It's a dream destination - a beautiful twin island with miles and miles of pristine white sand beaches lined with palm trees and surrounded by the most magnificent turquoise waters.
However, Antigua and Barbuda is so much more than that. This is a very laid back twin island with friendly locals, a rich history to explore and lots to see and do.
Year-round temperatures in the mid-80s and below-average humidity make for the perfect vacation.
Antigua is more than just a beautiful island with miles of pristine white sand beaches
What's more, British Airways flies to the English-speaking island six times a week from London Gatwick in winter and five times a week in summer, so getting there is easy.
But what makes Antigua so special? Here are just a few things that make it great. . .
best booth
Explore nearly a mile of soft sand surrounded by crystal clear waters at Half Moon Bay
Oh where to start? With 365 beaches, it's impossible to have everything you want, as each has its own appeal.
But Half Moon Bay is stunning—nearly a mile of white sand and warm blue water—and the beach is featured on social media a lot. With so many beaches, they're rarely crowded, but if you want some seclusion, head to Re Bay in the south.
Snorkelers will love Long Bay Beach, while windsurfers and kite surfers will enjoy Jabberwock Beach, while Dickenson Bay is great for families.
Sail away...
Head out to the calm waters surrounding Antigua and see this island gem from a whole new perspective
Located in the heart of the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, Antigua offers perfect conditions for sailing with mild, warm winds and safe anchorages.
This is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Every April, the world-famous week-long regatta is held. It is a good place to learn sailing. Alternatively, you can charter a yacht, book a catamaran tour or take an eco-boat tour to really see the beauty of the island from shore.
beautiful barbuda
Barbuda's breathtaking pink sand beaches are an experience not to be missed
Don't miss Antigua's stunning Sister Islands, just a 90-minute boat ride away. Explore by buggy or country tour, visit Matello Tower and Highland House ruins to explore its history, or relax on the pink sand beach (yes, it's really pink).
Explore caves, watch turtles (go to Low Bay, Two Feet Bay and Princess Diana Beach) and fish for pike. Bird watchers should not miss the magnificent Fregat Bird Sanctuary...
adrenaline heaven
Whether on foot (pictured left, Pinching Bay Hike) or on horseback (pictured right, horseback riding at Jamesburg Beach), there are plenty of ways to explore this beautiful country and get your heart pumping
Antigua is also a five-star paradise for adventurers, offering water sports of almost every kind, whether you're a diver, kayaker, paddle boarder or (any kind of) surfer. There's even a "powered snorkel" - a device that keeps you afloat at the touch of a button.
The adrenaline rush is equal in this country - try zip lining, UTV (all terrain vehicle), Jeep or buggy, horseback riding, hiking, climbing Mount Obama...the list goes on.
With the Caribbean...
Here in Antigua and Barbuda we take pride in our beaches and we mean it. But it's also true that the beach is just the beginning. What sets us apart is our people and our culture...multidimensional, multicultural, textured people with turbulent histories and complex realities, real stories, stories that I'm just beginning to tell.
The antroba and okro we grow, the pepper pots we boil and eat; the mas we play at carnivals; the art we make; the rhythms we beat on oil barrels and djembe; our calypsouls are all reflections of our lives. It's not postcard perfect, and while our beaches, frigate bird colonies and offshore islands are certainly perfect, it's just a bird's eye view.
On Earth, in the villages and communities where we create life, we are whole beings and when we laugh you know we mean it because we don't do things halfway.
Joanne C. Hillhouse, Antigua and Barbuda award-winning author
unforgettable food
Surrounded by stunning waters, Antigua has incredibly fresh seafood (you have to try the conch), and a farm-to-table ethos, which means it has some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.
For a real Antigua experience, head to Shirley Heights for their Sunday Sunset Party, where locals and tourists alike gather to eat, drink and have fun...be sure to try some of the island's sweet black pineapple during your stay.
lover's paradise
From exploring secret beaches and balmy sunsets to dining by the lapping waves, Antigua is full of romance.
