There's so many reasons I could give for why Antigua and Barbuda should be on your bucket list, but I'm going to lead with a doozy: the beaches. The twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda are home to 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. I was dazzled by sparkling blue waters, the kind of bright azure I'd previously assumed could only be achieved with a liberally applied Instagram filter. There's a beach for everyone, from bustling beaches with stalls peddling tourist souvenirs, to empty swathes of white sands, home to only a lone palm tree. Time your trip right and you might even catch the pink sand beaches of Barbuda.
However, if for some reason beaches aren't your thing, there's plenty more draws to entice you. The gorgeous weather is an obvious one, with clear skies and sweltering sun that results in an envy-inducing tan as a memento of your trip (just remember your SPF!). Then there's the rum punch, served in lethal doses at every opportunity. The streets are a riot of colour, over-flowing with palm trees and bougainvillea framing pastel-hued houses. Luxury resorts and private pool villas provide a secluded retreat, whilst friendly no frills budget options and local bars offer an authentic Antiguan experience.
I was based on Antigua for a week, with a brief excursion to Barbuda, so most of my experiences are centred around the former. I've accumulated my adventures into an Antigua and Barbuda travel guide, with practical tips, things to do, and experiences to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
I was hosted on this trip by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, however all words and opinions are entirely my own. This blog post contains affiliate links, which means if you book through one of my links I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.
Things To Know
When to Visit: High season is December to April, when it's driest and the temperatures are most pleasant. It's more likely to rain from June to August, although showers tend to be brief. Hurricane season is July to November, however odds of one occurring are fairly low. I visited in mid May and had ideal weather for most of the trip, with the odd brief shower.
Currency: The local currency is East Caribbean Dollars (EC$), however USD is also widely used. Many places take card, however I'd recommend carrying some cash with you.
Getting Around: I was on a group trip so a lot of my transfers were pre-arranged. However if I returned I would probably look to rent a car, as I saw very few public transport options, and taxis around the Island can quickly add up. To get to Barbuda from Antigua there are various bookable tours, or a ferry.
What to Pack: Your swimsuit, of course. A beach towel will be useful if you're planning on beach hopping. SPF is a must - I took 30 and still got burnt, so I'd recommend going as high as you can. And learn from my mistakes and pack mosquito repellent!
Antigua Top 5: 01. Work on your tan by crystal clear waters. 02. Visit Shirley Heights on Sunday for a sunset party. 03. Drink rum punch, or Carib and Wadadli if you're a beer drinker. 04. Try Antiguan black pineapple. 05. Take a day trip to Barbuda.
Where to Stay in Antigua
Tamarind Hills
If you're looking for the perfect luxury escape, I've got you. Perched overlooking the dreamy blue water of Ffryes and Darkwood beaches, Tamarind Hills is a collection of suites and villas available both for hotel stays and to purchase (if I had the spare capital, I would definitely be tempted!). The interiors are low key but luxurious, with a distinctly bohemian aesthetic. Natural fibres and shades of beige offer a calming respite from the loud colours on display elsewhere on the Island. But fellow colour lovers never fear, as pops of fuchsia and bourgainvillea line the resort's many wandering paths.
In terms of amenities, there's a gym, which I told myself I would make it to daily, but somehow never did. Too busy basking in paradise! The communal pool is fairly small - if you have the means, I'd opt for a pool villa. Or just enjoy the crystal clear ocean at your doorstep! There's also two restaurants, Wild Tamarind and The Clubhouse. The former was a standout, with a decadent dining experience of international cuisine. Head to the latter for a light breakfast from a limited but adequate menu. If you get one thing though, make it a passionfruit daiquiri. So refreshing, you won't regret it!
Service can be a bit slow at times, but hey, this is the Caribbean. Also depending on where your room is located you may have to walk a fair bit, although there are shuttles when you're feeling lazy.
Things to do in Antigua and Barbuda
Beach Hopping
This one's a bit of a no brainer - you're in the land of 365 beaches, after all! There's a beach for everyone in Antigua and Barbuda, from built up resort beaches to deserted stretches of sand. I didn't quite manage to visit all 365 sadly (probably more like 3..?), but hey, a reason to return. Some of the best to check out are Dickinson Bay, Darkwood Beach, Ffryes Beach (pictured), Carlisle Bay, and Coral Bay in Barbuda for that famous pink sand.
Shirley Heights
The restored military lookout and gun battery of Shirley Heights is one of the best viewpoints on the Island, offering views down over English and Falmouth Harbours. Head up by day to admire the beautiful blues of the water below, or visit on a Sunday evening from 4pm to enjoy a sunset BBQ party that is one of the most legendary events on the Island. There is an admission fee of $15 USD, although I think this may vary due to time of day.
