For more details on specific recreational facilities, please see the Antigua and Barbuda online tourism gateway.

A Beach for Every Day of the Year

The 365 white-sand beaches of Antigua line its shores. Some are social hotspots while others remain all but undiscovered, providing an ocean-side retreat for all temperaments. On the neighboring island of Barbuda, pink sand beaches and one of the world’s two frigate bird sanctuaries present unique experiences well worth the trip.

Anchors Aweigh

English Harbour’s waters play host to elite racing and luxury yachts. It is one of the few Caribbean deep-water ports, allowing superyachts to moor. Antigua’s internationally recognized Sailing Week and the Classic Yacht Regatta cap off an intensive competitive season with a gathering of racing, recreational and vintage boats. English Harbour is also home to the historic Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, once an 18^th-century British Naval base.

On the other side of the island, St. John’s is host to massive cruise ships, which arrive daily.

For the individual or small group, tours, charters, deep-sea fishing expeditions and sailing classes can be booked year-round.

Under the Sea, Over the Rainbow

The exceptional clarity of the Caribbean waters combined with the historic accumulation of wrecks and other submerged artifacts makes studying in Antigua and Barbuda the perfect excuse to buckle down and get a scuba certification.

Off Fig Tree Drive, a series of ziplines hang over the forest canopy, providing breathtaking views and heart-stopping thrill rides.

Nature vs. Nature

Antigua has many trails that are well suited for hiking. Most of the popular hikes lead to one or another of the island's many hilltop fortifications: Fort George atop Monk's Hill, Fort Barrington on the promontory at Deep Bay and Shirley Heights, which offers stunning views of English Harbour. The Historical and Archaeological Society frequently arranges group hikes.

Much of the appeal of the natural environment in Antigua and Barbuda is the multitude of bird species to be found there. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda, though accessible only by boat, is the largest bird sanctuary in the Caribbean and contains over 170 species. Long Island and Great Bird Island also offer outstanding opportunities for birdwatchers. 

Surfing AUA

Steady trade winds make for excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing. Rentals and instruction are available near campus, and related activities and rentals are available at oceanfront spots across the island.

A-U-Neigh

Several stables and miles of trails give the casual rider plenty of opportunity to explore from horseback. Riders should check ahead to ensure the stable is insured and licensed.

Fore!

There are two golf courses on Antigua; an 18-hole, 70-par course at the Cedar Valley Golf Club and another course at Jolly Harbour.

Antigua from Every Angle

The curious can find tours of every nook and cranny in Antigua to match any interest. Whether an exploration of colonial plantations and fortifications, a quad-bike trek through the undergrowth, a soaring helicopter ride, or a kayak-and-snorkel journey along the coast, these expeditions uncover so much history and beauty, and hint at so much more.