Exploring the Hidden Gems of Antigua

What Tanya Willock and Temidra Willock-Morsch remember most from their first trip to Antigua is the fruit trees — mangoes, bananas, and coconuts — in their grandparents’ yard. “I remember seeing my grandfather cut a coconut with a machete and just drink straight out of it,” Tanya recalls. “It’s a different way of living,” Temidra adds. “There’s an ease there. Everyone is so relaxed.”

The sisters infused that island sensibility into Hidden Gem, the boutique they opened in 2019 in Southampton, close to their hometown of East Hampton. Tanya, who studied fine art and photography, and Temidra, who went to school for fashion design and started her own textile company in 2014, agreed the store should reflect both their Long Island roots and their Antiguan heritage. “We want this space to be authentically us,” Temidra says. “We love color, we love mixing and matching prints, we love textures.” Tanya envisioned it as a place where, if she didn’t own it, she would want to shop herself.

The sisters credit their eye for business to their Antiguan maternal grandmother. “She would sell her knitting and crochet in the front yard,” Temidra recalls. “Our grandma really taught us entrepreneurship.”

At Hidden Gem, the pair works directly with artisans worldwide to source textiles, apparel, homewares, and art. They also craft some items themselves: decorative surfboards, bohemian bracelets, hand-dyed lounge sets. “People come into the store and say, ‘I feel like I’m in the Caribbean. I feel like I’m on vacation,'” Temidra shares. “That’s exactly how we want them to feel.”

Must-Visit Spots in the Caribbean, According to Locals

Delicious Island Bites

Upon arrival, we recommend visiting Brownies in the village of Piggotts for a bun and cheese, a traditional snack. There is no specific address — however, local residents can easily guide you! In St. John’s, indulge in the roti with chicken or conch from Roti King (entrées $2–$10), which is managed by our cousin Hilroy.

Enjoying Dinner Out

Smiling Harry’s Thirst Quencher (entrées $7–$45) offers a delightful waterfront dining experience in Half Moon Bay, the town where our parents grew up. Enjoy authentic Caribbean dishes, such as curry goat and plantains or coconut shrimp served with rice. Jacqui O’s Beach House (entrées $17–$56), in Crab Hill, has a vibrant ambiance with lots of pink and floral prints. Don’t miss their grilled whole fish.

Refreshing Cocktails

For a cocktail, visit our cousin Damian at Catherine’s Café in Pigeon Beach to try the Avo-Colada — their signature cocktail made with avocado, coconut, cinnamon, and your choice of vodka, rum, tequila, or gin. Be sure to also taste the classic rum punch. For live reggae music, head to Road House in Newfield.

Local Shopping

A trip would not be complete without visiting Cedars Pottery for Antiguan ceramics. We find inspiration from local artists, and they also host interactive sessions where you can paint your own pots. The Public Market in St. John’s (Valley Rd. and All Saints Rd.) is the perfect place for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Stunning Accommodations

For a tranquil getaway, the adults-only Cocobay Resort (doubles from $480) on Coco Beach features cottages with private mini pools. Additionally, Nonsuch Bay Resort (doubles from $420) in Freetown is a family favorite due to its private beach. Antigua Village (rentals from $250) in Dickinson Bay offers condo rentals that provide a homey feel.

Adventure Awaits

Enjoy an adventure snorkeling at Stingray City, an outdoor aquarium, or take a scenic walk across the natural rock formation at Devil’s Bridge National Park. Join a hike with Trek Tours to discover the trails with the most breathtaking views.

A version of this story first appeared in the December 2021/January 2022 issue of iBestTravel under the headline Antigua, by Design.