Caribbean · Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua Travel Guide
Antigua boasts 365 beaches — one for every day of the year. From historic Nelson's Dockyard to powder-white Dickenson Bay, extraordinary variety in a compact Caribbean package.
How Do You Get to the Beach?
Walk into St John's in 2 minutes. Dickenson Bay is 15 min by taxi ($15). Nelson's Dockyard is 30 min ($25).
What Can You Do in 6 Hours?
Nelson's Dockyard — UNESCO Georgian naval dockyard in English Harbour. Beautifully restored with restaurants and yachts.
Dickenson Bay — Calm turquoise water, white sand, and beach bars.
Shirley Heights — Spectacular panoramic views above English Harbour.
St John's — Public Market, Cathedral, and Heritage Quay shopping.
Where Should You Eat?
Fungi and pepperpot: National dish. Cornmeal with thick stew of spinach, okra, eggplant, and meat.
Lobster: Caribbean spiny lobster grilled with garlic butter.
Is Antigua Worth Exploring Independently?
A full-day taxi tour can be negotiated for $60-80 per car. Much cheaper than ship excursions.
Useful Local Phrases
English is the main language
Antiguan Creole also spoken
(n/a)
Local Tips
- •Nelson's Dockyard is a UNESCO site — the only working Georgian dockyard in the world.
- •Dickenson Bay is closest quality beach (15 min taxi).
- •Shirley Heights Sunday afternoon BBQ parties are legendary.
- •Half Moon Bay on the east coast is wilder and more beautiful but 45 minutes away.