These islands offer the quintessential tropical paradise experience, but things to do in Antigua and Barbuda aren’t limited to lounging on the beach. Here, a unique blend of cultures has helped develop a culinary scene bursting with flavors and full of fresh seafood, while the cultural side is informed by the music of Africa and nearby Caribbean countries. Blossoming bougainvillea plants are matched in brightness by the colorful buildings, while the coral reefs and rainforests offer plenty of opportunities to explore.
The best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda is during the dry season, which runs from about December to April. These months offer idyllic weather with plenty of sunshine and gentle breezes—perfect for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Be sure to plan your visit to coincide with the Antigua Sailing Week in late-April or early-May. The festival is one of the Caribbean’s premier regattas, and arguably the most enjoyable way to witness world-class yacht racing.
Getting around Antigua and Barbuda is relatively easy. Public buses serve major routes on both islands; though for greater flexibility and access to less crowded spots, consider renting a car (especially on Antigua). To experience the islands from a unique perspective, lunch cruises are a fantastic option for discovering secluded beaches and snorkeling spots.
For a taste of local culture, seek out the “doubles” vendors on Antigua. Doubles are a popular street food made with fried bread, chickpea curry, and various spicy sauces. On Barbuda, set aside some time to visit the incredible Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience often overlooked by tourists.
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Antigua is a tropical paradise and offers vibrant culture and a rich culinary scene to accompany the scenery. The island is known for frequent festivals that highlight the region’s distinct musical style. Visitors seeking nightlife will be just as happy as those looking for white sand beaches and clear water.
...MoreApril offers dry, warm weather, right before the rainy season starts. The average temperature in April is 84°F (28°C) so you can explore without getting overheated. Antigua Sailing Week falls at the end of the month—the event draws spectators from around the world and celebratory parties rage throughout the week.
...MoreYes. Antigua is known for tourism and has made accommodating visitors a priority. You’ll find that the majority of locals speak English, and strict government regulations on taxi services make traveling on the islands easy.
...MoreAllow at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda, so you can relax and bask in the sun. Antigua offers a livelier environment and bigger cities than Barbuda, which is more low-key. Luckily, it’s easy to travel between the two islands, with a boat trip taking about 1.5 hours.
...MoreThe hurricane season in Antigua and Barbuda runs from June to November. As the season progresses, the likelihood of storms increases: The months with the highest risk of experiencing hurricanes are August, September, and October.
...MoreMost places will accept credit cards in Antigua, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash for purchasing from informal vendors or small restaurants. United States currency (USD) is accepted in many places, but you’ll likely receive change in the East Caribbean dollar (EC) at a poor exchange rate.
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