Antigua

The expansive, winding coastline that once made Antigua difficult for sailors to navigate is where today's travellers encounter a tremendous abundance of secluded, powdery soft beaches. The coral reefs that once wrecked many ships now attract snorkelers and scuba divers from around the world. And separated by only a few nautical miles off the coast, the fascinating little island of Barbuda is home to one of the region's most significant bird sanctuaries.

The trade winds that once safely guided exploring sailors into English Harbour now fuel one of the world's foremost maritime events, Sailing Week. The coasts of Antigua are ideal for yacht cruising and racing, with constant trade-winds, and seemingly endless harbours for exploration. A week could easily be spent cruising around this sunny island of the eastern Caribbean. Its sister island, Barbuda, has shell laden beaches so stretch long that they dip below the horizon.

Both Antigua and Barbuda are almost completely surrounded by well-preserved coral walls, reefs, and shipwrecks. The southern and eastern coasts of Antigua and virtually the entire coast of Barbuda are enclosed by coral, providing excellent conditions for shallow diving and snorkeling. There is little or no current in most places, and with water temperature averages at 25 C (80 F), these conditions couldn't be more perfect. Underwater visibility ranges up to 140 feet, making it easy to spot the exotic marine plants and animals.

To get a taste of the local arts and culture, there's no better place than Harmony Hall. Located in Brown's Bay at Nonsuch Bay, is the heart of the Antiguan arts and cultural community. Exhibits and showcases change throughout the year, but the annual highlights are the Antigua Artist's Exhibition and the Craft Fair, both in November. Harmony Hall was originally built around a sugar mill tower, which has since been converted to an attraction for both locals and visitors alike, as it offers one of the island's best panoramic views.

All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite. Make sure to enjoy one of Antigua's many water front restaurants - a perfect location for any meal. With endless adventure and hundreds of beaches at your fingertips, what’s stopping you from visiting the home of the Caribbean sun? Book your trip to Antigua today!

Airport served by:
ANU