Joanna James
As one of the continent's best-kept secrets, Antigua is a lot more than a beach holiday destination and a honeymoon location. Home to its fair share of cultural and recreational hubs, here are five of the best things to do during a getaway in Antigua.
As one of the main reasons why travellers holiday in Antigua in the first place, no trip to the paradise nation would be complete without exploring the four tranquil Hawksbill beaches. Renowned for their secluded surroundings the Sea Grape Beach, the Royal Palm Beach, Eden Beach and Honeymoon Cove are some of the most stunning seaside hubs in Antigua. Offering visitors a welcome respite from the busy and congested beaches of Dickenson Bay, one can splash around, go for a swim and experience the breathtaking environs of these beaches. Those flying in on Intercaribbean flights such as those offered by interCaribbean Airways will find that these 4 beaches are some of the first sights one will come across upon flying over Antigua.
Described as a one-stop entertainment powerhouse, Nelson's Dockyard is a well-restored British era port dockyard where the English naval fleet operated during the Napoleonic Wars. Some of the buildings that form of dockyard also served as the residence of Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson back in 1784. Having been converted into a leisure hub, a number of popular restaurants, shops and coffee houses line this former naval dockyard to the delight of tourists. Special events are also held at the venue while walking along the marina and wining and dining are some of the best things to do here after catching the 15-minute historical showcase by the Dow's Hill Interpretation Center.
Tipped to be the country's most visually engaging beach, Half Moon Bay is also a water sport's lover's dream come true. Spending time exploring the confines of this national park is a great way to admire the natural beauty of the country while also enjoying a spot of windsurfing and snorkelling. The best time to visit the national park and the beach is during the daylight hours and visitors can book a guided tour of the landscape via a local travel organizer.
Promising travellers captivating views of Guadeloupe Island and the Montserrat volcano, a hike up to Shirley Heights is a must for all those who are holidaying in Antigua. Towering above the surrounding landscape at a height of 492 feet, the summit provides breathtaking views during the morning hours where visitors can also stop by the Shirley Heights Lookout Restaurant & Bar to grab a bite to eat.
While it is small in scale the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda more than makes up for its minute size with engaging exhibits and information on this island nation and its proud heritage. Situated in the St. John's Courthouse, the museum's top showcases include pottery dating back to the pre-Colombian era and maps.
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