When the British Royal Navy used Antigua as a naval base in the 18th and 19th centuries, the saying went that the sun never set on the British Empire. Today, the naval base on English Harbour is out of commission, but the sun still shines brightly on this Caribbean destination’s hundreds of beaches, where, along with sister island Barbuda, there’s literally a sandy stretch for every day of the year.
Given the vast number of beaches, picking the island’s “best” is a subject of lively and eternal debate—and depends on your preferences.
A Beach for Everyone
Dickinson Bay Beach buzzes with activities, entertainment, and dining options—all set to a reggae and calypso beat. The party continues offshore at the famous Kon Tiki floating beach bar.
Galleon Bay is the site of a shipwreck as well as extensive coral reefs, making it popular for diving and snorkeling. Windsurfers point their boards to Jabberwock Beach on the north shore, which has the perfect combination of shallow waters and steady winds, while surfers prefer the bigger swells at Half Moon Bay on Antigua’s Atlantic coast.
For a more secluded environment, Ffryes Beach offers a chill vibe, uncrowded sands, and a handful of sand-side bars. In the mood to play castaway? Plan a daytrip to Green Island on Nonsuch Bay, where your swimming companions are likely to include colorful reef fish and sea turtles.
Spots Locals and Visitors All Love
Doig’s Beach on Antigua’s south-central coast requires some effort (and a four-wheel-drive vehicle) to climb its steep access road, but it’s worth it. Privacy is also premier at Eden Beach. Just understand that you may happen across an au naturel sunbather or two.
Darkwood Beach is not only one of Antigua’s top swimming spots, it’s also home to Aunty Cavell’s, a popular restaurant for locals and visitors alike. The roadside Crabb Hill Beach is a destination for rum punch and grilled fish at OJ’s Beach Bar.
Finally, don’t pass on the chance to curl your toes into Pink Sand Beach: This rosy rarity stretches for eight miles along the south shore of Barbuda.
