Hawksbill Bay, Saint Mary Travel Guide

4.5 (11)

Discover Hawksbill Bay: Tranquil beaches, calm waters, and Antigua's only clothing-optional beach await on the scenic west coast.

Hawksbill Bay, named for its distinctive rock formation resembling a hawksbill turtle, offers a serene escape with four beautiful beaches. Accessible through the Hawksbill by Rex Resort, it's known for its calm waters and Antigua's only clothing-optional beach.

A brief summary to Hawksbill Bay

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hawksbill Bay.

Bring your own beach towel and umbrella, as rentals are not always available.
If you plan to visit Eden Beach, be aware that it is a clothing-optional beach.
Explore the nearby hiking trails for scenic views of the coastline and surrounding areas.
Visit the old sugar mill, now a gift shop, to learn about the area's plantation history.

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Explore Hawksbill Bay on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hawksbill Bay, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From V.C. Bird International Airport, taxis are readily available. Advise the dispatcher you are going to Hawksbill Bay or Hawksbill by Rex Resort. The ride is approximately 25 minutes and costs around US$20 per couple. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Taxis accept both US and Eastern Caribbean dollars.
Public Transport

From St. John's West Bus Terminal, take the Line 61 bus towards Five Islands Village. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately $1 EC. From Five Islands Village, it's a short walk to the public entrance of Hawksbill Bay. For the other beaches, you may need to walk through the Hawksbill by Rex Resort.

Discover more about Hawksbill Bay

Hawksbill Bay is a picturesque bay located on the west coast of Antigua, near Five Islands Village. It's named after a distinctive rock formation in the bay that resembles a hawksbill turtle emerging from the water.The bay features four distinct beaches, each offering a unique experience. The first beach is easily accessible to the public with ample parking. The other three beaches are accessed through the Hawksbill by Rex Resort. The furthest beach, Eden Beach, is Antigua's only official clothing-optional beach.Hawksbill Bay is known for its tranquil atmosphere, calm turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. The bay's calm waters are protected by a reef, making it a safe place for families with children. Snorkeling is also a popular activity, with opportunities to see colorful fish and other marine life.Historically, the area was part of the Hawkesbill Plantation, dating back to the early 18th century. The original sugar mill is still standing and serves as a gift shop for the Hawksbill Hotel. In 1649, Antigua's first House of Assembly met at Hawkesbill.