Antigua and Barbuda

1. What are the best beaches in Antigua and Barbuda?
Antigua boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Top beaches include Dickenson Bay for its lively atmosphere, Half Moon Bay for its crescent-shaped shore, and Darkwood Beach for snorkeling. In Barbuda, visit Pink Sand Beach, famous for its blush-colored sand, and Two Foot Bay for a secluded experience.

2. What is the best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda?
The best time to visit is from December to April, during the dry season, with temperatures around 77°F to 85°F (25°C to 29°C), perfect for beach activities and sailing. May to November is the rainy season, with a higher chance of hurricanes (peaking in September), but it offers lower prices and fewer crowds.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Antigua and Barbuda?
US, Canadian, UK, and EU citizens can visit Antigua and Barbuda visa-free for up to 6 months with a valid passport. Other nationalities may need a visa, which can be checked via the Antigua and Barbuda Immigration website. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

4. What are the top things to do in Antigua?
Explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and hike to Shirley Heights for panoramic views. Snorkel at Cades Reef, take a catamaran tour to Prickly Pear Island, and visit St. John’s Cathedral in the capital. Don’t miss the Saturday market in St. John’s for local crafts and food.

5. Is Antigua and Barbuda expensive to travel to?
Antigua and Barbuda can be moderately expensive, with daily costs averaging $80–$150 per person for accommodation, food, and activities. A mid-range trip can cost $800–$1,500 for a week. Budget travelers can save by staying in guesthouses, eating at local spots, and visiting during the off-season.

6. What are traditional Antiguan foods to try?
Try ducana, a sweet potato dumpling wrapped in banana leaves, and saltfish with fungi, a cornmeal dish. Savor pepperpot, a hearty stew, and black pineapple, a local fruit. For dessert, enjoy tamarind balls, and sip a Wadadli beer or a rum punch made with Antigua’s famous Cavalier rum.

7. What are the best activities in Barbuda?
In Barbuda, visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Codrington Lagoon, one of the largest in the world. Relax on Pink Sand Beach, go cave exploring at Two Foot Bay, and take a boat tour to see the island’s coral reefs. Barbuda is also great for birdwatching and fishing in its pristine waters.

8. What are the best events in Antigua and Barbuda?
Top events include Antigua Sailing Week (April/May), a world-famous regatta, and Carnival (July/August) with colorful parades and calypso music. Barbuda’s Caribana (May) features beach parties and boat races, while the Antigua and Barbuda Food Festival (November) showcases local cuisine and culture.

9. What is the best way to get to Barbuda from Antigua?
The easiest way to reach Barbuda from Antigua is by a 20-minute domestic flight with airlines like SVG Air, costing around $80–$100 round trip. Alternatively, take a ferry from St. John’s, which takes about 90 minutes and costs $50–$70 round trip. Private boat charters are also available for a more scenic journey.

10. How can I travel around Antigua and Barbuda?
In Antigua, taxis are widely available, with fixed rates (e.g., $20–$30 from the airport to St. John’s). Renting a car is ideal for exploring, costing $40–$60 per day, but note that driving is on the left. Local buses are cheap but less frequent. In Barbuda, bikes or golf carts are popular for getting around, as the island is small and less developed.