Welcome to the Caribbean paradise of Antigua & Barbuda: the land of sea and sun. With its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, this twin-island nation offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From basking in the sun on picture-perfect shores to exploring colonial landmarks and indulging in delicious local cuisine, Antigua & Barbuda beckon travellers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Caribbean.
However, the beach is just the beginning. It can be difficult to imagine ever wanting to leave your sun lounger and explore one of the small roads that winds itself around this tropical paradise. Any yet, this is exactly what I implore you to do. Here’s my guide to help you plan the perfect trip, including the best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda.
VISITING ANTIGUA: THE ESSENTIALS
Car / I strongly recommend renting a car for the duration of your stay, this is the best way to explore the island, as public transport is almost non-existent – I suggest checking availability and booking via DiscoverCars, the website I recommend for all international car hires.
Tours / There are countless tours across the island, taking in the hills, the sea, the food and the culture. These are the ones I’ve tried and tested and also the most popular ones:
The Xtreme Circumnavigation Tour (all day boat tour of the island)
Eli’s Original Eco Tour
Full Day Scenic Tour of Antigua
Turtle Beach Power Snorkeling Adventure (using a sea scooter)
TukTuk Adventures and Beach Hopping
Antigua’s Only Food Tour
Stay / There are an abundance of resorts on the island, and which you choose will depend on your budget, whether you’re visiting Antigua with children and facilities required. Some of the most popular, and highly rated include:
Sandals Antigua
Antigua Village Beach Resort
Dickenson Bay Oasis
Hodges Bay Resort & Spa
Keyonna Beach Resort
Hermitage Bay
Galley Bay Resort & Spa
Hawksbill Resort Antigua
Table of Contents
WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO IN ANTIGUA
RELAX ON ANTIGUA’S STUNNING BEACHES
Sink your toes into the powdery sands of Antigua’s beaches, such as Dickenson Bay, Darkwood Beach, and Half Moon Bay. With their turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, these shores provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
There’s 365 beaches in Antigua (one for every day of the year), but as you’ll likely only be visiting a week, here’s the ones I would recommend:
- Carlisle Bay
- Darkwood Beach
- Coco Bay
- Long Bay
- Ffryes Bay
It’s important to note that if you truly want to explore the best beaches in Antigua, you will need a hire car. Also, as I mention in my post of things to know before you visit Antigua all beaches are public, and you have the right to be in them, even if they seem like they belong to an All Inclusive Hotel.
GO ON A ROAD TRIP
Most of us go to Antigua because we want a well earned rest; a chance to have a lie down, put on some sunscreen and read a good book. However, you will likely find yourself a little bored after a few days, and hopefully wondering what actually goes on on the island outside of your Antigua all-inclusive resort.
Whilst this is possible by going on a few well-organised tours, I personally think that an independent adventure is much more fun. With minimal public transport options in Antigua, the very best way to get out and about is with your own car.
If you are visiting on a cruise, whilst you may have a limited number of hours to explore the island if docking for the day, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of time!
Consider joining one of these shore excursions:
Round Island Tour | A 3.5 hour tour which serves as the perfect introduction to the history and scenic beauty of Antigua. Includes stops at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and Shirley Heights.
City of St John’s Sightseeing Tour | A 3 hour excursion to the colourful town of Saint John’s, including a local vegetable market and then time at Heritage Quay shopping centre to do some duty-free shopping.
The above two tours come with a guarantee to be back at the boat before it sets sail, and includes round-trip transportation from the port and all entrance fees.
All-Inclusive Jolly Beach Resort and Spa Pass | All day access (10am to 6pm) to one of Antigua’s all-inclusive resorts. Includes all-you-can-eat food and drinks, beach, pool and lounger access as well as a number of watersports.
LEARN HOW TO SAIL
Antigua is home to Sailing Week, one of the most famous regattas in the world, known for its spectacular racing and, naturally, in a country of rum, its serious partying. It is an annual seven day extravaganza (usually held around the end of April / beginning of May).
If you are visiting during this time, great! Should you plan to visit in one the other 51 weeks of the year however, do not worry – there’s still plenty of opportunity to feel the wind in your hair and the salty breeze on your face.
And you have options! If there’s only a couple of you, or you’d prefer to do a group tour, consider this full day (7 hour) tour which circumnavigates the entirety of Antigua. Includes time for snorkelling and swimming, a seafood lunch plus open bar and the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset before heading back to shore.
