Things to Do in Antigua: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
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Hello, fellow travelers! If you’ve been dreaming of a sun-soaked escape filled with adventure, history, and jaw-dropping scenery, let me introduce you to Antigua—an island that completely stole my heart. This Caribbean paradise isn’t just about lounging on perfect white-sand beaches (though trust me, you’ll want to do plenty of that). It’s about immersing yourself in rich history, indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, and exploring hidden gems you won’t find in a typical guidebook.
After spending time on this incredible island, I’ve put together this ultimate list of things to do in Antigua—with personal experiences, insider tips, and all the details you need, from costs to best times to visit. So, pack your bags and let’s dive in!
Introduction: Things to Do in Antigua
Antigua, the jewel of the Caribbean, is a dream destination for travelers looking for gorgeous beaches, rich history, and thrilling adventures. With 365 beaches, a UNESCO-listed dockyard, and unforgettable sunset parties, this island offers something for everyone. Whether you’re here to relax on the softest white sand, explore colonial forts, or sail across crystal-clear waters, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences waiting for you.
This guide will take you through the best things to do in Antigua, including costs, insider tips, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Relax on Antigua’s World-Famous Beaches
Antigua is home to 365 beaches—one for every day of the year! And trust me, every single one of them is breathtaking. Some of my favorites include Dickenson Bay, a lively stretch of sand with beach bars and water activities, and Half Moon Bay, a more secluded spot with pink-tinged sand and waves perfect for surfing. If you prefer something quieter, Pigeon Point Beach is a hidden gem near Nelson’s Dockyard.
One of the things I loved most about Antigua’s beaches is that they’re all public and free, even if they’re located in front of resorts. As long as you’re respectful, you’re welcome to enjoy them! Bring your snorkeling gear because the reefs here are teeming with tropical fish and keep an eye out for sea turtles.
Insider Tip: Visit Half Moon Bay early in the morning if you want it all to yourself. For snorkeling, Galleon Beach is a secret favorite among locals!
Step Back in Time at Nelson’s Dockyard
Walking through Nelson’s Dockyard felt like stepping into a history book. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only working Georgian-era dockyard in the world, and its beautifully preserved buildings now house shops, restaurants, and a museum. It was once the headquarters for the British Royal Navy in the Caribbean, and you can still feel its historic charm today. The cost is about $15 USD and that includes access to Shirley Heights as well.
I grabbed a coffee at the Admiral’s Inn, a colonial-era hotel with a gorgeous harbor view, and took my time wandering through the exhibits. If you love history (or just want a scenic spot to relax), this is a must-visit.
Insider Tip: Check out Copper & Lumber Store Historic Inn—a charming hotel within the dockyard that offers a Friday night seafood feast with fresh lobster and Caribbean flavors.
Catch the Sunset (and Party!) at Shirley Heights
If you do only one thing in Antigua, make it a Sunday trip to Shirley Heights Lookout. The panoramic views of English Harbour and the Caribbean Sea are absolutely breathtaking, but the real magic happens at sunset. Every Sunday, the lookout transforms into a lively party with live reggae and steel drum music, a sizzling barbecue, and an electric atmosphere.
I arrived about an hour before sunset to grab a good spot, and by the time the sky turned shades of pink and gold, the entire place was buzzing with energy. The barbecue plates were around $10-20 USD, and rum punches flowed freely for about $8-10 USD each.
Insider Tip: Go on a Sunday for free entry!!!
Soar Through the Jungle on a Zipline Adventure
For a break from the beach, I headed inland to the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour. If you’ve never tried ziplining before, this is the perfect place to do it! The experience of soaring over lush greenery was both thrilling and scenic.
The course has multiple zip lines, some of which stretch over 300 feet! If you’re an adrenaline junkie, I highly recommend giving this a go. The cost is about $89 USD per person and booking in advance is recommended.
Insider Tip: Wear long shorts or leggings—the harness can be a little uncomfortable on bare skin!
Visit the Adorable Donkeys at the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary
One of the most heartwarming experiences I had was visiting the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary, run by the Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society. The island once relied on donkeys for transportation, and many were left abandoned after modern vehicles took over. Now, these gentle animals have a safe haven where visitors can interact with them.
The sanctuary is free to visit, but donations help keep the place running. If you’re traveling with kids (or just love animals like me), this is such a fun and rewarding stop!
Insider Tip: Bring a few carrots or apples—the donkeys love treats, and you’ll make instant friends!
Set Sail Around Antigua’s Stunning Coastline
Antigua is famous for its sailing scene, so I couldn’t leave without experiencing it myself. I booked a day cruise, which included snorkeling, beach stops, and a delicious lunch on board. There’s nothing quite like gliding over turquoise waters with the sea breeze in your hair!
If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat. It was one of the most relaxing yet exciting parts of my trip.
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting between February and May, you might spot humpback whales migrating through the Caribbean!
Take a Day Trip to Barbuda
If you have extra time, hop on a ferry to Barbuda (about $85 USD round trip), Antigua’s sister island. It’s home to the breathtaking Pink Sand Beach and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, one of the most significant bird-watching sites in the world. The island has a remote, untouched feel to it, making it the perfect escape if you’re craving a little solitude.
Insider Tip: The ferry can be bumpy on windy days—if you get seasick, bring motion sickness tablets.
Explore the Bustling Capital of St. John’s
For a taste of local life, I spent a day wandering through St. John’s, the island’s capital. The city is colorful, vibrant, and full of history. I loved browsing the Public Market, where vendors sold everything from tropical fruits to handmade crafts. Over at Redcliffe Quay, I found some fantastic boutique shops and picked up a few unique souvenirs.
If you’re a foodie, don’t leave without trying roti (a delicious Caribbean flatbread stuffed with curried meats or veggies) and a slice of black pineapple, Antigua’s ultra-sweet signature fruit.
Insider Tip: If you love duty-free shopping, check out Heritage Quay, where you can find tax-free designer brands and jewelry.
Conclusion: Things to do in Antigua
Without a doubt, yes! Antigua is a dream destination with something for everyone—whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or just pure relaxation. The people are incredibly friendly, the scenery is straight out of a postcard, and the experiences here will stay with you forever.
If you’re planning a trip, my biggest advice is to take it slow. Spend time lounging on the beaches, explore the rich history, and most importantly, soak in the island’s vibrant culture.
Have you been to Antigua? I’d love to hear about your favorite spots! Drop a comment below and let’s chat. And if you’re planning your trip—let me know if you have any questions!
Safe travels!
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