Antigua and Barbuda travel guide

Considered the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands, Antigua and Barbuda are a popular holiday destination for honeymooners, families and those looking for picture-perfect relaxation. The clear blue waters and famously secluded, powdery soft beaches - Antiguans claim to have a different beach for every day of the year. See here for more travel information and holidays in Antigua…

Sights and places to see in Antigua and Barbuda

The beaches are supreme. As coral-based islands, the sand is bright white and there is plenty of it, collecting in the curves of the islands and reflecting the tropical sunlight underwater in spectacular shades of jade, turquoise and aquamarine. Not all the beaches are lively.

There are always deserted stretches of sand to be found on Antigua where you can get away on your own. And if anything, Barbuda’s beaches are even finer. There are simply miles and miles and miles of perfect sand with barely any development.

Antigua is the larger of the two islands and has a booming tourist industry. The most popular local attraction, apartment from the beaches, is Nelson’s Dockyard National Park; here you will find shops restaurants, an art centre, a museum and also stunning 360 degree views from Shirley Heights.

One of the nicest ways to see the islands, and no holiday would be complete without a water tour. Top up your tans while sipping some rum and take in the sights. There is a wide choice of excursions from sailing, motorboat or yacht tours that can offer snorkelling or fishing. Tours can be arranged for either a half or a full day.

Antigua’s smaller sister island Barbuda is less developed. Here you fill find miles and miles of pristine beaches. The main attraction here is its bird sanctuary that is located in the Codrington Lagoon, an amazing sight for bird lovers and non-bird lovers alike

Weather, flight and travel information in and around Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua is a relatively dry island, there is a short rainy season in June, but the main one is much later in the year in November. The temperature varies by just a few degrees across the year, usually between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit from winter to summer. The island rarely gets too hot, except occasionally in summer, particularly if it is still for a few days when it can become humid. Generally though, there is a breeze to take the edge off the heat.

Antigua is in the hurricane belt and these massive storms do pass by from time to time in the late summer when the Atlantic Ocean, where they are generated, becomes warm enough. The most likely week for a hurricane to hit is in the middle of September.

VC Bird International Airport is located on the north-eastern side of Antigua and is approximately five miles from the capital St John’s and about 30 minutes drive from English Harbour. There are many international and regional airlines that fly here.

Money; £1 = 3.82 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD)

Time; GMT/UTC -4

Telephone; 00 or + (1 - 268)

Last updated; March, 09