Antigua is one of them many islands in the Caribbean region. It is a part of the Leeward Islands strategically located in the middle in the West Indies.
It is the largest English-speaking tropical island in the Caribbean. This island is also regionally known as Wadadli, which means âour ownâ. However, the origination of the name Antigua comes from Christopher Columbus and means âantiqueâ.
This whole island is surrounded by white sand and crystal clear ocean waters, which is one of the main reasons why Antigua is considered to be one of the most prosperous nations in the Caribbean. It is also one of the most famous stopping points for US cruise ships.
Types of Antigua Holidays
Antiguaâs main attraction is its 365 beaches of white sand, abundant water sports facilities and hot climate. However, this island still has plenty of other attractions to offer holidayers.
There are natural, historical and cultural establishments in Antigua that are worthy of a visit. Museums, National Parks, and some historical remains like cathedrals, trails and harbours are also attraction magnets.
Spa services and shopping are also top attractions here.
The Main Holiday Season in Antigua
Antigua is famous for having warm weather all year round, which is why many holidaymakers prefer to spend their down time on this island.
Since it is a tropical island located where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, it only has two seasons: the wet and dry.
The hottest temperature recorded is 30°C during the month of August.
Mostly the temperature is on the average of 25°C on a regular day.
It is very seldom that the temperature drops lower than 20°C.
The wettest months of the rainy season are August through November with an average of 120mm-140mm of rainfall recorded each month.
The months of June to November are considered to be the hurricane season and sometime bad tropical weather can be expected.
Popular Activities / Excursions in Antigua
On top of the most popular list of activities in Antigua are water sports. From swimming to cove explorations, yacht sailing to snorkelling, kayaking, wind surfing and scuba diving; Antigua has it all.
There are also a number of inland tours that can provide holidayer a much needed distraction from the beaches and water.
Examples are the excursions to the historical trails of Carpenterâs Rock, Jones Valley, Middle Ground, Monkâs Hill and Fort George and Rendezvous Bay.
Tours to natural wonders like Devilâs Bridge, National Parks, Sugar Plantation, Agricultural Stations and tropical rainforests are also available.
There are also some amazing cultural establishments like museums, reservoirs, walls and dams, and some cathedrals.
Beaches in Antigua
Antigua has an official 365 listed beaches on the island, one beach to visit for each day of the year. Since there are lots of choices, the challenge actually lies in how long it is going to take for you to find your own favourite beach spot.
There are beaches that are privately owned but most are open to the public.
The Northwestern coast beaches are usually the most famous for their complete facilities and modern equipment for a complete beach experience. Several examples are Dickenson Bay, Runaway Bay, Fort James, Deep Bay and Galley Bay.
There is also a nude beach in this area.
In the South to the Southern west coast are the lesser developed beaches. This is where some beaches are untouched and still wild. Some of these beaches are Fryes Bay, Rendezvous Bay, Darkwood Beach, Pigeon Point and Nelsonâs Dockyard.
Antigua Nightlife
The night time in Antigua offers a spectacular chance to enjoy the Caribbean nightlife experience.
The choices are endless; from lined-up clubs, discos and bars, restaurants and even casinos.
Some of the famous restaurants to visit are Pepperz ânâ Lime, Dennis Cocktail Bar and Restaurant, Rumbaba, Russellâs Bar and Seafood Restaurant, The Crowâs Nest and West Point Bar and Restaurant.
Visit Hemingway Caribbean Caf©, Hamiltonâs Wine Bar and Bistro, Caf© Club, C and C Wine Bar and Bar House Restaurant for some local and international wine collections.
Kingâs Casino is the place for gambling.
But if you are planning to party the night away with some loud and up-beat music and dancing, head to Luyo Sound System or the Mad Mongoose (which is the most famous and lively club in town).
Accommodation
Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa has been consecutively awarded as the âWorldâs Most Romantic Resortâ for 14 years. They donât accept guests below 18 years old which makes the hotel exclusively for adults.
Next in line is the Jolly Beach Resort and Spa. It has been a famous place among crowds of family holidayers because of its complete facilities even for kids. It is located 7 miles away from the main city of the island.
The last one on the list is the Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua. It is famous for its laid back, relaxed, casual ambiance and moderately priced all-in inclusion packages. It caters to all type of visitors from singles to groups or families.