Carlisle Bay

Located on Antigua's southern coast on a sweep of unspoilt beach, Carlisle Bay sits hidden away in a remote corner of the island. Looking over pristine white sands and turquoise waters, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the lush rainforest, this hotel is an idyllic Caribbean escape.

The sea-facing suites have a chic, modern design, with spacious interiors and touches such as fresh fruit delivered daily. A daybed on the balcony or terrace is the ideal spot for catching some rays.

The Ocean Suites have split-level, generous open-plan interiors and fabulous sea views from floor-to-ceiling windows. The Beach Terrace and Beach Balcony suites are perfect for families, with a second smaller room closed off and steps directly out onto the beach and the sea just yards away - great for parents with small children! 

The East restaurant serves Asian-fusion cuisine and you'll find healthy grills, fresh seafood and salads at Indigo on the Beach. We love the poolside Ottimo! restaurant, which serves delicious Italian food and has a wood-burning pizza oven, but romantics will want to book dinner on the jetty, where a single table surrounded by candles awaits.

There are also several bars to choose from - make sure you head down to the beach for a sundowner around the fire pit.

With a spa and gym, yoga and Pilates, a screening room for movie buffs and a fabulous library, you will never be bored. For families, this is one of the few hotels in the Caribbean with a creche for babies from 6 months up to 24 months old and a kids club for children from 2 years old (there is an hourly charge for the creche, but no charge for the kids club for children aged 3 and over).

From windsurfing to sailing, there's plenty to do in between relaxing on the beach. The tennis programme is also recommended, with several courts available. Although motorised water sports are not permitted at Carlisle Bay to preserve the tranquillity, they can be easily arranged off-site for a fee.