Falling in love with Antigua is simple. Framed by the roaring Atlantic Ocean on one facet and the calm Caribbean Sea on the opposite, that is an island of many seashores. Numbering round 365, Antigua’s seashores provide an irresistible mixture of nature thrills and island indulgence that is likely to be all of the convincing you want that you just’re in simply the proper place.
Should you’ve acquired a visit to this island in thoughts, you’ve come to simply the proper place, as we’ve acquired simply what you’ll want to plan the right journey. That’s, if you wish to discover a few of this island’s finest points of interest and slot in some excursions as nicely. On this Caribbean isle, whether or not leisure or journey, there’s numerous fascinating issues to do. Learn on for the place to start!
Finest Time to Go to Antigua
With unbelievable seashores, wealthy historical past and tradition, and unbelievable crusing and watersports, it’s all the time time to go to Antigua. However whereas this island shines year-round with its idyllic climate, timing can improve your expertise. In mild of this, mid-December to mid-April is one of the best time to go to Antigua. That is the height journey season for Antigua and its when the island actually comes alive with vibrant power and occasions.
Image: Poolside on the all-inclusive Sandals Grande Antigua.
Could by November, the off-season, presents wonderful resort offers—supreme for budget-conscious vacationers. This generally is a good time to journey to Antigua for a extra low-key getaway. Irrespective of once you resolve to go to this island, you may nonetheless have the ability to take in the nice and cozy climate and tune into the comfort that comes with being on island time!
Good to know: If you wish to journey throughout peak season, make your bookings early. When you’ve locked in your journey dates, you’ll be all set to take pleasure in a trip in one of many Caribbean’s most sought-after locations!
1. Dickenson Bay Seashore
Little question about it, there’s no scarcity of seashores in Antigua. That is a type of islands that you would be able to journey to and know with all actually that sooner or later, you’ll end up on a seashore. With that mentioned, Dickenson Bay is a type of seashores that belongs in your checklist of issues to do in Antigua. This seashore isn’t just scenic and refreshing, it’s additionally handy. A number of the finest eating places, bars and all-inclusive resorts in Antigua are positioned alongside this stretch. Plus, thrill seekers can have interaction in quite a lot of watersports on these shores.
From Dickenson Bay, you may head out on a ship tour of the encompassing bay or arrange a picnic with good firm. Laid again seashore goers can sunbathe or swim close to the dolphins that generally present their faces on this seashore. Close by, you’ll discover Runaway Bay, which is extra non-public. Should you’re within the temper to discover, plan forward for a climbing expedition to Runaway Bay from Dickenson Bay.
2. Stingray Metropolis
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Who would have thought that stingrays can be pleasant sufficient to work together with individuals? Should you can think about it, that’s exactly what you’ll discover at Stingray Metropolis in Antigua. At this location, you may swim or snorkel with Southern Rays which are sometimes describes as “the brightest rays within the Caribbean”. A brief boat journey is critical to get to the rays, and when you get there, you may dive proper into this interactive expertise. Primarily based on opinions, with an opportunity to discover offshore islands in Antigua and catch a glimpse of the underwater world, this is likely one of the finest excursions out there on this island.
3. Prickly Pear Island
Increase your island explorations by setting off to the serene Prickly Pear Island. Most of the bigger islands within the Caribbean have smaller offshore islands that you would be able to escape to simply for the day, and that is Antigua’s. Should you resolve to enterprise right here throughout your trip, you may look ahead to a laidback day with snorkeling, solar lounging, swimming, and even a picnic when you really feel prefer it. There’s usually a buffet right here as nicely with a seafood/West Indian menu that’s supreme for tasting the native delicacies.
4. Donkey Sanctuary
The Antigua Donkey Sanctuary is a secure haven for rescued donkeys. Should you’re an animal lovers or simply have a particular place in your coronary heart for donkeys specifically, you may go to this location throughout your keep. With a go to, you’ll have the ability to work together with the donkeys, study in regards to the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and even assist to feed them. This expertise makes it potential to get to know extra about wildlife in Antigua and safety measures which are in place.
5. Ffryes Seashore
When you have the prospect to go to Ffryes Seashore in Antigua, don’t let it slip by your fingers. That is certainly one of Antigua’s most beautiful and secluded seashores and it’s recognized and liked for its calm waters, wonderful golden sand, and relaxed ambiance. This seashore isn’t crowded so it’s simply the proper place to unwind if you wish to get away from all of it. Whether or not you wish to swim, sunbathe, or simply soak within the pure fantastic thing about this island, a go to to this native seashore is a good selection.
6. Nice Fowl Island
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A visit to Nice Fowl Island makes room for an Antiguan eco-tour highlighting the island’s wealthy historical past and distinctive environmental options. As a part of this tour you can swim, snorkel, discover the native natural world and even enterprise into caves. Added to that, there are additionally nature trials ready to be explored at Nice Fowl Island. Or, you may merely simply chill out on a spacious high-powered boat whereas having fun with tasty native meals and chilly drinks!
