Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda: general info for travelers

Antigua and Barbuda is a small country located in the Caribbean region of North America. It is made up of two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, along with several smaller islands. The country's capital and largest city is St. John's, located on Antigua island. The official language is English, and the currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. Antigua and Barbuda is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm climate, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to relax, explore the outdoors, or engage in water sports. The country also has a rich history, having been colonized by the British in the 17th century and gaining independence in 1981. The population is around 100,000 people, and the country's economy is heavily dependent on tourism and financial services.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Antigua and Barbuda, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Antigua and Barbuda: places to visit

Certainly, I'd be happy to assist you in planning your trip to Antigua and Barbuda! 1. Nelson's Dockyard: This historic landmark is located in English Harbour and was once a British Naval base in the 18th century. Nowadays, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can tour the shipyard's museum, artisan boutiques, restaurants, and admire the beautiful yachts docked in the marina.
2. Darkwood Beach: This breathtaking beach is a popular destination among tourists and locals alike, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sands, and swaying palm trees. It's also home to some of the best snorkeling spots on the island.
3. Shirley Heights Lookout: This elevated vantage point is the perfect spot to take in panoramic views of English Harbour and Antigua's southern coast. Visitors can also enjoy live music, BBQs, and drinks, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset.
4. Half Moon Bay: This remote beach on Antigua's eastern coast is a favorite among surfers, thanks to its consistent swells. Visitors can take in stunning ocean views, explore the coastline, and relax on the soft sand.
5. Betty's Hope: This restored 17th-century sugar plantation provides visitors with a glimpse into Antigua's colonial past. Visitors can tour the preserved windmill, learn about the island's sugar production history, and enjoy the peace of the plantation's beautiful grounds.
6. Barbuda: This sister island to Antigua, located just a 30-minute flight away, offers visitors a more remote experience. Nature lovers can marvel at the island's vast coral reefs, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, including a frigate bird sanctuary.
I hope this guide helps you plan a fantastic trip to Antigua and Barbuda!
There is more to see and do in Antigua and Barbuda: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Antigua and Barbuda: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Antigua and Barbuda, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Antigua and Barbuda have a tropical climate that is warm and sunny throughout the year. The dry season generally runs from December to April, with temperatures ranging between 24 and 28°C (75 to 82°F). These months are generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is typically dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like beachgoing.
The wet season runs from May to November, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 31°C (80 to 88°F). During this period, the islands can experience significant rainfall and occasional tropical storms or hurricanes. Despite this, some people still prefer to visit during the wet season as the landscapes are lush and green, and the accommodation prices tend to be lower.
So, it really depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. If you're looking for sunny and dry weather, then the months between December to April might be your best bet. However, if you want to take advantage of lower prices and don't mind occasional rainfall, then the months between May to November could also be a great time to visit.

Antigua and Barbuda: activities and what to do

Antigua and Barbuda are islands known for their beautiful beaches and warm weather. There are plenty of activities and sports that you can enjoy while on holiday, some of which include: 1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The waters around Antigua and Barbuda are crystal clear which makes it the perfect spot for both activities. You can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and coral reefs.
2. Sailing and Boating: With over 365 beaches, Antigua and Barbuda are perfect for sailing and boating. You can rent a boat or charter one with a captain for a relaxing day out on the water.
3. Wind Surfing: Antigua and Barbuda are famous for their trade winds, which makes it perfect for wind surfing. Lessons are also available if you're new to the sport.
4. Island Tours: You can take a tour of the island either on foot or by car, there are many historic sites and attractions to explore.
5. Kayaking: Kayaking is another popular water activity that you can enjoy in Antigua and Barbuda, you can paddle through the calm waters and explore the nearby islands.
6. Hiking: There are many hiking trails in Antigua and Barbuda, where you can explore the jungle, the hills, and the valleys for scenic views.
7. Golfing: Antigua is home to two of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, both of which provide a stunning backdrop of the ocean.
Overall, Antigua and Barbuda have a lot of exciting sports and activities to offer for all ages, interests, and abilities.

Antigua and Barbuda: few words on history and culture

Antigua and Barbuda is a small island nation located in the Caribbean. The islands were originally inhabited by Arawak and Carib people, who were later displaced by European colonizers.
Antigua was colonized by the British in 1632 and served as an important naval base for the British Empire in the Caribbean. It remained a British colony until 1981, when it achieved independence.
The culture of Antigua and Barbuda is a blend of African, British and indigenous Carib influences. The national language is English, but there are also Creole languages spoken on the islands.
The islands are known for their vibrant music and dance scene, with calypso, reggae and soca being popular genres. Carnival is a major cultural event on the islands, celebrated every summer with colourful parades and street parties.
Antigua and Barbuda also have a rich culinary scene, with seafood dishes such as lobster and conch being popular, as well as Caribbean staples like rice and beans.
Overall, Antigua and Barbuda offer a rich history and culture that is worth exploring during a visit to the islands.

