Antigua in December: A Luxury Escape of Sun, Sea & Spice

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Advisor - Anne Trout
Curated By

Anne Trout

  • Antigua

  • Beaches

  • Tropical Vacations

  • Luxury Travel

  • All-Inclusive Travel

  • Island

Advisor - Antigua in December: A Luxury Escape of Sun, Sea & Spice
Curator’s statement

Antigua has always felt like a place that moves at the perfect rhythm—slow enough to savor, yet alive with music, color, and energy. I love how every day ends with a sunset worth pausing for, whether from a sailboat or high above English Harbour. It’s an island where barefoot luxury meets soulful Caribbean traditions, making it an escape that feels both indulgent and deeply authentic. For me, Antigua is where relaxation turns into memory-making magic.

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Day 1: Arrival & island welcome

Morning/afternoon: Arrive in Antigua. Private driver whisks you to Hermitage Bay. Cold towel and welcome cocktail upon arrival.

Settle in: Take a dip in your private plunge pool or head down to the beachfront loungers.

Optional activity: A gentle kayak or paddleboard session right from Hermitage Bay’s beach.

Evening: Sunset champagne toast on your terrace, followed by dinner at the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant. Fresh catch of the day, paired with Caribbean spices.

Nightcap: Ask the bartender to craft a local rum cocktail before retreating to your suite.

Tip: Antigua sunsets are spectacular—set an alarm for golden hour so you don’t miss your first one.

Day 2: Sailing & sunset indulgence

Sun, sea and sail

Morning: Breakfast on your balcony with ocean views.

Day: Full-day catamaran circumnavigation—stop at secluded bays, snorkel coral reefs, and enjoy a freshly grilled Caribbean lunch onboard.

Afternoon: Return to Hermitage Bay for a beach nap or plunge pool dip.

Evening: Head to Sheer Rocks. Reserve a poolside daybed for tapas and cocktails while the sun dips below the horizon.

Night: If you’re up for it, stop by a lively beachfront bar for live reggae before heading back.

Tip: Bring a waterproof phone pouch for capturing photos on the catamaran.

Day 3: History, adventure & local flavors

Morning: Guided tour of Nelson’s Dockyard—explore colonial forts, museums, and yachts in the marina.

Lunch: Stop at Catherines Café nearby for rosé and grilled mahi-mahi.

Afternoon: Head inland for a rainforest zipline adventure. Adrenaline rush and lush jungle views.

Late afternoon: Return to Hermitage Bay for a dip in the sea or a restorative yoga session on the beach.

Evening: Dinner at Papa Zouk—try the famous “Ti Punch” and whole grilled snapper.

Night: Stargazing on the beach—Antigua’s clear skies make it magical.

Tip: Wear light, breathable clothes for the dockyard, and sneakers for ziplining.

Day 4: Slow luxury & immersive cooking

Flavors of Antigua

Morning: Wake to an al fresco yoga or meditation class overlooking the water.

Late morning: Signature Hermitage Bay spa treatment—a couples’ massage using local herbs and oils.

Lunch: Hands-on Cooking Class with a local chef. Learn pepperpot (Antigua’s national dish) and taste your own creations.

Afternoon: Float between pool, beach, and bar. Order fresh coconuts delivered to your lounger.

Sunset: Private champagne-and-canapé setup arranged on the beach for two.

Evening: Fine dining at Hermitage Bay, followed by a moonlit beach walk.

Tip: Ask your chef in the cooking class for spice blends to take home—perfect foodie souvenirs.

Day 5: The Sunday tradition

Morning: Sleep in, order breakfast in bed.

Late morning: Spend your last hours lounging on the beach. Optional guided meditation or a final swim.

Afternoon: Light lunch at the hotel before heading to Shirley Heights for the legendary Sunday Sunset Party. Steel drums, reggae bands, and dancing with locals and travelers alike.

Evening: Feast on BBQ chicken, ribs, and rum punch while the sun melts into English Harbour.

Night: Return to Hermitage Bay for one final glass of champagne on your terrace.

Tip: Go early to Shirley Heights (by 4:30 pm) to secure the best view before the crowds.

Need to know

Overall travel tips for Antigua

  • Currency: USD is widely accepted, but Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency.

  • Transport: Private transfers or hotel drivers recommended—roads are narrow and winding.

  • Packing: Breezy linens, chic resort wear, insect repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, flat sandals.

  • Dining: Reserve restaurants in advance—December fills quickly.

  • Timing: Antigua has 365 beaches—make time for a different one each day if you like exploring!

Advisor - Anne Trout

Travel Advisor

Anne Trout

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Antigua page.