The Best of Antigua & Barbuda: Antigua and Barbuda are unique as a twin-island nation known for their stunning beaches, vibrant culture and rich history. Antigua boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, while Barbuda is celebrated for its expansive pink sand beaches and large lagoon. Their culture is a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences, with strong traditions in music, dance, and cuisine.
Antigua is famously known for having 365 beaches – one for every day of the year – a testament to its extensive coastline and numerous coves and bays. Barbuda boasts unique pink sand beaches, like Princess Diana Beach, where tiny crushed red coral fragments create a rosy hue along the shoreline.
Antigua and Barbuda offer a compelling mix of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and distinct ecological features that set them apart in the Caribbean. To learn more about all the beautiful beaches on the island of Antigua and Barbuda, visit here, or visit us on Pinterest.
Why Visit Barbuda & Antigua?
You might want to visit Antigua and Barbuda if you’re looking for a multifaceted Caribbean getaway offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, history, culture, and natural beauty. Antigua boasts a beach for every day of the year, providing endless opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. If you’re seeking a tranquil escape, Barbuda’s untouched beaches, including its striking pink sand beaches like Princess Diana Beach, offer a secluded and idyllic setting. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous exploration of nature, or a journey through history and culture, Antigua and Barbuda offer a diverse and unforgettable experience.
Best Beaches in Barbuda & Antigua
Choosing the “best” beach in Antigua and Barbuda is subjective and depends on your preferences. Some like secluded beaches with calm waters, while others prefer more lively atmospheres with facilities. Both islands offer stunning options.
Antigua
- Dickenson Bay Beach: This beautiful beach is known for its white sand, clear blue water, and amenities like bars, restaurants, water sports, and beach chair/cabana rentals. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
- Long Bay Beach: Located on Antigua’s eastern coast, this beach is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling. It features a coral reef close to shore, making it great for snorkeling. It also offers shade, restaurants, shops, and water sports activities.
- Deep Bay Beach: Features beautiful white sand, calm and clear waters, and is great for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature.
- Galleon Beach: Situated near English Harbour, Galleon Beach offers a peaceful setting with calm, clear waters, beautiful scenery, and opportunities for snorkeling, including exploring shipwrecks and potentially seeing turtles.
- Pigeon Point Beach: This beach features calm waters, soft sand, and offers scenic views, along with amenities like bathroom facilities and affordable food. It’s a good choice for families and picnics.
- Rendezvous Bay Beach: Secluded and beautiful, Rendezvous Bay offers crystal clear water and soft sand, though it requires a hike or 4×4 access.
- Ffryes Beach: Known for its turquoise waters, white sand, and quiet atmosphere. It’s a beautiful spot for swimming and offers incredible views.
- Fort James Beach: White sandy beach with clear waters, great for swimming and potentially horseback riding. It is considered one of the safest beaches in Antigua.
Barbuda
- Princess Diana Beach: This beach is renowned for its stunning, long stretch of soft white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. It is a tranquil and serene escape, ideal for walking and swimming.
- Pink Sand Beach: Known for its unique pink sand caused by tiny crushed shells, this beach is a popular attraction, offering calm waters and a great swimming area. The intensity of the pink color can vary with the weather.
- 17-Mile Beach: A wild and natural beach with soft pink sand and crystal clear water, considered by some as one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches globally. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility.
Best Restaurants in Barbuda & Antigua
Choosing the “best” restaurants in Antigua and Barbuda is subjective and depends on your tastes, budget, and desired dining experience (casual vs. fine dining, etc.). However, here are some highly-rated and popular options on both islands, based on various sources:
Barbuda
- Uncle Roddy’s Beach Bar & Grill: Known for its delicious food, especially the grilled lobster, amazing rum punch, and the perfect setting by the beach in Codrington. Reviewers praise the fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere.
- The Sage Table Barbuda: Offers a warm atmosphere and great food, including well-seasoned lobster and perfect fries. It is an unassuming place with fabulous food, according to reviewers.
- Nobu Barbuda: Offers Japanese cuisine and seafood in a high-end setting.
