Antigua

How many days: 7

Spend your first two days exploring nearby beaches and settling into the island's slower rhythm. Set aside a full day for Nelson's Dockyard, English Harbour and Shirley Heights, ideally combining historic sightseeing with time beside the water.

Use the following days to visit different bays, snorkel and explore the countryside. Consider a Barbuda excursion if transport and sea conditions allow. A week works well for Antigua, while a longer stay gives you more freedom to alternate excursions with completely relaxed days.

What to do in Antigua

Explore Nelson's Dockyard

Walk through the restored Georgian-era naval dockyard at English Harbour. Its historic buildings and harbour setting explain Antigua's importance to Caribbean maritime history.

See the view from Shirley Heights

Climb to the historic lookout above English Harbour for wide coastal views. The late-afternoon light is particularly attractive.

Swim at Valley Church Beach

Enjoy pale sand and turquoise water on the western coast. Conditions vary, so check the sea before swimming.

Relax at Dickenson Bay

Spend time on one of Antigua's established beach areas, with a long stretch of sand and opportunities for water activities.

Discover Half Moon Bay

Visit this curved bay on the eastern side of the island. Its setting feels less developed, although Atlantic-facing water can be rough.

Snorkel over coastal reefs

Look for colourful reef fish in suitable sheltered areas. A guided trip can help you find appropriate sites without damaging fragile coral.

Walk around St John's

Explore the capital's streets, markets and waterfront. It offers a look at everyday island life away from the main beach areas.

Take a sailing excursion

See Antigua's bays and headlands from the sea. Sailing is central to the island's identity, and a day on the water reveals why.

Explore the rainforest hills

Travel through the greener interior for tropical vegetation and elevated views. Use established trails or local guidance where routes are unclear.

Visit Barbuda

Consider a trip to Antigua's sister island for long beaches and a quieter atmosphere. Transport depends on weather and sea conditions, so allow flexibility.

What to eat and drink

Try fungi and pepperpot

Taste a traditional combination of cornmeal-based fungi and a richly seasoned stew. It is one of the island's distinctive local meals.

Eat freshly grilled fish

Choose locally available fish prepared simply with seasoning and lime. It is particularly enjoyable beside the harbour.

Sample ducana

Try this sweet potato-based speciality, traditionally wrapped and cooked in leaves. It is often served with savoury dishes.

Enjoy Caribbean roti

Have a soft flatbread filled with curried vegetables, chicken or another savoury filling. It is a convenient, filling lunch.

Taste local tropical fruit

Look for pineapple, mango and other seasonal fruit at markets or small stalls. Availability changes with the growing season.

Try a local rum drink

Enjoy rum in a simple mixed drink or punch while watching the harbour. Fresh juice is an equally good option in the heat.

Getting around

English Harbour and parts of St John's are manageable on foot, but Antigua's beaches and attractions are scattered around the island. Public minibuses serve many local routes, often through St John's, although they are less convenient for reaching remote bays or travelling late in the evening.

Taxis are widely used for transfers and sightseeing, and it is sensible to confirm the fare beforehand. A hire car offers the greatest freedom for beach-hopping. Driving is on the left, some roads are uneven, and journeys can take longer than the island's size suggests. Barbuda requires separate sea or air transport.

Good to know

• Not every beach is safe for swimming in all conditions. Atlantic-facing bays can have strong surf and currents.
• Allow extra travel time on smaller roads, particularly after rain.
• The Caribbean sun is intense, so take water and sun protection on boat trips and walks.
• Check hurricane-season forecasts and official travel advice when planning your visit.
• Some smaller businesses prefer cash, so carry a modest amount of local currency.
• Popular sailing events can make accommodation and harbour areas busier, so plan ahead if your dates coincide.