Ready for the ultimate Caribbean vacation? You can’t go wrong with a trip to Antigua and Barbuda! This Caribbean nation, which consists mainly of its two namesake islands, is one of the top destinations in the region for a reason. If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, you’ll want to make sure to keep this nation on your bucket list.
In this guide, we’ll go over ten of the best things you can do in the nation so that you can get the most out of your Antigua and Barbuda vacation!
Is Antigua and Barbuda Safe?
According to the State Department, travelers to Antigua and Barbuda are advised to exercise normal precautions on the island. This means that the nation is generally safe, though travelers should be on the lookout for normal petty crimes such as theft. Keeping this in mind, it’s possible to have an amazing, crime-free time while on the island.
To make sure you get to the island safely, it’s important to understand which Antigua and Barbuda airport in which you’ll be arriving. All inbound international flights arrive at St. John’s International Airport in Antigua. Unless you are arriving from another Caribbean island, your best bet is to make arrangements based off this.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Antigua and Barbuda Drinking Age
Not sure if you’ll be able to drink? The drinking age in Antigua and Barbuda may come as a bit of surprise: residents of the island are able to purchase and consume alcohol from the age of sixteen up. We are not advocating drinking or even underaged drinking in any way but just letting you know the rules!
Antigua and Barbuda Currency
Antigua and Barbuda uses the Eastern Caribbean dollar (roughly equivalent to one-third the USD). Keeping this exchange rate in mind will help you budget more appropriately for your trip.
Best 10 Things to Do:
Keeping this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda. If you’re looking for the best all-inclusive Antigua and Barbuda trips, we’ve got you covered:
1) Swim with the Stingrays
Consider yourself a daredevil? At Stingray City, you can swim the Antigua and Barbuda beaches with one of its most fascinating creatures: the stingray. Located just outside of Willikies Town, Stingray City will give you a crash-course on just how to interact with these creatures.
When you’re ready, you’ll be able to go out into the water and snorkel with them. Swimming with the stingrays offers you the perfect chance for that epic selfie. For this reason, make sure to add it to your itinerary while you’re in Antigua and Barbuda!
2) Visit Rendezvous Bay
When you’re done with this, consider taking a trip to Rendezvous Bay. Rendezvous Bay is home to the best Antigua and Barbuda hotels and resorts, where you can relax in ultimate style and comfort. This luxury area is a popular spot for honeymooners and couples looking for the perfect getaway. If you want to up the style of your next Caribbean vacation, make sure to spend some time in Rendezvous Bay!
3) See Betty’s Hope Plantation
The oldest plantation left on the islands, Betty’s Hope is well-worth an afternoon trip. Today it stands as a mix of restoration and ruins, with the two massive windmills that used to power its sugar cane development restored for tourism and the main house left mostly in shambles.
Credits: Betty’s Hope PlantationThe plantation was started in 1650 and thrived while the nation was still an English colony. A trip to Betty’s Plantation gives travelers a more in-depth understanding of the island’s history and culture. For this reason, make sure to add it to your own bucket list.
4) Experience the Bumpkins
Perhaps a better question would be, “Why not go to the Bumpkins?” This lively restaurant on Pidgeon Point Beach in Falmouth offers everything you could want for the best Caribbean eating experience. The restaurant is famous for its seafood seasoned with that Caribbean flair, but you’ll also love it for its extensive bar and alcohol options.
The Bumpkins is a great place to go for lunch or for a beer or two after you’re done sightseeing for the day. Expensive and with quality service, it definitely deserves to be on your itinerary!
5) Take a Trip to Jolly Harbor
Jolly Harbor is home to some of the best Antigua and Barbuda resorts. Boasting incredible restaurants, shops, and even a golf course, the area is one of the best and most popular for travelers!
Credits: Wikimedia CommonsGoing to Jolly Harbor Antigua and Barbuda is a great way to spend an afternoon with your family or significant other.
6) See the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
Want to know more about the local culture? Make sure to visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda! The museum is located in the colonial Court House, which is the oldest building still in use in the nation. Go to check out intriguing archeological finds and exhibits that showcase the history and the culture of the islands.
7) Go to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary
The Barbuda boat tour through the Frigate Bird Sanctuary is one of the most interesting activities you can undertake while you’re on the islands.
Credits: Peter Long, Flickr CC BY 2.0See an assortment of majestic wild birds as you ride through the still waters of the sanctuary!
8) Go to Shirley Heights Lookout
You can gain admittance to the stunning Shirley Heights Lookout by entering through Nelson’s Darkyard. This famed lookout rises approximately 500 feet above the water and offers a breathtaking look at the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. From your vantage point, you’ll also be able to seethe island of Antigua and the massive Monsterrat mountain in the distance. This makes the perfect photo opportunity and is a great place to go for couples! While you’re there, make sure to stay long enough to see the incredible emerald sunsets!
9) Shop Redcliffe Quay
Situated right by the sea, Redcliffe Quay is one of the finest shopping areas anywhere on the islands. Historically,
Credits: David Stanley, Flickr CC BY 2.0Redcliffe Quay is a former slave compound, but today it’s one of the most vibrant and distinguished parts of the city. Make sure to set aside some time to shop this one-of-a-kind location!
10) Visit Valley Church Beach
Valley Church Beach is one of the must-see destinations on the island for its light-blue waters and rising dunes of sand that will absolutely take your breath away. The beach is located south of Jolly Harbor and near Lignum Vitae Bay and offers the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the gorgeous Antigua and Barbuda weather!
With so much to take in, you may want to spend more than one afternoon in Valley Church. If so, you can easily book a room at one of the nearby guesthouses!
