Antigua, located in the Lesser Antilles, is known for its beautiful beaches. With a staggering 365 beaches, you could spend an entire year visiting a new beach every day. One of the reasons the beaches are so appealing is the presence of the warm Caribbean Sea and the wild Atlantic Ocean, which merge to create a cool and calm environment.
The island is surrounded by offshore reefs that act as a barrier, slowing down the waves and making the beaches safe for swimmers. For those seeking a luxurious and all-inclusive vacation, popular destinations include Dickenson Bay, Jolly Harbor, and Five Islands Peninsula.
16. Shirley Heights
Once a military lookout, this well-known vantage point is named after Sir Thomas Shirley. Enjoy stunning views of the island and ocean below from its summit, providing a bird’s eye perspective of the English Harbour. On clear days, you can even spot the islands of Montserrat and Guadeloupe in the distance.
You can reach the lookout by driving or hiking the 1.5-mile-long Carpenters Trail, starting at Galleon Beach. An exciting feature is the restaurant-bar at the lookout, hosting Sunday sunset parties with music, BBQ food, and dancing, all against a backdrop of spectacular views!
15. Valley Church Beach
This tranquil beach is a wonderful spot to relax and unwind. Take a leisurely sunset walk on the soft white sand, enjoy the charming homes on the nearby hill, and witness a variety of wildlife.
Grab your snorkeling gear and explore the crystal-clear waters, where you can encounter vibrant tropical fish in every imaginable color.
At Valley Church Beach, bask in the Caribbean sun and achieve that envy-worthy summer glow. With its simplicity and picturesque surroundings, this beach stands out as another one of Antigua’s delightful destinations.
14. St. John’s Cathedral
Located in the capital city, St. John’s Cathedral boasts an elegant and charming exterior, featuring two identical towers flanking the church’s front cross.
Constructed in 1720, the cathedral replaced an old wooden church that had served the community since 1681 but had outgrown its size and suffered damage.
Made with white English brick in a baroque style, the cathedral exhibits a delightful exterior and a predominantly wooden interior. Look closely to see figures of St. John the Divine and St. John the Baptist on the cathedral’s exterior. According to legend, these figures were allegedly stolen from a French ship in 1756!
13. Devil’s Bridge
Explore the rocky and rugged coast on the northeast side of Antigua, and you’ll discover Indian Town National Park. This coastal park, with its stunning scenery, is an excellent destination for hiking, and it holds some delightful surprises.
One of these surprises is Devil’s Bridge, a natural limestone bridge shaped over time by the relentless waves. You can walk across this narrow stone bridge and gaze down at the ocean beneath.
Caution is advised if the sea is rough to avoid getting dragged in! The park is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with more than 35 bird species believed to inhabit the area.
12. Stingray City Antigua
Southern Rays are known for being friendly and having a gentle nature, making them the ideal sea creatures to have a swim with. Picture yourself standing on a small wooden deck hovering above the ocean, observing the stingrays gracefully gliding beneath you. Now, take a deep breath and join them in the water.
This is an opportunity that should not be passed up; an experience to intimately connect with these magnificent marine beings. As you swim side by side with the rays in shallow waters, don’t hesitate to dive deeper for a closer look. It’s possible to find yourself surrounded by numerous stingrays all at once, creating an indelible memory. Swimming with these rays is sure to leave an unforgettable impression.
11. Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
The Caribbean Islands, including Antigua and Barbuda, have a rich history. Visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda to learn about the island’s diverse ecosystems and fascinating past. Throughout its history, Antigua has been inhabited by different groups of people, from the indigenous Arawak to European settlers.
The island went through slavery and colonization before gaining independence in 1981, which was less than 50 years ago. The museum may be small, but it holds interesting items like Arawak pottery and a replica of a traditional Arawak home.
10. Nelson’s Dockyard
Nelson’s Dockyard is a famous tourist spot on the island that holds the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been serving as a marina since 1745 and was constructed in a Georgian style. It is named after Horatio Nelson, a British captain.
Though most of the buildings have been restored, they still retain some of their original features, creating a colonial ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the dockyard and transport yourself back in time, envisioning old pirate ships and European fleets gracing the shores.
Once you’ve soaked in the historical charm, unwind at one of the waterfront restaurants where you can savor delicious seafood paired with a refreshing glass of wine. Don’t forget to explore the Dockyard Museum, where you can even see Horatio Nelson’s telescope on display.
9. Fort James
Head to the north side of St. John’s Harbour, and you’ll discover Fort James, an ancient military stronghold dating back to 1706. With its 36 cannons still in place, they stand sentinel, gazing out to sea as if anticipating invaders even today.
Remnants of the old protective wall, constructed for cover during battles, can also be seen. Though abandoned and somewhat dilapidated, Fort James exudes an eerie atmosphere.
For history enthusiasts, this lesser-known destination is a hidden gem! It’s easily accessible by taxi from St. John’s.
