
Rum in the Ruins is the place to be on a Friday night for 75 minutes of historic storytelling while sipping rum punch at sunset followed by dinner at one of the recommended restaurants in English Harbour.
Friday nights, Copper & Lumber Store's restaurant comes alive with tourists and locals for Seafood Friday. The weekly event is one of the most highly rated fish-frys in the whole of the Caribbean. Dishes include grilled lobster, mahi-mahi, crab fritters and seafood pasta.
Couples holidays to Antigua
Each of the properties featured offer couples the chance to escape the stresses of everyday life and rejuvenate. From a secluded rental property, resort or boutique hotel, experience Antigua's beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, undulating hills and harbours with super yachts. Or, kick back and do as little or as much as you like from a luxurious all-inclusive beachfront resort with full activity programs. Whatever you decide, discover the charming island of Antigua and spend quality time with your loved one.
Click on the link for some recommendations of things to do in Antigua
Note: I will receive a small commission if you make a booking at the hotels/short term rental properties featured above.
If you make any bookings based on my recommendations your contract will be directly with the hotel/short term rental or activity provider you booked through. I am acting as a referral point only based on information from my most recent visit which may be subject to change at any time.