Just Back From

Just Back From… Curtain Bluff

Sleek, sexy resorts abound in the Caribbean, which consists of more than 700 glittering islands. But Curtain Bluff, named after the waves that fan in a perfect scalloped pattern on the beach, is a true classic that has stood the test of time. Perched on a cliff in Antigua, the resort features an authentic charm that dates back to its beginnings when founder Howard Hulford opened the hotel as an extension of his family home in 1962. Since then, the resort has expanded from 16 to 72 rooms and has been fully modernized.

With an ideal location between two pristine beaches, Curtain Bluff is situated along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Rooms and suites overlook the Atlantic side—with its rough, breaking surf and cool tropical winds—providing natural air-conditioning (although there is AC as well). The main beach is on the property’s Caribbean side and is the resort’s epicenter. There, guests can take advantage of a variety of water sports (including boating, catamaran sailing, snorkeling and scuba diving).

Decorated with wicker furniture and a palette of tiffany blues and sea foam greens, Curtain Bluff feels less like a hotel and more like a charming beach house. Upon arrival, guests are led through a quaint front desk area to a spacious terrace and the Tamarind Tree restaurant, where breakfast and dinner are served daily. Nearby is the resort’s adorable (and kid-friendly) library and the Sugar Mill Bar, which serves afternoon tea and delicious bites during cocktail hour. By the beach is a second restaurant, the Seagrape, which offers a casual, buffet-style lunch and dinner. Despite Curtain Bluff’s ample amenities (including an excellent fitness center, spa and tennis program), it is the resort’s welcoming atmosphere that is most impressive. Guests are greeted as family, and every staff member is quick to remember your name, favorite cocktail and morning coffee order. The Managing Director, Rob Sherman, has been with the property for 25 years and knows the resort and its regulars like the back of his hand.

Related: Curtain Bluff Hotel Review

Soon after Curtain Bluff opened, Howard Hulford started The Old Road Fund in 1972 to improve the quality of life for locals in the surrounding area (which is made up of predominantly low-income neighborhoods). By supplying basic necessities such as clothing and school supplies, the foundation has seen huge success and expanded to offer college scholarships, medical procedures and construction assistance. Curtain Bluff also offers tennis lessons to local children, many of whom now work as instructors at the resort.

Curtain Bluff is scheduled to be renovated next summer (it will be closed from May–October 2017), but the property’s old-world charm will surely remain. It’s not only the high level of service, but the style of service—friendly and accommodating, without any fussiness—that contributes to Curtain Bluff’s distinct appeal. It’s that classic, laid-back luxury that keeps guests returning year after year.

Related: Antigua Destination Report

Good to Know

Curtain Bluff is an all-inclusive resort; all meals, beverages and beach activities (snorkeling, kayaking, water skiing, and scuba diving) are included in the room rate.

Getting There

There are direct flights from New York, Miami and London to Antigua (V. C. Bird Airport). Upon arrival, all Curtain Bluff guests are greeted and escorted through a VIP fast track service. The resort is located about 30 minutes from the airport.

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