- The Mangrove Restaurant: Features a blend of gourmet French and Barbudan cuisine, along with a selection of fantastic wines, within the Codrington Lagoon Park.
- Wa’Omoni Bestaurant: Features Barbudan burgers, including those made with conch, deer, fish, shark, shrimp, or lobster. Also offers flavorful stews like conch or goat meat stew, according to reviewers.
Antigua
- Sheer Rocks: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Sheer Rocks offers stunning views and a romantic setting. They feature a Mediterranean-inspired menu with fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients, alongside a tasting menu and delicious cocktails. Guests can also enjoy plunge pools for private hire.
- The Cove Restaurant at The Blue Waters Resort: This luxurious restaurant is known for its French-Caribbean fusion cuisine and mesmerizing views from its clifftop location. It’s ideal for a fine dining experience, but note that there’s a dress code for evening dining.
- Le Bistro French Restaurant: Antigua’s first authentic French restaurant, it has been serving classic French dishes with Caribbean influences since 1981. Reviewers praise the excellent food, service, and atmosphere, making it perfect for a luxurious dining experience.
- Five Senses Antigua: This restaurant offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors set against the backdrop of Antigua’s coastline. Guests describe the food as immaculate and the service attentive, with amazing views adding to the experience.
- Catherine’s Cafe: Located on Pigeon Point, is lauded for its beachfront setting and French-inspired menu. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere with delicious food and excellent service, according to reviewers.
Top Beach Resorts in Antigua & Barbuda
Both Antigua and Barbuda boast stunning beaches and offer a variety of resorts to suit different preferences. Here are some of the top beach resorts on both islands, based on user reviews and ratings:
Antigua
- COCOS Hotel (Antigua): Situated on Valley Church Beach, this all-inclusive, adults-only hideaway offers cottages with sea views. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views, private beaches, excellent food, and friendly staff. COCOS Hotel has a 4.9-star rating with almost 1800 reviews. Prices average $496 per night.
- Hammock Cove Resort & Spa: A 5-star, all-inclusive resort located next to Devil’s Bridge National Park. It features villas with plunge pools and offers restaurants, bars, and a spa. Reviewers love the excellent food, the staff’s attentiveness, and the beautiful white sand beach with clear water. Hammock Cove boasts a 4.8-star rating.
- Keyonna Beach, Antigua: This couples-only, all-inclusive resort on Turner’s Beach offers airy rooms and cottages. It’s known for its outstanding service, pristine beach, delicious food, and comfortable rooms. Keyonna Beach has a 4.8-star rating and over 840 reviews.
- Galley Bay Resort & Spa: Situated on a quiet bay, this adults-only resort offers lush tropical landscapes and beachfront suites. Guests consistently praise the top-notch food, fun activities, and beautiful beach. Galley Bay Resort & Spa has a 4.7-star rating.
- Blue Waters Resort and Spa: This 5-star resort features 3 beaches, 3 restaurants, and multiple pools set in beautiful gardens. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff, delicious food and cocktails, and beautiful private beaches with watersports. Blue Waters Resort and Spa holds a 4.6-star rating.
Barbuda
- Barbuda Belle Luxury Beach Hotel: This unique oceanfront sanctuary features private bungalows situated in Codrington Lagoon Park. Guests appreciate the beautiful beachfront setting, delicious food, and wonderful staff. It is praised as “the epitome of Caribbean luxury” by one reviewer.
- Jumby Bay Island: Located on a private island, Jumby Bay Island offers a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with villas and suites spread along the beach. It is considered one of the best resorts in the Caribbean with exceptional service, food, and rooms.
- Barbuda Cottages: These beachfront cottages offer a more rustic yet comfortable experience, directly on the beach. They are known for being clean and comfortable, with a convenient on-site restaurant serving good food.
- North Beach Island: An all-inclusive resort on a largely deserted beach, North Beach Island is ideal for those seeking seclusion and a truly tranquil escape.
- Emerald Sands, Barbuda: This beachfront house provides a quiet and private stay with the sound of the ocean and breezes, according to one reviewer. It comes equipped with amenities including laundry facilities and beach gear like snorkels and chairs.
