Discover Antigua and Barbuda: A Caribbean Paradise
The Eastern Caribbean former British colonies of Antigua and Barbuda are renowned for their stunning beaches, with Antigua claiming a beach for every day of the year and Barbuda offering secluded pink-sand shores. These islands attract celebrities and travelers alike, seeking sun, surf, and serenity.
Antigua is the main tourist destination, with its vibrant capital, St. John's, and historical sites like the naval port. Visitors can also enjoy swimming with stingrays. Barbuda, known for its tranquility and natural beauty, is a haven for bird watchers and those seeking peace and quiet. Both islands offer a plethora of water sports and scenic golf courses.
Plan your Caribbean escape with this guide to the top attractions in Antigua and Barbuda.
1. Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Half Moon Bay, located at the southeastern end of Antigua, is a breathtaking beach protected by a reef, offering excellent snorkeling and challenging surf conditions. Amenities include a snack-serving restaurant, chair, and umbrella rentals.
2. Stingray City, Antigua
Stingray City provides an unforgettable experience where visitors can feed and swim with friendly stingrays in a shallow pool surrounded by a tropical reef. This popular attraction is a must-visit for an up-close encounter with these graceful creatures.
3. 17 Mile Beach, Barbuda
Barbuda's 17 Mile Beach is an exquisite, remote stretch of pink sand and clear waters, perfect for long, undisturbed walks. Accessible by boat or helicopter, it's an ideal spot for a secluded beach day, with tours often including lunch.
4. Dickenson Bay, Antigua
Dickenson Bay is a bustling beachfront with resorts, restaurants, and a variety of water sports available. It's also a hotspot for windsurfing and offers sun loungers and umbrellas for a relaxing day by the sea.
5. Nelson's Dockyard National Park, Antigua
This UNESCO World Heritage Site in English Harbour is the world's only continuously operating Georgian dockyard. Visitors can explore historic buildings, museums, and nature trails, offering stunning views and a rich history.
6. St. John's, Antigua
St. John's, the capital city, is a colorful mix of colonial architecture, markets, and the iconic St. John's Cathedral. Shopping is a popular activity, with duty-free shops and local markets offering a variety of goods.
7. Devil's Bridge: Indian Town National Park, Antigua
Indian Town National Park features the natural limestone Devil's Bridge, with hiking trails and bird watching opportunities in a rugged coastal setting.
8. Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
This museum in St. John's offers insights into the islands' history, with exhibits on geological origins, colonial history, and independence.
9. Fig Tree Drive, Antigua
A scenic drive through rainforest and villages, Fig Tree Drive showcases local life, with roadside fruit stands and attractions like the Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tours.
10. Frigate Bird Sanctuary, Barbuda
Home to a large colony of frigate birds, this sanctuary is a prime spot for bird watching and is accessible only by boat.
11. Darby Cave, Barbuda
Darby Cave is a unique sinkhole with lush vegetation resembling a rainforest, offering a contrast to the surrounding dry brush.
12. Martello Tower, Barbuda
This historical fortification, one of the oldest in the Caribbean, survived Hurricane Irma and offers coastal views from its intact stone walls and gun platform.
Antigua and Barbuda's attractions offer a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities, making these islands a perfect Caribbean destination.