This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Antigua and Barbuda? You’re in for something special!
This twin-island nation in the Caribbean is known for its 365 beaches (one for every day of the year!), but there’s so much more to experience beyond the sand. You can snorkel with sea turtles, sail around the coastline, or explore colorful coral reefs just offshore. And don’t even get me started on the delicious island food!
When we first visited Antigua, we weren’t sure where to start, but we ended up having some really fun adventures. Now, we’ve rounded up the very best things to do to help you plan your own unforgettable trip.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this boat tour, which sails all the way around Antigua! There’s the chance to swim with stingrays, visit beautiful beaches, snorkel at the famous Pillars of Hercules, and see historical landmarks. Plus, there’s a yummy lunch on the beach included!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Antigua and Barbuda
- 1. Go snorkeling with turtles
- 2. Sail around Antigua on a full-day adventure
- 3. Cruise to Bird Island and Paradise Reef
- 4. See Antigua’s top sights with a local expert
- 5. Drive your own boat and snorkel
- 6. Bike, kayak, and hike your way around the island
- 7. Take a jerk cooking class
- 8. Eat your way around Antigua
- 9. Explore Antigua in a Tuk-Tuk
- 10. Soar through the canopy on a zipline
- Where to Stay in Antigua and Barbuda
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Antigua and Barbuda
1. Go snorkeling with turtles
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9:30 am or 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Snorkel with sea turtles, explore vibrant coral reefs, glide along the Pillars of Hercules rock formation, and zoom along with sea scooters
- Inclusions: Sea scooter, mask, snorkel, fins, life vest, drinking water, photos, hotel pickup and drop-off
- Rating: 5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This snorkeling tour was one of the highlights of our trip to Antigua because it wasn’t just a snorkeling tour – it also meant we got to explore using sea scooters! A sea scooter is basically a battery-powered propeller that lets you glide through the water with minimal effort, so you can cover more ground and see more marine life than you would while swimming alone. They are so much fun to use!
This tour took us to Freeman’s Bay, which is famed for its crystal-clear waters. We spent a little time practicing using the sea scooters close to shore with our guides, Rex and Renek, before heading into deeper water to explore on our own. All we had to do was push a button on the scooter, and we were off, gliding past colorful fish and stingrays. I even saw an octopus!
We also zipped around the Pillars of Hercules, which are impressive rock formations just off of Galleon Beach. If you don’t have a lot of experience, it can be dangerous to hike the pillars, so we think this is a great way to see them instead – plus, you get to witness all of the amazing marine life at the same time.
Not only is this tour a great adventure, but it’s also such a unique way to explore. We’re not the only ones who love it, either – you can read over 450 5-star reviews right here!
Book this tour here and get ready to explore Antigua’s underwater world!
2. Sail around Antigua on a full-day adventure
- Duration: 5.5 – 6 hours
- Time: Pickup between 7:30 and 9 am
- Highlights: Speed around Antigua’s coastline, visit nearly 30 beaches, snorkel at Stingray City, enjoy rum punch and BBQ lunch, see coral reefs and marine life, learn about local history
- Inclusions: Speedboat tour, snorkeling gear, lunch, snacks, soft drinks, rum punch, hotel pickup and drop-off, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sailing around Antigua on this full-day tour is one of the best ways to see the island in a single day! You’ll get to explore Antigua’s coastline safely on a powerboat while learning about its history and marine life. We think it’s the most comprehensive way to experience the island, so it’s absolutely perfect for those who are short on time here.
You’ll start with a visit to Stingray City Marine Park, where you can swim alongside stingrays – now that’s not something you get to do every day! Then, the tour includes a delicious lunch, which you’ll enjoy on the beach at Green Island. This postcard-perfect island is a true must-visit in Antigua, and I truly can’t think of a more beautiful place to relax.
Later, you’ll head to the Pillars of Hercules for some snorkeling. The views above the water are fantastic, and the marine life below is just amazing – plus, you can even spot an anchor that has been here since colonial times. Then, the day wraps up at the secluded Rendezvous Bay, where you can snorkel some more or just kick back with a cold glass of rum punch – bliss!
We love this tour because it delivers a true taste of Antigua in just one day. It’s got adventure, nature, and great food – what more could you want?
Read HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this epic full-day tour here!
