Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide — Country Guide

Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide 🇦🇬

Everything a traveler should know before visiting Antigua and Barbuda — 365 beaches, sailing, coral reefs & Caribbean island culture

🌤 Live Weather — St. John’s

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📌 Quick Facts

🏙 Capital St. John’s
🏝 Highlights White-sand beaches · coral reefs · sailing harbors
💱 Currency Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
🗣 Language English (official)
⏱ Time Zone GMT−4
🔌 Plug Type Type A · B — 120V
Famous for: 365 beaches · English Harbour · yachts & regattas · luxury island resorts

🛂 Visa & Entry Rules

Visa-free for many countries Return / onward ticket required Passport valid 6+ months
  • Hotel booking or accommodation proof may be requested
  • Travel insurance recommended
  • Entry duration varies by nationality
Cruise passengers follow separate entry procedures.

🗓 Best Time to Visit

🌤 Dec–Apr Peak season (best weather)
🌧 Jun–Nov Wet & hurricane season
⛵ Apr–May Best for sailing & regattas
💸 Shoulder Season Lower hotel prices
Hurricane-season storms may affect ferry & flight schedules.

💰 Average Trip Budget

  • 🎒 Budget — $70–110 / ₹5,800–₹9,200 per day
  • 🏨 Mid-Range — $160–260 / ₹13,000–₹21,500 per day
  • 👑 Luxury — $400+ / ₹33,000+ per day
Resort islands & yacht marinas increase costs.

🗺 Top Places to Visit

Dickenson Bay English Harbour Shirley Heights Nelson’s Dockyard Half Moon Bay Barbuda Pink Sand Beach

🚇 Transport & Getting Around

  • Taxis & hotel transfers
  • Rental cars for sightseeing
  • Ferries to Barbuda
  • Water excursions & yacht trips
Ferry services depend on sea conditions.

📶 Mobile SIM & Internet

  • Main providers — Digicel · Flow
  • Tourist SIMs available at airport
  • Good coverage in main island
  • More limited in Barbuda
Download offline maps for remote beaches.

💵 Money & Payments

  • USD widely accepted
  • Cards accepted in resorts & restaurants
  • Cash useful for taxis & beach shops
  • ATMs available in St. John’s
Service charges may apply at resorts.

🍽 Food & Local Cuisine

  • Fungee & Pepperpot
  • Saltfish dishes
  • Grilled lobster & seafood
  • Caribbean stews & plantains
  • Rum punch & tropical fruits

🎊 Festivals & Events

  • Antigua Sailing Week
  • Carnival (July–Aug)
  • Seafood & beach festivals
  • Regatta & yacht events

🛡 Safety & Travel Awareness

  • Tourist areas generally safe
  • Avoid isolated beaches late night
  • Use licensed boats & tour operators
  • Follow sea-safety and weather advisories
Barbuda services may be limited — plan logistics ahead.

🎒 What to Pack

  • Light beachwear
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Water shoes & swimwear
  • Sun hat & sunglasses

🌡 Weather & Climate

  • Tropical maritime climate
  • Warm year-round
  • Dry & wet seasons
  • Hurricane risk Jun–Nov

🧳 Suggested 5-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 — St. John’s & Dickenson Bay
  • Day 2 — English Harbour & Nelson’s Dockyard
  • Day 3 — Shirley Heights sunset
  • Day 4 — Barbuda day trip & pink-sand beach
  • Day 5 — Island cruise / snorkeling tour

❓ FAQs

Is Antigua good for beaches?
Yes — the island is known for its “365 beaches.”

Is English spoken?
Yes — English is the official language.

Do I need cash?
Useful for taxis, beach bars & local shops.

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🚑 Ambulance 911
👮 Police 911
🔥 Fire 911
🩺 Medical Assistance Local Hospitals

🎟 Tours & Activities in Antigua & Barbuda

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