antigua
destination guide
ANTIGUA TRAVEL GUIDE
Antigua is the kind of Caribbean island that makes it very easy to slow down.
Known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise water and sailing culture, Antigua combines classic Caribbean scenery with historic towns, excellent resorts and enough to explore that you don’t have to spend your entire vacation at the hotel.
It’s particularly well suited to couples, honeymoons and travellers who want a beautiful beach vacation but still like the idea of getting off the resort for a day or two.
I’ve spent time in Antigua myself, and it’s an island I recommend when the beach matters just as much as the resort.
why visit antigua?
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE
Antigua is famous for its beaches — and they really are one of the island’s biggest draws. But, there’s more here than beautiful sand.
English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard bring history and character. Shirley Heights delivers one of the Caribbean’s most iconic views. Sailing is woven into the island’s identity, and a day on the water is one of my favourite ways to experience Antigua.
At the same time, Antigua is easy to enjoy without an ambitious itinerary.
You can spend most of your week barefoot on the beach, leave the resort for one memorable day of exploring, and still feel like you’ve experienced the island.
IS ANTIGUA RIGHT FOR YOU?
I especially recommend Antigua if:
- A beautiful beach is one of your biggest vacation priorities
- You want a romantic Caribbean escape You prefer an island with some history and character beyond the resort
- You like sailing, boating or spending time on the water
- You want an all-inclusive vacation but still plan to explore
- You’re celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary
I might recommend another island if nightlife is a major priority, or you want the newest, most contemporary resort options above everything else,
THE PERFECT WEEK
HOW I’D SPEND 7 DAYS IN ANTIGUA
I don’t think you need to spend an Antigua vacation racing around the island.
The perfect week here gives you plenty of time to actually enjoy your resort while adding a few experiences that make you feel like you’ve been somewhere.
DAY 1 — ARRIVE + EXHALE
Check in, unpack, find the beach and have absolutely no plans.
DAY 2 — BEACH DAY
Stay at the resort. Swim, relax, have a long lunch and let vacation officially begin.
DAY 3 — ENGLISH HARBOUR + NELSON’S DOCKYARD
Explore one of Antigua’s most historic areas, wander around the harbour and stay for lunch or drinks.
DAY 4 — RESORT DAY
No itinerary required. Pool, beach, spa, watersports — whatever vacation looks like to you.
DAY 5 — GET ON THE WATER
Book a catamaran, sailing trip or private boat day. Antigua is an island that deserves to be seen from the sea.
DAY 6 — SHIRLEY HEIGHTS
Spend another easy day at the resort before heading out for the famous view over English and Falmouth Harbours.
DAY 7 — ONE LAST BEACH DAY
Don’t overbook the final day. Order the drink, get back in the Caribbean and enjoy the fact that you don’t have anywhere else to be.
JEN’S TIP
Resist the urge to schedule an excursion every day. Antigua is at its best when you leave room to do absolutely nothing.
LET’S FIND YOUR ANTIGUA
When I recommend an Antigua vacation, I’m looking at the beach, location, resort atmosphere, room category, travel style and budget together.
That’s where working with someone who knows the Caribbean — and understands the differences between the resorts — matters.