Antigua boasts 365 white sandy beaches (one for each day of the year) such as Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church. You will enjoy activities such as sunbathing, water sports, swimming, and snorkeling, but there is even more to do on Antigua. Here are our top 3 things to do in Antigua, away from the beach.
Antigua is situated in the eastern Caribbean, southeast of St. Kitts, and north of Guadeloupe and Dominica. It is a picturesque island that people dream of visiting when they imagine a Caribbean getaway. Antigua is categorized by its beautiful ocean views and turquoise blue waters. What most people don’t realize is that there is a lot more to this island than just the beaches.
1. Betty’s Hope
Photo: Pat Hawks
Betty’s Hope was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. It stands as a reminder of the role that Antigua played in the British Colonial Era. It was a plantation that helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean.
Established in 1674, it was named after the daughter of one of the former owners. The comprehensive visitor’s center and museum educate tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation. It also offers a way to step back into the past and understand Antigua’s rich history.
2. St. John’s Saturday Morning Market
St. John is the capital of Antigua and is the center of island life on Saturday mornings. This market draws in vendors from all over the island and provides a wonderful place for tourists to spend time. This market is a beautiful reflection of Antigua. You can get in touch with the locals, their incredible culture, and their fun way of life.
3. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and Shirly Heights
Nelson’s Dockyard, located in English Harbor, served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). 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 is a great hike that you can take from the Dockyard. Shirley Heights is just under 500 feet above sea level. The summit of this hike allows for views of Guadeloupe island and the active volcanic island of Montserrat, both located just to the south. It 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 has something for everyone
With a wide selection of attractions, markets, shops, and restaurants to visit while in Antigua, this island filled with rich colonial history offers plenty of activities away from the beach.
What are you waiting for?
Are you thinking about a Caribbean vacation? Let us help make your visit to Antigua unique and memorable. Contact us to today to start planning your trip.