Alternatively, if you want to drive a boat yourself, then check out this self drive boat tour.
SPEND SUNDAY NIGHTS AT SHIRLEY HEIGHTS
Located 150 metres above the sea in what was once a military complex, Shirley Heights offers spectacular views out over the English and Falmouth Harbours, sometimes as far as the neighbouring islands of Montserrat and Guadeloupe.
It’s a wonderful place to visit even on a quiet Monday afternoon, but for a true slice of local culture, be sure to visit on a Sunday afternoon. Indeed, ask any local Antiguan what is the one thing you can’t miss on the island, and a singular answer will be provided more often than anything else – Sunday nights at Shirley Heights!
If you are not renting a car, then this well priced round trip tour will take you there.
DONATE AT THE DONKEY SANCTUARY
Donkeys were Antigua’s ‘BMWs’ some time ago (said by a local!) however they are no longer used for work, and as a result there is a large wild donkey population. Some donkeys live their lives out happily roaming the island, but illness and car accidents mean that this small sanctuary has a constant, and ever-growing, troupe of four-legged friends to look after.
The Donkey sanctuary is located on the eastern side of the island near Bethesda (find it here on Google Maps) and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am until 3pm. There is no entry fee however donations are strongly encouraged and needed for the sanctuary to survive. You can either simply put money in the donations box, or instead buy one of the many fund-raising items that they sell. Also, if you happen to fall in love with one donkey in particular (or want to support the sanctuary but won’t be able to make it there on your holiday), they also offer the chance to ‘adopt a donkey’ – find out more here.
As ever, treat the animals as you would like to be treated, note most are really friendly and they love to be brushed by visitors.
DISCOVER ST JOHN’S CITY CENTRE
Although you might be tempted to just stay around the beach, you can’t leave Antigua without before visiting its colourful capital. If you are driving around the island, then you’ll inevitably pass through or by the city of just over 22,000 – so why not stop off for an hour or two?
My advise to discover what the city offers is to simply stroll through its streets, but if you prefer to plot out a route for your wanderings, don’t miss these wonderful things to do in St John’s:
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda | Dating from 1747 and once a colonial courthouse, this grand portico building now houses the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, a source of ancient and relatively modern artefacts – including a cricket bat that once belonged to Viv Richards, considered one of the greatest batsmen of all time. The museum is open 8.30 am to 2.30 pm Monday to Friday. Find it here on maps.
St John the Divine Cathedral | A short walk form the museum is St John’s Cathedral. With two previous buildings having been destroyed by earthquakes, this current church dates from 1845. Find it here on maps.
The Local Market | The hub of any city is its central market, and therefore a visit to St John’s is an absolute must-do! Take the opportunity to buy and try some of the island’s delicious fresh fruit and experience local living away from the all-inclusive resorts. Find it here.
Heritage Quay | In the mood for some duty-free shopping? Don’t miss Heritage Quay! Here on maps.
Hemingway’s Caribbean Cafe | Housed inside an early 19th century wooden house, Hemingway’s is a super popular lunch spot with great reviews! Find it here.
Papa Zouk | Widely considered to be one of the best rum bars on the island, with over 200 different rums to choose from. Try a few, and also don’t miss their seafood which is one of the best in St Johns. Only open for dinner. Find it here.
Roti King | What’s a roti in Antigua? The simple answer is the ultimate comfort meal of curry wrapped in a thin dough—borrowed from India and perfected in Trinidad and Tobago. You have to try this for lunch! Find it here.
If you’d rather be guided by a local guide, there are a couple of excellent options that focus specifically on the city, including:
- This 2.5 hour walking tour that takes in the main sties of St John’s
- A highly-rated three hour food tour
TAKE A COOKING CLASS
Love to cook? There are a few highly-recommended cooking classes on the island, with Nicole’s being particularly popular. Choose from a curry class, create rum-infused dishes, learn all about jerk or some seafood. Make sure you go to class with an empty stomach!
All tours take place just outside of St Johns (transport not included), last around four hours and involve small groups. You will enjoy a three-course meal as well as alcoholic beverages.
SWIMMING WITH STINGRAYS IS NOT COOL
When looking into things to do in Antigua prior to my visit, beyond visiting beautiful beaches, another activity was very much front and centre when booking tours was swimming with stingrays.