3. Cruise to Bird Island and Paradise Reef
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: Between 8:30 and 10:30 am
- Highlights: Cruise to Bird Island and Paradise Reef, snorkel on vibrant coral reefs, see tropical fish and sea turtles, enjoy a lobster lunch on the beach, relax on secluded islands
- Inclusions: Boat tour, snorkeling gear, lobster lunch, snacks, soft drinks, rum punch, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Cruising to Bird Island and Paradise Reef on this half-day boat tour is one of the best ways to explore Antigua’s stunning coastline! Bird Island is a serene, secluded spot known for its pristine beaches and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, Paradise Reef offers some of the clearest waters and most vibrant coral in the area. I think it’s safe to say that they’re both must-visit destinations!
The adventure begins with a snorkel at the vibrant Paradise Reef. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, because the guides are there to support everyone, and the marine life is sure to wow you.
After your first swim, you’ll cruise to Bird Island. If you’re lucky, this is where you might spot sea turtles! But if not, you can’t fail to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and abundance of tropical birds. Lunch is served right on the beach and even features freshly grilled lobster when it’s in season, with chicken or fish as alternatives. Better still, you can wash it down with rum punch (or another refreshing drink) from the open bar.
We are super impressed with this tour’s itinerary. It’s an ideal way to see Antigua’s breathtaking scenery and amazing marine life, with plenty of time for relaxation along the way. No wonder it has over 400 glowing reviews!
Book this top-rated tour here and get free cancellation!
4. See Antigua’s top sights with a local expert
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Devil’s Bridge, Blockhouse, Shirley Heights, Nelson’s Dockyard, Fig Tree Drive, learn about Antigua’s history, see banana trees and local flora, lunch at a local restaurant
- Inclusions: Guided island tour, lunch, bottled water, soda/fruit punch, hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This small group sightseeing tour is the perfect introduction to the island’s history and culture. If it’s your first time in Antigua, this tour gives you a comprehensive overview of the island’s highlights, from geological wonders to historic landmarks. It’s no wonder this tour sells out often, so we highly recommend booking ahead!
The day begins with a visit to Devil’s Bridge, a stunning natural limestone arch that the sea has carved out over hundreds of years. It’s a remarkable sight and a great way to begin learning about Antigua’s unique landscape! Next, you’ll visit the Blockhouse ruins, which is perched high above the English Harbour and offers unbeatable panoramic views of the coastline.
Shirley Heights is another standout. It’s a military compound that was built in the 17th century, but today it makes the perfect photo spot! You’ll also explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a fully restored 18th- and 19th-century dockyard that’s still active today!
The tour includes a visit to Fig Tree Drive, which is lined with banana trees and local fruit stands – and yes, you’ll have a chance to grab some mango or black pineapple here. Then, the day wraps up with a visit to Darkwood Beach which is one of the largest and most beautiful of the island’s 365 beaches.
We think that this well-rounded small group tour is perfect for either a shore excursion or first-day activity. You don’t have to worry about navigating the island on your own, and you’ll see unmissable scenic and cultural highlights!
Book this tour here with free cancellation!
5. Drive your own boat and snorkel
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: Pickup between 8:15 and 9:30 am
- Highlights: Drive a boat along Antigua’s coastline, snorkel at Antigua National Marine Park, see secluded beaches
- Inclusions: Self-drive motorized boat (shared by 2 people), snorkeling equipment, guide, bottled water, hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off
- Rating: 5.0 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Nothing says “Caribbean adventure” like driving your own boat along the coastline! And as if that weren’t enough, this half-day tour also includes a guided snorkeling session at Antigua National Marine Park. It’s an unforgettable way to explore, that’s for sure!
Each boat holds two people, and you don’t need any prior boating experience. You’ll have a safety briefing with the guides and the boats are really easy to operate. Plus, you’ll drive the boats together in a group with your guide to lead you, so there’s no chance of getting lost.
The route takes you past Darkwood Beach and plenty of secluded coves, which look even more stunning from out on the water – if that’s possible! The highlight of the tour is the guided snorkeling session at Cades Reef, which is one of Antigua’s best-protected snorkeling spots. The water is crystal clear, and you’ll see an abundance of tropical fish and vibrant coral.
The guide stays with you in the water the whole time, so whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, you’ll feel confident exploring the reef. Masks, fins, and snorkels are provided, and bottled water keeps you refreshed during the tour.