Antigua & Barbuda Weather – Best Time to Visit
Antigua and Barbuda enjoy a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination throughout the year. However, there are some seasonal variations to consider when planning your trip:
Dry season (mid-December to May)
- Best time for reliable weather: This period offers the most consistently dry, sunny, and warm weather, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor pursuits.
- Temperatures: Average daily temperatures are comfortable, in the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 30°C).
- Busiest time: This is considered the high tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodations.
- Key events: Antigua Sailing Week, one of the largest regattas in the Caribbean, takes place during this time (late April to early May).
Wet season (June to November)
- Higher chance of rain: While there’s a greater chance of rain during these months, particularly from July to November, showers are typically brief and followed by sunshine, rarely disrupting plans significantly.
- Hurricane season: This period overlaps with the official hurricane season in the Caribbean
- Lower prices and fewer crowds: If you’re on a budget or prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, this can be a good time to visit, with attractive deals on accommodations and less crowded beaches and attractions. However, the risk of hurricanes in Antigua and Barbuda is considered relatively low.
- Lush scenery: The rainfall can make the island’s landscape even greener and more vibrant.
- Key events: Antigua’s Carnival, a lively celebration with music and dance, takes place during late July and early August.
- Best for wind sports: The increased winds during this period make it an ideal time for activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing.
Key Things to Know When Visiting Antigua & Barbuda:
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and major hotels, but fares are fixed, not metered. Confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your trip. Taxi drivers often also act as tour guides.
- Public Transportation: Antigua has a public bus system, operating between St. John’s and surrounding villages from 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. However, buses do not stop at the airport or the northern tourist area. Buses can be crowded and schedules may be unpredictable, especially in Barbuda where public transport is limited.
- Island Hopping: A ferry service connects Antigua and Barbuda, with the journey lasting about an hour and a half. You can also take charter flights or private boats between the islands.
- Crime: Antigua and Barbuda have a low crime rate, but petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas or during annual festivities. Avoid displaying valuables, carrying large sums of cash unnecessarily, or walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, or in isolated areas.
- Greetings: Politeness and friendliness are valued. Greeting people with a smile and a simple “Good morning” or “Good afternoon” is appreciated.
- Dress Code: While beachwear is acceptable on the beach, more conservative dress is expected in towns and villages, and when visiting religious or formal settings. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or beach attire to restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants may have stricter dress codes, so it’s best to check beforehand.
- Prohibited Clothing: It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing or print in Antigua and Barbuda, unless you are in military uniform.
This sounds absolutely dreamy — I had no idea Antigua had 365 beaches! I love that you highlighted both the luxury side of Antigua and the quiet, untouched vibe of Barbuda. The pink sand beaches sound like something out of a movie. I’m also really drawn to the cultural mix you mentioned — music, dance, and food always make a trip more memorable. If I wanted to experience both islands on the same visit, do you think it’s easy to hop between them?
You’d fall in love with both islands — and yes, it’s very doable to see them in one trip! The ferry ride between Antigua and Barbuda takes about an hour and a half, or you can take a short charter flight for a faster hop. Many travelers spend a few days soaking up Antigua’s lively beaches and dining scene, then retreat to Barbuda for that quiet pink-sand escape. It’s the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and adventure — which side do you think would be your favorite?
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Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend around 7 to 10 days total—about 5 days in Antigua and 2 to 3 in Barbuda. That gives you time to enjoy Antigua’s variety of beaches, cultural sites, and dining spots while still leaving room to unwind in Barbuda’s peaceful pink-sand paradise. Antigua is great for activities and exploring, while Barbuda is all about slowing down and savoring the calm. Together, they make a perfect Caribbean balance of adventure and relaxation.
Antigua and Barbuda look so beautiful! Thank you for the recommendations and travel guide. You mentioned hurricane season and being off season. After these recent hurricanes I think I wouldn’t risk going during that time! Perhaps due to the hurricanes, the rates may go down in general.
