Situated at the meeting point of the Atlantic ocean and the Caribbean sea, Antigua and Barbuda is a small but charming island country. Renowned across the world for its beautiful beaches, green rainforests, and amazing resorts, this island country also provides foreign investors an attractive real estate market, thriving economy and various business opportunities. The country has a rich history, cultural heritage and is also a part of the Commonwealth of nations. If you are planning to visit this interesting island country, then you have made it to the right place!
The Best Attractions in Antigua and Barbuda
Dickenson Bay
Only 11.2 km away from the airport and situated near Cedar Grove in Antigua, Dickenson bay is the soul of the namesake island. Famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, this is a perfect destination for snorkeling (if you don’t have snorkeling gear, you can buy or rent it locally). Populated with beach bars and beachside restaurants, it has an amazing nightlife to offer to its visitors. In addition to an amazing beach life, you can also try out various water adventure sports, or go on a boat tour.
Nelson’s Dockyard
A UNESCO world heritage site, Nelson’s dockyard is a part of the national park encompassing it. Although the dockyard has buildings from the eighteenth and nineteenth century, it has been completely restored and is home to many shops, hotels and other businesses. The Nelson’s dockyard opens up to excellent views of the surrounding landscape – stunning harbor, historic places, and parks that also have hiking trails. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, the place also houses the Dockyard museum that holds the rich history of Antigua and Barbuda. If you are visiting Nelson’s dockyard, don’t forget to get your camera along with you. We promise that you’ll not be disappointed.
Admiral’s House Museum
Named after a British Naval Admiral Horatio Nelson, the Admiral’s House Museum is located in the English Harbour. One of the best places to learn about the early maritime life in and around the islands, the Admiral’s House Museum is populated with ancient artifacts and antiques that tell the stories of early British history. Since the Admiral’s residence has been converted to the museum, you can also get a glimpse of personal things like his telescope, charts, maps and more. The museum also houses a gift shop that has interesting things showcasing the rich naval history of the place. You don’t have to give any entry fee to access this place, so don’t miss it.
Falmouth Harbour
Located on the southern coast of Antigua, the Falmouth Harbor is a natural harbor that emulates the shape of a horseshoe. If you want to explore Antigua by the water and have fun, then this is the place from where you can rent a superyacht to do so. The harbor is also home to popular restaurants and offers extraordinary views of the island. If you are planning to stay in Antigua for a longer period of time, then you can also use the Falmouth Harbor for various services like – dockage, container storage, and concierge. The harbor also provides accommodation in the surrounding area, so if you plan to stay the night, that is also possible.
Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre
Located in the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, English Harbour, the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre is a museum on the island of Antigua. The hill that houses this museum was previously a part of Archibald Dow’s estate – a civilian Royal Navy official. Later the land was acquired for construction. Established in 1989, the museum is a strong testament of the island’s history that goes back to the Amerindian era. If you are visiting the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre, make sure to go through the insightful multimedia presentations highlighting the chronicles of the past.
Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour
Consisting of six ziplines, the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour gives visitors the taste of exploring Antigua’s lush green rainforests. If you are planning to try the rainforest canopy tour, then get ready to explore the suspension bridges, tree houses, and a vertical descent (if you wish). The Rainforest Canopy Tour is quite safe, so don’t worry if you are traveling with kids or senior citizens. As you zipline from one part to the other, you get a glimpse of the extensive vegetation and beauty of the green rainforest. With the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour company, you can either choose to go ziplining on an hourly basis or take up a challenging course. The company also offers combined tours for tourists that includes kayaking, short trips and more.
Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary
One of the most unique things you can do here is to visit Antigua’s donkey sanctuary. Managed by the The Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society, Antigua’s donkey sanctuary is home to more than 150 donkeys. If you are an animal lover and want to take a day off from the beach, then this should be your go to place. The sanctuary is open to all visitors and provides them the opportunity to pet, brush, play and spend time with the donkeys. Visitors are also allowed to click pictures with the donkeys. If you are visiting the sanctuary, do go say hi to Stevie and July, the most popular donkeys in the place.
