Booked this hotel nervously after reading mixed reviews. Had a great experience and would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a relaxed vacation spot. We are not people that like to "rough it" and I needn't have worried about that here! This is probably a 2-star resort in terms of luxury level but everything was very clean and we had no problems with our room (superior beach-front). The food was consistently good if somewhat limited in variety. The beach was amazing, never had any competition for chairs. Staff very willing to help and very friendly. Great resort for a quiet vacation and the price can't be beat! Would go again in a heartbeat.

We booked this with trepidation after seeing the negative comments but can't understand how anyone can say anything wrong about it. It was fantastic - the setting is superb, the sea is lovely and warm, the beach is nice and quiet (no kids), the restaurant is right on the beach - perfect, and the food (although not an extensive choice) was delish. I am veggie and found something nice to eat every day and they will cook to order for you anyway. The bedroom was lovely and big and very clean and in a nice garden/pool setting. Very nice staff. Can't do enough for you. Jillian and Colin were lovely and a right laugh. We didn't socialise much as we like to keep to ourselves and it was perfect for that too. No one was in our face and we just did our own thing. Evening entertainment was great too - fab steel band. Would recommend for anyone. Taxis easy to get so can get out and about day and night. Wonderful - would def stay again!

Have just returned from the Blue Heron after two wonderful weeks with my husband. This was our 3rd stay and probably not our last.

Beach is still wonderful, as is the staff. We needed some assistance with contacting the UK by e-mail regarding a car rental booking that went wrong and we were able to use the manager's computer which was a huge help. They then organised a quick rental for us the next day.

We also went on Gillian's 'village tour' (see earlier review) which was very interesting. It still amazes me what grows naturally in Antigua - pomegranates is a new one!

Loved the new outdoor restaurant but found the music from the bar a bit loud on some occassions, especially at breakfast. The evening dress code was allowed to 'slip' sometimes - there seemed to be a run on men not wearing shoes - not sure this is 'etiquette' especially when using the washroom!

Our beachfront room was fine, a little smaller than we've had previously and the bathroom was a little 'run-down' but we soon got over this disappointment (in about 5 minutes of arrival) - might have had something to do with the on-arrival welcome rum punch, maybe? Fridge is a nice, new touch.

Got a little bored with the food but probably would anywhere we stay for two weeks but ventured out to OJ's down the beach. Also, Harmony Hall up to its usual excellant standard and tried La Busola at Runaway Bay for lunch - pretty amazing food! Dennis' at FFeyes beach has good views.

Went on both of Antigua Adventure's tours - loved them both but especially loved the Extreme (mainly for the speed and Stingray City was better than expected!).

Love the hotel, love the beach, love Antigua!

We visited the blue Heron for the 2nd time at the end of Jan beginning of Feb 08.
On arrival we were greeted like old friends, i'm not sure where else you would find that.
Sandy, Carleen, Jillian, Errol, Andy, Colin and Kerry-Ann, to mention just a few, helped make our holiday very enjoyable
All the staff were magnificent throughout our stay.
The beach was beautiful, uncrowded and right outside our room, ideal for an early morning swim.
Our room was comfortable and very clean with good quiet A/C. there was also a fridge , hair dryer and coffee machine. As pointed out by some other reviewers the rooms and bathrooms are not state of the art but everything functioned well during our stay. I think some of the negative comments (not too many lately) come from people not looking closely at what they are booking. It is a small friendly simple hotel on a stunning quiet beach. We especially enjoyed the seabreeze bar in the evenings (open till 11pm), perhaps this should be open every night weather permitting.
I would reccomend opting for beachfront rooms for the view, sunsets etc. I would also go for all inclusive, although be aware that as this is a small hotel meal choices can be limited. There are however two restaurants within walking distance.

If the beach is more important than the bathroom fittings - Go to the Blue Heron

If you would prefer chat with the staff rather than snap your fingers at them- Go to the Blue Heron

If you prefer drinks at the bar, a little local music and early to bed rather than nightclubs till 3am- Go to the Blue Heron

Hope this is helpful

Tracy and Andy