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Have you been dreaming of a relaxing Caribbean escape at an adults-only resort in Antigua? Are you looking for one of the best places to stay in Antigua for a truly peaceful, secluded getaway? If so, look no further than The Escape at Nonsuch Bay. Tucked into Hughes Point on Nonsuch Bay, this retreat truly lives up to its name. 

Affectionately nicknamed “Behind God’s Back” by locals because it’s so far out of the way, this is where Antiguans go when they want an escape and get away from it all! Located on the east coast of Antigua, The Escape feels worlds away from the busier parts of the island — and that’s part of what makes it the perfect place for a relaxing trip to Antigua! 

The word you’ll see again and again in the resort’s reviews is “quiet” — and when you arrive at The Escape, it’s easy to understand why. If you’re wondering where to stay in Antigua for true relaxation, this resort is exactly that. This is the type of Caribbean escape that invites you to truly unwind and enjoy every second of your Antigua vacation. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic Antigua honeymoon resort, a peaceful adults-only getaway, or simply somewhere to disappear for a few days, The Escape at Nonsuch Bay offers a completely different side of this island. There’s something so luxurious about being able to de-stress, decompress, and truly slow down at this Antigua resort.

I recently had the opportunity to escape to The Escape, and it was exactly that: an escape! Keep reading, and I’ll tell you exactly why this resort is undeniably one of the best places to stay in Antigua!

Arriving at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay 

Although The Escape is tucked away on Antigua’s eastern coast, arranging transportation to this Antigua resort is pretty straightforward. You can arrange for an airport transfer through The Escape, book a private driver on Viator, or rent a car (but keep in mind that you’ll be driving on the left side of the road, if you do!)

Since the resort is off the beaten path, travelers who plan to explore independently during their Antigua vacation will likely find a rental car helpful. However, if you’re looking to book organized excursions, you may not need a rental car. Organized excursions may include transport (or you can book private drivers).

The Escape sits on its own quiet stretch of the larger Nonsuch Bay Resort complex — about a quarter mile over the hill from the family side, so it feels fully separate. After a few minutes of driving through the property, I arrived at the resort and was greeted by the friendly, smiling face of the front desk agent/receptionist.

As I set foot in the open-air lobby, overlooking the bay, I noticed immediately how quiet, secluded, and cozy this Antigua honeymoon resort felt. It instantly felt like one of the best places to stay in Antigua for someone who wants to truly unwind. 

When you look out from the lobby, you can see everything is in proximity to each other: the restaurant, bar, the pool, and the dock. Everything you need is only a few minutes’ walk away and doesn’t require you to climb hills to get there. After the receptionist checked me in, she helped me to wheel my bags over to my room. Once inside my room, she gave me a tour and in-room orientation.

One of the things I loved about this Antigua resort was the staff. They were very warm, accommodating, and constantly checking in to see how I was doing throughout my stay. If I ever had any questions, they were always available to answer them.

Getting Around The Escape

Nestled into the trees and mangroves facing Ayers Creek, this Antigua resort feels much more jungle-meets-coast than open beachfront. This is part of what gives it that extra secluded vibe. It truly makes you feel tucked away!

The accommodations at this all-inclusive Antigua resort are positioned above the central dining, bar, and pool area. My suite was located only four buildings from the lobby and could be accessed from the upper road, so I didn’t need to climb any steps. Other suites may require guests to use stairs, so travelers with mobility concerns should request an accessible location before arriving at this Antigua resort. 

Book a stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay here.

The Escape Accommodations 

What makes The Escape at Nonsuch Bay one of the best places to stay in Antigua is its luxury accommodations. This all-inclusive Antigua resort has 40 suites, all of which feature a private plunge pool. And honestly? The plunge pools are the real star of the show. You could easily spend an entire day without ever leaving your suite! Take a dip in your private pool, enjoy the Caribbean sunshine, order something to eat, and settle in with a book and cocktail.

Here’s what you can expect to find at this Antigua resort across all levels of suites: 

• Private plunge pool 
• Outdoor soaking tub 
• Daybed
• Balcony or terrace
• Glass doors connecting the indoor and outdoor areas
• King bed
• Open-concept shower
• Separate toilet area with a frosted glass door 
• Double sinks
• Minifridge
• Coffee maker 
• Storage space 
• TV (with access to your own streaming services) 

Keep in mind that the shower opens up to the bedroom, rather than being enclosed in a private bathroom. This is part of what makes The Escape an ideal Antigua honeymoon resort — but potentially awkward for friends or family members traveling together.

When deciding what type of suite to stay in at this Antigua resort, that all depends on what type of view you’re looking for! This resort offers Garden View Plunge Pool Suites with lush garden views, Deluxe Pool Suites with garden views or semi-partial sea views, Bay View Pool Suites with bay views, and Premium Bay View Pool Suites with unobstructed bay views.