Antigua Paddles Eco Kayak Tour
Launched by Conrad and Jennie La Barrie, the Antigua Paddles Eco Kayak Tour consists of various fun activities like motorboating to visit a lagoon, kayaking through small islets, exploring the mangroves and a guided nature walk trail across the North Sound Marine Park. In addition to the charming beaches, the Antigua Paddles Eco Kayak tour also opens up a stunning part of the island nation for its visitors.
Barbuda Caves
Since limestone is predominant in the Caribbean island of Barbuda, therefore you can find many limestone caves in this place that are made out of limestone. Out of the many caves found in Barbuda, the Darby’s cave is one of the most stunning caves in the island and is 70 feet deep and 300 feet wide. The cave is actually a sinkhole and is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Barbuda. In addition to the Darby’s cave, you can also visit the Indian Cave, Dark Cave and Two foot bay. Watch out for iguanas, tropic birds, crabs, and bats if you are exploring the Two foot bay. If you are planning to explore the Dark cave that is located just 2 miles south of the Darby Cave, you might get a chance to witness unique species of amphipod, the blind eye shrimp, and various species of bats.
Betty’s Hope
Established around 1651, Betty’s Hope is one of the first sugar plantations in the country. Heralded as a national heritage landmark, Betty’s Hope is open to all visitors. You can learn about the history of the place through the interpretation center of the place. Although there are many things like the sugar mill towers and the sails that have been restored, the place still is a strong standing testament of the island’s history.
Caribbean Helicopters
If you want to soak in all the local beauty from the top, then you should definitely take a ride in the Caribbean helicopters. With over 20 years of experience, the Caribbean helicopters offers visitors helicopter tours and day trips and provides the perfect opportunity for visitors to click pictures. If you are an adventurous soul, you should definitely opt for the Heaven and Earth Experience- that comprises both land and air tours or the Montserrat Volcano Tour that gives visitors an aerial view of the volcano affected island. In addition to this, there are various other tours that are also available – Antigua Half Island/Full Island Tour, the Barbuda Experience, and trips to St. Kitts or Nevis.
Catch The Cat
Tired of spending the entire day on the beach? Explore the Caribbean sea with Catch the Cat private sailing charters. Be it hosting a private event or just relaxing on the deck and watching the setting sun, Catch the Cat ensures an one of a kind experience. You can either go for day sails that are quite popular in the island and explore the southern coastline of the country – swim, snorkel and enjoy or opt for the romantic sunset cruise. Don’t forget to click pictures while you enjoy the sunset on the cruise.
DiveCarib
If you are fond of diving or want to explore the land under the sea, then go for multiple scuba diving activities with DiveCarib. With this company, you can choose to go for guided diving tours all across Antigua. From Discover Scuba programs (beginners level), PADI courses, and guided dive tours, DiveCarib has it all. Whether you are a beginner or pro, DiveCarib takes care of all its visitors. With experts from DiveCarib you can dive through popular spots like Red Rocks, Black’s Point, and Rendezvous Bay.
Footsteps Rainforest Hiking Tours
If you are in Freeman’ village, then make sure to go for the Footsteps Rainforest Hiking Tours. To explore the green rainforests extensively, you can take help of an insightful guide known as Dassa. Dassa generally lives and works in the rainforest and guides visitors through the entire exploration of the forest. Ensure to take a hike to the Signal Hill where you can enjoy a 360 degree view of the island and enjoy a quaint picnic with your friends or family.
Fort James
Located only 9.4 km from the airport, Fort James is situated at Fort bay on the northwestern coast of Antigua. The fort was originally built by the British in the eighteenth century in order to protect the island country from invaders. One of the most popular destinations in Antigua and Barbuda, you can still witness the famous Fort James cannons which weigh 2.5 tons each. Don’t miss seeing the foundation stone while exploring Fort James.
