Carlisle Bay

Customer ratings & reviews

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1428 reviews

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  An unforgettable two weeks in paradise

  We were lucky enough to spend two incredible weeks at Carlisle Bay in early July on an all inclusive stay and it completely exceeded our expectations. Originally, we’d booked through BA Holidays for August 2025, only to be told in January that the resort would be closed for refurbishment. We brought the trip forward, and after being there, we now realise Carlisle Bay usually closes in August each year, so it’s a mystery how we were able to book it in the first place! With that hiccup, and a few less than glowing TripAdvisor reviews, we were admittedly a little apprehensive. But any nerves disappeared the moment we arrived. The resort is beautiful, calm, and welcoming. Service was impeccable; yes, occasionally on “Caribbean time,” but always with warmth and grace. The food was delicious, the cocktails even better, and the entire resort was kept immaculately clean. We stayed in a beachfront suite which was just perfect. Our loungers were only a few steps from our terrace, and we loved starting the day with the sound of the waves. Vida looked after us so well in the evenings, always thoughtful, always smiling. Len kept us cool and refreshed on the beach, and nothing was ever too much trouble. Our 12-year-old daughter had a fantastic time with the Crew Blue activities and especially loved sneaking some breakfast to feed the tortoises at the kids’ club (shhh!). Akim was brilliant with kids of all ages. Lunchtime at Ottimo! became a daily favourite, and the Monday beach BBQ at Jetty Grill with the steel band was a highlight. I’m already dreaming about returning for my birthday one day, just to have Leanne from Indigo sing Happy Birthday to me! If there’s one downside, it’s the mosquitoes as they really went for us, despite using all the repellent available (and the hotel does provide some). So come prepared! We also chartered a boat through Barefoot Antigua and can’t recommend it highly enough. We visited Stingray City, Bird Island, and several beautiful snorkelling spots. The spa was a dream. Michelle gave fantastic treatments and the whole experience was incredibly relaxing. Our two weeks flew by, and we now fully understand why so many people return year after year. Carlisle Bay is understated luxury at its best. We would return in a heartbeat. Highly recommend.

  Jul 26, 2025
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  Picturesque beach/bay in a boutique like setting! The service was excellent at every turn from the front reception ( Fern) to the servers ( Leanne is the best) to the spa staff ( Eve gives a great massage) service to the watersports staff ( Lenny!). At every turn, service was incredible. I would recommend here if you are looking for a relax and chill type vacation. We did half board and I highly recommend that or all inclusive as the menu prices are steep. The spa is priced fairly, as is watersports in my opinion.

  Jul 24, 2025
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  Another wonderful stay at Carlisle Bay

  Just left Carlisle Bay after our second visit. We were last there 3 years ago. We had a wonderful time, and met many guests who return year after year. It’s easy to see why. The best bit about this resort is the beachfront location. Most rooms and suites are on the beach, literally steps from the sea. You wake up to the most wonderful sea views from your room. The bay is gentle and clear, so super safe for the kids to play in. On a kayak or snorkelling you will see stingrays, barracuda, starfish, lobsters and turtles. The service levels have definitely improved since our last visit and it feels very slick/seamless now. Many of the staff have worked at the hotel for years. The hotel is partway through a refurb, and we were staying on one of the newly upgraded ocean suites which was stunning. We love the fact that this resort is small, so all the kids of varying ages get to know each other. It’s incredibly safe and a place that you instantly relax. Our favourite restaurant was East, with superb Asian food. We also enjoyed lunches at Ottimo where the food quality was also excellent. My only negative is that the Jetty Bar wasn’t open every night for sundowners. Overall, a fantastic stay and we will definitely return.

  Jul 22, 2025
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  Quality resort, superb beach

  Staff amazing, food amazing, beach amazing. Met with a smile, snorkelling with rainbow fish, walking with sting rays on the shore, swatted some Moskitos, ate some snapper, fell asleep on the chair. Played some tennis, worked off the pasta in the gym. Amazing.

  Jul 14, 2025
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  One of the "Best" places to stay in Antigua

  From the time one enters the Carlisle Bay Resort you know by the greeting from the Senior Guest Assistant Nakia you have come to the right place for vacation. As a family of 5 celebrating a 70th birthday event in a beautifully appointed 3 bedroom beachfront suite we were immediately impressed by the housekeeping staff from the morning to turn down service in the evening. The courtesy, friendliness and service of every staff member was exceptional. The 4 exquisite restaurants with an excellent choice in menu selections from the afternoon tea, to Japanese cuisine, Italian bistro, American fare and BBQ was immensely appreciated by us all. All this I believe comes from the guidance of the General Manager Mr. Rajiv Malhotra and his Director of Operations, Brian Murphy who exert every effort to eliminate any issues immediately that may arise which would leave a negative impression of the resort. The Carlisle Bay Antigua deserves the ranking for one of “The Leading Hotels of the World.” We all agreed to return again in the future! Cheryl Fils-Aimé

  Jul 10, 2025