Best Places in Antigua

Navigation:

• Things to do in Antigua
• Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
• Shirley Heights
• Galleon Beach
• Stingray City Antigua
• Nelson's Dockyard

Antigua or what the locals call Waladli or Wadadli is an island located in the West Indies. The name came from the Spanish language which means “ancient” after the iconic Seville Cathedral or St. Mary of the Old Cathedral. Waladli came from the word of the indigenous people that translates to “our own”. The island belongs to the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean region and the main island of Antigua and Barbuda. 

It breeds mainly on tourism because of its pristine beaches, and diverse culture. Antigua also has its own agricultural sector that caters to its domestic market. Measuring about 108 sq miles with a circumference of 87 km, Antigua is home to 80,000 residents. 

The island becomes a sanctuary for Barbuda residents when the Category 5 Hurricane Irma hit the island on September 6, 2017, that destroyed 90% of the buildings. 

Things to do in Antigua

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

Built in 1747, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda used to be a colonial Court House. To date, it is the oldest building in the city. Many would come here to marvel at the infrastructure of the historic building. It exhibits various items and memorabilia from the early beginnings of the island. It’s an interesting place to visit to learn about the rich culture of the country. Located at the first city market, there are several side trips along the way to visit some of the local spots. 

Shirley Heights

One of the most breathtaking views you can go is right here at Shirley Heights. It’s a restored military lookout and gun battery with a perfect view of most of the entire island. There is a hiking trail that leads to a bar which features reggae music at night. They have a kind of island party every Sunday and serves good food, beers, and a lot of music. Try to stay to see the full glory of one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. 

Galleon Beach

A trip to Antigua is not complete without hitting the beach. Galleon Beach is known for its peaceful, pristine, and picture-perfect beach on the island. The beach is well-known for their hillside villas, accommodations with great amenities. Most tourists like their modern theme accommodations, while enjoying a laid-back country seaside lifestyle. Even though it attracts people, Galleon Beach is almost not too crowded. Both the locals and tourists would go to Galleon Beach because of its snorkeling sites and turtle sightings. It also has access to the very famous “Pillars of Hercules” and other three best beaches in Antigua. 

Stingray City Antigua

Every tourist thinks of a fun and epic way to end their vacation. In Antigua everyone goes to Stingray City – it’s the most valued adventure on the island. The experience will definitely leave a mark and stories to tell on your way home. The Stingray City features Southern Rays which are the brightest rays in the Caribbean. Don’t be afraid to mingle with them as they are gentle and friendly creatures of the deep blue sea. It’s a fun excursion for the whole family to enjoy. The staffs are very friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating to all their guests. It’s a great opportunity to snap an epic picture while holding the stingray in the pristine waters of the Caribbean. 

Nelson's Dockyard

Nelson’s Dockyard is a restored British colonial naval station named after Captain Horatio Nelson. Located in English Harbour on the south-eastern coast of the island, it’s well-known for yachting and boating destination. It’s a cultural heritage site situated in Saint Paul Parish in Antigua. The area serves as a shelter during violent storms that often hit the island. Many businesses stretch along the dock including restaurants, museums, bakeries, yacht supply stores and bars. The Antigua Sailing Week, the most anticipated sailing event of the year occur every end of April and beginning of May. It attracts hundreds of sailing enthusiasts both in and out of the country, as sailors would raise their flags and sail across the pristine ocean of Antigua.