Frigate Bird Sanctuary
Located in Codrington Lagoon -Barbuda, Frigate bird sanctuary is one of the largest Frigate bird colonies in the entire western hemisphere. If you are a passionate bird watcher, you would be thrilled to know that the Frigate Bird Sanctuary is home to around 100,000+ birds and you get to watch them very closely in their natural habitat especially during the migration and mating seasons. To reach the Frigate bird sanctuary, you need to get on a short boat ride across the Codrington Lagoon.
Galleon Beach
One of the most quaint and beautiful Antigua beaches, Galleon beach is located in Freemans Bay in the English Harbour. In spite of the fact that the beach is located in a difficult spot and is only accessible by a car from the English Harbour, the beach still attracts one of the most number of tourists in the country. From tropical flora and fauna, soft white sand beaches, beautiful hills, the Galleon beach is surrounded all around by beautiful natural wonders. If you are a beach lover, make sure to check out the amazing beach bars present in the area or catch some rays of the beautiful sun in a waterfront resort. You can also get involved in various water sport activities like snorkeling, body surfing and diving. If you like sea turtles, don’t forget to visit the nearby turtle hatcheries.
Mount Obama
Previously known as the Bogey Peak, Mount Obama named after the former US President Barack Obama is also the highest point in Antigua. With a height of more than 1300 feet, Mount Obama is one of the most popular destinations in the island country. You can climb Mount Obama from its southern or northern side and go for hikes all throughout the year. It can take around one to three hours to complete the climb depending upon your expertise and makes it perfect for beginners.
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
If you are interested in learning the rich history and culture of this country, then you should definitely pay a visit to the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. Established in 1985, the museum is located in the former St John’s Courthouse – one of the oldest buildings in the island. The museum is a testimony of the national cultural and social heritage. The main floors of the museum are dedicated to art, history and culture of the island and the library consists of artifacts that dates back to the pre-Columbian age including ceramics, faunal remains, metal objects, maps and photographs. Few of the most important pieces in the museum are the life-like replica of an Arawak house and sugar plantations models. The museum is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists as well as locals.
Segway Antigua Tours
From charming beaches, lush vegetation to historically rich places, if you want to travel all around Antigua, then Segway Antigua Tours should be your top choice. As the tour provides guided excursions, you get to experience the island country through anecdotal stories and insights of the guides. Since the company organizes group tours, you also get the opportunity to meet and greet other tourists from all across the globe. Antigua Historic West Coast tour, Beach tour, and Sweet Island life tour are among the most popular tours that you can choose from to explore the islands.
Shirley Heights Lookout
Located on the southernmost tip of Antigua, Shirley Heights lookout is one of the most popular restaurants in the island. The restaurant is owned and managed locally and offers a glimpse of the easy breezy Caribbean lifestyle. From live music, delicious local food to an extraordinary viewpoint, Shirley Heights Lookout is definitely one spot that you should not miss if you’re in Antigua and love to eat by sunset.
Unique Island Tours
With over fifteen years of experience, Unique Island Tours has been taking visitors of the island country to witness the most interesting and unique sights of the country. Be it small guided tours or big group tours, Unique Island Tour manages it all. You also have the option to arrange a customized private tour for yourself and other guests with Unique Island Tours. If you love historical attractions, then do go for the History Replayed Tour that takes visitors on a tour of popular destinations like Nelson’s dockyard, Shirley Heights, English Harbour, Betty’s Hope and small and beautiful villages of the island. Tourists also drive through lush green rainforests and the beautiful beaches of the island nation.