7. Galley Bay Seashore
Should you’re on the hunt for one of the best waves, look no additional than Galley Bay Seashore in Antigua. This can be a customer sizzling spot with clear, inviting sand**, simply the correct amount of surf, and a relaxed ambiance that reels you in. Right here you will have the choice to surf, turtle watch (throughout the nesting season), or simply chill out and take within the views. Spend a few hours or keep till sundown, it’s solely as much as you!
8. Valley Church Seashore
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The tranquil Valley Church Seashore is on the west coast of Antigua, south of Jolly Harbor. Valley Church is right for a laidback seashore day with solar lounging and hopefully, ice chilly drinks from a calming seashore cooler! The surroundings of this seashore, paired with its comfort—loos, seashore chair and umbrella leases, water sports activities and the like, make it a great place to spend a number of hours close to the ocean.
9. Hell’s Gate Island
Hell’s Gate Island feels a bit extra like paradise when the relaxed ambiance and serenity of this uninhabited island come into focus. The attraction of a go to to this island is an opportunity to see the distinctive rock formations it’s most well-known for. These rise dramatically from the ocean in an virtually eerie method and have the whole lot to do with why the island acquired its title. Some individuals go to this island for wildlife recognizing, whereas others love snorkeling and diving. With the peace that’s potential with a go to right here, it’s an off-the-beaten-path expertise value saying sure to.
10. Half Moon Bay
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Half Moon Bay is a scenic and expansive stretch outlined by gentle white sand and wealthy blue waters. This seashore is a well-liked surf spot and it’s liked by snorkelers too. If you wish to snorkel, head to the norther facet of the bay the place you’ll discover calmer, sheltered waters. The clear, shallow waters listed here are house to vibrant coral reefs and marine lifetime of every type. On the other finish, the Atlantic Ocean creates favorable circumstances for browsing. Waves are often constant right here and each rookies and extra expert surfers can get a chunk of the motion.
Good to know: The outstanding views are an enormous a part of the attraction of Half Moon Bay. It’s additionally close to among the well-liked points of interest in Antigua, just like the Shirley Heights Fort.
10. Darkwood Seashore
Darkwood Seashore has a relaxed environment that’s good for unwinding. Simply as quickly as you arrive at this easy-going seashore you may arrange on the golden sand and shift you thoughts utterly within the course of island rejuvenation. Swimming and snorkeling are well-liked right here because the water is often calm. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, seashore picture shoots listed here are extremely advisable.
11. Pillars of Hercules
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These awe-inspiring rock formations sit firmly within the ocean, with light waves hanging in opposition to their chiseled pillars. The clear blue waters have reworked the world into a well-liked spot for crusing and snorkeling, and the nice and cozy night sundown is just mesmerizing from this vantage. Pillars of Hercules could be accessed with a hike up Galleon Seashore.
12. Shirley Heights Look Out
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Shirley Heights is among the many most well-known points of interest in Antigua. This spot is liked for the panoramic views guests can take pleasure in and the full of life Sunday night time events that preserve the power flowing. That is an outdated army lookout and fort that sits round 492 ft above sea stage. It’s named after Sir Thomas Shirley – the late Governor of the Leeward Islands.
From the Shirley Heights Lookout, you may take pleasure in panoramic views of English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour. On clear days, it’s also possible to see the island of Guadeloupe to the south of Antigua. The very best time to go to Shirley Heights is at sundown or early within the morning earlier than the solar comes out.
Good to know: There’s a restaurant and bar on the Shirley Heights Look out that serves island-inspired delicacies and chilly drinks.
14. Nelson’s Dockyard
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Nelson’s Dockyard is a nationwide park in Antigua which as soon as housed naval ships and served as a lookout to the English, primarily for monitoring the seas for the arrival of enemy ships. Right now, different ships and watercraft nonetheless make use of this harbor, however the 2016 World Heritage Website additionally serves as a museum and a nationwide park. Shows in regards to the island’s historical past could be witnessed on the park, which is full with eating places, outlets, resorts and cafes on website.
15. 17 Mile Seashore, Barbuda
Sure, there may be completely a seashore often known as 17 Mile Seashore that you would be able to spend time on throughout your Antigua trip. The catch? You’ll must hop on a ship to get there as this seashore is positioned on Barbuda, Antigua’s sister isle. 17 Mile Seashore is understood for its serene outlook and out-of-the-way really feel. This seashore is liked for its pink and white hued sand, and it’s best for vacationers looking for a quieter seashore escape. Barbuda is nearly 10 miles north of Antigua, so a visit to this seashore can simply be organized throughout your go to.
