Antigua holidays

Popular holidays

Holidays to Antigua set you up with postcard-worthy beaches, historic harbours, and sun-drenched tropical scenery.

Island life

When it comes to tropical escapes, Antigua’s one of the Caribbean’s big hitters. The beaches are the envy of its island neighbours, and if you head inland, colourful townhouses and pistachio-green countryside come to the fore. Delve a little deeper, and you’ll see the colonial footprint of 17th-century British settlers in the form of sea-facing forts and retired cannons.

Best for beaches

The island’s coast is peppered with strips of champagne-coloured sand, which is where its nickname – the Land of 365 beaches – comes from. They range from secluded coves, where the shorelines are footprint-free, to lounger-lined sweeps with luxe hotels over their shoulder.

Slogging and sailing

Sport in Antigua’s all about bats and boats. The locals eat, sleep and breathe cricket, and the island’s home to one of the game’s all-time greats – Sir Viv Richards. Leave the wicket-mad capital, St John’s, and you’ll see that sailing takes centre stage in the south. Every year, yachts from around the world make a beeline here for Antigua Sailing Week – a series of races around the Caribbean, which attracts thousands of spectators.

Popular hotels in Antigua

Facts about Antigua

Capital

St. John's

Currency

East Caribbean Dollar

(XCD)

Population

93,306

Language

English

Time zone

GMT +4

Flight duration

10 hours from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What should I pack for Antigua?

For Antigua, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sun protection essentials. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses. Include insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful beaches and landscapes.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Antigua?

When visiting Antigua, it's polite to greet locals with a friendly "hello" and dress modestly when visiting towns or churches, keeping beachwear for resort areas. It's important to know that wearing camouflage clothing is illegal for civilians and can result in fines or confiscation. Tipping is customary in restaurants, and leaving a small amount for hotel staff and taxi drivers is appreciated for good service.

Where are the best places to shop in Antigua?

For shopping in Antigua, we recommend exploring St. John's, the capital. You'll find duty-free shops at Heritage Quay and local crafts at Redcliffe Quay. Many resorts also offer on-site boutiques. For a unique experience, visit the Saturday morning market in St. John's for local produce and handmade goods.

Should I tip in Antigua?

Tipping is appreciated in Antigua, though not always expected. In restaurants, a 10-15% service charge is often included in the bill. If not, leaving 10-15% is customary. For taxi drivers and tour guides, rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is common practice.

What are the best beaches in Antigua?

Antigua features 365 beaches around the island. Head to Dickenson Bay for watersports and facilities, Half Moon Bay for crescent-shaped sands and Atlantic surf, or Jolly Beach for its long stretch and calm Caribbean waters.

Where can I try local food in Antigua?

To experience traditional Antiguan cuisine, we recommend trying local restaurants in St. John's or English Harbour. Look for dishes like fungee (cornmeal and okra), pepperpot stew, and saltfish. Many resorts also offer local specialties. For a unique experience, visit a local fish fry in villages like Urlings or Seatons.

What's the nightlife like in Antigua?

Antigua offers a relaxed Caribbean nightlife centered around beach bars and live music. Head to English Harbour for sailing atmosphere and rum bars, or St John's for local venues featuring calypso and reggae music.

What travel adapter do I need for Antigua?

When visiting Antigua, you'll need a Type A or Type B plug adapter. These are the standard North American-style plugs with two flat parallel pins. Most hotels in Antigua use 110V electricity, similar to the US, but it's always best to check your devices for compatibility.