Curator’s statement
Antigua offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a dreamy and ultra-relaxed Caribbean vacation. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, the island beckons travelers to unwind in paradise. Whether indulging in luxurious resorts, exploring historic sites, or simply relaxing on one of its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Antigua is the ideal retreat where time seems to slow, and the vibrant culture and natural beauty make you feel a world away from your worries! For those looking for adults only options, Antigua is absolutely spoiled for choice, but it also offers plenty of options for families.
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Where to stay
Hermitage Bay
All-inclusive resort with 30 eco-luxury suites, a fine dining restaurant and an infinity pool in Antigua and Barbuda.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Curtain Bluff
All-inclusive resort set on a rocky bluff in Antigua & Barbuda with two restaurants, a spa, and four tennis courts.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check in/out, whenever possible.
Galley Bay Resort & Spa
Situated on the stunning shores of Antigua, Galley Bay Resort and Spa is a tropical paradise that combines natural beauty with luxury. This adults-only resort offers an idyllic escape with its pristine beaches, lush gardens and azure waters. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, rejuvenate at the spa and partake in various water sports and outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a tranquil retreat, Galley Bay Resort and Spa provides the perfect setting to unwind and immerse yourself in the Caribbean's splendor.
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Escape to a romantic paradise at Cocos Hotel in Antigua. This intimate boutique resort is perched on a hillside, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Experience barefoot luxury in charming cottage-style accommodations, enjoy personalized service, and unwind on secluded white-sand beaches. With breathtaking views, a tranquil atmosphere, and a focus on romance, Cocos Hotel Antigua offers an idyllic retreat for couples seeking an unforgettable Caribbean getaway.
Hammock Cove Resort & Spa
A new addition all-inclusive on Antigua’s northeast coast, with 41 villas and delicious cuisine in the six bars and restaurants.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 credit for food / beverage or spa.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out based upon availability at check-in.
Keyonna Resort
All-inclusive boutique hotel with airy rooms and a private beach area.
Sandals Grande Antigua
An all-inclusive resort with white-sand beaches, refined accommodations and generous amenities.
Admiral's Inn and Gunpowder Suites
Discover timeless elegance and Caribbean charm at Admiral's Inn and Gunpowder Suites, where historic grace meets modern luxury.
Nonsuch Bay Resort
Escape to paradise at Nonsuch Bay Resort, where azure waters meet unparalleled luxury for an unforgettable Caribbean retreat.
Unlock perks by contacting Heather to book your trip.
We spent a blissful nine days in Antigua, and because it is a relatively small island, it is super easy to explore. You can easily access many different parts of the island, historical sites and other attractions without spending excessive time on the road if you rent a car. We visited so many different beaches, sometimes a few in one day, and they are among some of the most stunning we've ever visited. Here are our top beaches and places to stay near each of them.
Jolly Beach
A long stretch of powdery sand and turquoise waters. It's a more tranquil option compared to some of the busier beaches on the island.
Where to stay: COCOS Hotel
Perched on a lush hillside and perfectly placed between Jolly Beach and Valley Church Bay, this adults only resort features private bungalows, sunset views and infinity plunge pools.
Half Moon Bay
This picturesque beach is secluded, with pink-tinged sand. The crescent shape of the bay provides a sense of privacy and tranquility.
Where to stay: Nonsuch Bay Resort
Although not directly on Half Moon Bay, Nonsuch Bay Resort offers a serene setting and luxurious villas overlooking the bay. It's a short drive from Half Moon Bay.
English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour
These harbors are not traditional beaches but offer stunning waterfront views. English Harbour is known for historical sites, while Falmouth Harbour hosts numerous yachts and sailing events. Pigeon Point has a small but very beautiful beach. We loved watching the yachts come and go, bathing in the shallow and warm water and enjoying the view of Montserrat in the distance.
Where to stay: Admiral's Inn and Gunpowder Suites
Nestled in Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour, this boutique hotel offers historic charm, elegant rooms and waterfront dining.
Make sure to book a table for the Thursday and Sunday night barbeque parties at Shirley Heights. Enjoy the delicious food, live music, sunset and party the night away!
Morris Bay
Nestled on the southern coast of Antigua, Morris Bay captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This secluded beach, fringed with golden sand and surrounded by verdant hills, offers a serene escape for those seeking a quieter coastal experience.
