Antigua and Barbuda: What to Know Before You Go
- Sarah Brooks
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: 14 minutes ago
Before you plan you trip, let's dive into the basics!
Antigua and Barbuda is the sixth Caribbean island I've visited and I'm not exaggerating when I say it stole my heart! If you’re a beach lover, this paradise is a dream come true. Antigua has some of the most stunning white and pink sands and crystal-clear water.
But if you know me, I'm not exactly a lay on the beach all week kind of gal! So, while everyone raves about the famous 365 beaches (yep, one for every day of the year!), there’s also a treasure trove of other great experiences both on land and in the water. Here's a quick rundown of everything I learned during my visit and some tips to make your trip as smooth as possible!
Let's get started with the basics!
Where to stay in Antigua
You have some choices when it comes to where to stay in Antigua. The island has several distinct popular areas, each with its own unique vibe depending on what you’re looking for. I had the chance to visit three of the most notable spots. As a travel advisor, I can help you decide what would be the best fit for your stay! Here’s a quick rundown based on my experience.
Dickenson Bay
This is where I stayed during my trip and I loved the atmosphere here. It’s one of the island’s most popular beach areas, packed with beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife. If you’re into water sports, Dickenson Bay has so many options (think jet skis, parasailing and horseback riding in the surf.) Plus, it’s conveniently located close to the capital of St. John’s and just a short drive from the airport. There are plenty of great all-inclusive resorts here. It's very diverse, so I'd recommend Dickenson Bay for couples, families, or groups.
English Harbour
English Harbour has a more laid-back, low-key feel compared to Dickenson Bay and much chiller beaches. I'd call it 'sailor chic.' It’s a fantastic spot if you’re a history buff. Nelson’s Dockyard is a must-see for its rich colonial heritage and sailing culture. The vibe here is sophisticated and relaxed, with some amazing boutique hotels to choose from. The beaches are smaller but much less crowded, which make it very peaceful. I fell in love with it for the amazing hiking trails!
The East Side
The east coast of Antigua is home to some of my favorite beaches on the island and there are a ton of fun things to do. It is on the tourist circuit and is popular with organized tour companies, but nothing was over crowded and I loved everything we did. Some of my best memories were made here!
We went snorkeling at Stingray City, visited the natural wonder of Devil’s Bridge and toured the historic Betty Hope sugar plantation. Despite all of the tour companies driving the tourists around, it never felt overwhelming or annoying. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts, making it a great choice for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Getting around Antigua - Driving and renting a car
Renting a car in Antigua and Barbuda is hands-down the best way to explore the island at your own pace. I highly recommend it! Having the freedom to discover hidden beaches, local restaurants and scenic viewpoints without being tied to a tour really made our trip super special.
Some caveats, though: Be ready to drive on the left side of the road and be prepared for an utter lack of traffic rules! Road conditions are also definitely something to keep in mind. Expect a lot of potholes, unmarked speed bumps and narrow rural roads..
The east side of the island has more modern, well-maintained roads compared to the west, but you’ll still want to drive cautiously everywhere. Speed limits are low (20 mph in towns, 40 mph in rural areas) and signage can be minimal. Having a co-pilot to help with directions is a huge plus, especially when navigating roundabouts or trickier intersections. GPS is a must; but be warned it will take you longer to get literally anywhere than the Google map tells you!
Overall, driving in Antigua is totally doable and worth it for the adventure!
The Beaches
Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches and for good reason!
The best thing about Antigua’s beaches (aside from their stunning beauty, of course) is that every single one of them is open to the public. Don’t be intimidated by the luxury resorts who may make it look like they are private; you can freely access any beach on the island!
Even the most popular beaches are rarely crowded, and you’ll find plenty of space to relax and enjoy the turquoise waters. Many beaches offer chair and umbrella rentals for about $5USD. The rates vary, but are relatively inexpensive. Be sure to have some cash on you, as most vendors don’t accept cards.
Check back for my post on my favorite beaches; as well as the best places to eat and my favorite activities on the island!
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