Zemi Beach House
For an off-the-grid Caribbean escape, savvy travelers flock to the island of Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory. The idyllic destination offers an abundance of unspoiled (read: not jam-packed) beaches, turquoise waters prime for swimming and snorkeling, and natural beauty from nearly every angle. The breezy, laid-back vibe can be felt the moment you step foot on the island, and it continues at Zemi Beach House. A luxury resort set on tranquil Shoal Bay, this oceanfront oasis is well worth a spot on your bucket list. Ahead, our full review.
What You Need to Know
The Look of Zemi Beach House
Spanning six scenic acres at the end of Shoal Bay (famous for its white sand beaches and regular dolphin and sea turtle sightings), the 76-room Zemi Beach House was designed by Caribbean architect Lane Pettigrew, who drew inspiration from the island’s lush surroundings. As such, expect a combination of clean, modern lines and Caribbean flair. The lobby features crisp white walls with dark brown accents and a striking chandelier, while the outdoor lounge area just off of it has pops of blue (perhaps an ode to the glimmering water down below) in the form of throw pillows. Meanwhile, the 76 rooms and suites are spread across three buildings. All offer contemporary décor, gorgeous ocean or garden views, private balconies, beach-inspired artwork, deep soaking tubs, and breezy touches ranging from lush plants to ocean blue throw pillows. Select units also have private pools.
The common areas, including the beach and four pools, have a similar beachy-chic aesthetic, as do the bars and restaurants. The Thai House Spa is unique in that it’s housed in an authentic, imported 300-year-old Thai structure. In addition to Thai-inspired design elements, you’ll also find Middle Eastern influences, especially in the Hamman. The traditional Turkish bath is decorated with Moroccan lanterns and dark wood accents.
The Vibe at Zemi Beach House
You’ll feel at ease from the moment you enter the property. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a team of staff members — and a tropical cocktail. After checking in, you’ll be whisked away on a private golf cart tour of your temporary home away from home.
The relaxed come-as-you-are vibes continue at the stylish all-day restaurant, 20 Knotts, which offers indoor and outdoor seating with prime ocean views. For an even more casual ambiance, make a beeline to Shoal Bay Beach Club, which serves fan favorites like fruit skewers, frozen daiquiris, and sushi.
On the other end of the spectrum, both the Rhum Room and Bohio Bar & Sushi Lounge offer a more swanky ambiance — and the crowd certainly reflects that (think: couples and friends gussied-up in their chicest vacation outfits). And then there's Stone, a fine-dining establishment that serves up Asian-Caribbean fusion in an air-conditioned indoor dining room (most folks come here before or after their drinks at the aforementioned Rhum Room or Bohio Bar & Sushi Lounge).