Antigua is said to have 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, which is probably why it is such an attractive Caribbean island for a romantic getaway and very popular with honeymooners. From these pictures, you can see why. One of the most romantic hotels has to be the exclusive adult only Cocobay Resort with its pastel coloured creole-style cottages dotted along the waterfront and impressive gardens, and two white-sand beaches.
Rooms
There’s a charm about the Cocobay Resort, which probably stems from the fact there are only 57 private single-storey cottages and suites, along with four plantation houses, so you can imagine, it is laid-back, peaceful, pretty and a great place for a romantic getaway.
There is something for every budget, if you can live without air-conditioning and sea views, the standard cottage doubles are a great deal, as even though they are the resorts basic rooms you enjoy the same all-inclusive perks, such as breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and of course local beverages, beers, non-premium spirits, and house wine by the glass.
Looking for something more luxurious and fitting of a honeymoon break, the premium waterfront suites have the very best oceanfront locations, with a private plunge pool, and a decadent private outdoor double-ended slipper bathtub for a romantic bubble bath under the stars. While the deluxe pool cottage has a plunge pool with full or partial seaviews. With all accommodations include private outdoor space with chairs and hammocks.
It’s the simplicity of the rooms that makes this resort perfect for couples, no TV, just a giant bed, Princess netting, crisp white sheets, a giant hammock outside, secluded perched on the cliff with incredible ocean views. You really can’t get better than that.
Food
Cocobay has one of the island’s best resort restaurants, Sheer Rocks, which sadly isn’t part of the all-inclusive package, but it is a great spot to have a romantic meal and watch the gorgeous sunset views from its cliffside perch overlooking Ffryes Bay. It has it’s own plunge pools and daybeds so if you fancy a change from the main pool or your suite it is a great relaxing spot, especially when pair with tapas and cocktails.
The main restaurant Rafters is a great spot and has great sea views, just make sure you book your table early for a good seat at dinner. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style while dinner is served a la carte nightly. Breakfast was a highlight, hotels should always come with omelette stations, and those spectacular sea views are the only way to start the day. At lunch, the buffet served menu featured everything from fish to burgers, chips, and pasta, as well as desserts.
In the evening, the gourmet restaurant has an elegant casual dress code, which is nice getting a little dressed up each night to eat a three-course à la carte menu featuring authentic local and International cuisine from soup and crab to start, to lobster, jumbo shrimp and beef tenderloin for mains, and each night there was a selection of incredible desserts. While the food is delicious, the menu doesn’t change often so can be a little limiting, especially if you don’t eat meat or fish.
Overall
Cocobay Resort is perfectly positioned on the sunset side of the island, literally between two beautiful beaches, and for something a little more private, a third is literally just a kayak away. It’s the smaller size that makes this resort, it’s intimate, private, quiet and the staff really do make you feel at home.
If you can’t live without TV or regular internet this might not be for you, but it really couldn’t be a more perfect place for a honeymoon, it’s relaxing and beautiful. If you are looking for something a little more active the resort offers Sunfish and Hobie Cat sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and guided nature tours, as well as suggestions for day excursions, plus there is also a Wellness cottage in the resort for massage therapy and beauty treatments.
When you arrive here you forget about everything and just enjoy the moment as it is so beautiful and that’s what a romantic getaway should be.