Yes, the rates do go down in general during the hurricane season, as that is their off season. It is still a great time to go. This year was bad for hurricanes, but that is certainly not the norm. If saving some money, while being on a dreamy Caribbean beach is something that appeals to you, then just check the weather before planning. They seem to have it down to a science as to if and when a hurricane might show up 🙂 Thanks for reading the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide 🙂
What a delightful travel guide of Antigua and Barbuda, you have covered everything!
I can’t even Imagine how much stress relief I could get from walking on the pink beach, just amazing!
Do you know if the restaurant La Bussola is owned by Italian? My husband is Italian and in the case of missing familiar foods that could be of great help ( you know how Italians are… They can even bring pasta with them in the luggage
Chuckling about the pasta in the suitcase 😀 I am glad you enjoyed the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide. Yes, there are actually a lot of Italian restaurants in Antigua. Your husband will feel right at home 🙂 Thanks for visiting!
The indepth knowledge of this place sounds amazing and also the Pink beach! Im in love haha…I have actually wanted to visit Antigua, as I have a good friend who has vacationed there. She made it sound like paradise, and after reading your article on Antigua, I do believe that it is paradise! Thanks for all the great information, I now have everything I need to plan a great vacation!
You are very welcome Dorothy! I am sure that once Antigua starts receiving visitors again, that you will have a wonderful time visiting the island of Antigua! Thanks for reading!
I’ve never been to the Caribbean but this sounds lovely and I would hope that with 365 beaches you would be able to find somewhere that isn’t crowded. The site has a lot of good resources for anyone looking into traveling to these islands. Plenty of information on what to do and where to stay. I am definitely ready to plan my vacation to one of the wonderful Caribbean Islands that you have given so much information on!
Hi Jeremy,
Everybody needs to experience the Caribbean. Whether you are a beach lover, or a history buff, or just like the Caribbean culture and atmosphere, there is something for everyone. I hope that you can plan a trip to one of these beautiful islands soon!
These areas look truly breathtaking, I wish I could be there now!
Seeing as how you first mention that it has 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, leaves almost endless possibilities of gorgeous views to see right off the bat!
The weather also has me wanting to go there considering I have lived in the same state of Wisconsin for my whole life and I get sick of the frequent cold weather that comes and goes.
One of the outdoor activities that caught my attention is the Stingray City one and seeing as how I was never good with swimming and afraid to go underwater most of the time, I would not mind learning about going under with snorkel gear. I also would be interested in going on a sailing cruise.
I looked at some of the restaurants you mentioned and I think the Coconut Grove looks and sounds amazing! The chicken Linguini Pasta sounds good to me and it looks to have a breathtaking view!
In terms of the hotels, I say the Galley Bay Resorts and Spa definitely caught my eye when I visited their site. The rooms look great, the outside environment feels breathtaking, and overall seems like a great escape!
My question is, which of these areas would you say is the most exciting out of the places you visited? Also, what would you be looking forward to checking out during your next visit?
Sounds like you are ready to go to Antigua and Barbuda! Honestly, there are quite a few good restaurants, beaches, and things to see and do that I would want at least two weeks for a visit. The place I am looking forward to travelling to? I am actually planning a trip to Aruba. My son graduates next year, and I want to take him on a Caribbean beach vacation, as he loves to surf, so I know he would have a blast. Why Aruba? I guess because, it is not a particularly heavy Caribbean hotspot, so a hair cheaper for hotels and such. Also, I don’t like to be wall to wall on the beach with other people 🙂 Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com.
Thanks for posting this article. I have wanted to go to Antigua and Barbuda for a long time but didn’t know anything about the islands, the culture or anything really. I had just seen some pictures, and decided this was an amazing place I wanted to experience.
After reading your article on these beautiful islands, I know loads more about the islands in terms of what to do, what its known for and when the best time of year to go is.
I know that hurricane irma recently did a lot of damage to the islands but I was wondering how frequent is it for them to be affected by natural disasters such as Hurricanes?
Jacob, you would absolutely love Antigua and Barbuda. Since the early 1950’s, Antigua along has been hit with 16 hurricanes, not all destructive. This is about the biggest natural disaster that hits these two islands, plus tropical storms. It will take some time to rebuild Barbuda who was right in Irma’s path.
