Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide

Set in the eastern Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda are twin islands that offer the perfect mix of sun, sea and culture. Antigua is famously said to have 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, and is known for its lively capital, St John's. It also has historic sites such as Nelson's Dockyard and the panoramic views from Shirley Heights.

Barbuda is the quieter sister island, where leisure seekers will find pink-sand beaches, coral reefs and birdlife. Codrington, Barbuda's only town, serves as the gateway to Codrington Lagoon National Park, which is renowned for having a frigate bird colony that's among the largest in the world.

Visitors come for the beaches, but stay for the hiking, diving and sailing, especially during Antigua's world-famous Sailing Week. Whether they're exploring rugged coastlines or relaxing in a luxury resort, Antigua and Barbuda promise travellers an unforgettable Caribbean escape.

Best time to visit Antigua

Antigua lies in the tropics and enjoys warm temperatures and sunshine year-round, making it a great destination in any season. The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit, with slightly cooler temperatures and low humidity. However, this is also peak tourist season, so prices tend to be higher. The wetter season runs from June to October, which overlaps with hurricane season. While major storms are uncommon, there's a higher chance of rain, especially in late summer. Still, many travellers enjoy the quieter atmosphere and off-season deals during this time.

What to see in Antigua

-Take in the view from Shirley Heights, a restored military lookout overlooking English Harbour. The Sunday afternoon barbecue parties are a must.

-Stop at Nelson's Dockyard National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Georgian-era marina is home to historic forts and the Dockyard Museum.

-Watch the world-class yachting and sailing regattas during Sailing Week (usually in early May).

-Visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, housed in St John's oldest building, for an insight into the island's history.

What to do in Antigua

-Explore the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, protected by Codrington Lagoon National Park off the coast of Bermuda.

-Visit some of the 365 beaches (one for each day of the year) for which Antigua is famous.

-Brave the 90-minute hike through the rainforest to the lovely, remote Rendezvous Bay.

-Extensive coral reefs provide perfect territory for scuba diving. See tropical fish and old shipwrecks in crystal clear, warm water.

Getting to Antigua

Passengers can arrive in Antigua either via cruise ship at the port in St John's Harbour, or at VC Bird International Airport. There are direct flights from various major US cities, as well as from the UK and Europe.

Read

A Small Place by Jamaica Kincaid.

Listen

Spirited Band, Hell's Gate Steel Band.

Watch

The Sweetest Mango (2001), The Island (1980).

Drink

Cavalier Rum, Wadadli (Antiguan beer).

Eat

Fungie and pepper pot (the national dish); and other local dishes such as ducana, seasoned rice, saltfish and lobster.

What to buy

Antigua is one of the only places to find lavender-coloured jade, which is turned into stunning jewellry. Visitors can search for wood-carved masks in Chichicastenango Market; other great souvenirs include bold-coloured textiles, local pottery, and Caribbean clothing.

What to pack

Visitors should be sure to pack plenty of sun cream, a swimming costume, light summer clothes, a hat and sunglasses. Anyone who is a magnet for mosquitoes should also add bug-repellent. A waterproof jacket will be useful for the odd tropical downpour. Casual wear is frowned upon in town in the evening, so it's best to bring along a nice dress or a collared shirt and long pants for an evening out in St John's.

What's on in Antigua

Summer is festival time in Antigua. Each year the trade winds provide the stage for Sailing Week, the biggest maritime event in the Caribbean, with a great selection of world-class sailing and yachting races. For those not taking part, there are spectacular vantage points from which to take in the action, while also enjoying the scenery and some delicious local food and drink. The end of July heralds Summer Festival, a ten day long feast of steel pan drums, dancing, and vibrant colourful costumes. The Summer Festival ends with the Antigua Carnival, when the islanders parade the streets of St John in full masquerade costume.

Did you know?

-The highest point on Antigua was known as Boggy Peak. It was renamed Mount Obama in 2009 to honour the former US president on his birthday.

-Cricket is almost a religion in Antigua. Despite its small size, the island gave the world greats of the game such as Sir Vivian Richards and Curtly Ambrose.

-Antigua is one of the Leeward Islands, which separate the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean.

A final word

A friendly local welcome, endless white sand beaches, miles of coral reefs perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving, and the unique atmopshere and flavours of the eastern Caribbean await those lucky enough to arrive on the shores of Antigua and Barbuda.