Finest Antigua Excursions
Along with spending time at a few of Antigua’s hottest points of interest, it’s also possible to embark on quite a lot of excursions and excursions throughout your trip on this island. Here is a number of of our favourite issues to do:
1. Constitution a Sailboat
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Throughout your trip, why not head out on a catamaran cruise or constitution a sailboat? Let the commerce winds work in your favor as you set your sights on exploration! Whether or not you’re cruising throughout the well-known Antigua Crusing Week or having fun with a personal day sail, this journey guarantees scenic views, tranquility, and unforgettable moments on the water.
Good to know: Crusing Week is Antigua is often held between April and Could yearly. Throughout this time, you’ll discover scores of boats, thrilling races, and boat events in motion.
2. Set Sail on a Tropical Sundown Cruise
Step aboard a sunset cruise for a romantic night on the Caribbean Sea. Calm down with a cocktail in hand because the sky transforms right into a canvas of fiery hues. As you dance to Caribbean melodies and luxuriate in delectable hors’ d’oeuvres, you’ll thank your fortunate stars that you just select Antigua to trip. This sundown cruise is a implausible strategy to finish a day in Antigua, providing serene vibes and beautiful views.
3. Take an Eco-Tour of Antigua
Uncover Antigua’s pure wonders on this immersive eco-tour. From snorkeling at Nice Fowl Island to exploring caves and nature trails, you’ll join with the island’s breathtaking natural world whereas having fun with native delicacies and refreshing fruit juices. There are all kinds of eco-tours out there on this island, and you’ll set yours up at your all-inclusive resort in Antigua.
4. Hike to Mount Obama
As Antigua’s highest level, Mount Obama (previously Boggy Peak) presents panoramic views of the island’s vibrant greenery and choose spots on the island that you just wouldn’t have the ability to see from every other perspective. This rewarding hike takes you thru tropical landscapes, culminating in a summit that’ll be nicely well worth the effort it takes to get there!
5. Get pleasure from Sightseeing and Snorkeling
As there are simply so many unbelievable seashores in Antigua, why not head out on a tour that mixes sightseeing and snorkeling? Island Routes presents an thrilling boat tour that makes it potential to benefit from the pulsating beats of reggae and calypso as you sail previous points of interest just like the Pillars of Hercules, Fowl Island, and Satan’s Bridge. As a part of the tour, you may go to Inexperienced Island to chill out on the seashore, snorkel and swim. Lunch is offered as a part of the tour and a go to to English Harbour can be included.
6. Go Ziplining Via the Rainforest
Zip lining may appear scary at first, however when you let go and ease into the expertise, you’ll end up hovering with essentially the most breathtaking views. In Antigua, zip throughout the island’s lush tropical cover for essentially the most unforgettable trip reminiscences. Guests of all ages can take pleasure in this tour, and it’s an exhilarating strategy to immerse your self within the island’s verdant landscapes.
7. Horse Again Using on the Seashore
There’s a sure ease that comes with horseback driving, particularly with a horseback riding tour on the beach. There are various tour firms in Antigua that provide this exercise, and it’s nicely value a strive when you’re in search of a laidback strategy to take pleasure in the fantastic thing about this island. Once you get to the seashore you may hop off your horse and funky off within the ocean. Even the horses take pleasure in sea baths too!
8. Study to Cook dinner Like a Native
There’s nothing fairly like Caribbean delicacies completed proper. In islands like Antigua, the native delicacies is infused with influences from all around the world. This consists of African, British, Caribbean/Creole, European and Indigenous touches that basically add one thing particular to the native dishes made on this island. Whereas on this island, study to cook dinner like an area by signing up for a cooking class. Select from themes like jerk, seafood, or rum-infused dishes. As soon as your trip is finished, take some recipes house with you to share with family members!
9. Go Deep Sea Fishing
Every little thing in Antigua revolves across the ocean, so why not head out on a deep-sea fishing tour? You possibly can set this up with an skilled boat constitution firm and head out with skilled captains to reel in marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, and the like. Whether or not you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, this tour guarantees pleasure and an opportunity to catch among the Caribbean’s most prized fish.
Go to the Frigate Fowl Sanctuary in Barbuda
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This sanctuary is the most important of its variety within the western area, the place greater than 5 thousand frigate birds reside across the swamps and mangroves. It’s positioned simply north of 17-mile seashore the place the scores of those birds have settled and located meals, companionship and a spot to conduct their mating rituals, which often happen throughout the months of December and January. Throughout your trip, you may join a tour to go to this sanctuary by tour suppliers like Island Routes.
There you will have it, the highest 25 issues to do in Antigua!
Little question about it, Antigua is one of many Caribbean’s most charming locations. Go alone, go along with a bunch, or with the love of your life, and also you’re sure to seek out way more than 25 causes to plan a return journey to Antigua, an island that provides one thing particular for almost each traveler.
Image: On the beachfront Sandals Grande Antigua, all you want on your trip is included together with your keep!