Jolly Beach Resort and Spa

Destination 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.

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At A Glance

The tranquil island of Antigua lies low in the enticing waters of the Caribbean - brushed by the passing trade winds, the offshore clouds destined for Antigua's more lush, mountainous neighbours. This gentler climate means it's drier and not quite as scenic as some of the nearby islands and water shortages can occur from time to time. A busy day here is a gentle stroll from poolside to gleaming white sand beach and with 365 to choose from, you are never far from a sun-drenched strand. Many of the popular beach hotels lie in the north west of Antigua near the capital of St John's, whilst the more scenic south east offers natural harbours and beaches with a touch more seclusion.

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