Much like the Antiguan word that inspired its name (jumbee meaning ‘playful spirit’), the laid-back feeling of Jumby Bay Island is tangible from the moment you step onto the welcome dock. The fortunate few who make it here are encouraged to roam wild and free. A destination in its own right, this is an alternative bolthole from the flashier hot spots in this part of the world, like chichi St Barths and the celebrity magnet of Mustique. Style abounds on Jumby, to be sure, but it’s a style that’s beach chic and has an appreciation for the finer things in life – it is really not the kind of place to come looking for manicured golf courses and non-stop nightlife.
Travel notes:
There’s something special about staying somewhere that’s free of cars. Raw nature is the star here and exploring some of the region’s most unspoilt areas on a quiet bike ride through its 300 acres just 20 minutes after leaving the airport, is a peace of mind bestowed by the island’s owners – a select group of dedicated homeowners who work to preserve its exclusive, undisturbed hideaway status, and a commitment that has resulted in a flourishing ecology.
…liming. Jumby’s word for chilling out inspires everyone to take life at their own pace. Indulge in the slow life lounging on the beach counting starfish or venture inland exploring the meadows alongside herds of Persian black-faced sheep that have inhabited the island for more than 400 years. Evenings are for discovering ideal spots for stargazing away from Antigua’s bright lights, and flavoursome field-to-fork dinners served among banana groves.
The needs of minors are considered here as much as adults’ are, so there’s always some form of school holiday high jinks for them to join. Raft building classes boost confidence and provide the opportunity to form friendships, while film production workshops encourage creativity and sessions with the pioneering hawksbill turtle education programme engages kids on the importance of wildlife conservation.
Design here is a marriage of tropical style and casual elegance; rattan furniture and rope textures are paired with cooling nautical shades of pistachio. However, the delicacy, beauty and exclusivity that characterises Jumby Bay is found best in the Private Residences. Clustered on an exclusive corner and complete with housekeepers, butlers and personal chefs, these home-away-from-home properties are each designed with their own unique style. The overwhelming impression is one of space and individuality; several with pools larger than some in the mainland hotels. Others boast everything from their very own flood-lit tennis court, personal fitness centre, a red-footed turtle sanctuary and rooftop tower lounge.
Prioritised above all else here, the relationship between guests and staff is nurtured to provide a unique and totally personal experience. Touches that make the difference are small and simple; think your favourite cocktail waiting on the bar at The Estate House (the former 1830s plantation house that now celebrates local cuisine, art and island life), or suites decked out with strategically positioned telescopes for optimum stargazing.
Take time out from cycling around the island’s many intricate pathways to cruise through the Caribbean seas on a fully crewed private yacht charter. A refined journey that circumnavigates Jumby and its surrounding islands safely drops anchor close by the best snorkelling spots where undisturbed coral reefs thrive. Lunch is a made-to-order picnic served on an empty stretch of powdery white sand and the journey home is accompanied by a hazy sunset.
A year round destination, the best months to visit Antigua are generally during the drier winter months of December to April with temperatures averaging 24°C. The summer months between May and November can be more humid with showers and passing tropical storms a possibility, however visitors during these months may be rewarded with quieter beaches and excellent hotel offers.
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