As an animal welfare advocate, I believe animal-based tourism should generally be avoided, or at least thoroughly researched prior to arrival. After much research, it became clear that swimming with stingrays in Antigua was not something I would endorse. And, after reading & hearing about some of the experiences – like tourists picking up stingray out of the water and posing for photos for example) – I just did not feel comfortable trying this activity.
Instead, why not contribute to the Antiguan economy by choosing an alternative, like Eli’s Original Eco Tour, or snorkelling or diving to see turtles or stingrays they way they should be – happy, wild and free.
DISCOVER WHAT’S UNDER THE SEA
Ok, no stingrays it is, however not to worry! You won’t be deprived from the crystal-clear waters which are a fantastic spot for sorts of other water-based activities – especially snorkelling. Here’s a few snorkelling and water sports tours you could try.
Private Snorkeling and Sightseeing Tour of Antigua | Take in the sights and sounds of Antigua by land and sea with this guided tour led by a local spearfisherman. Get the chance to snorkel with sea turtles and explore shipwrecks at Galleon Beach. This tour can accommodate all travelers, even those who do not want to snorkel. Other stops include Shirley Heights and Nelson’s Dockyard. Find out more here.
Snorkel and Exclusive Beach Exploration | This small group tour (just 6 people) is perfect for those in search of a relaxing day out, with time to snorkel at a reef and then go in search of a secret beach. Find out more here.
Kayak Eco Adventures Glass Kayak Nature and Snorkeling Tour | Learn about wildlife from a 360 degree view from the sky to the sea floor in glass kayaks. The tour originates in one of the island’s super calm, crystal-clear bays, lined with mangrove
hedges, and rock beds. The ideal formula for abundant marine life! Find out more here.
Snorkeling, Kayaking and Paddle Board Activity in Antigua | Explore the waters around Antigua on this kayaking excursion. Glide through beautiful lagoons, from Galleon Beach to Nelson’s Dockyard, passing by historical sites along the way. Go snorkeling at Galleon Beach (Freeman’s Bay) where you’ll be able to spot turtles, shipwrecks, and reef systems. Inflatable paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear are provided. Find out more here.
VISIT THE ENGLISH HARBOUR
Although St John’s is the capital, most visitors to Antigua will spend much more time in and around English Harbour. It’s got Antigua’s most famous attraction, the yacht-filled harbour, plus a number of tourist focused facilities and businesses in its small centre.
Enjoy a drink at one the marina-side bars, do some souvenir shopping, take in the view from the ruins of Fort Berkley, or visit the restored 18th century bastion of Nelson’s Dockyard (a UNESCO World Heritage site).
If you won’t be in town for Sunday nights at Shirley Heights, I’d also recommend making your way to the beautifully restored Copper and Lumber Store Historic Inn for the weekly fish fry (the hotel serves as a backdrop for this street even, rather than being in the hotel itself). Held every Friday from 6 pm, it’s popular with locals and tourists alike and is a great place to try local seafood treats – plus the well-stocked bar and live music mean it’s an excellent spot have a dance and make some new friends! You can find out further information from the official Facebook group. Abracadabra is the most popular night spot in town.
HEAD OVER TO BARBUDA
Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is part of the twin-island nation of Antigua & Barbuda. While most visitors stick to Antigua, Barbuda offers an even more intimate and untouched Caribbean experience, making it well worth a day trip or a few nights’ stay. Devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017, the island has been steadily rebuilding, and supporting tourism is key to its recovery. Birdwatchers, take note: Barbuda is renowned as one of the world’s top spots for frigate birds.
The Barbuda Express ferry runs daily from St John’s harbour, departing at 7 am Monday to Saturday, and noon on Sundays. Tickets cost $55 USD one way or $100 USD for a round trip.
For a more comprehensive experience, the same company offers a guided day tour, which includes round-trip transport, a local guide, visits to Codrington Lagoon and Two Foot Bay, lunch at Hillside View Bar & Grill, and a swim at the famous Princess Diana Beach. The tour operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 6:30 am.
Check the full schedule and details here.
PAUSE & RELAX AT DEVIL’S BRIDGE
In stark contrast to the tranquil, crystal-clear waters of Antigua’s beaches, Devil’s Bridge offers a dramatic display of nature’s power. Here, violent waves crash relentlessly against sharp, jagged rocks, creating an environment so treacherous that local lore suggests only the Devil himself could dwell beneath the surface—hence the name of the bridge.
