Getting the Most Out of a Stay in Antigua

As one of the stunning islands of the West Indies, Antigua is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean Sea. With a history that dates back well beyond when the island was named by Christopher Columbus in 1493, it was one of the first places explored in the Western Hemisphere. If you're lucky enough to be staying at the Curtain Bluff Antigua beach and tennis resort, it may be interesting to gain context to your stay by learning some of its history.

By choosing to stay at the world-famous Curtain Bluff, Antigua opens up to you both on land and by sea. In this gorgeous southern part of the island, you can experience the array of water sports available and, in between lazing on the beaches or cruising on a yacht, you can enjoy a game of tennis or two!

Water Sports

As with most Caribbean islands, the lure of the amazingly blue waters that lap the white sands and rocks here is almost irresistible, and you'll have access to some of the best boating and water sports areas while staying at Curtain Bluff. Antigua is a favoured destination for boating enthusiasts and, although cricket is the most popular sport on the island, it still hosts two of the most well known yacht races: Sailing Week and the Classic Yacht Regatta. Even if you don’t have your own yacht, you can book a place on a variety of vessels and watch the sun go down as you enjoy the atmosphere – you can even be served dinner on the deck. Or, if you are feeling a bit more ambitious and want to experience the water a little more "up close and personal", there’s plenty to do here too. Why not satisfy your need for speed by learning how to water-ski or wakeboard? You get an adrenaline rush while being pulled along at exciting speeds in a round tube, or hire equipment and lessons and explore under the water by scuba diving or snorkelling. Or, perhaps you might like to try some deep-sea fishing then have your catch cooked up for you at the end of the day.

Tennis

As home to one of the most popular tennis retreats, Curtain Bluff, Antigua is the place to stay if you have more than a passing interest in this invigorating sport. Whether you are a seasoned pro tennis player, an amateur who enjoys a game here, want to learn yourself, or have small children who want to play, there is something here for everyone.

As a guest of the resort you'll have the option of playing on any of the courts - four of which are championship grade. All the courts are within just a very short stroll from the water’s edge – so it's easy to jump in to the water to cool down after a vigorous set. There are structured challenges to enter and there's a pro shop on site where you can get kitted up like a professional. True aficionados may like to plan their holiday to coincide with Antigua Tennis Week.

Olivia Chetham works for the Essential Hotel Collection. If you’re looking for superb accommodation, like the world famous Curtain Bluff, Antigua, we offer a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect accommodation to make your island dreams a reality.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.