Curtain Bluff Antigua: Timeless All-Inclusive Excellence on a Peninsula Paradise
Occupying a spectacular peninsula on Antigua’s south coast, Curtain Bluff has been setting the standard for Caribbean all-inclusive luxury since 1962. This family-owned resort, still operated by its founding family, offers a rare combination of old-world elegance, genuine hospitality, and comprehensive luxury that has created a devoted following spanning generations. With two pristine beaches, world-class amenities, and an all-inclusive philosophy that truly includes everything that matters, Curtain Bluff proves that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully in creating the perfect Caribbean escape.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded by Howard and Chelle Hulford, Curtain Bluff pioneered the concept of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Unlike many properties that have changed hands multiple times, Curtain Bluff remains in the Hulford family, now operated by Rob Sherman, Chelle’s son, who maintains the founders’ vision while continuously updating and improving the resort. This continuity of ownership has created a consistency of experience that keeps guests returning year after year, with some families now in their fourth generation of visits.
Two Beaches, Endless Possibilities
Curtain Bluff’s unique peninsula location provides guests with two completely different beach experiences. The calm waters of Morris Bay on the Caribbean side offer perfect conditions for swimming, water sports, and peaceful relaxation. Here, the beach is protected from ocean swells, creating a natural pool ideal for less confident swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. The resort’s water sports center, one of the Caribbean’s most comprehensive, is located on this beach.
On the Atlantic side, Surf Beach presents a more dramatic seascape with rolling waves and refreshing breezes. This beach is perfect for long walks, bodyboarding, and those who enjoy the sound and energy of ocean waves. Having two distinct beaches means guests can choose their atmosphere based on mood and weather, a luxury few resorts can offer.
Accommodations: Elegance Meets Comfort
Curtain Bluff’s 72 rooms and suites are positioned to maximize the spectacular ocean views from the peninsula’s elevated position. Recent renovations have modernized every accommodation while maintaining the classic Caribbean elegance that defines the resort. Rooms feature marble bathrooms, custom furnishings, and private terraces or balconies where the panoramic views become a constant companion to your stay.
The suites offer additional space and luxury, with separate living areas and larger terraces perfect for private dining or simply savoring the view. The Terrace Suite, the resort’s premier accommodation, provides wraparound views, a full living room, and the kind of space that makes it feel like a private residence. Every room includes modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and Bose sound systems, though many guests find the natural soundtrack of waves and tropical birds is all they need.
Culinary Excellence Without Limits
Dining at Curtain Bluff showcases the best of what all-inclusive can be when quality is never compromised. The Tamarind Restaurant, the resort’s main dining venue, serves breakfast and lunch in an open-air setting with stunning ocean views. Dinner becomes a more formal affair, with men requested to wear jackets, creating an elegant atmosphere reminiscent of classic Caribbean resorts. The menu changes daily, featuring both international cuisine and Caribbean specialties prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
The Beach Club provides a more casual dining option for lunch and dinner, where guests can dine with their feet in the sand. The menu here focuses on fresh seafood, grilled items, and lighter fare perfect for beach days. What sets Curtain Bluff apart is that premium wines and spirits are included without restriction – guests can enjoy vintage champagnes, aged spirits, and an extensive wine list curated by the resort’s sommelier, all part of the inclusive experience.
Water Sports Paradise
Curtain Bluff’s water sports program is legendary in the Caribbean, offering more activities and higher quality equipment than resorts many times its size. The calm waters of Morris Bay provide perfect conditions for everything from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and waterskiing. The resort maintains a fleet of boats including Hobie Cats, Sunfish, and larger sailing vessels, all available for guest use with or without instruction.
For those interested in exploring underwater, the resort offers complimentary snorkeling equipment and scuba diving for certified divers. The dive operation includes equipment, boats, and experienced dive masters who know the local sites intimately. Deep-sea fishing excursions showcase Antigua’s position in rich fishing grounds, with the possibility of catching marlin, tuna, and other game fish. All water sports are included in the stay, with instruction available for every skill level.
Tennis Excellence
Tennis has been a cornerstone of Curtain Bluff since its founding, with four championship courts and a serious program that attracts players from around the world. The resort’s tennis professional provides complimentary lessons and clinics, while the pro shop stocks everything needed for play. The courts are maintained to professional standards, with both hard and clay surfaces available.
The tennis program includes daily clinics, round-robins, and the ability to arrange matches with players of similar skill levels. For those looking to improve their game, intensive coaching packages can be arranged. The combination of excellent facilities, professional instruction, and the ability to play year-round in perfect weather has made Curtain Bluff a favorite among tennis enthusiasts.
Wellness and Relaxation
The spa at Curtain Bluff occupies a tranquil clifftop location with treatment rooms that offer spectacular ocean views. The spa menu includes a full range of massages, facials, and body treatments, many incorporating local ingredients like sea salt and tropical botanicals. While spa services are not included in the all-inclusive rate, the quality and setting make them a worthwhile indulgence.
The resort’s fitness center features modern equipment and stunning views that make workouts a pleasure rather than a chore. Yoga classes are offered on the beach pavilion, creating a magical setting for practice as the sun rises over the Atlantic. The resort’s approach to wellness extends to its cuisine, with healthy options always available and special dietary needs expertly accommodated.
Beyond the Resort
While Curtain Bluff’s comprehensive amenities mean many guests never leave the property, Antigua offers numerous attractions worth exploring. The resort provides complimentary transportation to St. John’s for shopping and sightseeing, while excursions can be arranged to Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley Heights, and other historic sites. The concierge can organize sailing trips to nearby islands, helicopter tours, or cultural experiences that provide insight into Antiguan life.
Special Events and Celebrations
Curtain Bluff excels at hosting weddings and special celebrations, with multiple venues from beach to blufftop gardens. The resort’s experienced event team handles every detail, from legal requirements to decorations, ensuring celebrations are both beautiful and stress-free. The all-inclusive nature extends to events, with premium bar service and gourmet catering included, eliminating the budget surprises often associated with destination events.
The Curtain Bluff Difference
What truly distinguishes Curtain Bluff is its ability to maintain the highest standards while creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests feel like family. The staff, many of whom have been with the resort for decades, remember returning guests’ preferences and create personalized experiences that make each stay special. The all-inclusive philosophy here means truly inclusive – no nickel-and-diming for premium spirits, no restrictions on water sports, no limits on tennis.
This is a resort where tradition matters but innovation continues, where elegance doesn’t mean stuffiness, and where the goal is to provide everything guests need for a perfect Caribbean vacation. Whether you’re an active traveler taking advantage of world-class tennis and water sports, a couple seeking romance on perfect beaches, or a family creating multi-generational memories, Curtain Bluff offers an experience that has stood the test of time while remaining fresh and relevant for today’s luxury travelers.