Antigua and Barbuda-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring St. John’s and the Beaches

Morning

  • Arrive at V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel
  • Spend the morning exploring St. John’s, the capital city of Antigua, and visit:
    • The historic Cathedral of St. John the Divine
    • The bustling Market Street for some local shopping
    • The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda to learn about the island’s history and culture

Afternoon

  • Head to Dickenson Bay, a popular beach on the north coast, for some sun, sand, and sea
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, go swimming, or try your hand at water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding
  • Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area, serving up fresh seafood and local cuisine

Evening

  • Return to St. John’s for dinner and explore the Redcliffe Quay, a picturesque waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and bars
  • Enjoy some live music or dancing at one of the many nightlife spots in the capital city

Day 2: Island Tours and Adventure

Morning

  • Take a guided Island Safari Tour to explore Antigua’s rugged landscape and scenic beauty
  • Visit Shirley Heights, a historic military lookout with stunning views of the surrounding waters
  • Stop at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former British naval base

Afternoon

  • Go on an Adventure Antigua Eco-Tour, which takes you hiking through the lush rainforest, swimming in natural pools, and exploring hidden beaches
  • Keep an eye out for the island’s unique wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and turtles

Evening

  • Return to your hotel to relax and freshen up
  • Head back to St. John’s for dinner and entertainment at one of the many restaurants or bars

Day 3: Barbuda and Snorkeling

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Antigua to Barbuda, a small, coral-ringed island with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters (approx. 2-hour journey)
  • Visit Cocoa Point, a picturesque beach on the western coast of Barbuda
  • Go snorkeling or swimming in the calm waters, spotting tropical fish and colorful coral

Afternoon

  • Have lunch at one of the local eateries on Barbuda, serving up fresh seafood and Caribbean cuisine
  • Explore the island’s capital, Codrington, with its quaint shops, historic churches, and laid-back atmosphere

Evening

  • Return to Antigua by ferry and spend your last evening in St. John’s
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the capital city

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda, but it’s always best to check with the embassy or consulate before traveling.
  • Currency: The Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD) is the local currency, although US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: English is the official language, but you may also hear Antiguan Creole spoken by locals.
  • Weather: Antigua and Barbuda has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Widely available at the airport and around the island
  • Rental Cars: Several companies offer car rentals, including Avis, Hertz, and local operators
  • Public Transportation: Minivans and buses connect major towns and beaches, but services can be limited

Other Tips

  • Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, including pepper pot soup, fungi (a cornmeal-based dish), and fresh seafood.
  • Respect the island’s environment and wildlife by not littering, not touching coral reefs, and not disturbing nesting sea turtles.
  • Bring a reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Antigua and Barbuda!