I was thrilled to escape the cold winter weather at home in the Northeast with a quick getaway to Antigua. I especially looked forward to a relaxing spa treatment during my stay at Blue Waters Resort.

Upon arrival to the Caribbean island, it was clear Antiguans operate on island time — a calm, laid-back approach to life. I’m more used to a “go, go, go” attitude. Even when trying to relax, I can’t help but think of where I need to go or what’s happening next. I hoped my spa treatment would do the relaxation trick.

I enjoyed a light breakfast of fruit and yogurt at the resort’s The Palm restaurant before setting off for my morning plans. The resort offers a variety of on-site activities to suit every taste. Take advantage of the water sports including kayaking and sailing. Go for a swim in one of the resort’s several pools. Soak up some rays on the beach. Play a game of tennis. Work out at the gym. Book an off-site excursion. Or just take a long stroll through the property’s 17 acres of lush tropical greenery. The next item on my agenda: Go to the spa.

The Spa at Blue Waters is tucked away on the far side of the property, steps from the resort’s fine-dining restaurant, The Cove. I arrived early for my appointment, so I decided to rest on one of the lounge chairs overlooking the ocean. I was still in my fast-paced East Coast mind frame and tried my best to relax pre-treatment. After all, everyone around me was operating on island time. The attendant offered me a glass of cold, fruit-infused water, which I enjoyed as I lounged.

Reception © The Spa at Blue Waters

The view from the spa patio is truly spectacular. Located on a hill within the resort, the patio beyond the waiting area offers guests an ideal vantage point. Its location is secluded yet open. I could make out the buildings of Blue Waters in the distance amid the lush gardens — I could even see my room. A small infinity pool sits on the edge of the patio. Unfortunately, I wasn’t wearing my bathing suit. I was tempted to zip back to my room to grab it for a post-massage dip in the serene waters. Instead, I remained in my seat. The peaceful scene of sailboats floating by and birds soaring through the sky began to set the tone for my day.

The Spa at Blue Waters presents a seasonal menu of treatment options, ensuring guests experience the best the island has to offer. Indulge in a massage, body therapy or facial — or multiple treatments. Unique treatments include an exotic lime and ginger salt glow, coconut rub and milk wrap, cellutox aroma spa ocean wrap, frangipani salt glow with massage, herbal lavender repair facial, pro-intense lift effect facial treatment and exotic moisture dew facial. Special treatments designed specifically for men, couples and expectant mothers are also available.

In addition to body therapies and massages, the spa’s salon offers hair styling, manicures, pedicures and waxing. The Spa at Blue Waters is open Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. For those interested, yoga on the spa terrace is available to book upon request.

Double treatment room © The Spa at Blue Waters

After completing the necessary paperwork and finishing my glass of water, I was ready to begin my treatment. My therapist walked with me to the ladies’ locker room. She lit a candle underneath a bowl filled with essential oils. A delightful lavender fragrance filled the room as I slipped into a robe and slippers. I then made my way to the treatment room, ready for my massage.

Despite the warm weather outside, the spa was a perfect temperature. My treatment room was bright and airy, and I could hear the gentle sounds of the ocean as I situated myself on the cool, comfortable massage table. I opted for the signature Swedish massage. This technique aims to relax the body and improve circulation while relieving stress and tension. My therapist consulted with me regarding preferences, problem spots and any allergies before beginning my massage. She gave special focus to my upper back and shoulders, as I mentioned those areas are often tense. I spent the previous day traveling — by car, train, bus and plane — and after a full day of carrying luggage, I greatly welcomed the firm pressure my therapist applied.

The Spa at Blue Waters uses Elemis products. The award-winning skincare products offer anti-aging benefits. My therapist used a rich, nourishing lotion for my massage. The balancing formula contained vitamins, amino acids, minerals and natural plant collagen. It left my skin feeling silky-soft. I felt supremely relaxed as she rang a bell to signify the end of my treatment. In a state of bliss, I barely remember exiting the spa back into the resort.

Despite having a full schedule, I felt completely relaxed and free of stress while going about the rest of my day. A visit to The Spa at Blue Waters officially put this East Coast girl on island time.

The Spa at Blue Waters

Blue Waters Resort
P.O. Box 256
Soldier’s Bay, St. John’s
Antigua
tel 268 462 0290
bluewaters.net