Antigua has no shortage of incredible beaches. Featuring a beach for every day of the year, those visiting this beautiful Caribbean gem may find it difficult to choose just one for their fun in the sun. If you’re preparing to dock into this sensational island, let Bolsover Cruise Club introduce you to some of our favourites to help you find the best beach in Antigua.
Found on Antigua’s west coast, this sandy stretch is widely regarded as one of its best thanks to its gorgeous pale-blue waters and relative quietness compared to the nearby Jolly Beach. Having risen the ranks, Valley Church Beach has matched its growing popularity with investments that only improve its standing, including an open-air restaurant famed for its rum punch.
Those looking to spend their day sipping cold drinks or trying their hand at jet skiing along this beautiful beach should jump on the number 22 bus from St. John’s for a short 20-minute journey.
Pro Tip: Let your driver know where you’re heading, as official ‘stops’ are few and far between in this part of the world!
If you happen to be visiting Antigua on a weekday, Darkwood Beach offers an incredibly quiet haven for relaxation. While its mile-long sands feature little more than a charmingly ramshackle beach bar, this beach’s waters are warm and crystal-clear, offering immaculate opportunities to get close to inquisitive marine life.
Lucky for avid snorkellers, buses from St. John’s run regularly to Darkwood Beach, which sits on the southwest of the island. It’s incredibly easy to get there and immediately soak up the stunning panoramic views, white-sand beaches, and tropical forests this area has to offer. A favourite of locals, Darkwood Beach ticks every box.
Those lucky enough to have already visited Darkwood Beach are in luck because another contender for the best beach in Antigua isn’t far away. Just a short way down the coast awaits Ffryes Beach, where little more than driftwood logs disturb quiet strolls along the sand.
The sunny paradise of Ffryes Beach is also a hot spot for high-fashion photoshoots thanks to its sensational bay geography and gentle waves. And what makes this spot even better are the restaurants that it boasts, all of which have made a name for themselves.
Located just 15 minutes from the Antiguan capital of St. John’s, Dickenson Bay is one of the island’s most developed and lively beaches. For thrillseekers who prefer to pack their beach time with watersports, boat trips, and beach bars, this spot offers fun for the family.
When the action gets old, Dickenson Bay thrives thanks to its versatility. Take a stroll along the water’s edge for a mile or two and meet the nearby Runaway Bay, a serene spot that offers an idyllic island escape.
Pro Tip: Those who venture down to Runaway Bay must note that it lacks facilities, so make sure to eat and drink in Dickenson Bay before making the trip over, or pack yourself a picnic for good measure.
Those looking for the best beach in Antigua to get their heart beating, Rendezvous Bay Beach is a true treasure. Located on the south side of Antigua, this beach is isolated yet far from boring. Guests can set off along its rugged tracks and start exploring tropical nature parks.
If you’re not sure whether to try this beach, another point to mention is that those who choose to spend their day exploring its thrilling scenery are rewarded with incredible views overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Pro Tip: Access to Rendezvous Bay Beach is limited to hiking or by boat. Those with limited mobility are therefore advised to consider a different option for their beach day.
Is finding the best beach in Antigua just one part of your preparation for visiting this terrific island? We’ve got the answers to all your questions as you plan the trip of a lifetime.
The best time to visit Antigua depends on what you hope to achieve during your holiday. For the most consistent warm weather and low humidity, December to April marks the peak season for Antigua, though this does come with larger crowds. Prices are highest at this time, but so too is the availability of activities.
Alternatively, the shoulder season between May and June is still warm and offers the advantage of better prices. This period is an excellent option for those looking for a more relaxed experience.
Between July and November, Antigua’s off-season is the quietest time of the year, but it also comes with its weather drawbacks. Heat and humidity are at their highest, and the period between August and October sees a higher hurricane risk. Those holidaying at this time can enjoy year-low prices.
There’s so much to do in Antigua, from fun beach days to educational visits to historic sites. Guests can snorkel with the exotic marine life found around the islands’ 365 beaches. A particular highlight is Stingray City, a lagoon where close-quarter interactions with these beautiful animals are the norm.
They can also enjoy day trips to unique and eye-opening spots like Nelson’s Dockyard, Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation, and Shirley Heights Lookout.
The majority of contenders for the best beach in Antigua, including most in this blog, can be found on the west and southwest sides of Antigua. These areas benefit from calmer waters, with the eastern side being generally windier. The eastern side of Antigua is, however, great for aquatic activities, so the island’s entire coastline is worth exploring.
Whether you’re looking to kick off a Caribbean adventure or considering another destination, get ready to book your next cruise getaway with all of the major cruise lines available here at Bolsover Cruise Club. If you need help booking a cruise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our Cruise Experts will be happy to assist you.
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Long Bay beach across the Island so not many cruise passenger go there