Welcome to Antigua, a gem nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage, this island offers an unmatched blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re here for a relaxing escape or thrilling excursions, Antigua promises an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the top ten things to do and see in Antigua that ensure you make the most of your visit.

Fast Facts About Antigua

Where is Antigua?

Antigua is part of the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Located in the Lesser Antilles, it lies east of Puerto Rico and north of Guadeloupe. Known for its 365 beaches – that’s one beach for every day of the year – Antigua offers an unforgettable escape with its white sands and turquoise waters.

The capital, St. John’s, is the vibrant heart of the island, welcoming visitors with its colourful markets and historic sites. Whether arriving via V.C. Bird International Airport or by sea, you’ll be captivated by Antigua’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

What’s the best time to visit Antigua?

While Antigua is beautiful throughout the year and thermometer readings average between 75-85°F (24-29°C), the best time to visit is during spring or winter. The island’s driest seasons offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, including water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and kitesurfing.

It is also the peak time for tourism in Antigua, meaning you will encounter crowds and prices that reflect the increased demand. If you’re averse to crowds or wish to get more out of your budget, the rainy season between June and November, often peaking around mid-August to mid-October, is a good time to visit. Precipitation can get heavy during this time due to hurricane activity, but it’s the peak of off-peak for Antigua, and more often than not there’s enough time in the day to do outdoor activities.

10 Adventures You Can Have in Antigua

#1: Tour the best beaches in the Caribbean

A beach experience like no other: Antigua is famous for its beaches, regarded as some of the world’s finest plots of white sand. You have a choice between the famous, well-developed ones that people flock to or hidden coves barely touched by development where getting to them can be an adventure all on its own.

A beach for every day of the year: Experience Antigua’s 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. From the vibrant scene at Jolly Beach to the thrill of kitesurfing at Jabberwock Beach near the airport. Discover the history of Fort James Beach or journey through nature reserves and rough tracks to get to remote Rendezvous Bay.

Expert Tip: Beaches can get crowded depending on the number of visitors. The best way to enjoy any beach in Antigua is to have an excellent place to stay nearby, like Blue Luxury’s beachfront properties, or have our friends guide you to the less-visited spots on the island that only the locals know and love.

#2: Immerse in the History of Nelson’s Dockyard

Historical Significance: Nelson’s Dockyard, named after the famous British admiral who was once stationed on the island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into Antigua’s maritime past. This beautifully restored Georgian naval dockyard is still in use today and is home to the sailing and yachting events Antigua is known for, including Antigua Sailing Week.

Don’t Miss: Visit the Dockyard Museum for fascinating exhibits or enjoy a meal at one of the historic inns. The Dow’s Hill Interpretation Center offers a 15-minute documentary on Antigua’s history.

Start Your Adventure Here: Besides the many attractions on the Dockyard, it is also a good starting point for several hiking trails, many of which lead to beaches. Notables include Pigeon Beach, host to Catherine’s Café, one of the best restaurants in Antigua, and Galleon Beach, where you can spot green turtles and get great fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere at Loose Cannon. If hiking isn’t your fancy, you can always take a water taxi.

#3: Cades Reef: Snorkelling and Diving Wonderland

Underwater Adventure: Cades Reef, located off the southwestern coast, is a vibrant marine sanctuary perfect for snorkelling and divers of any level of experience. The site offers undersea adventurers a large array of coral formations and exotic fish species to survey.

Expert Guidance: Beginners can join organized snorkelling tours, while experienced divers can explore deeper sections of the reef. You can book a group excursion or private boat from one of our favourite vendors.

Weather: The water temperature stays between 79-84°F (26 and 29°C), making it ideal for underwater activities.

#4: Hike Shirley Heights

Scenic Views: Shirley Heights offers panoramic views of English Harbor and Falmouth Harbor. The hike up is invigorating, and the reward for reaching the summit is a breathtaking view of both harbours.

Sunday Tradition: Join the Sunday evening BBQ party with live music, where locals and tourists gather for a memorable experience.

Health Check: The hike up the Heights can prove challenging, depending on your health. Find an Antigua travel guide who can give you the proper advice that makes sure your hike up Shirley Heights is both enjoyable and safe.

#5: Visit the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour

Thrilling Excursion: Zip through the lush rainforest canopy on a series of zip lines and suspension bridges. This eco-adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking to take their back-to-nature excursion to the next level.