Whether you're in love for the first time, on your honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary, this is the island for perfect memories that will last forever.
In fact, Antigua takes romance so seriously that it offers a "Love Passage" every June, when visiting couples are whisked through the airport to their resort... the start of an unforgettable romantic getaway.
many festivals
Antigua has one of the best carnivals in the Caribbean, an exciting mix of traditional and modern culture, masquerade balls, parades and parties to steel band and calypso music every July-August. Carnival is in full bloom. Good time to visit.
Paradise Hotel
Whether you want an all-inclusive, adults-only haven, private pool or something more basic, British Airways Holidays has a range of hotel options to suit you.
For timeless elegance, British Airways Holidays recommends Antigua's destination specialistsBlue Ocean Resort & Spa.
Situated on a private bay on the North West coast, this property is a colonial dream set in 17 hectares of tropical gardens and has been owned by the same family for over 40 years.
For something more family-friendly, tryRoyalton Antigua,An all-inclusive resort with three swimming pools, eight restaurants, five bars, and even a spa for some quality time.
instant history
Named after Christopher Columbus' visit in 1493, it's an island steeped in history. Start at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson's Dockyard and home of the great British admirals of the late 18th century, and the former sugar plantation of Betty's Hope, with its fully restored sugar mill tower .
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson Dockyard was home to the great British admiral at the end of the 18th century
Also on your list should be the colorful capital of St. Petersburg. St. John's Cathedral with its fascinating museum and the striking St. John's Twin Towers. Cathedral of John.
a happy miracle
Healthy living comes naturally in Antigua, fresh food is on the table and exercise is easy, after all, who wouldn't want to hike, bike or kayak amidst such stunning scenery?
But the island also takes the art of pampering very, very seriously, with dozens of spas offering top-notch treatments.
whether you choose timeless elegancecurtain bluffspa, romantic settingGaray Bay Resort & Spaor the award-winning Red Lane Spaold sandals, you will come home easier than ever.
*For more information and to book your Antigua vacation tripba.com/antigua
British Airways - Your Gateway to the Caribbean
British Airways flies to 14 different Caribbean islands - more than any other British Airways.
Their in-house travel agency British Airways Holidays provides a full service from flights and hotels to car hire and airport transfers.
All British Airways holidays are ATOL protected, including a 23kg baggage allowance per person as standard, and a 24-hour holiday helpline to ensure you have peace of mind throughout your holiday.
It's so easy to book a fantastic tourbritish airwaysBecause you can secure your holiday with a low deposit of £75 per person, with flexible payment options available before you fly*.
*Terms and conditions apply. Deposits are required 7 weeks in advance for long-haul flights. lookba.com/depositfor reference only.
FAQs
10 reasons why Antigua is home to barefoot luxury…? ›
When it comes down to it, the reasons to love Antigua are all tied into the things the island is most known for: its beautiful white sand beaches, sailing, the 18th century Nelson's Dockyard, its culinary delicacies, the largest nesting colony of frigate birds in the Caribbean, and much more!
What's special about Antigua? ›When it comes down to it, the reasons to love Antigua are all tied into the things the island is most known for: its beautiful white sand beaches, sailing, the 18th century Nelson's Dockyard, its culinary delicacies, the largest nesting colony of frigate birds in the Caribbean, and much more!
Why is Antigua and Barbuda so expensive? ›Antigua's cost of living is more expensive than other Caribbean countries due to a high demand of visitors coming to its shores. Because of its beauty and exclusive services, it is a highly sought after destination by tourists and expats alike.
What is the quality of life in Antigua? ›| Purchasing Power Index | 33.41 | Very Low |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Index | 43.04 | Moderate |
| Health Care Index | 30.56 | Low |
| Climate Index | ? | |
| Cost of Living Index | 74.46 | High |
Additionally, the country has a low crime rate and a stable economy. The cons of living in Antigua & Barbuda include the high cost of living, limited job opportunities, and the lack of public transportation. Additionally, the country is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters.
