The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Antigua and Barbuda Beyond the Beaches
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Wondering what are the best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda? Look no further.
I lived and worked in Antigua for almost 2 years and I enjoyed every minute of my time on this tiny beautiful island. I was fortunate enough to be working as a tour rep first, so I “had to” try every single tour available to recommend it to my guests.
So in this post, I will tell you what to do in Antigua on your own, the most interesting landmarks that you cannot miss, the best tours to join, and tips on how to move around.
At the end of this read you will realize how much there is to see in Antigua and Barbuda besides the spectacular beaches that the islands are popular for.
Feel free to jump to the things to do in Antigua or just scroll down and read through the post. It’s packed with useful information!
PLANNING A TRIP TO ANTIGUA? HERE ARE MY FAVORITE
MY FAVORITE HOTELS
- The Inn at English Harbour best for couples for the ultimate luxury experience
- JOLLY BEACH ANTIGUA – best for budget-conscious families
- BUCCANEER – great self-catering option with mid-range prices
See more hotel options in Antigua
MY TOP FAVORITE TOURS IN ANTIGUA
- Xtreme adventure tour – This amazing small group boat tour with stops to great snorkeling points and hidden beaches.
- Scenic tour of Antigua – A great way to see all the highlights of Antigua in one day with a knowledgeable guide –
- Snorkel – Lobster Lunch Cruise to Bird and Maiden Island – Amazing boat tour that includes great snorkeling and a lobster lunch on a private beach (Except May and June, when you will be served other types of fish)
RENTING A CAR IN ANTIGUA – Discover Cars
GETTING FROM THE AIRPORT TO YOUR HOTEL – WELCOME PICKUP Private transfer
Where is Antigua Located?
Antigua and Barbuda form an independent state in the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean Sea, at the southern end of the Leeward Islands chain. There is a third island that is dependent, Redonda, but it’s inhabited.
Antigua in the Caribbean Map
Antigua and Barbuda Maps
Antigua & Barbuda facts
Local currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar 1 USD= 2.70 ECD – the USD is also used.
Capital Saint John’s
Official Language: English
Religion: there is no official religion, although the majority of the local population is Christian.
Population: 104.000
Total Area: Sq. mi 171- Sq. Km 442
Read also: 19 Interesting Facts about Antigua and Barbuda that you should know
23 amazing things to do in Antigua and Barbuda
1. Rent a car and get lost
I always say that the best way to explore a country is by renting a car and driving around. It couldn’t be a more appropriate statement when it comes to Antigua. The island is tiny,, and you can drive around in one day if you wouldn’t want to stop every 5 minutes to admire its beauty.
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There is such a variety of landscapes in such a small space that will blow your mind. The local transportation is not reliable and not suitable for exploring around. There are also many amazing tours that I will explain in a bit.
But I would rent a car in Antigua for a few days to explore the spectacular Antigua beaches and all the secret spots (which won’t be so secrets anymore if you read my guide. 🙂
You can read my thorough guide about driving in Antigua if you are undecided or concerned. You will see how easy it is and how to make the most of your time.
2. Spend the day on one of the spectacular Antigua beaches, especially this one
I couldn’t stress enough how beautiful Antigua beaches are, the white soft sand, the rolling hills as a backdrop, the turquoise ocean, and the lack of crowds altogether are what make Antigua beaches so unique.
I have created a dedicated post on the best beaches in Antigua with so much detailed information to keep it as a precious guide for your trip.
My favorite remains Half Moon Bay, so called because it’s shaped like a giant half-moon and it will magically appear to you while you are driving there, which is where you should stop and take a panoramic shot.
I used to spend most of my days off there and it never gets boring. Let me know how you liked it too.
Turner’s Beach is also a popular spot where to spend a day basking in the sun and having a great lunch.
No matter what beach you choose, spending a day on the beach is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Antigua and a must.
3. Watch the sunset at Shirley Heights (especially on a Sunday)
Watching the sunset at Shirley Heights and dancing the night away to the rhythm of Calypso music is one of the few things to do in Antigua at night.
This is a local and tourist favorite weekly appointment when they all gather on Shirley Heights lookout, a former military building that is now a bar and restaurant overlooking the bay of English and Falmouth Harbour.
The scene is spectacular and it became the iconic image of Antigua & Barbuda postcards.
The point is to be there by sunset and admire the sun disappearing on the horizon on the spectacular bay at the rhythm of local and international music.
Delicious local food and the famous Antiguan Rum punch, for a better dance performance, are served.
It’s open from 4 to 10.00 pm on Wednesdays and Sundays.
You shouldn’t miss it.
If you don’t have a car, I am sure your hotel organizes a collective taxi service from the reception. I would suggest enquiring.
