Beaches
Antigua, renowned for its stunning coastline, boasts 365 beaches – one for each day of the year. Each beach offers a unique charm and azure waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers. Here are the top 10 beaches in Antigua, perfect for enjoying the island's natural beauty.
1. Dickenson Bay
Location: North Coast
Dickenson Bay stretches over a mile, providing ample space to find your perfect spot. The beach is framed by swaying palm trees and boasts powdery white sand. Off the coast, a coral reef shelters several small islands, adding to the beach's picturesque charm.
Highlights:
- Lively Atmosphere: Dickenson Bay is one of the busiest beaches in Antigua, offering a vibrant atmosphere with numerous resorts, restaurants, and bars.
- Water Sports: The calm, shallow waters are perfect for activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, and tubing.
- Family-Friendly: Its gentle waves make it ideal for families with young children.
2. Half Moon Bay
Location: East Coast
Half Moon Bay is a crescent-shaped beach offering a serene escape with its brilliant white sand and crystal-clear waters. Explore the headland for stunning views and uninhabited Smith Island. A picnic basket is recommended to fully enjoy this unspoiled paradise.
Highlights:
- National Park: Recognized as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, it is a national park with pristine natural beauty.
- Diverse Waters: Enjoy the rough surf on one end and calm, clear waters on the other.
- Snorkeling: The reef at the northern end is perfect for snorkelers.
3. Jolly Beach
Location: West Coast
Jolly Beach is one of the longest and widest beaches in Antigua, featuring soft white sand and turquoise waters. The calm, clear waters make it a great spot for families and those looking to relax. You can also rent jet skis here.
Highlights:
- Amenities: Jolly Harbor offers plenty of dining and entertainment options including a supermarket.
- Sunsets: The west-facing beach is perfect for watching breathtaking sunsets.
- Activities: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
4. Carlisle Bay
Location: South Coast
Carlisle Bay is a stunning crescent-shaped beach surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. The beach offers a mix of developed areas and untouched spots, making it a versatile destination for all visitors.
Highlights:
- Seclusion: Known for its peaceful ambiance, it is less crowded and perfect for a quiet retreat.
- Luxury Accommodations: Home to several luxury villas and the Carlisle Bay Hotel.
- Swimming and Snorkeling: The calm waters are excellent for both activities.
5. Pigeon Point Beach
Location: South Coast
Pigeon Point Beach is a charming, tree-flanked beach with soft sand and clear waters. It’s perfect for families looking to spend a day swimming and playing on the beach, with convenient amenities nearby.
Highlights:
- Local Vibe: Popular with both locals and tourists, offering a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
- Proximity to Historical Sites: Close to the UNESCO-listed Nelson’s Dockyard.
- Family-Friendly: The gently sloping shore is ideal for children.
6. Ffryes Beach
Location: West Coast
Ffryes Beach is a serene and picturesque beach ideal for relaxation. With its clear waters and shaded areas, it's perfect for a peaceful day of sunbathing and swimming.
Highlights:
- Serenity: A quieter beach, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views and clear, calm waters.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss Dennis Cocktail Bar & Restaurant for delicious local food. Just one of our top restaurants in Antigua.
7. Darkwood Beach
Location: Southwest Coast
Darkwood Beach offers a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and beach activities. The clear waters and nearby snorkeling spots make it a popular choice for visitors. If you wish to stay near by Darkwood and Ffryes beaches, we recommend Tamarind Hills set on a bluff between these two beaches.
Highlights:
- Snorkeling: The waters are great for snorkeling, with a variety of marine life.
- Sunbeds and Restaurant: Available amenities make it a comfortable choice for a day at the beach.
- Picturesque Setting: Known for its beautiful stretch of sand and clear waters.
8. Fort James Beach
Location: Northwest Coast
Fort James Beach is a beautiful white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters, offering a blend of relaxation and local culture. It's less crowded than nearby beaches, providing a peaceful retreat with historical interest.
Highlights:
- Historic Ruins: Explore the 18th-century Fort James ruins at the southern end.
- Local Culture: Enjoy local games of volleyball and beach cricket.
- Accessibility: Close to St. John’s and the cruise port, making it a convenient choice.
9. Long Bay Beach
Location: East Coast
Long Bay Beach is known for its soft, white sand and vibrant marine life. The beach is ideal for families and snorkelers, offering a range of amenities and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Family-Friendly: The protected bay makes it safe for children to swim.
- Snorkeling: Excellent snorkeling due to the reef that shelters the bay.
- Facilities: Features a resort, restaurant, and beachside kiosks.
10. Nonsuch Bay
Location: Southeast Coast
Nonsuch Bay is a tranquil stretch of beach with pristine sand and clear waters. It's perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Antigua, with nearby attractions for added interest.
Highlights:
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful hills and lush scenery.
- Tranquility: Despite being in a busy area, it remains calm and quiet.
- Proximity to Attractions: Close to English Harbour and about 45 minutes from St. John’s.
These beaches represent the best that Antigua has to offer, each providing unique experiences and stunning views. Whether you're looking for lively resorts or quiet, secluded spots, Antigua's beaches have something for everyone. Enjoy your stay in this Caribbean paradise!