Where to stay: Curtain Bluff
Curtain Bluff Resort stands as an epitome of luxury, perched on a rocky promontory between Morris Bay and Curtain Bluff Beach. Boasting world-class amenities, including a renowned spa and exceptional dining, the resort provides guests with an exclusive retreat while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and Morris Bay.
Galley Bay Beach
This adults-only, all-inclusive resort boasts a stunning beachfront location, offering guests a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities.
Where to stay: Galley Bay Resort & Spa
Located right on Galley Bay Beach, the charming beachfront cottages and lush tropical surroundings provide an intimate escape. Turquoise waters meet powdery white sand in this picturesque escape.
Hermitage Bay
An exclusive stretch of shoreline on the western coast of Antigua, Hermitage Bay exudes a sense of secluded luxury. With powdery white sand, crystalline turquoise waters and framed by lush tropical vegetation, the views are unmatched.
Where to stay: Hermitage Bay
This private haven at Hermitage Bay Resort offers a tranquil retreat where guests can indulge in the serene beauty of the Caribbean. The focus is on relaxation, wellness and the beauty of the surroundings.
Turner's Beach
Nestled near Johnsons Point along the southwestern coast, Turners Beach beckons for a day of ultimate relaxation. Embraced by refreshing breezes that counter the Antiguan sun, this tranquil haven boasts a serene blue ocean. It is the perfect backdrop for unwinding and rejuvenation. After a leisurely day by the sea, consider treating yourself to amazing seafood and some refreshing drinks at the acclaimed Turners Beach Bar & Restaurant.
Where to stay: Keyonna Beach Resort
Set on the beachfront of Turners Beach, this boutique hotel offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and of Monsterrat Island.
Not far from Turner's Beach is an amazing roadside restaurant called Aunty Cavell's. The menu changes daily and features authentic Antiguan dishes and fresh seafood. Don't miss her rum punch! It's the best we've ever had!
Dickenson Bay
A lively beach with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It's great for water sports and has a vibrant atmosphere.
Where to stay: Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa
Located directly on Dickenson Bay, this all-inclusive resort offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining and a range of water activities.
There is a floating Kon Tiki Bar at the south end of the bay. A little boat ferries people back and forth from the beach. We enjoyed cocktails at sunset in a very lively atmosphere!
Long Bay Beach
This was one of our favorites! Long Bay Beach is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Antigua. Along the shallow reef of Long Bay Beach, a vibrant marine ecosystem thrives. It showcases an array of small, colorful coral fish, diverse sponges and eelgrass. Explorers may encounter moray eels, parrotfish and schools of pale purple surgeonfish. The possibility of spotting graceful green sea turtles in this rich underwater environment is exponential.
Where to stay: Hammock Cove Resort and Spa
While not directly on Long Bay Beach, this adults only resort is nestled on the hillside overlooking the bay. Hammock Cove is an exclusive and luxurious retreat. This resort provides spacious villas with private infinity-edge plunge pools, gourmet dining experiences and unparalleled access to the pristine Long Bay Beach. Hammock Cove ensures a perfect blend of indulgence and seaside serenity. It is also only a 3-minute walk to the striking rock formations in Devil's Bridge National Park.
Need to know
Antigua follows the British tradition of driving on the left side of the road. If you're accustomed to driving on the right, it may take a little getting used to, but most visitors adapt quickly. Antigua is not heavily populated, and outside of St. John's (the capital), traffic is usually light. This makes for a more relaxed driving experience compared to larger, more congested cities. If you are not keen on driving but want to see more of the island, I would recommend booking some tours and letting your guide do the driving. I have some excellent contacts.
If you are driving and see a road side fruit stand selling pineapples, STOP!! The Antiguan Black pineapple is the sweetest pineapple you'll ever eat and has next to no acidity. They are slightly smaller than most pineapples you've seen before and are green, and not black like the name suggests. We always pack some as a snack for our days at the beach, and you can't beat a slice of it in your rum punch!
Book a day out on a catamaran to go snorkeling and get a view of the island from the water. The day trip we booked picked us up from Sandals at Dickenson Bay and included grilled lobster for lunch on a deserted beach. It was fabulous!
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Antigua. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kelly Weber ’s guide, Life at Sandals Grande Antigua.
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Travel Advisor
Heather Budd
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