This month on the blog, we are traveling to Antigua! It’s a picturesque island that people dream of visiting when they fantasize about a Caribbean getaway.
Antigua is categorized by its beautiful ocean views and turquoise blue waters. There is a lot more to this island than beautiful beaches like Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church. These are just the right places to enjoy sunbathing, water sports with the family, swimming, and snorkeling fun after all there are 365 beaches to enjoy! However, there is so much more to do on this island paradise. Today we are going to break down all you need to know about traveling to Antigua including when to travel, and our must-see attractions. Let’s dive in!
Where is Antigua?
This small island paradise is 108 square miles situated in the Caribbean east, southeast of St. Kitts, and north of Guadeloupe and Dominica. Unless you are traveling on a cruise ship there is only one way to fly into Antigua, St. John’s International airport. This is the main airport and where all international flights come in.
Traveling to Antigua: When Should I Go?
We recommend traveling to Antigua during the winter from mid-December to Mid-April. The weather is driest. This time of the year makes for the perfect destination to escape the cold winter and head to paradise as the temperature averages in the mid-80s. You’ll want to try to avoid planning your trip from July to November as this is the wet season, which brings increased rainfall and tropical storms.
Our Favorite Places In Antigua
Betty’s Hope
Betty’s Hope was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. It stands as a reminder of the role that Antigua played in the British Colonial Era. It was a plantation that helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean.
Established in 1674, it was named after the daughter of one of the former owners. The comprehensive visitor’s center and museum educate tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation. It also offers a way to step back into the past and understand Antigua’s rich history.
St. John’s Saturday Morning Market
St. John is the capital of Antigua and is the center of island life on Saturday mornings. This market draws in vendors from all over the island and provides a wonderful place for tourists to spend time. This market is a beautiful reflection of Antigua. You can get in touch with the locals, their incredible culture, and their fun way of life.
Nelson’s Dockyard National Park
Nelson’s Dockyard, located in English Harbor, served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). It also served as the headquarters for Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson from 1784-1787. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, shops, and even a museum where you can spend a fantastic day out in Antigua.
Shirley Heights
Shirley Heights is a great hike that you can take from the Dockyard. Shirley Heights is just under 500 feet above sea level, and the summit of this hike allows for views of Guadeloupe island and the active volcanic island of Montserrat, both located just to the south. It is also a prime spot for a great Sunday night party at the Shirley Heights Lookout Bar and Restaurant. For more nightlife fun head to Falmouth and English Harbors.
Traveling To Antigua Key Takeaways:
With a wide selection of markets, shops, and restaurants to tour while in Antigua, this island is filled with rich colonial history and offers plenty of activities away from the beach. Just remember our following tips and you’ll be sure to have a successful trip!
- The best time of year to travel to Antigua is Mid-December – Mid-April
- Avoid July – November, it’s the wet season and has increased rain with the potential for tropical storms
- While there are plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy, be sure to explore all that Antigua can offer such as a trip to Shirley Heights, or enjoying the rich history of Betty’s hope.
Are you ready to start planning your trip to Antigua? We’d love to help you plan your best trip yet, contact us now!