During my stay at The Escape, I stayed in the Bay View Pool Suite. The room was so cozy, relaxing, and spacious. But what really stood out to me was the views. The views from my private plunge pool were gorgeous! I loved being able to step outside my sliding glass doors and take in the sunset from my daybed. It was so unforgettable and made for the perfect Caribbean escape! 

All-Inclusive Benefits 

One of the reasons The Escape is one of the best places to stay in Antigua is the all-inclusive benefits this resort offers. Here’s what’s included when you stay at this all-inclusive Antigua resort: 

• Breakfast, lunch, afternoon bites, and dinner daily, served at Drift Restaurant & Bar 
• House alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks served at the bar 
• Snorkeling equipment
• Kayaking in the bay 
• Nature walks 
• Free Wi-Fi 

Book a stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay here.

The “Actually Do Nothing” Part of The Escape 

Unlike some Caribbean resorts, The Escape isn’t unplugged in a literal sense. There are TVs at this Antigua resort, and you’ll have access to your own streaming services.

But The Escape is secluded from Antigua’s busier tourism areas.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Antigua with a quiet atmosphere, this is it. Entertainment is occasional and low-key. There’s no extensive daily activity schedule. The only thing on your agenda for the day is relaxation and escape. 

Guests spend the majority of their time in their private suites, taking in the sights and sounds. The property at this Antigua resort is more geared towards resting, reading, bird-watching, and enjoying the private plunge pool!

The resort is designed to feel like a couples retreat or even a solo retreat, if you’re like me. It’s truly one of the best places to stay in Antigua if you’re looking to have a quiet romantic getaway and enjoy a secluded Antigua honeymoon resort! 

Dining at The Escape

One of the things that makes dining at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay different from a larger all-inclusive resort is its boutique-style approach. You won’t find an enormous buffet or several restaurants scattered across the property. Instead, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are all served at Drift Restaurant & Bar.

The menu features Caribbean-inspired cuisine alongside international and vegetarian options and has a big emphasis on à la carte meals. Meals at this Antigua resort are more curated and intimate. Every morning you select your time for lunch and dinner. The menus change every day and are accessible on your phone through a QR code at the hostess stand. If you have any dietary requirements, the chef is more than happy to accommodate!

During my time at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay, I was able to try so many new foods and really venture out of my comfort zone! I never left hungry and was always excited to find out what would be on the menu next, which is not something you say often about most Caribbean all-inclusive resorts. 

Here are a few dining options you’ll find at this all-inclusive Antigua resort:

Drift Restaurant & Bar

Overlooking Ayers Creek, this is the only full restaurant at the resort. When you stay at this all-inclusive Antigua resort, meals are served here exclusively. You’ll be able to take in the sights and sounds of the birds in the mangroves and the bay from your table.

Drift is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea (3:30-5:00 p.m.), dinner, and cocktails. Meals are served à la carte style, with special meals available upon request. Enjoy Caribbean-inspired cuisine with international and vegetarian options. The chef is always happy to adjust the spice level to ensure there’s something for every palate! 

Keep in mind that there is a dress code for evenings at this Antigua resort restaurant:  tailored pants, collared shirts, casual shoes, cover-ups over swimwear, and no sportswear. 

Sea Grape Beach Bar & Panini Grill

Located at the Residences side of the resort, right on Nonsuch Bay Beach, Sea Grape Beach Bar & Panini Grill is a great place to grab a handcrafted cocktail, fresh panini, or light bite. It’s just a short walk or shuttle ride away from The Escape. 

Just steps away from the water, this bar is truly relaxing. You won’t find loud music or a packed bar. It’s the type of bar where you can unwind and relax during your stay at this Antigua resort.

It’s worth noting that this bar is only open during certain times of the year. 

Special Experiences Worth Booking

This is part of what makes The Escape an unforgettable Antigua honeymoon resort. Some of the special experiences you can enjoy here include: 

• Floating pool experiences — Enjoy breakfast, sushi, or other floating trays delivered right to your private plunge pool. 
• Private dining — Have a romantic dinner in your suite or another on-property location, including a romantic poolside dinner (on request). 
• Sunset cruise — Enjoy canapés and champagne on the dock! Guests consistently call this a highlight of the resort. 
• Floral baths — A romantic bath with florals is a sweet signature “Escape with Love” touch!
• Proposals, weddings, and vow renewals — The Escape is a great place to have any of these experiences! In fact, this adults-only Antigua resort markets itself for these types of romantic experiences! 
• Shuttle service — The Escape may arrange a boat shuttle to nearby uninhabited islands, including Green Island. Transportation to Shirley Heights may also be available for guests who want to experience its famous Sunday and Thursday night party. (Pricing and availability can change, so confirm the current options with the resort before booking).
• Picnics — You can enjoy a private Antigua garden or beach picnic at The Escape! The chefs will pack a picnic for you to enjoy among the lush greens or on a private offshore island. 

During my stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay, I enjoyed a floating breakfast basket. It was absolutely delicious — and a luxurious touch to my stay at this Antigua resort! You are able to select what you’d like to eat when booking your floating basket to ensure you get exactly what you want. I also had the opportunity to enjoy the garden picnic! The resort set up such a beautiful display on a nearby picnic bench. It was so beautiful to watch the hummingbirds buzzing from tree to tree while I enjoyed my meal.