8. Darkwood Beach
Don’t worry if you think there aren’t enough beaches in Antigua, because there’s another one for you to enjoy! Darkwood beach is a long beach located on the southwest coast of the island, so there’s plenty of space for everyone. It’s only a 30-minute drive from St. John’s, making it a perfect beach getaway if you’re staying in the capital.
What makes Darkwood beach unique is that it offers views of the nearby islands of Guadeloupe and Montserrat in the distance. You can enjoy typical Caribbean activities like snorkeling and sunbathing here, and even go scuba diving if you have an instructor. It’s definitely something you should try if you’re in Antigua.
7. Half Moon Bay
When you visit the bay, you will immediately notice its tropical atmosphere. The coastline is adorned with palm trees, soft white sand, vibrant green plants, and crystal-clear blue waters. It resembles the picturesque scenes often found in vacation brochures.
Additionally, the bay offers a beautiful, curved beach, lavish resorts, high-quality restaurants, and enjoyable beach bars. Spend your day lounging on the beach, followed by sipping a delightful rum cocktail while admiring the sunset.
If you are an avid bodyboarder or surfer, you will find the rough waves at the south end of the bay perfect for your adventurous needs. On the other hand, those seeking a more relaxing swim or an enjoyable time with their families will appreciate the calm waters found on the north end.
6. Betty’s Hope
This sugar plantation was established in 1674 by Christopher Codrington, the founder of the island’s first plantation. The plantation was named after his daughter, Betty. It is located on a dirt road off the road to Long Bay, south of Pares. At its peak, the plantation had around 400 slaves who worked on growing and refining sugar cane.
Life on the plantation was extremely difficult, and visitors can discover the challenges faced by the workers at Betty’s Hope. The interpretive center provides information on the cultivation, harvesting, and crystallization process of sugar cane, which was highly sought after worldwide.
Additionally, visitors can explore the remains of an old windmill and the Great House, offering valuable insights into the plantation’s history.
5. Galley Bay Beach
Galley Bay Beach is a perfect place for couples who want a peaceful and relaxed vacation under the sun. The atmosphere there is cozy, romantic, and totally tropical.
As you walk along the shore, you’ll notice that the hotels and resorts are cleverly concealed by palm trees and lush vegetation, making it seem like the beach is secluded and secret – even though you can easily book a hotel just a few steps away! Don’t forget to keep an eye out for animals too, as sometimes timid sea turtles come to this beach to lay their eggs before quietly disappearing back into the ocean.
With its beautiful and tranquil ambience, there’s no reason not to spend a day or even a long weekend at Galley Bay Beach.
4. Heritage Quay
Heritage Quay is a place in St. John’s where you can find many colorful shops, including well-known brands like Levis. The street is filled with beautiful jewelry stores that attract people passing by, and the window displays are decorated with patterns that reflect the island’s theme.
It’s a great place to visit if you want to try out the latest fashion trends. And the best part is that you can enjoy some retail therapy while being by the sea. Another advantage of Heritage Quay is that it offers duty-free shopping, so if you show your boarding pass for your flight back home, you can save money on your purchases.
3. Ffryes Beach
I’m sure you have already noticed that there are many beautiful beaches in Antigua. However, one beach, called Ffryes Beach, stands out and deserves special recognition. It is located on the island’s west coast and is known as an excellent spot for snorkeling.
When you’re on the beach, you can enjoy breathtaking views of lush green hills in the background, which beautifully contrast with the pristine sand and crystal-clear sea. Both locals and tourists love coming here for family picnics or to relax on one of the island’s best beaches. The sea is always calm, making it a perfect place for little ones to swim in.
2. Long Bay
Long Bay is located on the eastern coast of Antigua and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and upscale resorts. One of the most popular resorts in the area is the Verandah Resort and Spa, which offers a luxurious and stylish holiday experience.
If you visit Long Bay, make sure to check out Long Bay Beach, where you can enjoy excellent snorkeling in the calm and clear ocean. Additionally, there are charming wooden shacks that sell various local souvenirs and crafts.
You can spend a relaxing day at the beach, lounging on a comfortable sun lounger, taking refreshing dips in the sea, and indulging in delicious tropical cocktails. Long Bay invites you to slow down and embrace the simple pleasures of life.
1. Dickenson Bay
This beach in Antigua is absolutely stunning and stretches for one mile. It is located in the far northwest corner of the island and offers a great blend of relaxation and adventure by the ocean. You can take part in various fun water activities like jet skiing and snorkeling around the reef.
If you prefer a more laid-back day, you can soak up the sun on the beach or treat yourself to a beachside massage. This beach has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for excitement or tranquility. Don’t forget to capture some amazing photos for Instagram, either at the red phone booth or with the sparkling sea as your backdrop.
After enjoying all that, make sure to try the amazing seafood available at one of the local beachside restaurants!.
