Things to do & places to visit in Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua has hundreds of beaches, from the bustling Pigeon Point to the kitesurfing paradise of Jabberwock Beach. It's fun to mix it up—a day spent in a secluded cove, another spent people-watching at a tourist magnet. When you’re tired of sun and sand you can shoot ‘em up at Reservoir Range, where archery and air pistols are a fun way to work out any lingering pre-vacation stress. A tour of the Antigua Distillery is a spirited way to experience a true taste of the island.

Antigua #1 destination in Antigua and Barbuda 2023. The average rating score is 4.37 based on 14.5k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: America/Antigua, current date and time: Friday, May 10, 2024, 16:27.

Top things to do (15)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Zemi Art Gallery (125 reviews)
- Don’t skip this store
Art Galleries

Nestled in the trendy district of Redcliffe Quay, St. John's, Zemi Art Gallery captures the essence of traditional Antiguan and Barbudan art with a welcomed fresh approach. See more..
5.0 Gilly Gobinet Art (63 reviews)
- Go Visit This Gallery
Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

Art Gallery featuring original paintings by Antiguan artist Gilly Gobinet in her delightful secluded waterfront residence.Her art features paintings in acrylic and watercolour of marine art, birds, flowers, seascapes etc with specialised portraits of dogs and cats by commission and nudes. Fine art prints, greetings cards and books by the artist who can be seen at work on the premises. See more..
5.0 Stingray City (51 reviews)
- Beautiful creatures in beautiful surroundings. A must visit.
Nature & Wildlife Areas

10 out of 10 a great way to spend a few hours. We opted for the combo of a visit to Stingray city and had a swim with many Stingrays then a visit to A private island (Lavisham island) Where we got to meet and feed many tortoises from tiny new borns to 50+ years giant tortoises.it was a great experience made even better by our guide. Many thanks See more..
5.0 Gilly Gobinet Art (63 reviews)
- Go Visit This Gallery
Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

Art Gallery featuring original paintings by Antiguan artist Gilly Gobinet in her delightful secluded waterfront residence.Her art features paintings in acrylic and watercolour of marine art, birds, flowers, seascapes etc with specialised portraits of dogs and cats by commission and nudes. Fine art prints, greetings cards and books by the artist who can be seen at work on the premises. See more..
4.5 Shirley Heights (2.774 reviews)
- Do not miss this!
Historic Sites • Lookouts

Hills overlooking the Dockyard on the east, named after the governor who built the fortifications. See more..
4.5 Nelson's Dockyard (2.365 reviews)
- confused
National Parks

We went to the dockyard to see a Talisker Atlantic Challenge team arrive. When we got there we were asked to pay for entry, I said we had a lunch reservation at Boom but she insisted I pay the entrance fee anyway. I paid because it is an outstanding historical site which must cost loads in upkeep but surely if you are going inside to eat and have a reservation to prove it you should just be allowed in? Isn't this hurting the eateries on this site asking people to pay to enter that will pay a lot to eat inside as well? Having said this it is an outstanding place. See more..
4.5 Valley Church Beach (1.040 reviews)
- Photographer's Delight, Chapter 3 - In Antigua
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Beaches

The taxi drivers suggested that we visit this beach, since our usual Dickenson Beach had a rough ocean current in this occasion. We decided to give it a try, and see a different part of the island. Antigua has excellent taxi service for tourists and we do not take a cruise tour. The cost of traveling to the beach was reasonable ($20 round trip per person, in mini van shared by 8 tourists). We went with "Action Jackson", who gave us some information on the island along the way. The beach was about 20 minutes from the cruise ship (Voyager of the Seas). The rental for the chairs and umbrella was $20 and very well organized. I was surprised by the name of the beach. The facilities included rest rooms, and access to a nearby bar. We enjoyed the nice ocean breeze and a refreshing swim. See more..
4.5 Half Moon Bay (565 reviews)
- Highlight of our trip
Beaches

Catch some rays while watching the surf at this beautiful pink sand beach. See more..
4.5 Darkwood Beach (487 reviews)
- Stunning
Beaches

An excellent beach for snorkelling and beachcombing. See more..
4.5 Dickenson Bay (476 reviews)
- Great Massage Therapists
Bodies of Water • Beaches

This is a great beach..everyone friendly and lots of great tours by the local vendors. You MUST visit Dr and Mrs Sunshine aka Kevin and Kas.. They have a great spot on the beach by the gift store and sun lounger rental. They have a wealth of knowledge, always give you a consultation are professional and friendly. Seriously this is THE BEST massage EVER! Many couples booked in together and their sunset time was very popular. See more..
4.5 Turners Beach (432 reviews)
- One of the best in Antigua.
Beaches

