Antigua

Antigua Information

Best Beaches Antigua's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean with fine white sands lapped by clear turquoise waters. With so many from which to choose, it's always possible to find an uncrowded spot to yourself - in general, secluded beaches are more the norm than the exception. Those seeking active water sports should try the vast swathes of Dickenson Bay, Runaway Bay or Jolly Beach, all on the west coast and close to St John's. Also close to the capital are the unspoiled sands of the Five Islands, including Deep Bay and Galley Bay, home to nesting sea turtles. Across on the east coast, Long Bay Beach is popular for snorkelling and Half Moon Beach boasts beautiful fine soft pink sands and wonderful cooling breezes. Out and About Most holidaymakers tend to stay close to their hotel; public transport is practically non-existent, but if you do want to get out and about, the best way is to hire a car for a few days. Visit the neat little town of St John's with its colourful Saturday market and boutique stocked with British made duty free goods. If you're looking for gifts then locally grown sea island cotton, attractive straw goods and red clay pottery are all authentic purchases. In the 1780's, Nelson found a safe haven for the British fleet at English Harbour and today the sympathetically restored Nelson's Dockyard affords a picturesque glimpse of naval life in the Admiral's day and a perfect spot for an evening stroll or a leisurely lunch. Survey the scene from Shirley Heights nearby - white yachts now moored where once warships lay at anchor. Dining and Entertainment Antigua's seafood and fresh deep-sea fish are excellent - especially the crayfish. Sample local pepperpot stews, tropical fruits and vegetables or simply relax with a refreshing local rum punch. Evening entertainment is generally limited to the hotels; barbecues with island music accompaniment, al-fresco dinner dances and beach buffets are all on the menu with romantic wining and dining on ocean terraces a feature in many of the hotels. Activities Water sports are abundant - while the novice takes gingerly to the windsurfer in the transparent shallows, the more serious yachtsman is making for the deep water anchorage and international yachting centre of English Harbour. Located in the middle of the Leeward Islands, in the eastern Caribbean, Antigua is a wonderful holiday destination with something for everyone. Very laid-back, it has beaches galore, safe waters and a nearly unbroken wall of coral reef. Horatio Nelson's fully restored dockyard makes for a great day out, as does the capital St John's with its lively market and duty-free shops. Why not take to the sea on a hired boat and explore the fascinating island of Barbuda, approx 30 miles north, once a scavenger's paradise because so many ships wrecked on its reefs - is now home to one of the region's most significant bird sanctuaries. For panoramic views, climb Mount Obama, the highest point on Antigua. Nightlife is low-key here so sit back and relax in one of the many restaurants or bars.