Antigua and Barbuda are taking luxury beachside living to a whole new level (think personal butlers and infinity pools). A dreamy getaway to Tahiti or Bora Bora promises a wealth of overwater bungalow resorts that could easily make the cover page of a luxury travel magazine. That’s not to say that the Caribbean doesn’t have its fair share of posh villas extending over the water’s edge. St. Lucia and Panama boast an impressive collection of overwater bungalows, but the all-inclusive Royalton Antigua has introduced a new level of luxury a few tiers above the rest, making waves as the island’s first-ever overwater resort.
Antigua has endured a tumultuous history, steeped in the African slave trade under the control of the British Commonwealth. After the islands were colonized by English settlers in 1632, Antigua and Barbuda would not gain independence until 1981. The island’s fertile grounds mean agriculture was once the primary source of income, with native islanders harvesting large amounts of tobacco and sugarcane crops.
Tourism is now the country’s most significant economic sector, producing an average of 572 million dollars annually. Its white-sand beaches and coconut-fringed palms are hard for any traveler to resist. The addition of new luxe accommodations, such as the Royalton Antigua’s overwater bungalows, only adds to the island’s already captivating ambiance.
A stylish set of luxury overwater bungalows
Style is the founding principle at the Royalton Antigua, evident in every inch of their 1,442 square-foot Chairman Overwater Bungalows. Guests are initially greeted by sparkling wine upon arriving — the perfect way to ease into a luxury beachside getaway. Modern luxury meets island casual at this resort, with a neutral color palette and elegant accents, balanced by the bungalow’s fringed tiki-style roofing. Wicker and wood textures bridge the gap between a sophisticated interior and a relaxed beachy ambiance. Guests can enjoy all the amenities of home with a full kitchen, dining space, and separate bedroom with a luxury branded king-size bed. A peek inside the oversized bathrooms reveals a double vanity with marble countertops, a jacuzzi tub, and rain showers. Glass flooring carved into the dining room area means you can watch marine life slowly drifting underneath your feet while you sip your morning coffee.
Out on the private sun deck, an infinity plunge pool and soft cord hammock overlook Antigua’s glistening Deep Bay. Each of the bungalows offers direct ocean entry, meaning you have 24/7 access to the Caribbean’s turquoise waters. The Caribbean resort even provides its guests with complimentary snorkeling gear for an interactive experience with the diverse ocean life. If that’s not enough, let’s not forget about the personal butlers and sunset mixologists who stand ready to craft your favorite cocktail over the rolling waves. The only issue with these exclusive bungalows is you’ll be hard-pressed to return to daily life without the resort’s collection of posh essentials.
Land and sea coalesce at this all-inclusive Caribbean resort
You could have dinner delivered to your bungalow with complimentary in-room dining services, but you’d be missing out on quite a few feasts at the hotel’s eight impressive dining venues. Inspired by cultures from around the world, guests can indulge in a variety of cuisines, including Caribbean, Italian, and New American. With both a la carte and buffet restaurants, guests can choose the dining style that suits their preferences, each one an elegant presentation of the resort’s fare. If you’re feeling thirsty, visit one of the hotel’s three on-site bars. Their playful swim-up bar and charismatic Martini Mix bar provide an idyllic ambiance for a mid-day drink. For a more lavish setting, the Diamond Club Lounge is reserved exclusively for Diamond Club guests, with a selection of top-shelf liquors in this sophisticated cocktail lounge.
For an extra bit of pampering, The Royal Spa is a wellness oasis, offering restorative services that calm and nourish the mind and body. Facials, massages, and signature body treatments are just a few of the spa’s specialties. Choosing an overwater bungalow resort means time spent in the water is a given. If you’re in the mood to elevate your workout routine, The Royalton Fit’s certified instructors and fitness coaches are there to guide you. Their state-of-the-art fitness center is curated for a dynamic range of movement, from cardio to Pilates.
Poolside beach cabanas, tennis courts, and water sports equipment add an extra layer of luxury resort living. While you may be tempted not to drift far from the resort grounds, Antigua’s surrounding tropical forests are home to some of the Caribbean’s most picturesque landscapes. For a personal tour of Antigua’s most pristine highlights, the resort offers island safaris and catamaran tours to nearby islands. Whether sailing, snorkeling, or hiking, guests will undoubtedly leave enchanted by the island’s stunning tropical coastline.