4. Take a one-day trip to Barbuda
Among the places to visit in Antigua and Barbuda is the unique Barbuda Island. Known for its pink sand and for being home to one the largest colonies of Frigate birds, Barbuda is Antigua’s little sister island that deserves to be seen at least once. There are two ways to visit.
In both cases, you can take the ferry boat, Barbuda Express, and let Capitan Greg take you to Barbuda, where you will be free to move around and enjoy the island at your own pace.
If you want to purchase the full tour with a stop at the Fregate sanctuary and a tour of the island, including a stop at a spectacular beach, you can book it through the Barbuda Express as well.
If you are feeling fancy, you can hire a helicopter ride with Calvin Air.
5. Join a sailing lesson
In Antigua, sailing is The Thing! In fact, one of the main events in Antigua is Sailing Week, which is normally at the end of April and it marks the end of the high season. As you can imagine, the island is not short of sailing schools.
One of them is Ondeck Sailing, whose office is located in English Harbour, just above the Marina docks, one of my favorite places to hang out.
If you don’t feel like learning but you love to feel the breeze on your face and let the wind take you around the island I suggest you should join some of the sailing tours, especially at sunset.
If you wish to have a romantic private tour on a sailing boat it is also available. You should either ask the reception of your hotel or check out at the Jolly Harbour or English Harbour Marina office.
They will put you in contact with a private operator.
6. Visit the donkey sanctuary
If you are particularly fond of animals, you might want to check out the Human Society, an animal welfare organization committed to rescuing all the endangered animals of Antigua & Barbuda.
They have quite a big population of donkeys, which you normally see roaming around the island.
However, those who get injured or fall sick end up here, where they get good and loving care from the volunteers.
The entrance is free but they accept donations or you can even adopt a donkey.
Many tours of the island make a stop here, but if you rent a car you can go on your own, and the kind staff will very well receive you. You will be able to brush them or pet them and help out.
It’s not only a great educational and entertaining stop for kids but also for us, who always have something to learn from our furry friends.
7. Join a hiking and biking trip off the beaten track
Did I mention that Antigua is not only about the beach? With such a diverse territory, you can find amazing hikes in the tropical forest right in the middle of the island, where also the Canopy tour starts. They have great trails too.
Otherwise, you can join an organized hiking tour. This company offers a great kayaking, biking, and hiking adventure for some fun outdoor activities. You definitely won’t get bored. BOOK NOW
The more adventurous will have lots of extra fun by joining a mud buggy tour.
8. Enjoy one of the local restaurants on the beach
Antigua is brimming with local restaurants that serve authentic, genuine food. Turner Beach is one of the best beaches in Antigua where they also serve fantastic food at the homonym restaurant. It was one of my Sunday appointments.
For dinner, for a simple yet delicious local meal, I would go to Denni’s or Hemingway’s.
9. Get pampered in one of the most exclusive hotels on the Island
Antigua is considered a high-end destination with so many world-class hotels that it is a very hard task to choose the best one. I am particularly fond of Hermitage Bay, but you should check out my posts on the best Antigua All-inclusive hotels to explore more options and see which one resonates more with your style.
10. Take a walk around St John’s, Antigua’s capital city
The colorful pretty city, capital, and port of Antigua & Barbuda is definitely worth a visit. Among the things to do in St. John’s Antigua, you will love to walk around the colorful shops of Redcliffe Quay, the best place to find a souvenir to take home.
Continue onto St. Mary Street and keep walking along the local busy streets, get ice cream or stop by the Roty King restaurant if it’s lunchtime to try one of the delicious local delicacies.
To get acquainted with Antigua’s history, head to St. John’s Cathedral, a 19th-century Anglican church, on a hill near the 17th-century Government House. A monument to the nation’s founder, V.C. Bird is next to the Public Market, which sells crafts and products.
Not far away you can check out the Museum of Antigua as well, to learn a little more about the island’s history.
If you have a car or by taxi head just out of town, towards Dickenson Bay, and stop by Fort James, one of the many forts built by the British in the 18th century.
11. Learn about the Caribbean Cuisine
Caribbean cuisine is one of the richest and strongest in flavors and is very spicy. Although it’s very similar throughout the Caribbean, each island has its own secrets and signature dishes.
If you wish to find out about the delicious plates you might have tried during your vacation in Antigua, you can join one (or more) of these series of cooking workshops, 4 hours each, and in small groups.
You will create a delicious 3-course meal and cocktails from start to finish with your instructor, Nicole, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor with views of the Caribbean Sea.
12. Join Eli’s original Eco Tours
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This boat eco-tour is one of the most popular tours in Antigua to discover the natural world, from rock formations to abundant sea life, it will be a beautiful sea adventure in the North Sound region where there are 22 uninhabited pristine offshore islands.
It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and to learn about the ecosystems & the history of the different islands in this protected area, including the turtle project at Jumby Bay, the reef ball system at Maiden Island, the beautiful and important Mangrove system of Guiana Island & much more.
