Antigua, with its 365 stunning beaches—one for each day of the year—invites travelers to discover its turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and rich history. While the island is a favorite among tourists, there’s a depth to Antigua that only a local can fully unveil. This guide dives into the best tours and excursions, offering insider tips that will transform your trip intoTop things to do in Antigua.
1. Beach-Hopping Tour: Discovering Antigua’s Coastal Gems
Dickenson Bay: The Quintessential Beach Experience
Start your beach-hopping adventure at Dickenson Bay, located in the northwest of the island. This beach is perfect for those who want a classic Caribbean experience with soft white sand and calm waters. It’s also a hub for water sports, offering activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. The nearby restaurants and bars provide a great spot to relax and enjoy some local cuisine.
Half Moon Bay: A Secluded Paradise
For a more secluded experience, head to Half Moon Bay on the eastern coast. This crescent-shaped beach is less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat. The waters here are great for snorkeling, especially near the rocky areas where marine life is abundant. Pack a picnic and enjoy the pristine surroundings.
Darkwood Beach: A Local Favorite
Darkwood Beach, located on the southwest coast, is a favorite among locals. The beach offers stunning views of Montserrat, and the waters are crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are a few small beach bars where you can grab a drink and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere.
Turner’s Beach: The Sunset Spot
End your beach tour at Turner’s Beach, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. This beach is perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a relaxing end to a day of exploration. The waters are calm, making it ideal for a leisurely swim before you settle in to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
2. Historical Tours: Walking Through Antigua’s Past
Nelson’s Dockyard: A Glimpse into Naval History
Nelson’s Dockyard, located in English Harbour, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history buffs. The dockyard is the world’s only continuously working Georgian dockyard and is steeped in naval history. Take a guided tour to learn about its significance during the 18th century and explore the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the dockyard’s past.
Shirley Heights: Panoramic Views and Historical Ruins
Just a short drive from Nelson’s Dockyard is Shirley Heights, a military lookout that offers some of the best panoramic views of the island. The site is home to the ruins of military buildings, and the lookout was once used to keep an eye out for enemy ships. Visit on a Sunday evening to experience the famous Shirley Heights Sunset Party, where you can enjoy live music, local food, and a vibrant atmosphere as you watch the sun set over English Harbour.
Betty’s Hope: A Journey Through Plantation History
For a deeper dive into Antigua’s colonial past, visit Betty’s Hope, the island’s first sugar plantation. The restored windmills and visitor center provide a glimpse into the harsh realities of plantation life. The tour includes an informative walk through the plantation grounds, where you can learn about the island’s sugar industry and the enslaved people who worked there.
St. John’s Cathedral: An Architectural Marvel
In the heart of Antigua’s capital, St. John’s, stands St. John’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The cathedral, with its twin towers and intricate woodwork, is a testament to Antigua’s colonial history. A guided tour will take you through the history of the church, which has been rebuilt several times since its original construction in 1683. The surrounding cemetery is also worth a visit, with tombstones dating back to the 18th century.
3. Adventure Excursions: For the Thrill-Seekers
Zip Lining in the Rainforest: An Aerial Adventure
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour offers an exhilarating zip-lining experience. Located in the heart of the island’s lush rainforest, this tour allows you to soar through the treetops and enjoy breathtaking views of the island’s interior. The course includes multiple zip lines, suspension bridges, and a challenge course, making it a fun and adventurous way to explore Antigua’s natural beauty.
Off-Road Jeep Safari: Exploring the Island’s Hidden Gems
An off-road jeep safari is the perfect way to explore Antigua’s rugged terrain and hidden spots that are off the beaten path. Local guides lead you through the island’s back roads, where you’ll discover secluded beaches, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. The tour often includes stops at historical sites and natural attractions, such as Devil’s Bridge, a natural limestone arch carved by the Atlantic Ocean.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Exploring Antigua’s Underwater World
Antigua is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, making it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Local dive shops offer excursions to some of the best spots around the island, including Cades Reef and the Pillars of Hercules. These sites are teeming with marine life, from colorful fish to sea turtles, and offer an unforgettable underwater experience.
Kayaking in the Mangroves: A Serene Exploration
For a more tranquil adventure, consider a kayaking tour through Antigua’s mangroves. These eco-tours take you through the island’s coastal wetlands, where you can paddle through narrow channels and observe the diverse flora and fauna. The mangroves are home to a variety of bird species, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a stingray gliding through the shallow waters.
4. Cultural Tours: Immersing in Local Traditions
Local Market Tour: A Taste of Antigua
One of the best ways to experience Antigua’s vibrant culture is through its food. Join a local market tour in St. John’s, where you can explore the bustling stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. The tour often includes a cooking demonstration, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Antiguan dishes like pepperpot and ducana. Don’t miss the chance to try some freshly made conch fritters or black pineapple, the island’s sweet and juicy signature fruit.
Carnival Experience: The Heartbeat of Antiguan Culture
If you’re visiting Antigua in late July or early August, you’re in for a treat. Carnival is the island’s biggest cultural event, a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and local traditions. Join a Carnival tour to experience the festivities up close, from the colorful parades to the lively calypso and soca music. The energy and excitement of Carnival are contagious, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Rastafari Experience: Understanding the Movement
Antigua has a rich Rastafarian culture, and a visit to a local Rastafari community offers a unique insight into this way of life. The tour includes a visit to a Rastafarian farm, where you can learn about organic farming practices and the principles of Ital living. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste Ital food, a natural and healthy cuisine central to the Rastafari diet, and engage in discussions about the movement’s history and beliefs.
Art and Craft Tour: Supporting Local Artisans
Antigua is home to a thriving community of artists and craftsmen, and an art and craft tour is a great way to support local talent. The tour includes visits to galleries and workshops, where you can see artisans at work and purchase unique, handmade souvenirs. Whether it’s intricate pottery, vibrant paintings, or hand-woven textiles, these pieces are a reflection of Antigua’s rich cultural heritage.
5. Eco-Tours: Embracing Antigua’s Natural Beauty
Bird Watching at Barbuda: A Haven for Avian Enthusiasts
A short boat ride from Antigua takes you to its sister island, Barbuda, which is a haven for birdwatchers. The island’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary is home to one of the largest colonies of frigate birds in the world. A guided boat tour through the sanctuary allows you to get up close to these magnificent birds, known for their distinctive red throat pouches. The tour also includes a visit to the island’s pristine beaches, where you can relax and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Barbuda.
Hiking in the Shekerley Mountains: A Scenic Adventure
The Shekerley Mountains, located in the southwest of Antigua, offer some of the best hiking trails on the island. The trails take you through lush forests, past historical ruins, and up to panoramic viewpoints that offer stunning views of the coastline. A local guide can provide insights into the flora and fauna, as well as the history of the area. The hike to Mount Obama, the highest point on the island, is particularly rewarding, with breathtaking views of both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Kayaking and Snorkeling at North Sound: A Marine Paradise
North Sound, a protected area on the northeast coast of Antigua, is a paradise for eco-tourists. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for Kayaking in Antigua, allowing you to explore the mangroves, lagoons, and uninhabited islands that make up this beautiful marine environment. The area is also great for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and a rich diversity of marine life. A guided tour will take you to some of the best spots, where you can see everything from colorful fish to starfish and rays.
