Antigua Travel Guide
Part of the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda the island is a popular holiday destination. Antigua is the larger of the two islands and they say there are 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. The island has a booming tourist industry and is a popular port of call for cruise ships.
Antigua’s many beaches are stunning, most of them can be found on the Western side of the island, inside the calm, protected waters of the island’s Caribbean sea. Enjoy a range of water sports, soak up the atmosphere in the beach bar, or get away from it all and find a deserted stretch of pearly white sand. Scuba divers. The coral reefs, attract snorkellers and scuba divers from all over the world.
Shirley Heights offers majestic panoramic views and barbecue party twice a week to watch the sunset. It is popular with tourists and can get busy, it’s well worth a visit to soak up the atmosphere, listen to the bands and enjoy the atmosphere. Take the opportunity to go on some of the great day trip’s that are available. Visit the uninhabited Green Island where you can relax on the pristine white sandy beaches, go snorkelling and explore the island, or take the five-minute boat ride to amazing Prickly Pear Island. Barbuda can be reached on the Barbuda Express, which runs 5 days a week between St Johns and Barbuda.
Antigua’s plantation and Naval history is evident with visitor attractions including Nelson’s Dockyard, the only restored Georgian naval repair station in the world, and sugar mills that are dotted around the island.
Antigua’s natural harbours and beaches have hotels offer varying holiday options. There are a large number of mid range hotels offering all inclusive stays, as well as a selection of excellent hotels and villas and secluded hideaways. There is a choice of good restaurants, casinos and nightlife on the island as well as good shopping.
High season is from the end of November to the end of April and the middle of May, hotels and villas will charge higher rates. Christmas, Carnival and Sailing Week are also popular times.
Antigua is at the forefront of Caribbean sailing and is home to the famous Antigua Race Week, an international event that runs for five days attracting around 200 yachts, over 1500 participants, 5000 spectators.
Read more about the island of Antigua
Antigua Visitor Fast Facts
