Antigua's Top 10 Beaches
Antigua has 365 beaches; as it is often said, one for every day of the year. Antigua is an island situated in the West Indies, and is famous for admirable superlative boating, dignified food, family-friendly activities, and exotic cocktails. All beaches are open to the public; so, the challenge posed to a visitor is not how to obtain access to the best of them, but simply how to locate the beach that suits one's taste. Locals are hesitant enough to choose their own favorites, so there are a number of good starters. Be sure to get specific directions before you go. Enjoy this sampling of the beautiful beaches of Antigua.
Antigua’s economy runs mainly off tourism thanks to its amazing beaches, various water sports, and gorgeous hillsides. With 365 beaches (one for each day of the year!), Antigua is the perfect island getaway when you're in need of some sand and surf. Whether you're looking to windsurf, sail, scuba dive, or simply lie on the sand, these hotel beaches are the best of the best.
Green Island
Green Island is a not big island situated just off the east coast of Antigua. This island is private, owned by the mill reef club since 1947. It lies proximate to Nonsuch Bay.
This desolate island offers a wide variety of blank white sand isolated beaches to explore. It is an approved destination for many Antigua sea charters and tours and offers multiple opportunities for excellent snorkeling.
Runaway beach
Located on the northwest coast, Runaway beach, a stunning endless white sand paradise, is a place of many famous resorts, restaurants and bars. Runaway beach is a perfect place for a family holiday and is a fun place to discover your perfect holiday. If you get too hot in your wandering, hop in and cool off in the clear waters of one of Antigua's most popular destinations.
Located in Runaway Bay, two miles north-northwest of downtown St. John's, Runaway Beach is on the North West edge of Antigua. You might think about stopping by even if you aren't staying very close. Antigua's beaches are known for being calm, reserved and beautiful spots along the coast.
Jolly Beach
A tremendous mile-long stretch of white sand, exotic green palms, set in a huge bay with jade water, and enclosed by massive headlands. There are a lot of hotels on the bay, so the beach is usually busy. Some independent travelers will come because the beach is so good. There are concessionaires on the beach who can rent you a kayak or a pedalo. There is also a dive shop, Jolly Dive, which has daily scuba trips.
A bar called Castaways sits right on the beach, under the palms. It offers drinks and food both inside and under parasols on the sand. The beach is surprisingly isolated on the west coast, so you will need transport if you are not staying in Jolly Bay. No public transport goes there directly, so you will have to drive or take a taxi.
Pigeon Point Beach
A seemingly endless stretch of sand near the mouth of Falmouth Harbor, Pigeon Point is the main public beach on the south coast. It has calm and warm water, making it good for families with children. It’s popular with the locals. It is often quiet during the week, with a just a few bathers from nearby hotels. Antiguan families come on weekends and public holidays, with their picnics and stereos.
Catherine’s Café now has a trendy setting on an open-sided deck at the very end of the beach, tables looking over loungers and a sandy garden onto the sea. It offers beachside elegance and a French menu and wines. Simple West Indian fare and cocktails and is open every day from breakfast until early evening, or even later. The beach is quite a walk from Falmouth Harbor (over a hill), so it is probably best to get a taxi to drop you off. They may even come back to collect you later.
Darkwood Beach
This beach is a true paradise for every traveler. It can be seen from the road as you climb up towards Fig Tree Drive. It makes part of this drive truly unbelievable. The restaurant right on the beach is not the best, but it has a good location and if you are not in a rush (without toddler) then you may find it ok. It doesn’t see as many cruise ship passengers as some of the ‘Restaurant Beach’ spots (maybe not highly marketed by the cruise ships) – that’s great news for you!