Some areas of rocks but lots of sand. Water is fabulously clear. About 20 minute stroll from one end to the next. Turners Bar, Keyonna beach resort, Orries Beach Bar, Ojs and Jackie Os are all located here. Near Jackie Os you can hire kayaks and paddle boards. Many excursions boats stop at this beach but it really is quiet. See more..
4.5 Pigeon Point Beach (413 reviews)
- The perfect beach!
Beaches

Sand, sun, surf, shade, parking and food... everything you may need at a beach can be found here! It’s the closest beach to Falmouth Harbour and it’s absolutely beautiful. At one end you have Catherine’s Cafe which is one of the best eats on the island, and at the other you have Falmouth Harbour. If you get the right spot, you’ll get the rays and then the most beautiful sunsets. We loved it here and must’ve visited at least 3-4 times on our trip. See more..
4.5 Long Bay (334 reviews)
- Some of the best water to swim in!
Beaches

On the far-eastern coast, you'll find coral reefs in water so shallow that you can actually walk out to them. Along the beach are the Long Bay Hotel and the rambling Allegro Resort Pineapple Beach. See more..
4.5 Jolly Beach (332 reviews)
- A positive experience but clearly a work in progress
Spent 1-2 hours Beaches

Just returned from a 5 night all inclusive break and thoroughly enjoyed. Good value for money, beautiful beach and, great pool with plenty of room wherever you prefer to catch some sun. Real friendly and helpful staff made us feel welcome. Food was quite good as were the drinks. Whilst appreciating some things could be improved upon our needs were met for the few days we were there. Rooms were nice, with balcony or terrace but nothing flash. Nice vibe about the place. By no means a 4 or 5 star experience and definitely a work in progress since reopening but met our expectations for the money we paid. There seem to be a couple of teething problems but with a few improvements and additions over the next few weeks or months this hotel will provide a real affordable Carribean option for many people. See more..
4.5 Ffryes Beach (285 reviews)
- Beautiful beach for honeymoon stop
Spent 2-3 hours Beaches

We took a day to explore multiple beaches on the Caribbean side of the island as we were staying on the Atlantic side. This beach did not disappoint! We had trouble finding parking at Turners, was not interested in the kid float park at Darkwood and stumbled upon Ffryes. We got two chairs under an umbrella for $15 and enjoyed a few hours here. Lunch was homemade and delicious (more pricey than expected -$20 for one shrimp plate, but very satisfying for two). The sand is pristine and the turquoise water color is exactly what we were looking for. Not meant for a snorkel beach - I would go to Turners or Long Bay for that! See more..
4.5 Galley Bay Beach (271 reviews)
- Hidden gem, great snorkelling
Beaches

A bit of a hidden gem. If you’re not staying at the resort then access is through a gate on the far right of the resort just on the uphill bend. Beautiful beach with a good snorkelling reef right off the beach See more..
4.5 Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society (235 reviews)
- Don't miss an opportunity to visit these donkeys! We loved visting the Sanctuary!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

donkey sanctuary and small animal (dogs and cats) shelter operated by Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society, a non-profit corporation registered under The Companies Act. There is no admission fee. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm See more..
4.5 Galleon Beach (206 reviews)
- Beautiful beach with great facilities
Beaches

The beach is absolutely beautiful and not too busy (we visited on a Thursday around noon). The perfect spot for swimming. While we were there a turtle was spotted swimming very close in to the shore. Great facilities - the Loose Cannon beach cafe serves great drinks and we had a delicious Caribbean salad for lunch. Wonderful spot. See more..
4.5 Pillars of Hercules (156 reviews)
- Galleon Beach & Hike to Pillars of Hercules (My Antigua's Highlight)
Geologic Formations

I consider Pillars of Hercules the most unique and highlight of my Antigua day trip visit. This is a natural formation of limestone rocks gently whittled into distinctive columns by years of the sea’s caress. To get to Pillars of Hercules, you have to walk from Gallon beach along the marked trail to get to some giant rocks. At this point, get your shoes off and start walking barefoot unless you have a water shoe. The tide keeps moving the water closer to the pillars which can get your hiking shoes wet. The hike isn’t challenging and is very much worth the effort. It gives a different unique perspective to the known for its beaches Caribbean island of Antigua. It was a very enjoyable walk by the rocks while feeling the strength of the waves pushing all over this magical magnificent rocks. See more..
4.5 Prickly Pear Island (127 reviews)
- Paradise.. The most perfect place
Islands

Book through Hodges Bay resort, you don't have to be staying there to visit. Get taken to the beach where a small motor boat collects you for the 10 min trip Then you are on a tiny white sand island.. Perfection Select your day bed, drink amazing cocktails, eat beautiful food. The shrimp ceasar salad is to die for! Service is perfect When we arrived at 11am there were only 3 couples and around 3pm guests staying at Hodges Bay started to arrive for the afternoon. It's then more sociable but lovely. We had our romantic morning and lunch! We would 100% go again We highly recommend that you go! Its totally insta amazing too!! See more..
4.5 Deep Bay Beach (56 reviews)
- Favorite beach on the island!
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

