Things to do in  Antigua

Antigua is known, first and foremost, for its white-sand beaches flanked by crystalline waters—some 365 of them—as well as its ample opportunities for snorkeling and diving. It’s also known for its compact size—as the island is only around 14 miles across, getting from point to point is a breeze.

You won’t see dolphins in captivity in Antigua, where swim-with-dolphins programs have been abandoned in favor of less-exploitative experiences. That said, dolphins do show up in the waters around the island from time to time, and the best place to witness the sensitive marine mammals is from aboard a sightseeing cruise.

Antigua has 365 beaches, so it would be unfair to deem one the nicest of them all. However, top contenders include Darkwood Bay and Dickenson Beach (both of which have lots of facilities), chilled-out Ffryes Beach, pretty Half Moon Bay, and secluded Rendezvous Bay.

Antigua's nightlife is largely geared towards tourists, and many of the island's numerous beaches have open-air bars that stay open well into the night. Casinos such as King Casino and Grand Princess Casino are also popular, while Abracadabra, a cross between an Italian restaurant and a nightclub, is a great place to go dancing.

English is the official language of Antigua and Barbuda and it's used across the country in business and education. Many Antiguans also use Leeward Caribbean Creole English, a creole based on English, in casual conversation, but most people switch to standard English when speaking to foreign visitors.

Antigua can be expensive. As it's an island, a lot of food and other goods sold here need to be imported. Accommodations near the coast, particularly in the southern and western parts of the island, tend to be expensive, but if you're willing to stay in the St John's area, you'll find a number of budget-friendly options.