Top Things to Do in Antigua: Must-See Attractions and Activities

Antigua, the larger of the two main islands in the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda, is a true tropical paradise. Known for its stunning beaches, historical sites, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s rich history, immersing yourself in local culture, or simply soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, Antigua has something to offer everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in Antigua.

1. Relax on Antigua’s World-Famous Beaches

Antigua boasts 365 beaches—one for every day of the year—each offering something unique. Whether you’re looking for tranquil solitude or a lively beach scene, Antigua’s shores deliver.

Dickenson Bay

Located on the northwestern coast, Dickenson Bay is one of Antigua’s most popular beaches. Its soft white sands and calm turquoise waters make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. This beach is also lined with restaurants, resorts, and bars, making it a great spot for those who want to enjoy beachside dining or a cocktail with a sunset view.

Half Moon Bay

On the east coast of Antigua, Half Moon Bay is more secluded and often less crowded, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. This crescent-shaped beach is renowned for its soft pink sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.

Jolly Beach

If you’re on the western coast, don’t miss Jolly Beach. Known for its long stretch of fine white sand and vibrant blue waters, it’s a great place for water sports, beach volleyball, or just lounging under the sun. With several resorts nearby, you can easily grab a drink or a bite to eat.

2. Explore Nelson’s Dockyard National Park

One of the most significant historical sites in Antigua, Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history buffs. Located in English Harbour, this site is home to the world’s only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard.

Historical Significance

Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed here in the 1780s, the dockyard played a crucial role in Britain’s naval operations in the Caribbean. Today, visitors can explore the meticulously restored colonial-era buildings, which house museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Things to Do

At Nelson’s Dockyard, you can visit the Dockyard Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the area. You can also hike the nearby trails that offer stunning views of English Harbour, Fort Berkeley, and Shirley Heights.

3. Take in the Views at Shirley Heights Lookout

Shirley Heights is one of the most famous vantage points in Antigua, offering panoramic views of English Harbour and the island’s lush landscape. The lookout is especially popular for its weekly Sunday evening parties, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy live steel drum music, barbecue, and spectacular sunsets.

Hiking and Exploring

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can hike up to Shirley Heights via the Lookout Trail, which starts near Galleon Beach. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the views at the top make it worth the effort.

Sunday Evening Party

The Shirley Heights Sunday party is an experience not to be missed. You can mingle with locals, enjoy live music, and feast on delicious food while watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Caribbean Sea.

4. Snorkeling and Diving at Cades Reef

Antigua’s clear, warm waters and abundant marine life make it an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving. One of the best spots for underwater exploration is Cades Reef, a two-mile-long barrier reef located off the southwestern coast of the island.

What You’ll See

At Cades Reef, you’ll encounter a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays, and even reef sharks. The shallow sections of the reef are ideal for snorkeling, while the deeper areas are perfect for scuba diving.

Boat Tours

Many tours in Antigua offer snorkeling and diving excursions to Cades Reef. These tours often include transportation, equipment rental, and guided underwater tours, making it easy for visitors to experience the beauty of Antigua’s marine ecosystem.

5. Visit Betty’s Hope

Betty’s Hope is a historic sugar plantation that dates back to the 17th century. Located in the eastern part of Antigua, it was once the largest sugar plantation on the island and played a significant role in the island’s colonial economy. Today, it serves as a cultural and historical site where visitors can learn about Antigua’s colonial past and the role of the sugar industry in the Caribbean.

Museum and Ruins

The site includes the restored ruins of two stone sugar mill towers, which were once powered by wind to grind sugar cane. The on-site museum provides insights into the lives of enslaved Africans who worked on the plantation and the island’s sugar industry during the colonial period.

Guided Tours

Visitors can take self-guided tours or participate in organized tours that provide in-depth information about the history and operation of the plantation. It’s a thought-provoking stop that offers a glimpse into Antigua’s complex history.

6. Explore the Antigua Rainforest

For adventure seekers, the Antigua Rainforest offers a chance to experience the island’s lush, tropical interior. Located near the village of Fig Tree Drive, the rainforest is home to various flora and fauna, as well as thrilling activities like zip-lining.

Zip Line Canopy Tour

One of the most popular attractions in the rainforest is the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour, which offers a series of zip lines, suspension bridges, and rope challenges. You’ll soar high above the forest canopy, enjoying breathtaking views of the tropical landscape below.

Hiking and Wildlife

If zip-lining isn’t your thing, there are also hiking trails that wind through the rainforest, offering a chance to see local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and lizards. The Fig Tree Drive area is also known for its banana, mango, and coconut plantations, making it a picturesque place to explore on foot.

7. Sail Around Antigua

Antigua is one of the best places in the Caribbean for sailing, thanks to its consistent trade winds and calm seas. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice, there are plenty of opportunities to take to the water and explore the island’s coastline from a new perspective.

Yacht Charters and Catamaran Cruises

There are numerous companies offering yacht charters and catamaran cruises around Antigua. Many of these tours include stops at secluded beaches, snorkel spots, and hidden coves. You can choose from half-day or full-day excursions, often accompanied by drinks, lunch, and even live music.

Antigua Sailing Week

If you’re visiting Antigua in late April or early May, don’t miss Antigua Sailing Week, one of the world’s premier sailing events. This week-long regatta attracts sailors and spectators from around the globe and features thrilling races, beach parties, and other festivities.

8. Visit Devil’s Bridge

Located on the northeastern coast of Antigua, Devil’s Bridge is a natural limestone arch that has been shaped over centuries by the powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the shore. This dramatic geological formation is not only a beautiful natural landmark but also carries historical significance.

A Natural Wonder

Devil’s Bridge gets its name from the belief that enslaved people would leap from the bridge to their deaths, believing they could escape their brutal conditions. The rugged coastline and the ferocious waves make it a sobering reminder of Antigua’s history.

Exploring the Area

Visitors can walk across the arch and explore the surrounding cliffs, where blowholes in the rocks send sprays of seawater high into the air during high tide. It’s a great spot for photography and offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature.

9. Enjoy Local Cuisine in St. John’s

The capital city of Antigua, St. John’s, is a bustling hub of activity where you can experience the island’s vibrant culture and savor its delicious cuisine. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can sample local dishes made with fresh, island-grown ingredients.

Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay

These two shopping districts in St. John’s are popular with visitors and offer a mix of restaurants, souvenir shops, and high-end boutiques. After a day of shopping, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that serve traditional Antiguan dishes such as saltfish and fungi, pepperpot stew, and fresh seafood.

Public Market

For a more authentic experience, visit the Public Market in St. John’s, where you can browse stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up local ingredients and get a taste of Antiguan daily life.

10. Take a Boat Tour to Barbuda

Just 30 miles north of Antigua lies Barbuda, a smaller, less developed island that is perfect for a day trip. Known for its pink sand beaches and pristine natural environment, Barbuda offers a peaceful escape from the busier island of Antigua.

Frigate Bird Sanctuary

One of Barbuda’s most unique attractions is the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, home to one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds. The sanctuary can only be accessed by boat, and a guided tour will take you close enough to see these magnificent birds up close.