There are all-inclusive resorts, and then there are all-inclusive resorts. Stay at the latter, and you’ll find a sanctuary, a rarefied, charming, unforgettable place to vacation. 

That’s the essence of Galley Bay, the legendary resort in Antigua where adults-only travel and all-inclusive beach living are an art form, where nature lovers will find an oasis.

The natural environment here really is the biggest story, and you understand the moment you walk past the old sugar mill, check in and begin your journey across the lagoon to the edge of this 56-acre private peninsula on the northwestern coast of Antigua. 

You know when you hear the birdsong, from the nearly 50 tropical bird species that call this place home, and you know when you reach the edge of what is almost certainly one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Caribbean. 

There is an ethereal, enchanting quality here, something that connects with all of your senses, from the floral air to twilight sips of fine aged Caribbean rum at the Rum Shack. 

It’s a vibe so palpable that Galley Bay pulls off the rare feat of having rooms set off the beach that are just as captivating as their toes-in-the-sand counterparts. 

These are the Gauguin cottages, named for the iconic French painter who had his own love affair with the transcendent beauty of the Caribbean; these are full-fledged couples’ retreats, stunning standalone bungalows with private plunge pools in a setting at the edge of the lagoon, a setting that would have undoubtedly inspired Paul himself.

These suites are secluded and private, perfect for honeymoons and romantic getaways, another intoxicating corner of this resort that is full of them.

Indeed, this is a place where you’ll be drawn to be active; to seek out winged friends; to go for strolls on the beach or across the lagoon; to take your bike on a two-wheeled tropical afternoon.

There’s a reason Galley Bay has been drawing adventurers and beach lovers and romantics for decades; it’s a place that marries its spectacular environment with the completeness and comfort of an all-inclusive resort. 

That means a terrific spa, outstanding food, a lovely cafe and bakery, copious bars (including the aforementioned rum shack) and an impressive food program crowned by the lovely, endlessly romantic Ismay’s. 

In other words, it’s the pinnacle of Caribbean adults-only vacations.

For more, visit Galley Bay.