Antigua

Travel Guide

Antigua which includes tropical scenes and general coastal views
Antigua which includes general coastal views, signage and a beach
Darkwood Beach showing general coastal views, a beach and tropical scenes
Antigua
Devil\'s Bridge which includes waves, rocky coastline and general coastal views

This small Caribbean island is a popular haunt for the beauty of its beaches and the tranquility of its waters.

The low-lying Caribbean island of Antigua is celebrated for its year-round sunshine and numerous long stretches of white and pink sands. In fact the locals are fond of saying there’s a beach for every day of the year. At 108 square miles (280 square kilometres), Antigua is the largest of the Leeward Islands.

Most of Antigua is ringed by coral reefs providing snorkel and diving opportunities aplenty. Grab a snorkel and explore the huge reef in the shallow waters at Long Bay. Relax on the crescent-shaped Half Moon Bay, one of the prettiest beaches on Antigua. It’s also popular with windsurfers and surfers. Charter a yacht or dinghy and investigate the coastline for secluded coves and private beaches.

For a change of scenery explore some of Antigua’s interior. Take the Rainforest Canopy Tour and swing through the treetops on zip lines deep in the heart of Antigua’s rainforest. Discover more of the island’s diverse ecology, geology and biology by visiting any or all of its four national parks.

Navigate the rugged terrain of Devil’s Bridge and marvel at the natural limestone arch carved by the sea. Visit Nelson’s Dockyard, the largest of Antigua’s national parks. It houses the restored Georgian yard that was used by the British Royal Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visit the Dockyard Museum, located in the former home of Admiral Horatio Nelson, and view exhibits that chart the dockyard’s history. Go for a walk along the park’s hiking trails that lead you through tropical fauna and past old forts dotting the landscape.

At the northern end of the island is St John’s, the capital of Antigua. It’s a lively city with bars, restaurants and shops. Cruise ships dock in the natural deep water harbour so the area is normally full of visitors. Pop into the cathedral, learn about the island’s history at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda and check out the farmers market on Friday and Saturday mornings.

The most convenient options to move around the island are taxi and rental car. You will need a permit to drive on the island in addition to a valid driver’s licence from your own country. The permit is valid for three months and there is a small fee to pay. Rental agencies will be able to assist you with obtaining one. Alternatively, use the bus system.

Where to stay in Antigua

Dickenson Bay Beach showing rocky coastline, general coastal views and a beach

Dickenson Bay

4/5(8 area reviews)

When in Dickenson Bay, you can plan a visit to Dickenson Bay Beach and Runaway Bay Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Dickenson Bay
Galley Bay showing general coastal views and a beach

Five Islands Village

Travellers come to Five Islands Village for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Galley Bay and Hawksbill Beach while you're in town.

Five Islands Village
Half Moon Bay Beach which includes general coastal views, landscape views and a sandy beach

Half Moon Bay

When in Half Moon Bay, you can plan a visit to Half Moon Bay Beach and Brown's Bay Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Half Moon Bay
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Runaway Bay

4/5(1 area review)

While Runaway Bay may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Runaway Bay Beach and Dickenson Bay Beach.

Runaway Bay
Dickenson Bay Beach showing rocky coastline, general coastal views and a beach

Paradise View

4/5(9 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Paradise View and surrounding area, you can visit Dickenson Bay Beach and Runaway Bay Beach.

Paradise View
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Saint Johnston Village

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Saint Johnston Village and surrounding area, you can visit Jolly Harbour Marina and Heritage Quay.

Saint Johnston Village

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Things to do