What makes Antigua and Barbuda unique? ›Antigua & Barbuda is a Caribbean island of unique beauty, with its white-sand beaches, lush tropical vegetation, and rich cultural heritage. It is geographically located within the windward islands in the Lesser Antilles.
What jewelry is Antigua known for? ›Antigua is one of the only countries where you can find lavender-colored jade. These beautiful and unique gemstones are transformed into breathtaking pieces of jewelry — truly a special find when shopping in Antigua.
Is Antigua a rich island? ›Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean's most prosperous nations, thanks to its tourism industry and offshore financial services.
What is the most expensive part of Antigua? ›Go all out for Antigua: Welcome to Jumby Bay, the island's most expensive resort.
Why is Antigua a good place to visit? ›Historic sites, tasty cuisine and a lively cultural scene can all be found on Antigua. But most often it's the beauty and versatility of the island's 365 beaches that draw travelers from afar.
What part of Antigua is best to live? ›
What are the best towns to live in Antigua and Barbuda? The list of best cities to live in include: St Johns, Falmouth Harbour and English Harbour, Dickenson Bay and Jolly Harbour.
Is property expensive in Antigua? ›From 2019, the real estate market of Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing an upswing — it is growing by 5% per year. According to Global Property Guide, the average price for two-bedroom houses is about $350,000, and for three-bedroom and up properties is about $600,000.
Can an American live in Antigua? ›As an American, moving to Antigua is possible. Thanks to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, Americans relocating to Antigua and Barbuda are eligible along with their entire families to receive the Antigua and Barbuda passport in exchange for an economic investment.
What to avoid in Antigua? ›Be vigilant at all times. Take care when walking alone off the busy main roads and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark. Only use licensed taxis and take particular care at late night street parties, especially during the festival season. Don't carry large amounts of cash or jewellery.
Which is better Bahamas or Antigua? ›Antigua is more authentic than the Bahamas, and tends to be quieter. Antigua is in the Caribbean and has therefore a true Caribbean culture. If you prefer to go to a Caribbean destination, then you would love Antigua. If you just want convenience and beaches during your holiday, you might prefer Bahamas.
Should you drink the water in Antigua? ›DRINKING WATER
The tap water on the island is relatively safe and if often used for ice cubes. That being said it can still cause upset stomachs due to the difference in composition to the water you would normally drink.
The culture of Antigua and Barbuda (local creole pronunciation, Antiga and Barbueda) is a classic example of a creole culture. It emerged from the mixing of Amerindian (Carib and Arawak), West African, and European (primarily British) cultural traditions.
What do you call someone from Antigua? ›Antiguan may refer to: Antigua, the main island of Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua and Barbuda, a sovereign state in the West Indies. A person from Antigua. List of Antiguans and Barbudans.
Is Antigua a third world country? ›According to the definition from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Antigua and Barbuda are a developing country because of its lower economic performance. In terms of revenues, Antigua and Barbuda rank only 72nd in the world and, with an average annual income of 15,780 USD are one of the high-income countries.
What is the symbol of Antigua? ›The PINEAPPLE surmounting the arms represents the famous Antigua Black Pineapple. The red HIBISCUS flowers are symbolic of the many varieties that bloom in the Nation. The golden SUN and the wavy blue and white BANDS symbolise the Sea, Sun and Beaches.
What are the 8 national symbols of Antigua? ›
- THE PINEAPPLE. On the top of the Heraldic helmet represents the famous sweet Antigua Black Pineapple.
- THE RED HIBISCUS. Flowers represent the many types of plants found in Antigua.
- THE SUGAR MILL. ...
- THE SHIELD. ...
- THE YUCCA PLANT. ...
- THE DEER. ...
- THE SCROLL.
Antigua has over 365 beaches, all pristine with white sand and surrounded by turquoise waters.
Does Oprah Winfrey have a house in Antigua? ›The result: Antigua has been developing a reputation for top-end properties, with the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson and Eric Clapton buying homes here. And it has started to close the budget gap that followed the global economic downturn and a subsequent fall in tourism, the island's main employer.