During the tour, you will enjoy two snorkeling sessions (& a snorkel lesson for those who need it) along with a nature walk/hike to the top of Bird Island where you might get a chance to see one of our indigenous & endangered (nonpoisonous) Antigua Racer Snake.
You will also visit Hells Gate Island for a snorkel or a climb through a small cave-like structure that goes through the island & comes out over a natural bridge on top – seeing the Atlantic Ocean on one side & Caribbean Sea on the other.
The professional and knowledgeable team of Adventure Antigua will make sure you have a blast on this full-day boat tour.
Eli also has one of my favorite boat trips on the island the Xtreme tour which circumnavigates Antigua and takes you to the hidden beach of Randevouz Bay.
13. Take a zip line ride into the jungle and a kayaking tour combo
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These are going to be 6 hours packed with spectacular outdoor activities, starting from Zip lining, with 8 rides in the jungle, then kayaking among the mangroves into the sea, and finally snorkeling into the pristine Caribbean waters. A delicious meal completes the amazing experience in nature.
14. Go Kitesurfing or take Kite lessons
Amongst Antigua activities, Kitesurfing is big! Antigua is in fact, one of the best destinations to practice kitesurfing or learning. There are many different kite schools, all great.
One is Kitesurf Antigua based on the homonymous beach, close to the airport.
Another company, 40knots operates in Green Island instead, another spectacular spot in Antigua off the touristy lane.
15. Visit the historical Nelson’s Dockyard at English Harbor, a UNESCO site
Antigua is full of interesting spots that remind us of the local history and culture and Nelson Dockyard is one of the most iconic areas of the island.
The original British maritime hub has now been fully restored and working Dockyard home to amazing boats, and a strategic location of different restaurants and stores. Although equipped with modern facilities it still conserves the historical feel, its main appeal.
The site has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its historical importance and most of all not to forget that “The construction and operation of the Antigua Naval Dockyard were made possible through the labor and skills of enslaved Africans, whose contribution was crucial for the establishment of the facility and, more widely, for the development of the British Empire, trade and industrialization”. source
It’s now a very popular place to visit in Antigua, with many activities to enjoy and the venue of many local events.
The Dockyard Museum, located in the former Admiral’s House, presents visitors with exhibits regarding the Dockyard’s history and current archaeological research on the island.
Inside the Nelson Dockyard, you can also find the Copper and Lumber Store Hotel an iconic hotel that conserves a unique Victorian feel.
You can visit Nelson Dockyard on your own. You can drive there or get a taxi, just make sure you agree on the pickup time as I don’t recall seeing any taxis there.
Keep in mind that there are many other things to do in English Harbour Antigua.
If you go during the day you can also enjoy one of the beautiful beaches (Pigeon Beach) and a world-class meal in one of the restaurants in English Harbour, go for a walk to the marina, or a hike to the surrounding hills overlooking the bay.
It is also close to the popular Shirley Heights about which I talked earlier in this post. I would plan a full day to explore this area.
16. 🚌 Join the Scenic Tour Of Antigua
If you want to have a guided tour of the island that includes the Nelson Dockyard and other landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide you can book this highly-rated Scenic Tour of Antigua
It includes all the popular sights and Antigua landmarks:
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✔️ Devil’s Bridge
✔️ Blockhouse
✔️ Shirley Heights
✔️ Nelson Dockyard
✔️ Fig Tree Drive
✔️ lunch at a waterfront restaurant with alfresco dining on the harbor side.
17. Enjoy a world-class dinner at The Inn
The Inn at English Harbour is one of my favorite hotels in Antigua, an elegant 5-star resort, one of the few NON-all-inclusive, located on a private beach close to the English Harbor.
Its world-class restaurant offers a magical atmosphere with views over the bay and fine dining with Italian dishes.
It’s very romantic but I assure you, even if you travel solo, you will definitely enjoy a fine meal in such a location.
18. Spend a day on Long Bay Beach
Among all the beautiful beaches in Antigua, Long Bay Beach by the Pineapple Hotel is a special one for one main reason. It’s one of the few where you can snorkel from the shore on the right side of the beach.
The beach is public plus there is a big hotel right on the left side so it can become quite crowded, especially on a Sunday.
I would choose a weekday for an amazing day on the beach. You will also find a little restaurant if you want to grab a drink or a quick lunch.
19. Take a selfie at Devil’s Bridge
Among the things to see in Antigua Devil’s Bridge is one of the most dramatic natural scenes in the island, the most loved by photographers, after Shirley’s Height’s lookout.
It’s a natural bridge carved into the rocks by the power of crashing waves, on the ocean side of the island. Worth a visit, but don’t walk on it. 🙂
If you join that includes also a stop at Devil’s Bridge, among other Antigua historic landmarks.
