Sun, sea and sand
Many of Antigua’s famed beaches rest inside the calm, protected waters on the Caribbean Sea. All of the island’s beaches are open to the public.
Northwest Coast
The island’s developed northwest coast is home to the popular Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay, which provide a fully-loaded resort beach experience. Or, for those who want a beach close to St. John’s, Fort James, a locally popular public beach, and Deep Bay are excellent choices. A series of four crescent shaped beaches at Hawksbill are also highly regarded, one of which is great for those seeking a nude sunbathing experience. And for those who want to party late into the night, popular evening hotspots can be found at Dickenson Bay.
Southwest and South Coast
The beaches of the hilly southwest corner of Antigua are generally less developed than those around St. John’s. Winding along the coast are Ffryes Bay, Darkwood Beach and Johnson’s Point. Rendezvous Bay and especially Doigs Beach, both located on the central southern coast, are especially quiet beaches as they are only accessible by four-wheel drive or footpaths. And, after a day at Nelson’s Dockyard, Pigeon Point is a great stop off for a cooling dip or a refreshing drink at the local beach bar. Another popular spot for drinks and even some food is Turner’s Beach Bar and Grill at Johnson’s Point in St. Mary’s.
East Coast
Half Moon Bay, voted one of the world’s ultimate beaches and now a National Park is always a great choice. Long Bay, on the easternmost point of the island, is another good choice for families as it is completely protected by its reef. Situated at the extreme eastern point of the island, on the road to Long Bay, is Indian Town. Over the centuries, powerful Atlantic breakers have swept in at the end of a 3,000-mile journey from Africa, carving out a natural limestone arch called Devil’s Bridge. The blowholes and spouting surf make a spectacular site.
Beaches of Barbuda
The best-kept secret of the Caribbean is the smooth coastline edged with alternating pink and white sand beaches protected by barrier reefs on the island of Barbuda. Nearly deserted beaches combine with an environment rich in marine life offering those who venture over from Antigua the opportunity to enjoy excellent diving, snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, and of course, an escape from the everyday. Though most of Barbuda’s beaches are composed of fine white sand, a few are noticeably different. These are the striking pink “sand” beaches created from the tiniest of pink shells, the color of cotton candy, that are washed ashore in various coves.
Main Off-Shore Islands
Main Off-Shore Islands: These include, Redonda, Great Bird Island and Green Island, Guiana Island, Prickly Pear Island, Crump Island, Maiden Island, Rabbit Island, York Island, Hells Gate, Sandy Island, and Long Island (which houses the ultra exclusive Jumby Bay Resort and Vacation homes).
Buccaneer Cove Beach
For those with a more adventurous side why not try your hand at windsurfing, the enticing breeze and shallow waters provide the perfect settings. The plush, white sands offer an idyllic day for all. If you fancy relaxing, just make sure you bring the suntan lotion.
Carlisle Bay Beach
Carlisle Beach is located by the village of Old Road on the south coast of Antigua. This expansive beach offers clear waters, fine sand and excellent snorkeling where you can find a wide variety of tropical fish. Bring your mask and fins!
Coral Bay
With a name derived from the abundance of coral in the area, this gorgeous bay is sure to offer excellent snorkelling with schools of fish.
Darkwood Beach
Located on the south west coast, about 5 minutes drive south of Jolly Harbour.
Dickenson Bay
Dickenson Bay is on the Northwestern coast of Antigua, and is the most developed beach on the island, with hotels restaurants and water sports facilities. It is a popular meeting place. The shallow calm waters and white sand provide a perfect setting for an active day.
Ffryes Beach
Drive off a busy main road, pass a historic windmill to find this hidden retreat.
Fort James Beach
Fort James Beach located at Fort Bay on the northwest coast of Antigua is popular with locals and visitors alike, a beach where you can often find a volleyball game, or a game of beach cricket to participate in. Fort James Beach is also a popular spot for cruise ship visitors, as it’s only a 5-10 minutes drive from the cruise ship dock in St.John’s.
Hermitage Bay Beach
Just about 1.5 miles before getting to Jolly Harbour, at the end of Jennings village. An off-road type of car is highly recommended. Hermitage Bay beach is a perfect white arc of sand. This beach is really undisturbed and good for swimming. This secluded beach stretches for over 1,250 feet and is located at the extreme western end of Antigua.
Jabberwock Beach
Jabberwock beach is located on the north-eastern coast of Antigua and features a mile long white sand beach. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, Jabberwock Beach’s warm waters are a fun place for playing in the surf. It’s also perfect for both body and wind surfing. Laden with palm trees and picnic tables, on the weekends, it is a great place for everyone to enjoy.
Jolly Beach
Jolly Beach, located on the West coast of Antigua at Jolly Harbour, offers a mile long powder white sand beach on the warm waters of the Caribbean sea. With plenty of restaurants, water sports, and shopping amenities nearby, it’s a great place to spend a day, or your entire holiday on Antigua.
Long Bay Beach
Located about 5 minutes from the village of Willikies at Long Bay on the east coast, Long Bay Beach offers fine white sand and crystal blue waters, making it a great place for snorkeling or just relaxing in the sun.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach provides an idyllic and relaxing haven, especially since the surrounding region contains little build-up and is free of urbanisation. Expect nothing but sand and sea for miles. To walk down this beach is to experience a taste of untouched paradise.
Pigeon Point Beach
Pigeon’s Point beach, located about a 5-minutes drive from English Harbour on the southeast coast of Antigua, is a favourite spot for the local community as well as visitors, Pigeon’s Point beach also is a fun place for snorkeling.
Turners Beach
Located near Johnsons Point on the south west coast, for one of those absolute lazy days, head down to Turners beach. It welcomes you with inviting, cooling breezes to battle the Antiguan sunshine and offers calm, blue ocean to relax and recharge in. When you are done chilling out why not head to the superb Turners bar, grill for some fabulous seafood and chilled beer.
