Cottage-Style Caribbean Suites Surrounded by Pristine Beaches

Nuzzled into the white sand of Antigua’s northeast coast, The Verandah Resort & Spa entices travelers to its pristine shores with Caribbean gabled roofs and timber-clad façades. The resort, recommended by Condé Nast Johansens, boasts a magnificent 30 acres of beachfront property traversed by a variety of hiking trails and guarded by the landmark rock arch of Devil’s Bridge National Park. As visitors meander to their charming cottage-style suites, palm trees wave breezy greetings, and whitewashed porches await their arrival.

In the spacious Hillside suite, also known as the Garden View suite, vaulted ceilings cloak a plush king-size bed and queen-size sleeper sofa that accommodate royalty of all genders. The bathroom stands apart from the combined living and sleeping quarters, its spotless white tiles shimmering beneath a deep soaking tub and dual sinks. Earthy touches such as bamboo and rattan invite Mother Nature indoors, while gentle winds beckon guests through sliding-glass doors onto the private veranda where chairs face out onto rolling green hillsides and turquoise waters. When not enjoying the outdoor views, visitors can recline in front of the satellite-fed flat-screen TV, which accompanies a mini refrigerator, microwave, and coffee-and-tea-stocked wet bar that round out the fully equipped mini palace. For an additional $13 or $23 per night, guests can upgrade to a Waterview or Waterfront suite, respectively.

Adults can spend vibrant days drifting on the calm waters of the cove-like bay or arguing line calls on the tennis court; youngsters (who are welcome, but cost an extra $40 per night per child under 13) tackle the spacious Kids Club, a fenced-in, outdoor play area bedecked with a floor-to-ceiling aquarium mural. A fitness center, furnished with Cybex cardio and weight-training equipment, helps maintain beach-ready physiques, as does a lap pool that surrounds the resort’s massive, free-form pool. Come evening, travelers can partake in scheduled karaoke and disco nights and live reggae and calypso band performances held in the lounge. Those searching for added relaxation can unwind in the on-site Spa Tranquility, which provides a serene environment for exotic, full-service pampering.

Antigua: Where Gorgeous Coasts and Natural Landmarks Unveil Caribbean Beauty and History

Facing two white-sand beaches and adjacent to Indian Town National Park, The Verandah Resort & Spa invites visitors to embark on tropical adventures by exploring nearby nature trails and snorkeling in the crystal-clear sea. When not hitting the water on a catamaran or kayak, adventure-seekers can watch golf balls disappear forever into a sky-stretching sunset at two area 18-hole golf courses. A short walk away, Devil’s Bridge poses for snapping cameras with its century plants and shrubs that rise out of sea-carved cliffs and limestone arches.

Back at the hotel, the all-inclusive package includes all meals, afternoon tea from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., and late-night snacks, as well as all beverages, such as house wine by the glass, tropical coolers, and Caribbean beers. Three diverse and delicious restaurants, centrally located in the lively common area, provide a range of casual and upscale dining experiences. At Nicole’s, warm red walls and soft, upholstered furnishings work in tandem with authentic Caribbean-style cuisine to craft a fine-dining atmosphere. The pine pergolas at Seabreeze watch over diners as they munch on chef-prepared à la carte meals and themed buffets in an open-air room, while Buccaneer’s family-friendly fare lends itself to casual noshing. A total of four bars keep palates cool under the sun, whipping up alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks for patrons perched poolside, beachside, and atop Lover’s Beach.

After soaking up all that the Verandah Resort has to offer, visitors can venture to nearby destinations such as the uninhabited Green Island and Bird Island, both just a short boat ride away. A 30-minute car ride transports travelers to historic St. John’s, where the ancient baroque towers of St. John’s Cathedral and museums showcase the history of the island. With its proximity to a cruise-ship dock and hotels, St. John’s is also a bustling center for shopping and dining.

Though The Verandah Resort & Spa offers discounted rates on air-inclusive packages, this Groupon offers the best room rate available.