Antigua and Barbuda: how to move around on holiday

The most common means of transport to reach Antigua and Barbuda is by plane. The V.C. Bird International Airport is the main gateway and is located on the island of Antigua. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to explore the island. Once on the island, there are several other transportation options like buses, taxis, and rental cars to explore the islands. Some visitors also enjoy using water taxis or ferries to travel between Antigua and Barbuda. To hire a car to visit Antigua and Barbuda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Antigua and Barbuda: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Antigua and Barbuda with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Saltfish and Ducuna: Saltfish is a popular ingredient throughout the Caribbean, and is often paired with ducuna, a sweet potato dumpling. The saltfish is usually shredded and cooked with spices like onion, garlic and thyme, while the ducuna is boiled and mashed with sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, then formed into small cakes and steamed.
2. Fungee: Fungee is a dish made from cornmeal and okra that is boiled until it becomes a kind of solid porridge. It is usually served with saltfish or pepperpot (a type of stew made with meat and vegetables).
3. Pepperpot: As mentioned, pepperpot is a rich stew made with meat (usually beef, pork or goat), vegetables like pumpkin and spinach, and spices like cinnamon, cloves and hot peppers. The stew is slow-cooked for several hours until the flavors meld together.
4. Conch: Conch is a large sea snail that is a staple of Caribbean cuisine. In Antigua and Barbuda, it is usually served in a stew or soup, or fried and served in fritter form.
5. Antiguan Black Pineapple: While not a dish, the Antiguan Black Pineapple is a fruit that is unique to Antigua and Barbuda, and is considered a national treasure. The fruit is sweet and juicy, and is typically eaten on its own or used in desserts.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can try in Antigua and Barbuda!

Antigua and Barbuda: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered to be a more expensive destination for tourists due to its popularity as a beach and luxury vacation spot. Accommodation, dining, and activities can be relatively pricey compared to other destinations, but there are still ways to make your trip affordable such as staying in guesthouses or budget hotels, eating at local eateries, and taking advantage of free public beaches. However, it's important to note that the prices have been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, so it is always a good idea to check the current prices before planning your trip.

Antigua and Barbuda: where to find accodation

There are several websites and platforms where you can look for accommodation in Antigua and Barbuda. Some of the popular ones are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Hotels.com 5. TripAdvisor You can also check the official tourism website of Antigua and Barbuda for a list of accommodations in the country. It's a good idea to compare prices, amenities, and reviews before making a booking.
You can check hotel prices in Antigua and Barbuda here:
Booking.com

Antigua and Barbuda: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Antigua and Barbuda receive around 1 million tourists annually, with the majority coming from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The peak tourism season is from mid-December to mid-April, where you can expect higher prices and larger crowds. However, you can still enjoy the islands during the low season, between May and November, where you can take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered to be a safe country for tourists. However, as with any destination, there are a few safety concerns to be aware of. The most common types of crime against tourists in Antigua and Barbuda are petty theft and opportunistic crimes, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing. It's wise to take extra precautions in tourist areas, especially at night, and not to leave valuables unattended on the beach.
In terms of places to avoid, it's best to exercise caution if you are traveling alone or at night. High crime areas include the capital city of Saint John's, some parts of the countryside, and certain neighborhoods on the island of Antigua. It's always a good idea to research your itinerary in advance and ask locals or your hotel staff for advice on safe areas to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Antigua and Barbuda on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Antigua and Barbuda: events for tourists

There are several interesting events for tourists in Antigua and Barbuda that you might want to consider: 1. Antigua Sailing Week - This is one of the biggest sailing events in the Caribbean and attracts sailing enthusiasts from around the world.
2. Antigua Carnival - This is a vibrant and colorful carnival that takes place annually in July and features colorful costumes, street parties, and cultural events.
3. Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta - This event sees the most elegant classic yachts in the world gather in Antigua to compete in a series of racing events.
4. Pineapple Festival - This festival takes place in the town of St. John's and celebrates the importance of pineapples in Antiguan culture.
5. Antigua Charter Yacht Show - This is an annual event where luxury yachts are showcased for charter around the world. The event is held in December and is attended by yacht brokers and agents.
6. Antigua and Barbuda Independence Festival - This festival is held in November to celebrate the country's independence. It features cultural music, dance, food, and other traditional activities.
These events are just a few of the many exciting events that take place in Antigua and Barbuda throughout the year and can add some great experiences to your trip.

Antigua and Barbuda: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Antigua and Barbuda, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here is a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Antigua and Barbuda: Day 1-3: Arrive in Antigua and explore its historical landmarks and natural attractions. Visit the Nelson's Dockyard National Park, the Antigua Naval Dockyard, and the Shirley Heights Lookout, which offers views of the coast and sunset.
Day 4-6: Take a boat trip to the uninhabited islet of Green Island for an unforgettable beach experience. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at this pristine location.
Day 7-9: Visit the Barbuda Island, known for its pink sand beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife. Visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and the Codrington Lagoon National Park to explore its natural beauty.
Day 10-12: Experience the local Antiguan culture by visiting the St. John's Public Market, the museums, and the art galleries. Take a local cooking class or a rum tasting tour to immerse in the local culture.
Day 13-14: Enjoy the beach activities on the eastern side of the island. Go for scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, and enjoy water sports.
This itinerary has a perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural exploration, adventure and relaxation, and it allows enough time for you to enjoy everything that Antigua and Barbuda has to offer.

