Hermitage Bay occupies a private cove on Antigua’s pristine coastline, earning recognition as one of the Caribbean’s most coveted luxury retreats. Since opening in 2006, this award-winning resort has evolved under the visionary leadership of new ownership by Daniel Shamoon, co-owner and director of Luxury Hotel Partners.
The recent comprehensive makeover has breathed fresh life into the resort’s culinary programme, spa facilities, and guest accommodations, whilst maintaining the intimate charm that has made it a member of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection.
Sophisticated suites designed for ultimate relaxation
The resort’s 30 contemporary cottages offer three distinct accommodation styles, each thoughtfully positioned to maximise the natural beauty of Antigua’s landscape. Beachfront suites provide the ultimate oceanfront experience, where guests fall asleep to the gentle rhythm of Caribbean waves lapping the shore.
Garden Pool Villa Suites create a tropical oasis with private pools surrounded by fragrant almond trees, where the morning chorus of exotic birds serves as a natural wake-up call. For those seeking elevated perspectives, the Hillside Pool Villa Suites offer complete privacy amongst lush tropical forests, with private pools and panoramic views across the azure Caribbean Sea.
Each suite at Hermitage Bay features contemporary amenities including air conditioning, outdoor showers, and generous stand-alone bathtubs. The recently redesigned interiors embrace lighter tones and airy aesthetics, replacing traditional dark woods with contemporary finishes that frame unobstructed ocean vistas through expansive sliding glass doors. Wooden decks are furnished with sun loungers, plantation chairs, and dining areas perfect for starlit meals, whilst hideaway televisions encourage guests to truly disconnect from the outside world.
Culinary excellence meets Caribbean authenticity
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The dining experience at Hermitage Bay showcases the talents of chef Desroy, who crafts memorable island cuisine alongside international favourites using fresh produce from the resort’s own garden. The newly opened beach club has quickly become the island’s premier dining destination, specialising in lobster preparations that allow guests to dine with their toes in the pristine sand.
Evening dining takes on a magical quality as flames flicker in the resort’s fire-pit, creating the perfect ambience for enjoying the signature Hermitage rum punch or a spicy passion fruit margarita. The daily sushi happy hour at the stunning Tree Bar represents a particular highlight, where Nobu-trained chefs prepare omakase-style appetisers based on the day’s freshest catch.
As an all-inclusive property, Hermitage Bay covers all meals, afternoon snacks, fresh sushi, cocktails, and beverages, though premium spirits and an extensive wine selection are available for an additional charge. Live music performances, featuring everything from pulsating calypso to energetic steelband soca, enhance the authentic Caribbean atmosphere throughout the day.
Wellness sanctuary overlooking the Caribbean Sea
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The Garden Spa at Hermitage Bay occupies a elevated hillside position amidst fragrant frangipani, offering sweeping views across the Caribbean Sea. This tranquil sanctuary provides healing rituals, skilled therapeutic treatments, rejuvenating massages, and specialised facials, with ambitious plans to add a pool and sauna by 2025.
Guests can begin each day with complimentary yoga, meditation, or Pilates classes in the ocean-view pavilion, or maintain their fitness routine in the well-equipped gymnasium. For the ultimate relaxation experience, massages can be arranged on private wooden decks, where the sound of waves provides a natural soundtrack for total rejuvenation.
The resort’s protected cove offers crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Recent additions include two speed boats and a 103-foot sailboat for island excursions, deep-sea fishing adventures, and romantic sunset cruises. Paddleboarding and kayaking equipment provide additional opportunities to explore the pristine coastline at a leisurely pace.
Authentic Caribbean hospitality in a secluded setting
Hermitage Bay intentionally cultivates an atmosphere of tranquil sophistication, encouraging guests to disconnect from digital distractions and immerse themselves in the natural sounds of hummingbirds, tree frogs, and gentle waves. The resort’s location on Antigua’s western coastline ensures complete privacy, with dedicated staff providing personalised service that often includes remembering guests by name and exceeding expectations for special occasions.
The property’s commitment to sustainability shines through its on-site farm, which provides fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs for the resort’s culinary programme. Guests can participate in guided tours to learn about local agricultural practices and the resort’s eco-friendly initiatives.
For those wishing to explore beyond the resort’s boundaries, Hermitage Bay can arrange excursions to historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard, or helicopter transfers to neighbouring Barbuda for exclusive dining experiences. Cooking classes offer guests the opportunity to master local culinary techniques and bring a taste of the Caribbean home with them.