20. Watch the Antigua Sailing Week
Antigua Sailing Week is the event of the year, where sail lovers and professionals of the world gather in Antigua to compete in this event that has been on for the past 51 years.
There are different events during this week where you can see a showcase of the most beautiful boats in the world and of course lots of parties and gatherings. It’s normally the last week of April.
You can also apply here to become part of the crew of one of the racing boats.
21. Join the snorkeling + Lobster lunch tour with Creole Cruise
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This tour is among the top things to do in Antigua, I have done it a few times when I was living in Antigua and sent many customers who came back ecstatic. In the meantime have been upgrading the tour with a bigger and more comfortable boat and more activities.
On VIATOR now they have more than 300 five-star reviews. Here are a couple of guests’ feedbacks:
“I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The crew is knowledgeable of all the properties and surroundings by the water and their customer service is stellar. The drinks were on point and the lobster lunch was delicious. I did both snorkel tours, but some of my people did neither and they still enjoyed themselves. Do not hesitate… book it!!!!! The boat is nice; safe and clean; the equipment is, as well; they were on time and well organized.“
“Great experience. Coming back next year and bringing adult kids. Food was delicious! Couldn’t have lobster because it was out of season. Small group.“
Please note that from May 31st through June the lobster is not available.
22. SoCoHo Half Day Jeep Safari- Mangrove Kayak & Reef Snorkeling
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Amazing 4-hour tour around Antigua’s natural wonders.
Include Kayaking and Snorkeling – Equipment is provided.
Here is what some previous guests say:
“Brilliant, brilliant day. Picked up from our hotel on time by lovely informative Travis. He gave us lots of interesting information enroute to Cades bay and showed us other beaches too. The socoho estate is very pristine and leads down to the mangroves...”
“The tour was great from start to finish. The ride across the island was very enjoyable. The driver “Flavor” was very informative. He narrated the entire drive, giving us info about the geography and culture of the island. The kayaking was great and we snorkeled at an amazing reef. All of the guides are great! I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see Antigua outside of the “resort”.
“
23. Join one of the most demanded Antigua food tours
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Join a small group food tour around Heritage Quey in St. John’s, Antigua, including a taste of the delicious local rum. A local guide will show you around and share some interesting facts about Antigua food culture and more.
24. Antigua Reef Riders Self-Drive Boat and Snorkeling Tour
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You will be driving a 2-seater inflatable Reef rider boat and follow a guide to secluded natural locations off the coast of Antigua.
You will enjoy the spectacular views of the Antigua coastline along the Darkwood Beach area and a snorkeling session at Antigua National Marine Park.
2 to 3 hour trip.
25. Take a Helicopter tour to Montserrat Island
With Calivin Air you can embark on a 45-minute aerial adventure over the Caribbean to Montserrat, narrated by a pilot. Explore the ‘Exclusion Zone’ housing the active Soufrière Hills Volcano, which erupted in 1997, rendering two-thirds of the island uninhabitable.
Fly over evacuated villages, the former airport, and the buried capital, Plymouth. Witness the live volcano’s smoke and steam from the safety of a helicopter for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The same company also offers a Helicopter tour over Antigua. I had the fortune to do it once and it was incredibly exciting.
Things to do in Antigua & Barbuda: FAQ
What is Antigua known for?
In my 2 years living on the island, I haven’t seen them all but, definitely explored most of them, and I can confirm they are spectacular.
Antigua is also known for Sailing week which takes place every year at the end of April. A major event in the sailing world.
Is Antigua safe?
Like anywhere else in the world you need to make sure that usual common sense is used throughout your traveling and that some extra attention is required.
Some examples are:
✔️do not go to public beaches at night
✔️ avoid hiking alone, or going to any deserted beaches by yourself
✔️ look after your personal belonging
✔️leave your valuables in your hotel safe.
✔️ I wouldn’t bring any jewels with me, also because you don’t really need them. You look beautiful anyway :)!
How much money do I need for Antigua?
Is Antigua expensive to visit?
If you are a solo traveler it will be more expensive because the all-inclusive price becomes outrageously high, and there are no single rates for room-only hotels, as there is a fixed price for the room. You might want to check out some Airbnb options if you don’t want to splurge on a hotel. There are many cute accommodations.
To eat out you can find delicious meals also in the local restaurants which have affordable prices, and I have to say, that’s the best way to try the local cuisine.
Activities range from 120 USD to 200 USD for boat tours and below 100 for other kinds of tours mentioned above.
What to do in Antigua and Barbuda: Final Thoughts
As you can see, Antigua is not only a beach, there are so many things to do and places to visit, activities, and delicious Fine Dining. I hope this post helps you plan your trip to Antigua and Barbuda. Here below I will leave more articles on where to stay and other important information.
