Let’s go island hopping and discover more about the Caribbean! Debi visited Antigua shortly before Covid hit in 2020. Antigua and Barbuda is an independent nation that boasts miles of beautiful beaches. I love beach vacations for the adventures, relaxation, and connections that are made or deepened between travelers.
Where is Antigua and Barbuda?
The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua is a 108-square-mile mountainous island with 366 white-sand beaches. The sister island of Barbuda lies 27 miles northeast of Antigua, with a land area of 62 square miles. It’s a low-lying coral island known for its natural landscape and 17 miles of pink and white sand beaches.
No filters are needed for these stunning colors! The beaches throughout the island are so beautiful.
Where can I stay?
A wide array of accommodations, including several boutique properties located on Antigua and Barbuda, provide an intimate and personal experience for all guests. Island accommodations range from full-service, all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels to villas. Debi and Todd stayed at Blue Waters and Sandals Grande Antigua. Watch Debi’s video of Sandals Grande here.
When is a good time to visit Antigua?
Anytime! Antigua and Barbuda are sunny and warm year-round with cool trade winds. The average temperature ranges from the mid-seventies Fahrenheit in the winter to mid-eighties Fahrenheit in the summer. Many of the beaches of Antigua are naturally protected from the large sargassum blooms that affect other beaches in the Caribbean Sea.
Adventure and romance on the islands
Antigua and Barbuda have been voted four years in a row as the “Most Romantic Destination” in the Caribbean by the World Travel Awards. Clients seeking a romantic destination to wed, honeymoon, or celebrate each other will find what they’re looking for among Antigua and Barbuda’s 366 white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Getting married in Antigua and Barbuda is easy. Unlike many Caribbean destinations, there are no residency requirements, which allows couples to wed the same day or the next day after they arrive.
Adventurous types can swim with the stingrays, zipline, or enjoy an array of watersports, including snorkeling, jet-skiing, kayaking, yachting, or kite surfing. A sunset cruise gets couples on the water in a more relaxing way. Hiking, a visit to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, an island tour, and horseback riding along the beach can be arranged.
Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife and natural beauty on the islands.
Food in Antigua and Barbuda
More than 100 bars and restaurants serving a variety of cuisine, including native dishes, French, Italian, Creole, and Caribbean can be found on Antigua. Choices range from small local places to five-star Michelin standard restaurants. Local seafood specialties include spiny lobster (especially on Barbuda), fish, clams, and conch. St. John’s local vegetable market is something to see. Pepperpot and Fungi (vegetable stew served with polenta) is the country’s national dish. Seafood Fest (or Seafood Fridays) is not to be missed each week at Nelsons Dockyard. Foodies can also plan a visit around Antigua & Barbuda Restaurant Week in May and the Antigua & Barbuda Pineapple & Mango Festival in July/August.
If you’re looking for that postcard beach vacation, Antigua and Barbuda are perfect. I’d love to chat with you about matching your travel dreams to the right island experience for you! Contact us today to discuss your next tropical vacation.