40 Knots Kitesurfing & Windsurfing School Antigua
If you are in Antigua, you have to try the water sports that the island offers. Looking for a safe, caring and friendly ecosystem where you can try water adventure sports? 40 Knots Kitesurfing & Windsurfing School Antigua is the perfect place for you to be. From windsurfing, kitesurfing to paddle boarding 40 Knots Kitesurfing & Windsurfing School integrates modern equipment and water sport instructors to deliver a memorable experience for visitors across all age groups. The school also hosts various events that tourists can take active part all around the year like 3-week-long Ride Antigua watersports experience or beach parties that gives tourists a slice of the exciting nightlife in Antigua.
Adventure Antigua
Established by former Olympian Eli Fuller who represented Antigua and Barbuda in windsurfing, Adventure Antigua offers a great sightseeing tour for visitors who want to explore the stunning island through and through. One of the most popular tours offered by Adventure Antigua is the Eco Tour that gives tourists the opportunity for snorkeling, exploration of the reefs, mangrove forests, caving, beachcombing, and quaint beaches. If you want to explore the island through a yacht, you should definitely go for the Antigua Classic Yacht tour and spend the day sailing and snorkeling.
Antigua Buggys
Antigua Buggys offer an unique experience to the visitors of the island looking for off-road adventure in Antigua. This four-wheeler drive gives tourists the opportunity to drive their very own buggy and explore the island on wheels. This unique tour continues for around four hours and allows tourists to visit popular destinations like Wallings Dam and Forest, Fort George, West Coast Village, and also provides snorkeling and swimming opportunities along the way. The Antigua Buggy tour also takes care of your water, refreshments, and a delectable Caribbean-style local lunch.
Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Surrounded by a reef, green vegetation, and turquoise blue waters, the Half moon bay takes the shape of a crescent moon and has one of the most beautiful beaches in the island country. If you want to try out snorkeling on the island, it’s worth travelling to this area at the southeastern tip of Antigua. Avoid surfing in the Bay if the winds are strong.
Stingray City, Antigua
A visit to the Stingray city in Antigua’s eastern coast offers visitors an adventure of a lifetime. If you are in the mood to face your fears, then you should take the speedboat ride to Stingray city, which is a shallow pool among a bed of tropical reef populated with 100+ stingrays. You can choose to feed, swim or snorkel with the friendly stingrays, and make your journey as memorable as possible.
17 Mile Beach, Barbuda
One of the most stunning pink tinted sand beaches in the island, the 17 Mile beach in Barbuda is perfect for people who want to walk long miles peacefully on the sand. If you want to visit the beach, you can either take the boat or ride the helicopter from the top to get an aerial view of the magnificent beach.
Devil’s Bridge- Indian Town National Park, Antigua
A natural limestone wonder along the Indian Town National Park, Devil’s bridge national park is a must not miss destination in Antigua. The park surrounding the Devil’s bridge provides various hiking trails and birdwatching viewpoints for visitors. You can witness more than thirty six avian species sunbathe in the park.
Martello Tower, Barbuda
One of the tallest buildings in Barbuda, the 17 meter high Martello Tower is also among the important oldest landmarks in the island. Towers like this one were constructed by the British in the 19th century all across the Caribbean to protect the land from potential invaders. Even after Hurricane Irma that stormed the island in 2017, Martello Tower stood strong and thus is one of the strongest buildings in Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
If you are looking to relocate to Antigua and Barbuda or spend some time more in the island country, you can plan to obtain a second citizenship and enjoy the various benefits that the country has to offer.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship – Requirements
In order to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, you need to meet the following requirements.
