Keyonna Beach Resort: Antigua's best-kept secret

At first glance, this boutique Antiguan resort may look unassuming, but look closer and you’ll discover that Keyonna Beach Resort is a very special place.

What it lacks in extensive facilities it more than makes up for with its location, style, service and unique charm. You’ll feel as though you have discovered Antigua’s best-kept secret and when it’s time for you to leave, you’ll find yourself torn between wanting to shout about it from the rooftops and keeping this little gem all to yourself.

Here are just a few of our favourite things about Keyonna Beach Resort.

The tranquil setting

As soon as you walk into the open-air beachfront lounge you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you. Wooden beams and thatched roofs are intertwined with seagrape trees and provide a wonderful open space that merges the inside with the outside. Dozens of plant pots and lush foliage create a garden-feel while fishing nets hang from the ceiling, conch shells edge the deck and pretty seashells adorn the tables. The plush white sofas are perfectly placed for watching the sunset over the ocean while sipping a fruity rum punch from the bar and on a clear day you can see the neighbouring islands of Redonda and Montserrat.

The gorgeous stretch of golden sand is the focal point here and as you hide yourself away under the thatched palm leaves of one of the Carib beach beds, it can feel like you’re the only person on the beach – which often, you may well be.

The romantic rooms

The simple pairing of dark wood and crisp white furnishings extends from the lounge and restaurant to the rooms and cottages which are sprinkled along pretty flower-lined pathways. The rustic rooms are very spacious with hand-crafted furniture, romantic canopy beds and outdoor showers – if you’ve never showered outside before then you’re in for a treat. We love that every room has a privately assigned Bali bed and loungers on the beach, which means there’s no stress about securing a spot on the sand if you decide to sleep in a bit later.

Opening your curtains to the soothing sea views and stepping out onto the terrace of one of the Sunset Beach Rooms is a wonderful way to start your day. If you opt for one of the Garden Pool Cottages or Beachfront Sanctuary Pool Cottages, you can enjoy the added indulgence of a private plunge pool on your terrace. We recommend booking a floating canapés basket to enjoy in your pool, accompanied by your tipple of choice from Kendall-Jackson wine to Veuve Clicquot. 

The experiences

While serene couples’ time is the essence of Keyonna Beach Resort, there are a bunch of activities if you’re up for a bit more action. Rise early for a challenging hike up Mount Obama – the highest point on Antigua – take to the waves with water sports or go on a ziplining jungle adventure.

Not all the activities are heart-raising; retreat to the spa for a blissful bamboo massage, master the art of steel drums or slow the pace with yoga – complimentary classes are held every Thursday morning.

The community commitment

Keyonna’s commitment to the local community shines through in every detail, from the daily bread baked in nearby Urlings village to the intricately handwoven placemats and lampshades crafted by a not-for-profit workshop for the visually impaired. During your stay you may meet the artisans behind the scenes, including Belinda, the meticulous seamstress, who hand-stitches cushions and bed linens, and Sean who carves each piece of furniture. Then there’s Chef Gifford who plates up dishes featuring fresh fruits and vegetables sourced from Antiguan farms. This community-led approach means that every moment here is not only authentic and enriching, but directly impactful to the local economy.

The authentic dining

When it comes to dining there’s no need to plan ahead as dinner reservations aren't required. All meals are à la carte and tables are perfectly spaced so that meals feel very intimate. A few steps take you from the lounge to the restaurant which is set on a raised wooden deck where white drapes frame the beams and the sound of the waves or steel pan music adds to the relaxed ambience.

The chefs buy the catch-of-the-day from local fishermen and the fresh and delicious dishes are a blend of local food with infusions from other cuisines such as Italian. The three-course dinner menu changes nightly with delights on the menu such as coconut-crusted Mahi Mahi or BBQ ribs, topped off by desserts like Antiguan rum cake and key lime pie. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, be sure to book a romantic dinner on the beach, perfectly timed with sunset.