Antigua and Barbuda: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Antigua and Barbuda described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Carlisle Bay is a stunning natural harbor located on the southern coast of the island of Antigua in the Caribbean. The bay is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush... CONTINUE here for a trip to Carlisle Bay
- Darkwood Beach is a beautiful white-sand beach located on the southwest coast of Antigua, the larger of the two main islands that constitute the sovereign state of Antigua and Barbuda in the Car... CONTINUE here for a trip to Darkwood Beach
- Deep Bay is a beautiful and secluded beach located on the west coast of Antigua, in the Caribbean Sea. The beach boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the nearb... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deep Bay
- Devil's Bridge is a natural limestone arch carved by the ocean off the eastern coast of Antigua, in the Caribbean Sea. The bridge is located in a National Park and it is a popular spot for sightseeing... CONTINUE here for a trip to Devil's Bridge
- Dickenson Bay is a white sand beach located in the northwest corner of Antigua, in the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the most popular and busiest beaches on the island, known for its crystal clear water... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dickenson Bay
- English Harbour is a natural harbor and historic district in the southern part of Antigua, in the island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. It was first settled by the British in the 17th century, and was... CONTINUE here for a trip to English Harbour
- Falmouth Harbour is a natural harbor located on the southern coast of Antigua in the eastern Caribbean. It is known for its picturesque beauty, and as a popular docking spot for yachts and sailboats v... CONTINUE here for a trip to Falmouth Harbour
- Five Islands is a small peninsula located on the west coast of Antigua, in the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda. The area takes its name from the five small islands lying just offshore from it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Five Islands
- Fort Barrington is a historical fort located in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda. It was built in 1779 by the British army to protect the island from French invaders. Today, visitors can explore the ru... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fort Barrington
- Galley Bay is a picturesque beach in Antigua and Barbuda that is renowned for its white sands and crystalline waters. It is situated on the western coast of the island, and the bay itself is a crescen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Galley Bay
- Half Moon Bay is a beautiful beach located on the east coast of Antigua, which is one of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean. It is considered one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Half Moon Bay
- Half Tree Hollow is a small town located in the interior of the island of Saint Helena, which is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. It is consider... CONTINUE here for a trip to Half Tree Hollow
- Hodges Bay is a beautiful coastal area located in the north-eastern part of Antigua island, in the country of Antigua and Barbuda. The bay boasts crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and is surro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hodges Bay
- Indian Town Point is a scenic coastal area located on the eastern coast of Antigua, which is one of the two main islands that make up the country of Antigua and Barbuda. Indian Town Point is famous fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Indian Town Point
- Jabberwock Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the northeastern coast of Antigua, one of the two major islands of Antigua and Barbuda. It is located approximately 5 miles from the island... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jabberwock Beach
- Johnson's Point is a small coastal village located on the southwestern coast of Antigua and Barbuda. It offers a peaceful environment characterized by white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, palm tree... CONTINUE here for a trip to Johnson's Point
- Jolly Harbour is a popular resort community located on the western coast of Antigua in the Caribbean. It boasts a beautiful marina, pristine white sand beaches, and a variety of shops, restaurants, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jolly Harbour
- Long Bay is a beach located on the northeastern coast of Antigua, which is part of the country of Antigua and Barbuda. The beach is known for its soft white sand, turquoise waters and stunning views o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Long Bay
- Nelson's Dockyard is a historic British naval dockyard in Antigua and Barbuda. It was named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who served in Antigua in the 1780s. The dockyard was built in the 18th century... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nelson's Dockyard
- Nonsuch Bay is a secluded and picturesque location situated on the east coast of Antigua, one of the two main islands of the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda. The bay is known for its pristine ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nonsuch Bay
- Old Road Bay is a small village located on the southwestern coast of Antigua, an island in the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda. The village is named after a historic road that led to English H... CONTINUE here for a trip to Old Road Bay
- Parham is a small village located in the northeast of Antigua, which is one of the two major islands that make up the country of Antigua and Barbuda. It has a population of around 1000 people and is p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Parham
- Pigeon Point is a beautiful spot located on the southern coast of Antigua, which is a small island nation in the Caribbean. It boasts crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pigeon Point
- Red Cliff Point is a beautiful promontory and scenic spot located on the southern coast of Antigua Island, in Antigua and Barbuda. It's known for its breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, coral ree... CONTINUE here for a trip to Red Cliff Point
- St. John's is the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, located on the northwest coast of the island of Antigua. It is the economic and cultural hub of the country, with a population of around 22,000 p... CONTINUE here for a trip to St John’s
- Turners Beach is a beautiful white sand beach located on the southwest coast of Antigua, a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and calm swimmi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turners Beach
- Valley Church Beach is a beautiful white sand beach located on the southwest coast of Antigua, in the Caribbean Sea. It is one of Antigua's most popular and picturesque beaches, known for its calm tur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valley Church Beach
- Willikies is a small village located on the east coast of Antigua, which is one of the two main islands that make up the country of Antigua and Barbuda. It is known for its natural beauty, with many s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Willikies


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