Holidays in Antigua

Destination information

Antigua Holidays 2012 / 2013

What is the best way to describe a holiday in Antigua? Very laid-back would be our response. With no fewer than 365 gorgeous beaches, this is the place for plenty of relaxation, swimming in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, wall-to-wall sunshine and coral sand beaches. Just offshore, below the surface of the crystal blue water, you’ll find a nearly unbroken coral reef wall that makes for an unforgettable snorkelling or scuba diving experience. This same reef also protects many of Antigua’s beaches, making for gentler surf that’s perfect for families with younger swimmers. When selecting your holiday resort, you can choose from the busier north-west coast, with its tourists and bustling resorts, or the more peaceful south-western corner of the island, where you can escape for a tranquil and a more restful holiday break.

However, do not be deceived, there can be much more to Antigua holidays than relaxing on the beach all day - you can get out and about exploring the island. Take a tour of Horatio Nelson’s fully restored dockyard or visit the capital of Antigua, St. John’s, with its busy market and duty-free shopping. Climb to the top of Boggy Peak, the highest point on the island; the stunning panoramic views are sure to take your breath away. For a bit of authentic local flavour, plan a stop at Sea View Farm Village, where you can watch as native artisans make their excellent folk pottery. If you are feeling a bit adventurous you can go further afield by taking a boat trip to Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island located just 30-miles to the north.

It is a fact that an Antigua holiday is pleasantly slow-paced, and the nightlife is refreshingly low-key. If you are looking for excitement during the evenings, some of the holiday resorts do have casinos that can get rather lively after dark. However, it is our experience that most of the discerning individuals who choose to holiday in Antigua spend most of their time after hours just chilling out at one of the island’s many great bars or restaurants: the perfect end to a perfect day.

Keep reading for more information about our fantastic selection of Antigua package holidays.

Sightseeing Ideas

With so many great choices available, deciding on which beach to visit can be difficult. We suggest that you start at Half Moon Bay, located on the east coast. Also, try Darkwood Beach that is perfect for snorkelling and treasure hunting. At Long Bay you can walk right out onto the coral reefs in the shallow waters just offshore. Our Antigua holiday packages include a complimentary visit to Shirley Heights for a Sunday afternoon and evening full of amazing views, great live music and excellent cocktails. If you’re looking for an excursion, St. John’s has museums, a historic cathedral and ever-popular duty-free shopping. On the east coast is Devil’s Bridge, an impressive natural landmark. If you go to Barbuda, make your way to Coco Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.

Key Events

Apr / May - Antigua Sailing Week.

May - Annual Tennis Week.

Jul / Aug - Antigua Carnival.

01 Nov - Independence Day.

Star Attractions

• 365 pristine beaches

• Historic Nelson’s Dockyard

• Restaurants and more at English Harbour

• Barbuda, Antigua’s little sister island

• World-class golf at Jolly Harbour

Postcards from... Top ideas from our travel experts

• Island Hopping Caribbean Cocktails
• Romantic Breaks in the Caribbean
• Find your Caribbean Roots

Our Top 5 hotels

Blue Waters

This is a truly superb hotel with elegant surroundings, outstanding service and an enviable location on 2 white sand beaches lapped by gentle aqua waves, epitomising the Caribbean fantasy. The 17 tropical acres of gardens are beautifully tended and each of the buildings is romantically draped with brightly coloured bougainvillea — just adding to the delightful ambience.

Halcyon Cove by rex resorts Room Only

Every rex resort is set beside a beach and what a beautiful beach this is, with soft white sand and glistening waters it’s an open invitation to don your bathers and walk right in! This hotel doesn’t break the bank, Halcyon Cove offers simple, value-for-money accommodation in a great location, on the shores of Dickenson Bay.

The Verandah Resort & Spa

This wonderful hotel is in an idyllic spot, up on the secluded southeast coast, and everyone gets a lovely room with its own large, furnished veranda. The rooms are all in single-storey villas (2 rooms to each villa) scattered throughout the beautifully landscaped, 30-acre resort which leads down to 2 sandy beaches.

Cocobay

This beautifully positioned resort has a range of individual pastel-painted cottages with some of the most spectacular views on the island. There's an infinity pool perched on the cliff edge, and you'll find yourself relaxing here as soon as you see the view.

Jolly Beach Resort & Spa

In an idyllic location, overlooking one of Antigua’s best beaches, with fine white sand and turquoise waters. Surrounded by 40 acres of tropical gardens, the Jolly Beach offers simple and good value accommodation for families and groups alike.

Weather and climate