What is the richest Caribbean islands? ›Which is the richest island country in the world? In terms of GDP per capita, Bermuda is the wealthiest Caribbean country and one of the richest island countries in the world.
What is Antigua main source of income? ›Tourism continues to dominate Antigua and Barbuda's economy, accounting for nearly 60% of GDP and 40% of investment.
Who visits Antigua the most? ›The U.S. market continues to dominate as the main source market with 52.5 percent of the total visitor arrivals while the U.K., Antigua and Barbuda's second largest source market contributed 39.5 percent of the total visitor arrivals.
What is high season in Antigua? ›December to April is Antigua's high season and the coolest, driest time of year, with an average daily maximum temperature of around 28.5°C. The wet season runs from mid-June to mid-November and can have short spells of heavy rainfall and nighttime thunderstorms.
How much is a bottle of water in Antigua? ›...
Cost of Living in Antigua And Barbuda.
| Restaurants | Edit |
|---|---|
| Lettuce (1 head) | 7.60EC$ |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 4.10EC$ |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 30.00EC$ |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | 6.42EC$ |
Is Antigua just another tourist town? Yes, it is, but there's no denying its beauty or its reasons for being such. At the end of the day, whether you're passing through for a few days or staying longer, it is still an amazing place to explore for yourself.
What language is spoken in Antigua? ›English is the official language in Antiqua and Barbuda. Spanish is spoken by around 10,000 inhabitants. The Barbudan accent is slightly different from the Antiguan. In the years before Antigua and Barbuda's independence, Standard English was widely spoken in preference to Antiguan Creole.
Is healthcare good in Antigua? ›
The medical care provided by doctors and hospitals in Antigua and Barbuda is above average, but is not as good as the average within the EU. The country provides 2.9 hospital beds per 1,000 inhabitants. The global mean here is 2.9 beds. Within the EU, 4.6 beds are available for every 1,000 residents.
What month is best for Antigua? ›The best time to visit Antigua is winter through spring. From mid-December through April, Antigua has pleasant temperatures and relatively little rainfall. May and June are also good months to visit Antigua, even though temperatures rise slightly and rainfall increases.
Is it safe to walk around Antigua at night? ›In the daytime, the charming cobblestone streets of Antigua are safe for tourists, even if you are traveling alone. At night, the streets are equally safe, just don't make yourself an easy target by being under the influence.
Is Antigua a good place to buy property? ›It is clear that the islands of Antigua & Barbuda offer good potential for investment in property, particularly if the purchase is to be made as part of an application for Citizenship by Investment and even more so if the investor is looking to use the property themselves rather than renting it out.
How much money do you need to retire in Antigua? ›Make a $100,000 donation to the government National Development Fund. Buy a $400,000 pre-approved property. The investment must be maintained for at least five years.
How many Americans live in Antigua? ›A great deal of the country's population lives abroad in the U.K. (Antiguan Britons), Canada, and the United States. There are also about 4,500 Americans in Antigua and Barbuda.
What is the average income in Antigua? ›The national gross income per capita in Antigua and Barbuda increased by 1,250 U.S. dollars (+8.6 percent) in 2021 in comparison to the previous year. In total, the national gross income amounted to 15,780 U.S. dollars in 2021.
How long can a US citizen stay in Antigua? ›Validity. A Tourist Visa-on-Arrival is granted on arrival and will be valid for entry and stay into Antigua and Barbuda within the period of its validity subject to conditions specified. A single entry Tourist Visa-on-Arrival is granted for a stay up to 30 days.
Can Americans drink water in Antigua? ›When daylight saving time takes over in the U.S., then Antigua's time is the same as the eastern United States. Water -- Tap water is generally safe to drink here, but many visitors prefer to drink only bottled water.
Is Antigua a tax haven? ›Antigua and Barbuda is not a tax haven, but it has a tax regime that offers many advantages for expats. For example, tax residents don't pay Antigua inheritance tax or Antigua capital gains tax.
