Antigua is located in the heart of the Eastern Caribbean, southeast of St. Kitts and north of Guadeloupe and Dominica. With a vibrant local culture, a beach for every day of the year, and gorgeous turquoise water, Antigua should be at the top of every beach lover and water enthusiast’s list of places to go. Beautiful beaches like Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church are perfect places for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling fun and many other water sports. If sailing is your thing then you definitely don’t want to miss Antigua’s Sailing Week, the most famous regatta in the world. What most people don’t realize though, is that there is more to this island than just the beaches.
History
Antigua has a rich history dating back to the Arawak trip that originally inhabited the island, along with British Colonial history and even some pirate legend. In fact Antigua was where pirate Captain John Fenn met his final demise!
Betty’s Hope : Betty’s Hope was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. Established in 1674 it stands as a reminder of the role of Antigua in the British Colonial Era. Betty’s Hope helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean. The site is now home to a comprehensive visitor’s center and museum dedicated to educating tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation.
Nelson’s Dockyard National Park : Located in English Harbor, Nelson’s Dockyard served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars. 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
From Nelson’s Dockyard visitors can also hike to Shirley Heights. The summit at Shirley Heights is almost 500 feet above sea level with amazing views of the islands of Guadeloupe and Montserrat.
St. John’s Saturday Morning Market
St. John is the capital of Antigua and is the center of island life. On Saturday mornings the St. John’s Saturday Morning Market brings in vendors from all over the island and is a wonderful way to connect with locals.
Accommodation Options on Antigua
Antigua offers a wide variety of accommodation options from opulent private island homes, yachts, boutique hotels, 5 Star hotels and luxurious all-inclusive resorts like Hermitage Bay and Sandals Grande Antigua.
Nightlife on Antigua
Shirley Heights 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.
Antigua truly offers an amazing Caribbean experience for travelers and visitors are guaranteed to have an amazing time in this island paradise.