While I took a solo trip to Antigua, I believe that these experiences would be great if you enjoyed them with a romantic partner. These special touches would really make an Antigua honeymoon a memorable one! 

Book a stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay here.

Activities, Pools, & Resort Life

Resort life at The Escape is intentionally low-key, which is one of the reasons why it’s one of the best places to stay in Antigua if you’re looking to unwind! Although you won’t find an extensive activity schedule, there are several relaxing ways to spend your time outside your suite.

Here are some of the activities you’ll find at this Antigua resort: 

• A main pool near Drift Restaurant. This is in addition to the private plunge pools in each of the resort’s suites! 
• Kayaking on the bay
• Yoga and guided nature walks
• Snorkeling (equipment is included) 

• An on-site fitness room 
• Books and board games
• Bird-watching around the property
• Occasional live music

The Escape is just a short drive away from Half Moon Bay, one of the most popular beaches in Antigua. There are also several uninhabited islands with white sand! 

Beach Access

Nonsuch Bay Beach is on the Residences side of the property. This Antigua beach features a small, quiet shoreline rather than a wide stretch of white sand. The calm waters make the beach ideal for swimming.

Resort guests can access the beach by taking an 8- to 15-minute walk over the hill or by resort shuttle. The shuttle drops you off in the morning and picks you up in the afternoon to transport you back to the lobby. 

Because The Escape is located on Antigua’s eastern coast, sargassum may occasionally affect the bay—particularly during periods when seaweed is more prevalent across the Caribbean. Conditions change throughout the year, so consider contacting the resort before your trip to Antigua if seaweed is bothersome for you. The beach is cleaned daily to prevent seaweed buildup.

Exploring Antigua: Excursions From The Escape

Some of the types of excursions you can enjoy when you stay at this Antigua resort include: 

• Snorkeling with sea turtles! 
• A catamaran sunset cruise 
• Horseback riding 
• buggy/ATV tour 
• Antigua ziplining in the rainforest

Wellness & Slow Luxury at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay

The spa at The Escape is a luxurious way to truly relax. Whether you’re on an Antigua honeymoon or enjoying a solo escape, you’ll find some great spa treatments to pamper yourself at this resort.

Some of the spa treatments this Antigua honeymoon resort has to offer include massage, facials, pedicures, and sugar scrubs. You’ll also find flower baths, which you can enjoy in a private bathtub overlooking the bay! 

What to Know Before You Go

If you plan on staying at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay, there are a few things to keep in mind before you go.

1. There’s no shop on the property. If you decide to stay at this Antigua resort, be sure to pack sunscreen, aloe vera, and bug spray. You won’t be able to find any of them on-site. 
2. There’s no in-room service or takeout from Drift. You can only enjoy your meals at the resort restaurant. 
3. A rental car is worth considering. If you want to explore the island independently while staying at this all-inclusive Antigua resort, keep in mind that the cost of taxis can add up fast on this side of the island. 
4. Housekeeping is only every other day. 
5. This Antigua resort is remote. It might not be the best place to stay if you prefer to be near local conveniences. 

Book a stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay here.

Who The Escape is Best For 

If you are looking for a true disconnect from the world, The Escape is a great option for you. This Antigua resort is ideal for couples who want to relax away from the rest of the world. It makes the perfect quiet Antigua honeymoon resort. It’s ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, proposals, or two people who just want a quiet escape from reality. 

If you want to experience Antigua nightlife, a big resort beach, or a resort with high-energy entertainment, this isn’t the place for you. Foodies who want multiple resort restaurants to choose from also might not enjoy their time here.

It’s perfect for travelers who prefer quiet resorts over mega-resorts with very little scheduled entertainment. If you enjoy spending most of your time in your suite with a private plunge pool and gorgeous views, The Escape at Nonsuch Bay is perfect for you.

The location of this adults-only Antigua resort also makes it ideal for anyone who wants to explore the attractions on the eastern part of the island! 

Why You Should Book The Escape at Nonsuch Bay

If you want a peaceful stay at a quiet adults-only, all-inclusive Antigua resort where your private plunge pool suite is the main event, The Escape is the perfect fit for your Antigua vacation! Book your stay at The Escape at Nonsuch Bay now! I left my trip feeling so rejuvenated, and it was exactly what I needed! If you’re from America, this resort feels like staying at a cabin in the woods where you are away from the hustle and bustle and constant activity. It’s the perfect place to take a deep breath, relax, unwind, and give your body exactly what it’s been needing! An escape.

If you want to stay at an Antigua honeymoon resort with multiple pools, direct access to two Antigua beaches, livelier common areas, and unforgettable west coast sunsets, Cocobay Resort Antigua might be the better choice. Check out my review, Cocobay Resort Antigua: One of the Best Places to Stay in Antigua, or book your stay here!

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