Can you swim in the ocean in Antigua? ›
Can I swim on the Antigua beaches? Of course, you can! What is this? You should know that the coast from St John's to the English Harbour on the side of Jolly beach it's the west coast of Antigua washed by the Caribbean sea where the sea is calmer and it's very easy to access to the water.
Does Antigua have a mosquito problem? ›Weather: The weather in Antigua is mostly warm and tropical. The best temperatures are usually experienced between March to August. September to November are particularly hot and humid. As with most tropical islands there is the risk of insect bites from mosquitoes and sand flies.
Is Antigua safe from hurricanes? ›The wettest months are September to November, but there are usually still plenty of sunshine hours in the day. The official hurricane season falls between July and November, although the risk of hurricanes is very low.
What is the #1 Caribbean island? ›The Dominican Republic is the most visited island in the Caribbean. With its seemingly endless white-sand beaches, the Dominican Republic is a popular getaway for tourists searching for an idyllic vacation, plenty of outdoor adventure, and a tinge of colonial history.
Is Antigua or St Lucia better? ›If you're more into kicking back on perfect white sand beaches then Antigua is perfect. However, if you have more of a thirst for adventure, then you should choose St Lucia. As with any holiday destination debate, this argument depends on what you want from your escape.
What is the best money to use in Antigua? ›Although other currencies are accepted, the best currency for Antigua is the Antigua currency- XCD or the USD. When traveling to this beautiful paradise, be sure to get prepared beforehand.
Is the food safe to eat in Antigua? ›You can eat at food carts, but when in doubt… stay with a restaurant. Antigua is not as third world as the rest of Guatemala and the food in restaurants is safe to eat. Ice and drinks in restaurants are made with purified water. Bottled water can be purchased everywhere.
What drink is Antigua known for? ›Sipping Rum
Rum is the main alcoholic beverage on Antigua since the rum trade literally built the island.
Antigua is more authentic than the Bahamas, and tends to be quieter. Antigua is in the Caribbean and has therefore a true Caribbean culture. If you prefer to go to a Caribbean destination, then you would love Antigua. If you just want convenience and beaches during your holiday, you might prefer Bahamas.
Is Antigua rich or poor? ›Antigua and Barbuda is one of the Caribbean's most prosperous nations, thanks to its tourism industry and offshore financial services.
What language do they speak in Antigua? ›
English is the official language in Antiqua and Barbuda. Spanish is spoken by around 10,000 inhabitants. The Barbudan accent is slightly different from the Antiguan. In the years before Antigua and Barbuda's independence, Standard English was widely spoken in preference to Antiguan Creole.
Is Antigua an expensive place to visit? ›On average, hotel and accommodation budget on Antigua and Barbuda is 72% more expensive than in the United States (USA).
Is Antigua mostly black? ›Afro-Antiguans and Afro-Barbudans are Antiguans and Barbudans of entirely or predominantly African (notably West African) ancestry. According to the 2013 Census, 91% of Antigua and Barbuda's population is Black and 4.4% is Mulatto.
Who is the richest person in Antigua? ›Calvin Edward Ayre (born May 25, 1961) is a Canadian-Antiguan entrepreneur based in Antigua and Barbuda. He is the founder of the Ayre Group, Bodog entertainment brand and CoinGeek.com media.
Which Caribbean is the richest? ›In terms of GDP per capita, Bermuda is the wealthiest Caribbean country and one of the richest island countries in the world.
What is the drink of Antigua? ›Rum is the main alcoholic beverage on Antigua since the rum trade literally built the island.
Can you use US dollar in Antigua? ›The official currency of Antigua is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is fixed to the US dollar. * US currency, travelers checks, and major credit cards (excluding AMEX) are accepted.
Can you drink water in Antigua? ›When daylight saving time takes over in the U.S., then Antigua's time is the same as the eastern United States. Water -- Tap water is generally safe to drink here, but many visitors prefer to drink only bottled water. Weather -- The average year-round temperature ranges from 75°F to 85°F (24°C-29°C).