Deep Bay Beach was breathtaking! We stayed within walking distance of this beach and I loved the crescent shaped white sand beach. I would swim laps, walk the white strand from end to end, and read a book under the trees. Fort Barrington overlooks this beach and it’s a nice hike up to get fantastic views. I tried to find the goats during my hike, but they must have scrambled. Also, there is a shipwreck that one can snorkel over, however, it’s a long swim out and there is too much activity of jet skis and boats in the water. I would not feel comfortable swimming with so much activity. Bring your own food as there are no restaurants around the area. There is an all inclusive, but they are not set up to serve the public. See more..
4.5 Pigs Paradise (39 reviews)
- Fantastic morning learning all about the pigs!
Beaches

We visited Pigs Paradise during our stay and it was brilliant. My husband isn’t keen on animals so to be honest I pretty much dragged him here however he even said he really enjoyed it and within 10 minutes was stroking and feeding the pigs. The whole experience is ran by a young team who are so knowledgeable and really care for the animals. They are also very quick at cleaning up after them and looking after the beach. We got to feed the pigs with milk and their food, swim with them and then by the end hold some cute little piglets. Your in direct sunlight for a good couple of hours so make sure your topped up with cream but the team remind you of this before the activity begins and the safety demonstration. It’s quite difficult to find so we used Fast Eddie for a boat taxi (we stayed at Royalton but stopped off at another hotel on route) his instagram is @fasteddie_268 and I’d recommend booking him! See more..
4.5 Darkwood Beach (487 reviews)
- Stunning
Beaches

An excellent beach for snorkelling and beachcombing. See more..
4.5 Dickenson Bay (476 reviews)
- Great Massage Therapists
Bodies of Water • Beaches

This is a great beach..everyone friendly and lots of great tours by the local vendors. You MUST visit Dr and Mrs Sunshine aka Kevin and Kas.. They have a great spot on the beach by the gift store and sun lounger rental. They have a wealth of knowledge, always give you a consultation are professional and friendly. Seriously this is THE BEST massage EVER! Many couples booked in together and their sunset time was very popular. See more..
4.5 Long Bay (334 reviews)
- Some of the best water to swim in!
Beaches

On the far-eastern coast, you'll find coral reefs in water so shallow that you can actually walk out to them. Along the beach are the Long Bay Hotel and the rambling Allegro Resort Pineapple Beach. See more..
4.5 Ffryes Beach (285 reviews)
- Beautiful beach for honeymoon stop
Spent 2-3 hours Beaches

We took a day to explore multiple beaches on the Caribbean side of the island as we were staying on the Atlantic side. This beach did not disappoint! We had trouble finding parking at Turners, was not interested in the kid float park at Darkwood and stumbled upon Ffryes. We got two chairs under an umbrella for $15 and enjoyed a few hours here. Lunch was homemade and delicious (more pricey than expected -$20 for one shrimp plate, but very satisfying for two). The sand is pristine and the turquoise water color is exactly what we were looking for. Not meant for a snorkel beach - I would go to Turners or Long Bay for that! See more..
4.5 Prickly Pear Island (127 reviews)
- Paradise.. The most perfect place
Islands

Book through Hodges Bay resort, you don't have to be staying there to visit. Get taken to the beach where a small motor boat collects you for the 10 min trip Then you are on a tiny white sand island.. Perfection Select your day bed, drink amazing cocktails, eat beautiful food. The shrimp ceasar salad is to die for! Service is perfect When we arrived at 11am there were only 3 couples and around 3pm guests staying at Hodges Bay started to arrive for the afternoon. It's then more sociable but lovely. We had our romantic morning and lunch! We would 100% go again We highly recommend that you go! Its totally insta amazing too!! See more..
4.5 Deep Bay Beach (56 reviews)
- Favorite beach on the island!
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

Deep Bay Beach was breathtaking! We stayed within walking distance of this beach and I loved the crescent shaped white sand beach. I would swim laps, walk the white strand from end to end, and read a book under the trees. Fort Barrington overlooks this beach and it’s a nice hike up to get fantastic views. I tried to find the goats during my hike, but they must have scrambled. Also, there is a shipwreck that one can snorkel over, however, it’s a long swim out and there is too much activity of jet skis and boats in the water. I would not feel comfortable swimming with so much activity. Bring your own food as there are no restaurants around the area. There is an all inclusive, but they are not set up to serve the public. See more..
4.0 Devil's Bridge (1.043 reviews)
- Devil's Bridge is Spectacular
Geologic Formations

Limestone arches formed by seawater erosion, this natural landmark is rumored to have been the site of mass suicides of slaves during slavery times. See more..
4.0 Betty's Hope (933 reviews)
- A must to make you realise about the Slave Trade
History Museums

Sugar plantation established in 1674 and preserved as a monument to the slaves whose labor it exploited. See more..

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