I am glad you learned something about the islands, along with all the things you can see and do on the islands. Thanks for reading the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide.
wow! 365 beaches! That is amazing! The pink beach and Devil Bridge is now at the top of my MUST SEE PLACES. Thank you for the heads up on the Frigate bird sanctuary knowing that I need to book this trip in advance will save me some time. It is so helpful knowing what time of year is best to avoid the crowds!
Yes Lizel, I thing that Pink Beach and Devil Bridge are two must see places. Not to mention the bird sanctuary. I just love the birds 🙂 I am glad I could help fill in some of your planning 🙂
I love the Caribbean and have visited many of the islands. But I have not made to these islands yet. Hopefully, I get there someday.
This is a great resource for visiting these islands. So much in depth information about restaurants, hotels and things to see. I love getting a local taxi as a local tour guide. The tours are so much more personal than the organized tours. I had one taxi take me by his home and I met his mother and whole family.
Hopefully, these islands are able to recover quickly from these recent hurricanes.
I do hope they recover quickly as well. So much beauty to share with the islands visitors. Thank you for reading and glad you enjoyed the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide.
Firstly I am so sad to hear about the damage from the recent hurricane. I hope people there are keeping strong & staying safe.
As for your travel guide, oh my… it is such a complete one. To me, places like these are really like paradise & I hope I get there one day. I think I will definitely feel at home with its weather, as I am from the tropical country of Malaysia.
There are so many interesting places that you have covered in your article & really, they sounded like paradise!
Great guide and I think it will definitely be of a great help for anyone who is planning a trip to Antigua & Barbuda.
I am glsd you enjoyed my comprehensive Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide 🙂 Thanks for visiting!
Such a comprehensive post with beautiful photos and website ❤
It makes me want to travel further when my kids are older. I’ll make sure to visit this website for references.
Thanks for sharing, Leahrae ☺
You are most welcome Safrina 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com!
Hello there,
Antigua is a heaven on earth based on your article and the picturesque photos.
I want to jump into these shallow transparent waters and never get out.
And I for sure will visit ‘Ana’s on the beach’.:)
Thank you for basically planning my trip for me, LOL
It’s too pity that nature was cruel to this paradise but I hope that everything will come to together again for them!
You are very welcome Asen! I am glad you have found your destination to start planning a vacation to! Thanks for visiting the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide.
I had no idea there were deer on any Caribbean islands. I like to visit places during their off season to save money and avoid the crowds. I really enjoyed the video. It looks absolutely amazing. It looks like there’s something for everyone, whether you are active or just want to relax. I also like that there are historical sites. I like to do at least one thing educational on each of my trips.
Yes, Antigua has a nice mix of sun, beaches, history, and wildlife! Perfect for anyone really. Glad you enjoyed reading the Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide. Let me know if you need any other information.
I have fallen in love with your website and look at it every chance I get. On my blog spot I have added a link to your website since I think this is probably the best I have come across 🙂 in my 15 years in the diving industry.
What would be your favourite place to visit ?
Thank you so much Cath! Boy, that is a tough decision. If I went with the states, it is hands down St Pete in Florida. Then Cabo in Mexico and Aruba, Anguilles, an Saba 🙂 Those are all wonderful 🙂 Thanks for visiting my Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide!
Ya, how awful to read about the incredible damage the hurricane left behind. It will probably be at least 6 months to a year before they will be able to rebuild enough to entertain tourists again. I am looking up your site to ascertain whether great deals can be had, considering the economic plight of the islands ? We would love to visit Aruba, but it is usually way too expensive. What do you recommend ?
Yes, Barbuda got hit really hard, yes Antigua was mostly untouched. I guess that is a blessing in disguise and Barbuda evacuated to Antigua. I would definitely go in off season when rates go way down. The weather is still wonderful. The only downside is that some islands do close down to make their annual repairs during off season. The other idea is to plan way ahead, and get everything booked in advance so you can take advantage of the lower rates. Aruba can be quite affordable actually if you go in their off season and they are not in the Hurricane Belt either. So, I really would check into the rates for off season if that is a time frame that is doable for you. If you let me know when you want to travel, I can give you my recommendations. Thanks Rico, for visiting my Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide.