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The island paradise Antigua of the Caribbean is famous for its stunning beaches, rich heritage, and grand scenery. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, there are ample places to visit in Antigua that offer the perfect haven. From the historical significance of Nelson’s Dockyard to the stunning Shirley Heights, the island boasts numerous tourist places in Antigua that exhibit the island’s personality. For sunbathing on white beaches, or visiting historical landmarks, this guide leads you to the best places for vacation in Antigua to enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Antigua
Antigua is a Caribbean paradise with stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and hidden gems. Discover the top places to visit for an unforgettable island adventure!
1. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park
Photo: Thank You / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is among the most significant places in Antigua. Constructed in the 18th century, the naval dockyard was a principal British base named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed there from the 1780s. The park also has scenic walking trails, which take one to surrounding lookout points such as Shirley Heights, where a visitor can have a bird’s eye view of English Harbour. Being one of the most popular tourist attractions in Antigua, Nelson’s Dockyard has a great combination of history, nature, and entertainment.
Location: English Harbour, Antigua
Entry Fees: $8 USD / ₹664 for adults; children under 12 enter for free
Timing: Daily from 8 AM – 6 PM
2. Shirley Heights
Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons
For breathtaking scenery and a lively cultural atmosphere, Shirley Heights is one of the most well-known Antigua tourist attractions. In British Navy control, the old military lookout is today a favourite destination with panoramic vistas of English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour. One of the attractions of a trip to Shirley Heights is its famous Sunday evening party, with live steel drums, reggae music, and delicious Caribbean barbecue. The sunset view from Shirley Heights is stunning, and it’s a photographer and nature lover’s dream.
Location: Near English Harbour, Antigua
Entry Fees: Around $10 USD / ₹830, may vary during special events
Timing: Open daily, Sunday events start in the late afternoon
3. Half Moon Bay
Photo: K Danko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most scenic spots in Antigua, Half Moon Bay is a hidden gem on the island’s southeastern coast. Renowned for its crescent beach, crystal-clear waters, and pink sand beach, it offers tourists a serene escape from the more crowded beaches. Half Moon Bay is a protected national park, so it’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, snorkelling, and swimming. The calm, shallow waters on one side of the bay are perfect for families, and the windier side is favoured by surfers looking for action.
Location: Southeastern Antigua
Entry Fees: None
Timing: 24×7
4. Devil’s Bridge National Park
Photo: Magicpiano / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For nature enthusiasts, Devil’s Bridge National Park is one of the most unique Antigua attractions. This breathtaking limestone arch along the northeastern coast was formed over thousands of years by the relentless pounding of the Atlantic Ocean waves. There are also hiking trails where visitors can proceed to the Indian Town National Park, which features unique birds and native plants. Being one of the most visited tourist attractions in Antigua, Devil’s Bridge is a destination for nature and history enthusiasts.
Location: Northeastern Antigua, near Indian Town Point
Entry Fees: None
Timing: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
5. Dickenson Bay
Photo: Paul Kowalow / Wikimedia Commons
If you prefer a vibrant beach vacation, Dickenson Bay is among the best in Antigua. It is on the northwest coast, a white-sand beach with high-end resorts, vibrant beach bars, and water sports equipment. Dickenson Bay is also renowned for its beautiful sunsets, thus making it the couples’ favourite for a sunset stroll or cocktail as the sun sets. With its lively ambience, beautiful scenery, and numerous activities, it is no wonder that Dickenson Bay is among the most visited places in Antigua.
Location: Northwestern Antigua
Entry Fees: None
Timing: 24×7
6. Ffryes Beach
Photo: Андрей Бобровский / Wikimedia Commons
For visitors looking for a quiet and uncrowded beach, Ffryes Beach is one of the most secluded destinations in Antigua. This white-sand beach on the island’s southwest coast provides crystal-clear water, making it perfect for swimming, basking in the sun, and relaxation. Nearby restaurants along the beach offer fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine so visitors can indulge in an authentic island meal. For a romantic sunset walk or a lazy day on the beach, Ffryes Beach is among the best tourist spots in Antigua to explore the island’s natural attractions.
Location: Southwest Antigua
Entry Fees: None
Timing: 24×7
7. St. John’s Cathedral
Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons
A trip to Antigua is incomplete without visiting St. John’s Cathedral, one of Antigua’s most historically important tourist sites. Situated in the centre of St. John’s, this grand Anglican church has been standing for more than three centuries, with its present form dating back to 1845. Around the cathedral is a historic cemetery where several prominent individuals from the past of Antigua rest. Be it a history buff or just one who wishes to view the beautiful architecture, St. John’s Cathedral is a place one should not miss on any itinerary for Antigua travel.
Location: St. John’s, Antigua
Entry Fees: Free
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM, Monday to Saturday
8. Fig Tree Drive
Photo: David Broad / Wikimedia Commons
Fig Tree Drive is the most scenic location in Antigua for a nature-filled drive. Fig Tree Drive is a winding road through the rainforest of Antigua and is a wonderful spot to experience a glimpse of Antigua’s tropical scenery, banana plantations, and secret villages. Thrill enthusiasts can halt zipline canopy tours, providing a thrilling means of touring the rainforest from a bird’s eye view. Whether you drive through in a relaxed manner or halt for photographs and thrill-seekers, Fig Tree Drive is among the most scenic Antigua tourist spots that cannot be avoided.
Location: Central Antigua
Entry Fees: None
Timing: 24×7
9. Betty’s Hope Plantation
Photo: Paul Harrison / Wikimedia Commons
For an in-depth exploration of Antigua’s colonial past, Betty’s Hope Plantation is among Antigua’s most informative tourist sites. Dating back to 1651, this historic sugar plantation was one of the island’s largest and most productive estates during the British colonial rule. As it is among the most historically important Antigua tourist sites, Betty’s Hope Plantation provides a poignant but necessary glimpse into the island’s history.
Location: Pares Village, Antigua
Entry Fees: $2–$5 USD / ₹166–₹415
Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM, Monday to Saturday
10. Great Bird Island
Photo: Sarah Nystrom / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For a real island getaway, Great Bird Island is one of the most unusual destinations in Antigua. Situated just off the northeastern shore, this tiny, uninhabited island is a haven for snorkelling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.The island is inhabited by rare and exotic animals, such as the Antiguan racer snake, one of the world’s rarest snakes. Its waters are crystal clear and ideal for snorkelling, with its coral reefs bursting with colourful marine life. Adventure lovers can hike up the island cliffs for a short distance to have panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.
Location: Off the northeastern coast of Antigua
Entry Fees: Boat tour costs vary
Timing: Accessible via boat tours from St. John’s or English Harbour
Antigua offers the perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation, making it a dream destination for travellers. Whether you’re exploring places to visit in Antigua, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or unwinding on pristine beaches, the island has something for everyone. Each of these top attractions showcases Antigua’s rich heritage, stunning scenery, and warm culture. Start planning your Antigua getaway today with TripXL and discover why it’s one of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations!
Cover Photo: Calyponte / Wikimedia Commons
