Review: The Hut, Little Jumby – fun and sun off Antigua

“Welcome to paradise,” our host beams as I drink in the turquoise waters. Paradise, it certainly is. We are strolling along the island of Little Jumby’s North Beach – home to The Hut and a short boat ride from Antigua, in the Caribbean.

This private-island beach club and restaurant opened less than a year ago, after more than a decade of success somewhat closer to home – in the Isle of Wight’s Colwell Bay.

There’s a buzz on this little island about this newcomer (and its old-fashioned rum punches) and it’s not hard to see why. You can spend the day lounging on plush sun beds at one of the beach huts or cabanas, or soak up the atmosphere at the restaurant while you enjoy delicious local specialities.

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As dusk falls, make sure you toast to your trip with a beautifully crafted cocktail (I had the jalapeño and apple margarita) as you watch the sun melt over the sea.

I was lucky enough to be able to enjoy the Antiguan sunshine in one of the private beach huts, which come equipped with a sofa, shower and a bar. Guests can keep cool as they enjoy this slice of heaven, thanks to the gentle breeze of overhead fans – or with a frozen mango daiquiri in the crystal-blue sea.

The luxurious, yet rustic beach huts are furnished to an incredibly high level with thoughtful extras throughout. The whole experience was unforgettable, and the friendly team went over and above to make the day as perfect as the picturesque scenery was outside the huts.

Celebrate in Caribbean style

This tranquil spot of serenity in the Caribbean is transformed into the coolest place to celebrate come Friday and Saturday night and Sunday afternoons. At the regular Hut Live events, patrons get to enjoy an exciting schedule of live music and DJ performances.

After an exquisite dinner (I’m still dreaming of the bang bang mushrooms and fellow diners couldn’t get enough of the surf and turf), we danced the night away in the moonlight.

Guests can travel to Little Jumby via The Hut’s ferry service from Barnacle Point, just minutes from V.C Bird International Airport by car, or you can arrive in the bay by your own boat.

The Hut has an incredibly warm and welcoming vibe, and whether you’d prefer a romantic moment on the white-sand beach or a sophisticated celebration in the chic, rustic bar area, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

An indulgent hot-stone massage

We were staying a stone’s throw away at the Blue Waters Resort and Spa. With turquoise ocean views from all four of its main pools, including an infinity pool in the spa, it’s not hard to see how Blue Waters got its name. Guests staying in a sprawling Cove Suite can also take a dip in one of the four Cove Villas’ infinity pools.

From comfortable lounge beds on the beach to the cabana-lined adults-only area, the biggest predicament you’ll face is deciding which waterside to relax by. In need of hydration? Cold-water points are dotted around the resort, and the friendly team from Blue Waters’ four bars are on hand to keep you quenched.

The rooms are situated among 17 acres of tropical gardens, so whether you’re doing yoga in the pavilion or playing cards in one of the gazebos, or dining in one of the three restaurants, you won’t be far from hearing birdsong.

There’s an exciting line-up of guest experiences on offer throughout the week – from complimentary rum tastings to musical performances. Seeking an adventure at sea? Guests can book excursions and activities via the hotel.

We enjoyed an exhilarating speedboat trip, boarding from the resort’s beach and zooming across the crystalline sea before soaking up views of the breathtaking islands just off the coast.

There’s so much to enjoy at Blue Waters Resort and Spa, and for ultimate relaxation, be sure to make time for a treatment in the resort’s spa.

I opted for a signature massage – a full-body treatment that included reflexology, West Indian head and face massage, hot stones, as well as the use of Ila Spa essential oils.

As the sun sets over Blue Waters’ Soldier Bay, follow the flame torches, which light the way to The Cove Restaurant, situated on the cliff-top. Here, over dinner, you will find yourself reflecting on another day spent in paradise – just keep an eye out for sea turtles.

Jessica was a guest of The Hut, Little Jumby (Beach Huts from $400 – including a bottle of Château Saint-Esprit Rosé) and Blue Waters Resort and Spa.

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