You’ve probably seen the photos of those four perfect crescents of sand. Maybe you’ve heard the whispers about the "clothing optional" beach, or the fact that the resort sits on an old sugar plantation. But if you’re looking for a marble-clad, five-star mega-resort with 24-hour room service and a DJ by the pool, honestly, you’re in the wrong place.
Hawksbill by Rex Resorts—now often simply called Hawksbill Resort—is a bit of an anomaly in Antigua. It’s a 37-acre sprawl of low-slung bungalows and garden paths that feels more like a 1970s Caribbean time capsule than a modern luxury hotel. And for a lot of people, that’s exactly why they keep coming back.
It is rustic. It is hilly. And it is arguably the best value on an island that usually charges a small fortune for a beachfront view.
The Rebranding Confusion: Is it still Rex?
Here’s the thing. The "Rex Resorts" name is still all over the internet, but the property has seen some major changes behind the scenes recently. While many still call it Hawksbill by Rex Resorts, the management shifted a couple of years ago. It’s now part of a collection that includes places like Cocos Hotel and Keyonna Beach.
This is actually good news.
The resort went through a pretty significant refurbishment back in late 2023. They added a new infinity pool that overlooks Sea Grapes Beach—the main hub of the property—and they finally brought AC to almost all the rooms. If you’re reading old reviews from 2018 complaining about the heat, keep in mind that those are mostly outdated now.
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Why the Age Limit Matters
Starting January 1, 2026, Hawksbill officially shifted its minimum age to 16 and older. Previously, it was 12+. This move solidifies its status as an "adult-focused" escape. It’s not a "party" resort, though. You won’t find spring breakers here. The crowd leans heavily toward UK and Canadian couples in their 50s and 60s who just want to read a book and drink a decent rum punch without screaming kids in the background.
Four Beaches and a Turtle-Shaped Rock
Most resorts in Antigua brag about having "a" beach. Hawksbill has four. They are all distinct, and you’ll likely find yourself gravitating toward one based on your mood.
- Royal Palm Beach: This is the first one you hit. It’s beautiful, but the drop-off into the water is steep and it can be a bit rocky. Great for looking at; slightly tricky for swimming.
- Sea Grapes Beach: This is the heart of the resort. The water is calm, the sand is wide, and the beach bar is right there. This is where the Hobie Cats and kayaks live.
- Honeymoon Cove: Tiny, secluded, and perfect if you want to pretend the rest of the 100+ rooms don’t exist.
- Eden Beach: The famous one. It’s the only officially designated clothing-optional beach on the entire island.
Honestly, Eden Beach is arguably the prettiest of the four. It’s at the far southern end of the property. You’ll know you’re getting close because the path turns into a bit of a hike. Don’t be surprised if you see a few feral goats or pigs wandering around the edges of the sand here. It’s just that kind of place.
What the Rooms are Actually Like
Don’t expect gold-plated faucets. The bungalows at Hawksbill by Rex Resorts are simple. They are "West Indian cottage style," which is a polite way of saying they are basic but functional.
If you want the best experience, aim for the Great House Rooms or the Beachfront Bungalows. The Great House sits on an elevated bluff. The views of the "Hawksbill Rock"—that massive stone formation in the bay that looks like a turtle’s head—are unbeatable from up there.
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If you book a Garden View room, you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. The resort is long. Like, 20-minutes-to-get-from-one-end-to-the-other long. If you have mobility issues, this is a genuine dealbreaker. There are stairs everywhere and the terrain is hilly.
Pro Tip: Not all rooms have TVs. If you’re the type who needs the news on in the background, check your specific category. The Beachfront Bungalows intentionally left them out for years to keep the "unplugged" vibe, though they've been adding 42" Smart TVs to more categories recently.
The Food: Buffet vs. Reality
The dining situation at Hawksbill is one of those things people either love or tolerate. It’s all-inclusive, but it’s not the "ten different restaurants" kind of all-inclusive you get at a Sandals.
The Tamarind Tree is the main open-air spot for breakfast and dinner. It’s mostly buffet. You’ll see a lot of "British-Caribbean" influence—think fish, pork, rice and peas, and plenty of fresh fruit. Is it five-star gourmet? No. Is it fresh and tasty? Usually.
For lunch, you’ve got the Sea Grape Grill. It’s more casual—wraps, burgers, and light snacks. If you want something a bit more "fancy," there’s Il Vigento Su Mare, which does pasta and lobster, but you have to book that one in advance and it isn't open every night.
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The "Real" Antigua History
One thing most people miss is that the gift shop is actually located inside an original 18th-century sugar mill. The estate dates back to 1710. The land is still owned by the Jeffrey family, whose ancestors were granted freedom when slavery was abolished in 1833. The resort actually leases the land from them.
There’s a deep sense of history here that you just don't get at the newer, concrete-heavy developments. It feels like a part of the island, not an intrusion on it.
Is it worth the money?
If you can get a week here for under $2,500 for two people (which is often possible if you book at the right time), it’s a steal. You’re paying for the location. You’re paying for the privacy.
You aren't paying for:
- High-speed fiber optic internet in every corner (it’s patchy).
- Pretentious service.
- A huge choice of nightlife.
It’s quiet. By 10:00 PM, the resort is basically asleep, save for a bit of live music at the Tamarind Bar.
Actionable Next Steps for Travelers
If you're planning a trip to Hawksbill by Rex Resorts, here is how to handle the logistics:
- Book the right room: If you want to step directly onto the sand, pay the extra for the Beachfront Bungalow. If you want the best breeze and views, go for the Great House.
- Pack for the hike: Bring decent sandals or walking shoes. The walk to Eden Beach or the Great House involves uneven paths and stone steps.
- Check the Levy: Antigua charges a $5 USD per person, per night Tourism Guest Levy. This is usually collected at the front desk when you check out, so don't be surprised by that final bill.
- Tipping: While it's all-inclusive, the staff works incredibly hard. Tipping isn't mandatory, but it’s definitely appreciated, especially for the water sports team and the long-term waitstaff like Egbert or David who have been there for years.
- Airport Transfer: The resort is about 20-30 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport. Taxis are regulated, but it's always easier to have one pre-arranged through the resort or a local operator.