Safety First: Professional guides provide all necessary safety equipment and instructions, so all you have to do is show up and strap on the zip line for an awesome ride.

Inclusive Experience: The Canopy Tour is suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for an adrenaline rush.

#6: Stroll Through St. John’s

Cultural Immersion: Antigua’s capital, St. John’s, is a vibrant city with colourful markets, historic landmarks, and local eateries.

Must-See: Visit the iconic Baroque architecture of St. John’s Cathedral, explore the bustling Heritage Quay shopping complex, or wander the city and enjoy its colour, culture, and people.

Must Taste: If you’re looking to sample authentic local cuisine, there’s no better (and easier!) place to get it than in St. John’s. Get your fill of treats like conch fritters, oxtail stew, and saltfish buljol at one of the local restaurants – a personal favourite of ours is Hemingway’s.

#7: Elevate your vacation with a helicopter excursion  

See Antigua from up high: Soar above Antigua and discover its breathtaking beauty from a unique perspective with a helicopter ride. This thrilling adventure unveils the island’s stunning landscapes, offering views unparalleled by any land or sea excursion. In just half an hour, you can circumnavigate the entire island, capturing panoramic scenes that are not to be missed.

A unique viewpoint: Experience the thrill of an aerial journey over landmarks like St. John’s, the historic Nelson’s Dockyard, the natural wonder of Devil’s Bridge, and the majestic Pillars of Hercules. 

Best seats in the air: CalvinAir Helicopters, proudly recognized as a 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner, is Antigua’s premier operator of luxury helicopter tours. Their state-of-the-art Airbus H130 helicopters boast spacious, climate-controlled cabins with forward-facing, theatre-style seating, ensuring every passenger enjoys a spectacular view. With advanced safety features and experienced pilots at the helm, you can relax and soak in the vistas of Antigua from the sky.

#8: Experience Local Cuisine

Gastronomic Delights: Savor Antiguan cuisine at local restaurants and beachside spots. Don’t miss the national dish, fungee, and pepperpot, as well as fresh seafood such as the local lobster or local favourite red snapper.

Top Picks: Try Sheer Rocks for a fine dining experience or Papa Zouk for authentic Caribbean flavours. Los Moros tops the list on Tripadvisor and offers Vegan, vegetarian, and Gluten-free options. Las Tres Amigas has Antigua’s only beer tap wall, with 40 brands from Guatemala and El Salvador to choose from.

Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to explore the island’s culinary hotspots and experience Antiguan food like a local.

#9 Party at the Antigua Carnival

A Festival of Colour, Beauty, and Talent: The Antigua Carnival is a 13-day celebration of colourful costumes, beauty pageants, talent shows, and Calypso music. The Carnival begins late in July and ends on the first Tuesday of August.

Daybreak Party: J’ouvert, from the French creole word for “daybreak,” is a key event within the Antigua Carnival. To both celebrate liberation and honour the ancestors, patrons gather at around 3 to 4 in the morning at St. John’s and follow their favourite bands, drinking and dancing while they march along with the parade.

Children Welcome: While carnivals are often viewed as events catering to adults, the Antigua Carnival dedicates a day where children can participate in the festivities, called the Children’s Carnival. During its parade, kids wear bright and colourful costumes.

#10: Relax at a Private Residence

Where to Stay in Antigua: Antigua offers plenty of upscale properties for your holiday. Choose from a selection of all-inclusive resorts and boutique hotels. Whether traveling alone or with family and friends, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your taste.

Hassle-Free Vacations: The best way to experience Antigua is with a premium residence in Jolly Harbour that gives you the flexibility of your own space but also offers options like housekeeping services and airport transfer bookings. You can find such properties with Blue Luxury. They allow you to have hassle-free vacations through handpicked residences supported by a dedicated concierge service.

Seamless Booking: White Sand Travel is Blue Luxury’s exclusive booking agent and can arrange your stay, ensuring you receive the best rates and exclusive perks.

What to do in Antigua? There’s something for everyone!

Antigua offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. From stunning days at the beach to thrilling adventures and cultural explorations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, excitement, or a bit of both, this island paradise has it all.

Escape like a local and discover the wonders of Antigua today. Book your vacation rental today!