Situated just outside the village of Willikies, this natural limestone arch holds significant historical weight. Folklore tells of enslaved individuals who came to this very spot during British colonial rule, driven by despair to end their lives.
You can locate Devil’s Bridge on Google Maps, and while it’s accessible throughout the day, the best times to visit are during the golden hour, either at sunrise or sunset.
Be aware that the waters here remain perilous, especially between September and November when conditions are particularly hazardous. If you plan to explore, exercise caution at all times.
Pro tip: To gain a deeper understanding of Antigua’s complex history—particularly the lasting impact of British colonialism and the brutal slave trade—consider taking a cultural tour, like this one.
WHERE TO STAY IN ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
When it comes to accommodations in Antigua & Barbuda, there’s something to suit every traveller’s preferences.
The key to making the most of your Antigua getaway is choosing the right all-inclusive resort that suits your travel style and budget. After all, a big part of your trip will be spent unwinding by the pool with a cocktail in hand and enjoying the resort’s amenities.
After spending time exploring Antigua, we’ve narrowed down the choices to six of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island. From romantic, adults-only escapes to family-friendly options, there’s something for everyone. Each offers a touch of luxury, a prime location, unlimited food and drinks, and the perfect atmosphere to relax and soak up the magic of Antigua:
- The Verandah: Nestled within a sprawling, lush green landscape, Verandah Resort stands out as one of Antigua’s top choices—and it’s easy to see why. The waterfront suite has a private balcony and you’ll love the peaceful mornings spent gazing out at the sparkling Caribbean Sea. The resort boasts two small private beaches, each with its own bar and food options—perfect for relaxing or trying out watersports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing (all included for guests). If you’re in the mood for a bigger beach, the public Long Bay beach is just a five-minute stroll away. As for the food? With several exceptional restaurants offering a variety of delicious dishes, let’s just say our willpower didn’t stand a chance—we left with full hearts and slightly tighter jeans!
- Coco Bay Resort: This adults-only all-inclusive resort is an ideal choice for couples and honeymooners visiting Antigua. Spread across 10 acres, the resort offers stunning private views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea, along with charmingly designed pastel-coloured cottages and suites that exude romance and tranquillity.
- Galley Bay: Boasting a private white sand beach, breathtaking crystal blue ocean views, and 40 acres of lush tropical gardens, Galley Bay is easily one of the most beautifully located all-inclusive resorts in Antigua. With a minimum age limit of 16, it’s an ideal choice for a romantic escape, offering couples a serene and intimate retreat.
- Hawksbill Resort: This intimate adults-only all-inclusive resort may not boast the same level of luxury as some of the others mentioned in this article – its simple cabins are slightly dated (though renovations are underway) – but its unbeatable price and prime location near the Old Sugar Mill and five breathtaking beaches make it an excellent choice for travellers prioritising value and setting over high-end amenities. With a relaxed atmosphere and minimal organised activities, it’s perfect for those who prefer a laid-back, no-frills getaway.
- St. James’s Club Resort: St. James’s Club stands out as one of the most family-friendly resorts in Antigua, offering two private beaches, a range of dining options to suit all dietary needs, and outstanding facilities and activities for guests. From complimentary watersports lessons to equipment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- Hermitage Bay: Hermitage Bay offers an intimate 5-star experience in Antigua, perfect for those seeking a secluded retreat. Tucked away in a tranquil bay, its stunning dark-wood cottages blend seamlessly into the lush hillside, creating a serene paradise that feels like your own private escape, whether you’re staying for a few days or an extended getaway.
HOW LONG TO STAY IN ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
How long you should stay in Antigua and Barbuda really depends on what kind of vacation you’re looking for. If you’re just hoping to relax and recharge, a long weekend or 4-5 days at one of the stunning all-inclusive resorts could be perfect. You’ll have plenty of time to soak up the sun on the island’s famous beaches, enjoy watersports, and unwind with cocktails by the pool.
For a more immersive experience, a week to 10 days is ideal. This allows you to explore beyond the resorts, visit iconic attractions like Nelson’s Dockyard, Devil’s Bridge, and Shirley Heights, take a day trip to Barbuda for its pink sand beaches, or even enjoy some sailing and snorkeling adventures.
If you’re a true island-hopper or want to experience Antigua & Barbuda at a slower pace, two weeks is a great option. This gives you ample time to discover hidden gems, try local food, and even mingle with locals at events like the Friday night fish fry or Sunday parties at Shirley Heights.
BEST ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA TOURS
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