- The applicant should be over the age of 18
- The applicant should possess excellent personal character
- The applicant should not have any criminal record
- The primary applicant should be in excellent health condition
- The applicant should have a high personal net worth
- The applicant needs to spend five days in the country within five years of registering as a citizen
- The applicant should be able to take the oath of allegiance either in Antigua and Barbuda or in the embassy/consulate
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship – Benefits
- The country offers a thriving economy
- It is strategically located and is well connected via air to popular destinations like London, New York, Miami, and Toronto
- The island country also has an attractive real estate market
- Individuals can obtain second citizenship through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Program
- Antigua and Barbuda allows dual citizenship
- Antigua and Barbuda passport allows visa free travel to more than 140 countries
- Family members of the primary applicant are also allowed to apply for second citizenship
- The country levies no tax on worldwide income
Antigua and Barbuda Visa Free Countries
| Country | Visa Requirements |
| Albania | visa-free/90 days |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Andorra | visa-free/90 days |
| Angola | pre-visa on arrival |
| Armenia | eVisa/120 days |
| Australia | eVisa |
| Austria | visa-free/90 days |
| Bahamas | visa-free/240 days |
| Bahrain | eVisa |
| Bangladesh | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Barbados | visa-free |
| Belarus | visa-free/30 days |
| Belgium | visa-free/90 days |
| Belize | visa-free |
| Benin | eVisa |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | visa-free/90 days |
| Botswana | visa-free/90 days |
| Brazil | visa-free/90 days |
| Bulgaria | visa-free/90 days |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Cambodia | eVisa/30 days |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival (EASE) |
| Chile | visa-free/90 days |
| Colombia | visa-free/90 days |
| Comoros | visa on arrival/45 days |
| Congo (Dem. Rep.) | eVisa/90 days |
| Costa Rica | visa-free/90 days |
| Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) | pre-enrollment/90 days |
| Croatia | visa-free/90 days |
| Cuba | visa-free/30 days |
| Cyprus | visa-free/90 days |
| Czech Republic | visa-free/90 days |
| Denmark | visa-free/90 days |
| Djibouti | eVisa |
| Dominica | visa-free |
| Dominican Republic | visa-free |
| Ecuador | visa-free/90 days |
| Egypt | visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days |
| El Salvador | visa-free/90 days |
| Estonia | visa-free/90 days |
| Eswatini | visa-free/30 days |
| Ethiopia | eVisa |
| Fiji | visa-free/120 days |
| Finland | visa-free/90 days |
| France | visa-free/90 days |
| Gabon | eVisa |
| Gambia | visa-free/90 days |
| Georgia | visa-free/360 days |
| Germany | visa-free/90 days |
| Greece | visa-free/90 days |
| Grenada | visa-free |
| Guatemala | visa-free/90 days |
| Guinea | eVisa/90 days |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days |
| Guyana | visa-free/180 days |
| Haiti | visa-free/90 days |
| Honduras | visa-free/90 days |
| Hong Kong | visa-free/90 days |
| Hungary | visa-free/90 days |
| Iceland | visa-free/90 days |
| India | eVisa/30 days |
| Iran | eVisa/30 days |
| Ireland | visa-free/90 days |
| Italy | visa-free/90 days |
| Jamaica | visa-free |
| Jordan | visa on arrival |
| Kazakhstan | eVisa |
| Kenya | eVisa/90 days |
| Kiribati | visa-free/120 days |
| Kosovo | visa-free/90 days |
| Kyrgyzstan | eVisa |
| Laos | visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days |
| Latvia | visa-free/90 days |
| Lebanon | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Lesotho | visa-free/90 days |
| Liechtenstein | visa-free/90 days |
| Lithuania | visa-free/90 days |
| Luxembourg | visa-free/90 days |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days |
| Malawi | visa-free/90 days |
| Malaysia | visa-free/30 days |
| Maldives | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Malta | visa-free/90 days |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mauritius | visa-free/90 days |
| Micronesia | visa-free/30 days |
| Moldova | visa-free/90 days |
| Monaco | visa-free/90 days |
