Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Jumby Bay Island, a private island haven just two miles off the coast of Antigua, epitomizes exclusivity. This former sugar plantation is only accessible by boat to hotel patrons, residence guests and owners. The island has been a celebrity refuge for decades, hosting icons such as Princess Margaret, Robert De Niro and Kylie Jenner.
Inhabited by the Arawaks and Carib people long before Christopher Columbus landed there in 1493, the 300-acre island now earns a large percentage of its annual gross domestic product as a playground for well-heeled travelers. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family adventure or a solitary retreat, Jumby Bay offers a blend of natural beauty and refined luxury.
Here are five reasons to visit the Antiguan resort.
Room for All
There’s space for everyone at Jumby Bay, from newly renovated junior suites to private beachside and pool suites scattered along the water. There are also 14 villas and 22 private residences spread across the island. Guests in rooms, suites and villas enjoy their meals and service from the resort’s central complex of three restaurants (Verandah, Pool Grill and Estate House) while a dedicated staff takes care of residence guests.
The Beach Suite, which boasts a serene courtyard with an outdoor tub, a shower and a private terrace, is ideal for couples. Traveling with a group of friends? Book one of the many residences on the property. All of these one-of-a-kind units come with their own pools, and most have distinctive features, including gyms, tennis courts, separate office space, yoga pavilions and private beaches.
Always Inclusive
The resort’s “fully inclusive” plan includes everything from a crisp Taittinger champagne or Château Minuty rosé by the glass to premium cocktails, meals and even activities, with gratuity. Private excursions such as boat rentals, spa treatments and personal training services are the only add-ons, so be prepared to otherwise kick back and indulge.
Idyllic Transportation
A charming feature of Jumby Bay is the beach cruiser bikes given to guests. These rides, which remain with you throughout your stay, offer a delightful way to explore the resort’s winding pathways and add a touch of whimsy and freedom to your island adventure. If you’re staying in one of the private residences, you’ll also receive a golf cart for added ease, but you can always call the front desk for a ride if you wish.
Activities for Everyone
Island life offers something for everyone. A robust menu of activities includes daytime circumnavigation, snorkeling excursions, rum tastings, movement classes and even nightly parties. The gatherings range from Wednesday night’s West Indian Hangout at the pool bar and grill, which offers traditional Caribbean music and fare, to Sunday’s famed White Night party, where guests dance the night away wearing (you guessed it) their best white attire.
If you prefer a more low-key day, relax by one of the resort’s three pools or on the pristine white sand beach, try paddleboarding or waterskiing, or challenge a friend to a tennis match.
Island-Inspired Spa Indulgence
After a day of beach activities, the open-air spa awaits to pamper you with island-inspired treatments. The spa is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, specializing in services such as the Herbal Poultice Massage and others incorporating native ingredients from the island’s gardens. The fitness center, located in the spa complex, is well-equipped with a wide array of TechnoGym equipment for cardio, weightlifting, stretching and more.
