Two islands, one paradise as you discover the warm hospitality and distinct laid-back atmosphere of Antigua and Barbuda. No other island in the Caribbean has such a diversity of breathtaking beaches. Antigua’s small size also means it is impossible to be more than a few miles away from the white-gold shoreline and is also a ideal for those seeking adventure on the water. With the area of Antigua only stretching 108 square miles, while Barbuda is 62 square miles, activities on the islands are easily accessible for all visitors to enjoy. There's so much to see and do in Antigua and it is perfect for wildlife lovers, those wanting to learn about the history, if you're looking to go on an adventure and look no further for breathtaking sunsets.
Antigua’s 95 miles of stunning shoreline is surrounded almost exclusively by the Caribbean Sea and is best known for the friendly and welcoming people, pink and white-sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and a tropical climate throughout the year. A coastline made up of 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, is also a haven for those seeking adventure on the water. Whether you are looking for full-scale resort beaches sporting all the facilities you could think of, bays offering some of the best surfing or snorkelling action in the Caribbean, or if you are in search of desert island coves to escape to, Antigua has the ideal beach for you.
This is not just the perfect destination for a relaxing beach escape, Antigua is also ideal if you are looking for adventure as you can zip-line through the rainforest, go on a family snorkel adventure to explore the marine life, hike through the most breathtaking scenery and explore the local wildlife where you can watch the nesting and hatching of Hawksbill turtles - an unforgettable experience not to be missed!
Take part in some of the world’s best watersports which are particularly popular with everything from sailing, boat cruising, water skiing, deep sea and reef fishing to scuba diving and snorkelling where you can view the incredible local marine life.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, then there is plenty on offer and popular activities include horseback riding, hiking, island safaris, painting and cooking classes, walking tours, bird-watching adventures and helicopter tours where you can take in breathtaking views of the island and surrounding areas.
Venture off the beaten track to the off shore islands and you will find over two dozen little islands and cays nestled between wonderful reefs with a host of adventures waiting to be had, with many home to private island restaurant experiences.
Explore Nelson’s Dockyard which is a unique historical and environmental wonder, with the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brimming with history and adventure it is the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard and a tour of the Park with a knowledgeable and welcoming guide is a must during your stay in Antigua. Experience what it was like to be an officer at the Dockyard or a soldier stationed at one of the Forts, and discover the breathtaking scenery along the nature trails, plus have a chance to indulge in the wide range of food and drink at the many restaurants and bars within the Park.
St. John's, the capital city and cruise ship port of Antigua and Barbuda, is a kaleidoscope of fantastic multi-coloured colonial cottages and market stalls piled high with tropical fruits and flowers. Looming above the stunning island skyline are the white neo-Baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral, one of the city's most distinctive buildings.
To find out more about the island's history, head to the petite Museum of Antigua and Barbuda in the 18th-century former Court House, and to soak up more stories from Antigua's past, take a stroll around Betty's Hope, the 17th-century ruins of the island's largest sugar plantation. Make sure to hike the steep trail to Fort Barrington which was originally built to protect St. John's from the French, for beautiful city and harbour views.
If shopping is on your list of things to do, then Antigua is the ideal destination for you as shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Antigua. Historic meets modern in downtown St. John’s where you will find two charming shopping areas, the modern Heritage Quay and historic Redcliffe Quay which are located near to the waterfront. Bay Gardens Caribbean Village Mall at Hodges Bay is a popular spot for some shopping where you will also find an Arts and Crafts Market.
If you are staying in Antigua, then a visit to smaller neighbour, Barbuda is a must and is one of the gems of the Caribbean as the island is undeveloped with a natural purity and authenticity and well worth a visit, especially as the island has recently opened an International Airport. With just a small number of hotels and stunning natural beauty, the island is a haven for wildlife, with the Frigate Bird Sanctuary a popular visitor attraction and located in the island’s north-western lagoon.
Barbuda is one of the best-kept secrets of the Caribbean, where you will find a smooth coastline edged with alternating 17 miles of beaches protected by barrier reefs., showcasing the natural purity, authenticity and unspoilt natural beauty. Though most of Barbuda’s beaches are composed of fine white sand, one is noticeably different. These are the striking pink “sand” beaches created from the tiniest of pink shells, the colour of cotton candy, that are washed ashore in various coves.
Nearly deserted beaches combined with an environment rich in marine life gives those who venture over from Antigua the opportunity to enjoy excellent diving, snorkelling, fishing, bird watching, and of course, an escape from everyday stress as you enjoy the seclusion and peaceful ambiance of the island.
When it comes to dining on the island of Barbuda, pay a visit to Uncle Roddy’s located on the unspoilt beach at Coral Bay with a menu featuring a selection of local dishes such as Catch of the Day fish, their famous lobster and burgers, pizzas and popular specials nights with happy hour cocktails. Nobu Restaurant located on the stunning Princess Diana beach is also popular with visitors where you can relax on a private beach cabana, unwind with a spa treatment, enjoy a sunset omakase dinner, take part in sushi classes featuring local Barbudan catch, and indulge in the fantastic food on offer.
Antigua and Barbuda are perfect if you are looking for a luxury island escape, from relaxing on the pristine beaches, taking part in an island adventure, exploring the history and the unspoilt natural of Barbuda means there’s something for everyone to enjoy on these stunning friendly and welcoming Caribbean islands.