Antigua & Barbuda

Beach Bliss, Sailing Breezes & Carnival Vibes

Holidays in Antigua & Barbuda

Your Guide to Antigua and Barbuda

Ever dreamt of stepping onto a different stunning beach every single day for a year? Welcome to Antigua and Barbuda, where that dream is (almost!) a reality, thanks to its legendary claim of 365 beaches! Picture perfect stretches of white and pink sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, all kissed by gentle trade winds. But it's not just about lounging (though it excels at that!). Antigua boasts a fascinating naval history centred around Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and pulsates with a passion for sailing, hosting world-renowned regattas.


This nation offers a captivating contrast: Antigua, the larger island, buzzes with resorts, restaurants, historical sites, and that famous Sunday night party at Shirley Heights. Then there's Barbuda, its sparsely populated sister island, offering an escape to utter tranquillity, famed for its seemingly endless pink sand beaches and incredible frigate bird sanctuary. For first-timers, Antigua provides classic Caribbean delights with easy access. For returners, exploring hidden coves, taking that trip over to Barbuda, or chartering a yacht offers fresh perspectives on this delightful duo.

Airports in Antigua and Barbuda

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V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU): Situated in the northeast of Antigua, not far from the capital, St. John's. All international flights, including direct services from the UK, arrive here.

Transport options in Antigua and Barbuda

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Authorised Taxis, Rental Cars (Antigua), Local Buses (Antigua).


Getting to Barbuda:


Ferry: The Barbuda Express catamaran offers regular service (around 90 minutes) between St. John's Harbour in Antigua and River Dock in Barbuda.

Official Spoken Languages

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The official language is English, making communication incredibly easy for UK visitors. It's spoken universally in all official capacities and throughout the tourism industry.


You'll also hear locals speaking Antiguan and Barbudan Creole English, a distinct dialect with its own unique rhythm and expressions, often used in informal settings. Standard English is always understood.

Weather & Climate

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For the most reliable sunshine and ideal conditions, aim for the Dry Season (Mid-Dec to Mid-May). If you're looking for better value and don't mind the chance of occasional showers (and accept the low background risk of storms), the Wet Season or shoulder months (May/June, late Nov/early Dec) can be great options. Note that the world-famous Antigua Sailing Week usually takes place in late April/early May.

Must-Visit Destinations in Antigua and Barbuda

An aerial view of a marina with boats docked in the water at English Harbour in Antigua

Discover History - Nelson's Dockyard

Immerse yourself in the Caribbean's maritime past at this immaculately restored Georgian naval base in English Harbour (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Wander through historic buildings housing museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Admire the stunning superyachts moored in the harbour and imagine life here in Admiral Nelson's time (he was based here in the 1780s). A must-see for history buffs and sailing enthusiasts.

A large group of people partying on top of a hill overlooking Shirley Heights.

Party at Shirley Heights Lookout

For the best panoramic view in Antigua and an unforgettable party atmosphere, head up to Shirley Heights overlooking English and Falmouth Harbours. Every Sunday afternoon (and often Thursday too), it hosts a legendary sunset party. Enjoy sizzling barbecue, potent rum punch, live steel pan music followed by reggae bands, and simply incredible views as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s touristy, yes, but an absolute blast and a quintessential Antiguan experience.

A woman is walking on a pink sandy beach in Barbuda

Barbuda Pink Sand & Frigate Birds

Take a day trip (by ferry or flight) or stay longer on Antigua's tranquil sister island. Prepare to be amazed by its vast, undeveloped beaches, including the famous Pink Sand Beach (best appreciated on the Atlantic side). The absolute highlight is a small boat tour into the Codrington Lagoon National Park to visit the Magnificent Frigate Bird Sanctuary, one of the world's largest colonies. Seeing the males inflate their huge red throat pouches during mating season (best Sept-April) is an extraordinary sight.

An aerial view of Dark wood beach with a lot of people on it.

Become a Beach Connoisseur

You can't visit the land of 365 beaches without sampling a few! For lively atmosphere and watersports, try Dickenson Bay or Runaway Bay near St. John's. For long stretches of white sand and calm turquoise water perfect for families, head to Jolly Beach. For stunning scenery and perhaps quieter vibes, explore southwest coast gems like Darkwood Beach, Ffryes Beach, or Valley Church Beach. Or venture to the beautiful, windswept Half Moon Bay on the southeast coast (a protected national park).

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Renting a car gives fantastic freedom to explore Antigua's nooks and crannies. Driving on the left is easy for Brits. However, roads can be narrow, sometimes bumpy, and signage isn't always perfect. Local driving can be... assertive. Don't rush, drive defensively, use a map or GPS, anticipate potholes, and enjoy the scenic routes rather than trying to speed. Remember to get your temporary local driving permit.

Car Hire is Great, But Chill Out Driving

While perhaps not as famous for diving as some neighbours, Antigua offers fantastic, easily accessible snorkelling right off many beaches. Spots like Galleon Beach (near Nelson's Dockyard - look for turtles!) or the reef just off Dickenson Bay are great examples. Packing your own mask and snorkel means you can spontaneously explore the underwater world whenever you find a promising cove. Boat trips to Cades Reef also offer superb snorkelling.

Bring Your Snorkel (Seriously!)

Steel pan music is the heartbeat of Antigua. Keep an ear out for live bands playing at hotels (many have weekly music nights), beach bars (especially on Sundays), restaurants, or special events like the Shirley Heights party. The infectious, melodic sound is pure Caribbean joy. If your visit coincides with Carnival (end of July/start of August), you're in for a real musical treat!

Tune into the Steel Pan

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$), pegged reliably to the US Dollar (approx. US$1 = EC$2.70). In reality, US Dollars are accepted everywhere in tourist areas, and prices are very often quoted in USD. Bring USD cash (smaller bills are useful) or use your credit/debit cards. Having some EC$ can be handy for very small local purchases (like snacks from a roadside vendor) or catching a local bus, but it's not strictly necessary for most visitors. ATMs dispense EC$.

EC$ vs US$: Easy Does It

Antigua & Barbuda: Sun, Sea, Sand, and Serenity

Antigua and Barbuda offer a truly delightful slice of the Caribbean. Famous for its seemingly endless supply of gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect destination for those seeking sun-drenched relaxation. Add in the rich maritime history, world-class sailing opportunities, and the unique natural beauty of Barbuda, and you have a winning combination.


With direct flights from the UK, English spoken everywhere, and a warm, friendly welcome, it's an easy and incredibly rewarding place to visit. Whether you dream of lazy days on deserted sands, exploring historic harbours, sailing into the sunset, or simply soaking up the laid-back island vibe, Antigua and Barbuda promise an idyllic escape. Your perfect beach awaits!