7 Things to Do in Antigua: Beaches, Culture & Adventure
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As soon as I got off the plane in Antigua, feeling the warm and breezy Caribbean air immediately made me feel at ease. I could feel the warm and inviting energy from the plane, and the welcoming locals made me feel right at home. I have traveled to over 45 countries and nearly all of the islands in Caribbean, but something about Antigua is very different from the others. Antigua is home to 365 beaches, has an incredibly colorful culture, a rich history, and clear water that you can see to the bottom. Antigua is truly a magical island, and I cannot wait to share the best things to do in Antigua based on my personal experiences.
Introduction: Things to do in Antigua
If you are planning a trip to the Caribbean and you are unsure on what island to choose from, I am here to tell you that island is Antigua! As someone who has visited nearly all of the islands in the Caribbean, and who has snorkeled everywhere, I am here to tell you, there is now water like the Antigua water. With a beach for every day of the week, colonial forts, amazing food, and an island rich in history, there is so much to see and do in Antigua. I am here to share you what I think are the best things to do in Antigua from my experience. I will also share some insider tips on things I learned along the way and some hidden gems that you do not want to miss. Now, grab your SPF, and let’s dive in!
1. Nelson’s Dockyard
If you are planning a visit to Antigua, then you must include the cultural heritage site and marina known as Nelson’s Dockyard. This harbor is located in Saint Paul and is the only continuously working dockyard in the world. Built in the 18th century, stepping onto the dockyard is like stepping back in time. This dockyard was abandoned by the British Royal Navy and has a blind between its British naval heritage and a Caribbean charm. There is a wonderful museum that you can visit, some local shops, and waterfront cafes that you can sit at and enjoy the waterfront views.
Pro Tip: This dockyard gets very busy in the afternoons, so go in the early morning to beat the crowds and take a short hike up to Shirley Heights for the best views of the harbor.
2. Shirley Heights Lookout
Whether you do this hike before or after your visit to Nelson’s Dockyard, you will have amazing views of the harbor. This is the perfect place to come and immediately escape the chaos and just take a moment to breathe and enjoy the breezy Caribbean air from above. These are the best views in the entire island if you ask me, and something about feeling like you are on the top of the world, just made everything feel right.
One of the best parts…smelling the BBQ and jerk pork fill the air, which made me beyond ready for lunch after my hike!
Pro Tip: The best time to go is Sunday night, because there is a lively party with live music, food, and of course the incredible views.
3. Dickenson Bay
One of my favorite beaches (and there are many here) was Dickenson Bay. The sand was warm and buttery soft, the water was unbelievably clear, and it was just a relaxing and welcoming vibe. This beach is also known for the famous red phone booth that you must go and take a picture in for Instagram. If you want a chill and relaxing day on your Antigua itinerary, then I would highly recommend spending that day at Dickenson Bay. You can rent a lounger all day or even rent a jet ski if you need an adrenaline rush.
4. Catamaran Cruise
Another one of my trip highlights was taking a catamaran cruise excursion around the island and then to a few different snorkeling spots. This is actually something I do every time I am in the Caribbean, but the snorkeling here was some of the best I have every experienced. There is something about being on the water, feeling that ocean breeze, and smelling the salt water, that really just instantly makes you feel stress-free and actually on vacation. On a personal note, I met some fellow solo travelers on my catamaran, so it is also a great way to meet new friends and swap travel stories.
5. Betty’s Hope
Another must-see spot in Antigua is Betty’s Hope. This sugar plantation is actually one of the first and it was established in the mid-1600’s shortly after the island became a British colony. This plantation has a powerful story and is an important aspect of the island’s rich history. This sugar plantation was used to produce sugar and manufacture rum. Since about 1995, the buildings have been converted to an open-air museum with a visitors’ center, which is a great place to visit to learn more about the island’s history. This spot isn’t always on people’s “must-see” list, but if you are into a history and want to learn more about Antigua, then I would highly recommend the visit. It’s a great place of reflection in my opinion.
6. Antigua Local Cusine
Honestly, sampling local cuisine everywhere I go is one of my favorite aspects of traveling. I love savoring the local flavors, trying new local dishes, and immersing myself in the dining experiences of each place I visit. Antigua has some of the best lobster and plantains that I have ever tried (and no not at your resort). If you are staying at a resort, I would highly recommend venturing off site for a few meals and experience all of the local foods that Antigua has to offer. Not only is this a great way to try some new foods, but it’s also a great way to support and interact with the local people.
Insider Tip: Antigua’s national dish is fungie and pepperpot, and you abslotely have to try it!
7. Swim with Stingrays at Stingray City Antigua
Ok, so this last one, I was actually a little nervous to do at first. But, honestly, snorkeling with the stingrays was one of the best excursions I did on this trip. I was worried that they were actually dangerous to swim around, but it turns out they are super gentle and really peaceful creatures. The guide was super informative, made sure everyone stayed safe, and felt safe, and it was really a magical expereince, I feel like, to swim with them.
Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof case for your phone so that you can capture some amazing pictures and videos of them swimming super close!
Conclusion
Antigua was honestly such an amazing island experience. I loved all of the beaches, the friendly locals, and just the island vibe, that left me wanting to come back. This island doesn’t feel super touristy like some of the others, and was honestly, one of my favorites things about visiting. Whether you want to curl up with a book on Dickenson Beach, or snorkel with the stingrays, there are some many things to do in Antigua that will fit everyone’s style. So, grab your SPF, and let’s plan your trip to Antigua together!