What are your summer plans? that is the question I asked my travel buddy recently. I was quite surprised and pleased when she said “actually I’ve been looking at tickets to come to Antigua!” “seriously?!” I immediately began to plan all the fun things we would do when they get here! ‘they’ being my best friend since high school and her family.
My Favorite Things to do in Antigua
My list of favorite things to do on the island is quite a long one. One of the best experiences I’ve had is a leisurely day cruise with Captain Christian of Cruise and Chill. Christian is known for his decadent mimosa brunches served during a scenic sail in the beautiful blue sea among playful dolphins. The light is so magical out in the open sea that any photos you take will be absolutely perfect!
You’ll enjoy the sights including a submerged shipwreck, and cute swimming turtles as you sip on your choice of icy cold beverage. Captain Christian knows quite a bit of the island’s history and he will fill you in as your sail blissfully along. He will eventually anchor off of Bird Island for snorkeling or a refreshing swim before a delicious cold lunch is served. Later as you sail back to Jolly Harbour and the sun slips below the horizon in a blaze of glory, you’ll sigh with absolute contentment. A day well spent!
Next on my list of fun things to do is visit Stingray City to swim with the stingrays. Yes! I know it sounds like a crazy thing to do but it’s a surprisingly pleasant experience. Even if you immediately balked at the idea, trust me when I say I’ve done it not once but twice! Still wary? well the tour includes a brisk boat ride amid beautiful scenery, the perfect spot for snorkeling and Antigua’s famous Angostura Rum Punch! who can resist?
What are Your Summer Plans?
What are your summer plans? Do you love the amazing blue of the Caribbean Sea and luxurious white sand beaches? Consider Antigua! Early morning swims and lazy afternoons relaxing on the beach will of course be one of the most anticipated parts of any trip to Antigua. After all we are known for having a beach for every day of the year! Some of my personal favorites are Dickenson Bay, Fort James Beach, Pigeon Point, Darkwood Beach and Jolly Beach. There is even Jacqui O, a beach named after Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis! Whatever you do ensure you visit Half Moon Bay which is one of the most beautiful crescent bays in the world!
One of the good things about Antigua is that you can easily navigate your way around with the help of google maps or an old fashion map! If you’re like me you love road trips! The road trip I would suggest includes stops at the fascinating Devils Bridge, the Wadadli Animal Nature Farm, The Potworks Dam and Betty’s Hope. The historic Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is a must see with fantastic views from Dows Hill Interpretation Centre and Shirley’s Heights. Don’t miss out on sunset at Shirley’s Heights, enjoy live music and finger-licking barbecue as well!
Love Dining Out?
There are many great restaurants to choose from so bring your appetite for fresh tasty offerings. The South Point Hotel and MAIA Lounge is perfect to indulge a love for good sushi and live music right on the water. If you’re lucky you can enjoy the beautiful voice of the talented Asher Otto! Asher is one of the most talented artistes in the Caribbean and she has a very distinctive voice you won’t forget! If you miss her performance then you will enjoy one of the local bands just as much. Antiguan musicians are well known for their originality.
In English Harbour, you will also find Trappas, Flatties Flame Grill , Catherine’s Cafe and Crazy Eddies restaurants. Do not miss out on Seafood Fridays on the lawns of the Copper and Lumber Store Hotel in the Nelson’s Dockyard! That is if you love seafood, if not there are other types of dining experiences you will enjoy just as much.
When it comes to dining out in Antigua, there is a variety of restaurants to choose from. Local or Caribbean cuisine, Asian fusion, Indian, French, South African and Italian are all available. Some of my favorites restaurants are Spices of India, The Nomad, The Larder, The Salt Plage , C&C Wine House, Cuties and the Garden Grill. All of which are in the heart of St. John’s. There are also great restaurants located at most of the marinas as well.
See the True Beauty of Antigua
I would also recommend an “easy” hike with Rambling Soles, it is one of the best ways to really see the true beauty of Antigua. The Soles walk many of the less known trails and are privy to some of the best beaches. Another cool activity you should try is stand up Paddle boarding (SUP) with the National Sailing Academy. Who knows? you may even be encouraged to take a sailing lesson!
Truth be told, there is so much to do that I just don’t know how it will all fit into one summer vacation! The one thing I do know is that a lot of fun will be had! If you don’t have an answer to that question ‘what are your summer plans?’ I’d say it’s time you begin making plans! don’t leave it until the last minute!
