Blue Waters, Antigua Hotel

Antigua

When visiting the Land of 365 Beaches perhaps the biggest problem is where to start – Pink Beach (so called because of the ground red shells mixed in with the sand), the soft sand sloping into the shallows at Jolly Beach, or the still waters Dickenson Bay – protected by a reef teaming with marine life? One thing’s for sure: head to Blue Waters, the only resort on the island’s north-west coast, and you won’t feel any regret. Not only is the sea as bright turquoise as its name suggests, or the sand as powdery white as it comes, but the amenities mean you won’t want to be anywhere else. An impressive roster of royals and celebrities have agreed – tempted, perhaps, by the three luxury villas, each equipped with private pools and 24-hour butler service. Even the standard rooms encapsulate the beachfront dream, with neutral decor neatly framing exquisitely colourful views across Soldier’s Bay.

Days might be whiled-away under a palm tree on the beach, amongst the bougainvillea in the tropical gardens or cocktail-in- hand at one of the freshwater pools, while more adventurous guests can hire a 24ft motorboat for reef snorkelling trips. Either way, Blue Waters really comes into its own around dusk, when the west-facing location guarantees magical sunsets and the staff begin lighting the torches at clifftop restaurant Cove. Dining by candlelight, guests enjoy an effortless fusion of Caribbean and French cuisine: seared scallops with pineapple salsa, grilled local lobster with Pernod garlic butter and banana tarte tatin, perhaps.

It’s no surprise to learn this is a family-run resort – since it opened in 1960, every year has been spent honing guests’ experience in subtle, artful ways. As if the location weren’t already paradisiacal, the palatial surroundings and impeccable service create as close to an island utopia as you’re likely to find. Doubles from £429 (3 nights minimum). 0870 360 1245, bluewaters.net

Words by Rachel Walker