Yepton Estate Cottages is a small, mid-range property made up of five self-catering cottages, in studio and one-bedroom layouts. It sits on a lake, in a serene pocket that’s near a beach and a short drive to St John’s. There’s not much to see or do, but that’s the idea -- it’s a private spot that appeals to travelers escaping their busy lives. There’s a small outdoor pool, and the cottages have large, well-equipped kitchens, TVs (tube-style), DVD players, stereos, barbecues, free Wi-Fi, and lovely porches with water views, but furniture is clunky and dated. Hospitality ranks high here, and the hosts are full of local knowledge and take guests to the supermarket for groceries. Travelers who want to be right on the beach should check out Dutchman’s Bay Cottages.

Located directly on famous Dickenson Bay Beach, the three-pearl Buccaneer Beach Club is ideal for laid-back, independent visits to Antigua, with 16 One-Bedroom Villas and two Two-Bedroom Cottages. All units have pull-out couches, kitchenettes, and balconies or verandahs that look out to the small pool or the tranquil turquoise bay. Amenities include free laundry, free internet, and mountain bikes for rent. While the hotel's restaurant has slow service and mediocre food, the views of the sea are spectacular -- plus a grocery store and plenty of other restaurants are within walking distance. It's a cozy, relaxed experience, while remaining in close proximity to St. John's and other sights. The rooms here can get buggy at night, but they're more up-to-date than at next door Antigua Village.  

The Siboney Beach Club is a three-pearl property with a dreamy garden and direct access to a stretch of white sand on Dickenson Bay. This unpretentious hotel, complete with a feng-shui inspired garden, offers an intimate vibe at reasonable prices. The 12 one-bedroom suites are simple and charming, with bright accents, kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, and balconies or patios. As with most properties on Antigua, mosquitos can be an issue. Features include a small outdoor pool, spa treatments in a Zen garden, and a simple (if somewhat overpriced) beachside restaurant and bar. Travelers can also check out the apartments at next door Antigua Village, but rates there will be higher, though it has a fancier restaurant.

Built in the late sixties and still family-owned, the two-and-a-half-pearl Catamaran Hotel has an authentic Caribbean vibe and sits directly on Falmouth Harbor. It features a small pool, an unofficially private beach, and 14 beachfront rooms with air-conditioning, full kitchens, and private hammocks. The breezy restaurant and bar has an open-air terrace with views onto the water. Free water sports, including sea kayaks, are available along with room service and free Wi-Fi. Room decor is a little tired and the restaurant is pricey, but the couples who return here again and again for the secluded atmosphere and affordable rates don't seem to mind. The Siboney Beach Club, located about 40 minutes away in Dickenson Bay, feels just as private and has a prettier beach with crystal-clear water. 

The style and architecture of the all-inclusive Hawksbill resort harken back to the '60s and '70s. Some see only vintage charm reminiscent of a simpler time, while others will feel that the resort is in desperate need of renovations and updates. One feature that is surely timeless is the beautiful white-sand beach with calm Caribbean waters. The rooms are dated and basic, with no TVs, which is meant to allow guests distraction-free relaxation.

Halcyon Cove is a 210 room all-inclusive set on a beautiful long stretch of white-sand beach -- the main highlight here. This mid-range property offers a value-for-money resort experience in a great location that’s less than a 20-minute drive to St John’s, the airport, and historic sights. Spacious, island-styled rooms are dated, yet they come with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers, with views of the pool, beach, or garden. There are two restaurants (though the pier restaurant is currently closed for repairs), a beach barbecue, and two bars (one is beachside). Features include water sports, tennis courts, a fitness center, kids’ club, function room, convenience store, beauty salon, and free Wi-Fi. Halcyon Cove isn’t luxurious, but it should suit couples, families, and groups craving a one-stop beach vacation without fancy frills. Travelers seeking an adults-only experience could try the Pineapple Beach Club Antigua.

This 38-room, casual, beachfront hotel for teens and adults (no children under 12) is smaller than most resorts on the island, allowing for a much more friendly, intimate feel. All rooms face out on to the beach and feature ocean views, but the views inside aren't very inspiring -- the furniture and decor are old and dated. Coconut Beach Club's cozy setting and secluded location make it feel like a secret hideaway -- and while it's not fancy or luxurious, it provides a decent value for a budget resort.