| Montenegro | visa-free/90 days |
| Mozambique | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Nepal | visa on arrival/90 days |
| Netherlands | visa-free/90 days |
| Nicaragua | visa-free/90 days |
| Nigeria | pre-visa on arrival |
| North Macedonia | visa-free/90 days |
| Norway | visa-free/90 days |
| Oman | eVisa |
| Pakistan | eVisa |
| Palau | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Palestinian Territories | visa-free |
| Panama | visa-free/90 days |
| Papua New Guinea | eVisa/30 days |
| Peru | visa-free/180 days |
| Philippines | visa-free/30 days |
| Poland | visa-free/90 days |
| Portugal | visa-free/90 days |
| Qatar | visa-free/90 days |
| Romania | visa-free/90 days |
| Russian Federation | visa-free/90 days |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | visa-free |
| Saint Lucia | visa-free |
| Samoa | visa on arrival/60 days |
| San Marino | visa-free/90 days |
| Sao Tome and Principe | eVisa |
| Senegal | visa required |
| Serbia | visa-free/90 days |
| Seychelles | tourist registration/90 days |
| Sierra Leone | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Singapore | visa-free/30 days |
| Slovakia | visa-free/90 days |
| Slovenia | visa-free/90 days |
| Solomon Islands | visa on arrival/90 days |
| Somalia | visa on arrival/30 days |
| South Africa | visa-free/30 days |
| South Korea | eTA/90 days |
| South Sudan | eVisa |
| Spain | visa-free/90 days |
| Sri Lanka | eTA/30 days |
| St. Vincent and the Grenadines | visa-free |
| Suriname | visa-free/180 days |
| Sweden | visa-free/90 days |
| Switzerland | visa-free/90 days |
| Tajikistan | eVisa |
| Tanzania | visa-free/90 days |
| Timor-Leste | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Togo | visa on arrival/7 days |
| Trinidad and Tobago | visa-free |
| Tunisia | visa-free/90 days |
| Turkey | eVisa/90 days |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival/30 days |
| Uganda | visa-free/90 days |
| Ukraine | visa-free/90 days |
| United Arab Emirates | eVisa |
| United Kingdom | visa-free/180 days |
| Uzbekistan | visa-free/30 days |
| Vanuatu | visa-free/30 days |
| Vatican City | visa-free/90 days |
| Venezuela | visa-free/90 days |
| Zambia | visa-free/90 days |
| Zimbabwe | visa-free/90 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top Antigua attractions?
Some of the best attractions are: Half Moon Bay, Stingray City, 17 Mile Beach, Dickenson Bay, Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, St John’s, Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, Fig Tree Drive and more.
What to do in Antigua and Barbuda at night?
The nightlife is pretty exciting. From clubbing, seaside cocktails, live music, weekly events to bar hopping, you can experience the best of Caribbean nightlife here.
Is Antigua safe for solo traveling?
The island country has low crime rates, and therefore it is safe to travel solo in Antigua and Barbuda. But make sure to take basic travel precautions while you travel.
What are the best outdoor activities to do in Antigua and Barbuda?
There are various outdoor activities that you can be a part of, like Turtle Beach Power Snorkeling Adventure, Scenic Tour of Antigua, Antigua Trailz All Inclusive Buggy Tour, Adventure Antigua – Eli’s Original Eco Tour, Antigua Zipline Canopy Adventure from St John’s, Island Safari and Stingray Fantasy Antigua, Biking, Kayaking and Hiking Activity in Antigua, Small-Group Hiking Experience in Antigua, Sip & Paint Antigua and more.
Is Antigua a nice place to visit?
From charming beaches, breathtaking views, wonderful resorts, lush green rainforests and more, Antigua is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean to pay a visit to.
What are the most famous places to visit in Antigua and Barbuda?
If you are planning to visit the island nation, make sure to visit these popular destinations – Ffryes beach, Dickenson Bay, Darkwood beach, Galley bay beach, Fort Barrington, Prickly Pear Island, Long Bay, Shirley Heights, Betty’s Hope, Deep bay beach, Nonsuch bay, and more.
To find out more, you can check out the following articles:
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment – The Ultimate Guide by Experts
The Cost of Living in Antigua and Barbuda
Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda
Living in Antigua as an Expat Guide
Antigua and Barbuda Passport – How Does it Compare?
