Important Information About Antigua and Barbuda

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Just 280 square km in size, Antigua is the larger and more mountainous of the two main islands. It has the most attractions, things to see, nightlife and restaurants.

Its lush interior features emerald hills and fertile valleys while its coastline varies from the windswept Atlantic to reef-sheltered calm waters on the Caribbean Sea.

Smaller, less populated Barbuda is low-lying Barbuda is home to just 1,200 full time residents. It’s accessible by plane, ferry and helicopter.

While its pristine seclusion has long been part of its appeal, it has drawn the attention of an upscale crowd and is tapped to be the next St. Barth’s.

Best Time To Visit

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If you’re counting on sunshine, the best time to visit is between November and April.

The rainy season takes place between May and October. Antigua’s Carnival and several international sailing events take place in the summer and they draw a loyal crowd.

If you’re planning a vacation during sargassum seaweed season (May to September), Antigua’s beaches on the northwest coast — such as Dickenson Bay Beach — have historically been some of the best Caribbean beaches without seaweed. 

Budget

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Unlike the Dominican Republic or Cuba, Antigua and Barbuda isn’t a destination that caters to budget, mass tourism.

However, it’s not as pricey as Barbados or as glitzy as Aruba.

While there are several all-inclusive resorts in Antigua, there are many other options of places to stay.

You can choose from villas, guest cottages, condo apartments, timeshares and low-rise hotels within a wide range of budgets.

Prices on Barbuda are generally higher as there are a limited number of places to stay.

 

Travel Tips

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• Antigua has a lush, tropical landscape fringed with sheltered  coves.
• It’s famous for its 365 (or more) beaches, many of them protected by coral reefs.
• While there is some nightlife (such as the Shirley Heights Sunday Party), it’s not a party island like Puerto Rico where the nightclubs, bars and cabarets rock until the wee hours.
• Antigua is a very popular destination for sailors and the yachting crowd.
• Gambling is legal at the casinos on the island.

What To Pack

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• Several bathing suits/cover-ups
• Flip flops and sandals
• Sunglasses
• Sneakers/hiking shoes for nature outings
• Light breathable shirts and shorts
• A few good outfits for fancier dinners out or nightclubbing
• Sweater or a jacket to cover up in chilly indoor air-conditioned spots
• Light all-weather jacket (for rare rainy times or long boating days out)
• Reef-friendly sunscreen
• Baseball caps,  hats with ties and hair scrunchies due to the trade winds
• Compact nylon reusable bags,
• Towel clips for beach chairs
• Snorkel gear and water shoes
• Bring your own prescription drugs. Most standard over the counter drugs can be found on the island.

Destination Details

• Capital City: St. John's
• Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar
• Official Language(s): English is the primary language and Antiguan Creole, a local patois, is also spoken.
• Plugs & Electrical Information: 230V voltage and 60Hz. Power sockets are type A and B.