The twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda are often described as the ‘Authentic Caribbean’—blessed with calm, turquoise waters, pink- and white-sand beaches, colourful wooden buildings and warm, friendly people. Once you’re stretched out—with the waves lapping at your feet, and rum punch in hand—you’ll know your life’s dreams are coming true.
There are so many reasons to stand up and explore vibrant Antigua and Barbuda. Experience a Shirley Heights sunset party. Dance a calypso at the 11-day Antigua Carnival in August. Immerse yourself in Sting Ray City. And sample the tropical cocktails and culinary delights at our welcoming Beach Shacks.
Antigua and Barbuda offers a laid-back and slow-paced tropical island experience for couples, singles and families. It is a place where you can relax, slow down, meet local people and make your own entertainment. With daily direct flights from London Gatwick, you can be on the beach within 9 hours of take-off.
No visit is complete without a sunset visit to Shirley Heights on a Sunday for the sound of steel drums and the aroma of lobster barbeques. Take a catamaran tour to go snorkelling. Commune with nature at Sting Ray City. For more active pursuits, try mountain biking or climb our tallest mountain, Bogey Peak.
The islands are teeming with restaurants offering fresh, mouth-watering seafood and fruits. Try Fungi and Conch curry, fresh and succulent lobster, juicy fruits like mango and black pineapple. And sample the many beach bars for great local food, English Harbour rum, our native Wadadli beer, and tons of fun.
When you sit behind the wheel of your rental car, you can forget about hailing taxis and memorising public transportation schedules. Because, with access to a car rental in Antigua and Barbuda, you’re free to travel where and when you want.
Besides breathtaking beaches, Antigua and Barbuda is marked by glamour, history and a thriving and authentic local culture
Accounting for 60% of GDP, tourism is the lifeblood of Antigua and Barbuda, where the islanders have a seemingly innate gift for hospitality. The warm spirit of the people and the islands’ stunning natural beauty combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Photos: Ministry of Tourism, CIU
Antigua and Barbuda is blessed with 365 stunning pink- and white-sand beaches – one for every day of the year. Yes, this is that Caribbean, the palm-fringed beach paradise people have always dreamed of. Antigua boasts amazing variety, from lively Dickenson Bay with its bars and water sports, to reefs and relaxation in secluded spots like Half Moon Bay. And with warm weather all year round, the Caribbean country offers those in the UK a tempting option to escape the depths of winter.
North Sound beach on the northeast coast of Antigua. Photo: Ministry of Tourism
CARNIVAL
Originally a celebration of the 1834 abolition of slavery, Antigua’s carnival is a splash of colour, tastes and a barrage of musical sounds from late July to early August.
July 27 – August 7, 2018
SAILING WEEK
Now 50 years old, Antigua Sailing Week has become one of the world’s most prestigious regattas. Crews from 20 countries come to compete and partake in some of the country’s best parties.
April 28 – May 4, 2018
DUTY-FREE SHOPPING
To complete a memorable trip, there is no better way than to look for a unique gift or luxury souvenir on Heritage Quay in St John’s.
Photos: Ministry of Tourism, CIU