Barbuda Day Trip
You'll most likely be based on the Island of Antigua during your trip, but Barbuda is well worth a visit too. It's less developed with a single village and no big box resorts, letting the Island's natural beauty shine. Expect swathes of untouched sand, including unique pink sand beaches. It takes about an hour and a half to get to Barbuda from Antigua, a journey that can be made by private boat or ferry. Combine your trip with a visit to Nobu Barbuda (review below) for a truly luxurious excursion.
Swimming with Stingrays
Things I never thought I'd do before visiting Antigua: swimming with stingrays. I am no water baby, and even less of a fish person (unless we're talking sushi...). But I headed well outside of my comfort zone with a visit to Stingray City.
A short boat ride takes you to a jetty where you're met with numerous friendly (and harmless!) stingrays, which you're able to interact with and feed for an hour, as well as snorkelling in the area. Before the trip the staff guide you through what to expect and how to interact with them.
The water is shallow so it's suitable even for poor swimmers as you can easily stand for the duration. The stingrays themselves are amazing to see up close, although I stopped short at feeding them, because I'm a wimp.
Back on land we were greeted by some seriously strong rum punch - make sure to line your stomach first!
Shop My Antigua Wardrobe
Explore St John's
St John's is the capital and main port of Antigua and Barbuda, and features many of the island's sights including the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda and St John's Cathedral. It's a colourful, vibrant place to explore, particularly down at Riverside Quay. Head here for authentic local restaurants and bars, although be warned that out of season when there's no cruise ships docked a lot of things are closed.
Cooking Class
One of my favourite afternoons in Antigua was spent in the home of local Nicole, learning to cook jerk chicken. We were split into groups and talked through the preparation of a jerk marinade, alongside sides of pineapple salsa and a coconut custard dessert. It all went to plan until the rum punch came out and we all got a bit distracted! But we all came together to enjoy the finished meal at a beautiful outdoor dining table, enjoying views out to St John's below. A truly unique experience, and a great way to meet people and learn something new.
Where to eat in Antigua & Barbuda
Must-Try Antiguan Dishes
01. Black Pineapple
Antigua grows it's own variety of pineapple, known as the black pineapple. It's sweeter and less acidic than the usual varieties. Not all pineapples on the island are the black variety as production is fairly modest, so make sure to check!
02. Rum Punch
Rum is the tipple of choice in Antigua, with two main local brands: English Harbour and Cavalier. More often than not you'll find it served up in a fruity rum punch, but be warned: the locals like it strong!
03. Saltfish
Fish and seafood is a must generally in Antigua, but for a more local take, try saltfish, which is usually white fish such as Mahi Mahi or Cod preserved by salt-curing.
04. Conch
For a more uniquely Antiguan seafood experience, try the local conch. It's most often served deep fried in the form of fritters, or in a chowder.
05. Jerk Chicken
It may have originated in Jamaica, but jerk chicken is popular throughout the Caribbean. You'll find it on most local menus in some form, and unsurprisingly it's much tastier (and spicier!) than any UK adaptations.
Rokuni
Chic beach club and restaurant Rokuni takes Antigua's local fish and seafood and transforms it into an Asian-inspired dining experience in elegant, tranquil surrounds. If you can step away from the epic infinity pool, the menu is full of hits, including dumplings, sushi, and particularly moreish fried spicy rice. Everything is delicious, but honestly I was too busy running around taking photos of every aesthetic corner to give you a full review.
Nobu
Celebrity chef Nobu has eponymous seafood and sushi restaurants worldwide. However, it's hard to imagine any can offer a more unique experience than the Barbuda outpost. Set on the kind of pristine, white sand beach that could be the dictionary definition for "paradise" is an at first sighting fairly unassuming beach club and restaurant. On closer inspection it's low-key but sophisticated, with airy, neutral decor that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The food is all the hits of Nobu, including sashimi, sushi, and a particularly delectable miso black cod that I could happily eat for every meal. Get to dessert and you'll be rewarded with a melt in the mouth cheesecake, well worth saving some space for.
Other Antigua Restaurants to Visit
- Big Banana in St John's, which has an ample menu of international staples including pizzas, pastas and burgers
- The Pop Up Beach Bar in Jolly Harbour, a casual beachside spot with good vegetarian and vegan options. Don't over order, portions are generous!
- Wild Tamarind at Tamarind Hills, Ffrye's Beach. Mediterranean dishes with Caribbean ingredients make for a delicious high-end dining experience overlooking the beach.
- Hemingway's Cafe in St John's. A rustic local spot to try traditional Caribbean dishes. This was actually closed when I planned on visiting so sadly I didn't make it, so please report back if you go!
Till next time, beautiful Antigua. Let me know in the comments if you've found this guide helpful, or if you have another other suggestions for things to do in Antigua and Barbuda!
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Your Barbuda trip with Barefoot Antigua looked awesome – hope you had a great time!