This tour is a unique way to see Antigua’s coastline and marine life up close, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite with both cruise passengers and island visitors alike. And don’t just take our word for it, because you can read 350+ 5-star reviews right here!
Book this self-drive boat and snorkeling tour here, with free cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Bike, kayak, and hike your way around the island
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9 am or 12 pm
- Highlights: Bike through local villages, kayak through Antigua’s mangroves or coastline, hike to a historic fort with panoramic island views
- Inclusions: Bike and helmet, kayak and safety gear, guided hike, bottled water, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This tour was one of the most fun and active ways we explored Antigua! It’s a small-group adventure that combines biking, kayaking, and hiking. Now, that may sound like a lot, but it’s actually really well-paced and so rewarding. It’s perfect if you love staying active while traveling or just want to see more of the island beyond the beaches.
The day starts with a guided bike ride through the streets of St. John’s. Our guide, Giles, was clearly so passionate about his island and we loved seeing all it through his eyes. We cycled past colorful local homes and fruit markets, and we even stopped by the birthplace of legendary cricketer Sir Viv Richards. It felt like we were seeing the real Antigua!
After that, it was time to kayak. We paddled through a calm mangrove lagoon which was so cool since mangroves are such an important part of Antigua’s ecosystem. We saw so many birds along the way that I lost count in the end!
Then, we hopped back on our bikes and pedaled towards Fort James Beach, where we stopped for a quick swim to cool off. Refreshed, we hiked up to Fort James itself which was the perfect end to the tour because the views from the top were simply amazing.
We think this is an ideal first-day or cruise stop activity since it gives you a bit of everything: exercise, history, and stunning scenery. Just don’t wait too long to book because spots fill up fast!
Book this tour here with free cancellation before it sells out!
7. Take a jerk cooking class
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 11 am
- Highlights: Learn the art of jerk seasoning, cook authentic Caribbean dishes, enjoy rum punch and local snacks, dine with ocean views in a family-style setting
- Inclusions: Hands-on cooking class, all ingredients and recipes, lunch with drinks, rum punch, local guide and host
- Rating: 5.0 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This hands-on cooking class is one of the most authentic and memorable culinary experiences you can have in Antigua. It’s one thing to go to a restaurant and order jerk dishes, but learning how to prepare them for yourself really takes it to the next level.
We love the fact that this class takes place in a local family home, but what makes it even more special is the fact that the house overlooks the ocean, and is surrounded by orchids that attract lots of hummingbirds. The views as you cook and eat are just magical!
Your host, Nicole, will teach you all about the history and evolution of jerk cooking across the Caribbean, and introduce you to the local spices that make it so distinctive – and delicious! You’ll prepare dishes like jerk chicken (or tofu, if you’re vegetarian), jerk sweet plantains, and red beans and rice in coconut milk. Along the way, Nicole will share personal tips and stories which make the experience feel less like a formal class and more like cooking with friends.
Once everything’s ready, you’ll sit down on the veranda to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared, along with rum punch, appetizers, and dessert (coconut custard tarts, if you’re lucky!) And if the rave reviews are anything to go by, you won’t want to leave at the end.
This class is popular, so book your spot ASAP to avoid disappointment!
8. Eat your way around Antigua
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Taste authentic Antiguan dishes, explore local food spots in St. John’s, learn about Antiguan history and culture from a local guide, small group tour
- Inclusions: All food and drink tastings, local guide, bottled water, rain jackets (if necessary)
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
You can’t really get to know a destination without getting to know its food, which is why we think that this food tour in St. John’s is a must-do! You’ll explore the nation’s capital on foot with a friendly local guide who’ll take you away from the tourist traps and show you all of the best secret spots.
You’ll wander through Heritage Quay and stop at family-run eateries and food stalls that locals love. As you go, you’ll taste a variety of traditional Antiguan dishes, from fungee and souse to bull foot soup, and you’ll learn the story behind each dish! It’s so interesting to learn about how popular dishes have been shaped by centuries of history and various cultural influences.
There’s also a chance to sample locally produced rum along the way, which makes the whole experience even more fun! And since this is a small group tour, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers along the way. Intimate, personal food tours are so much more fun than large, generic ones!
You’ll leave this food tour stuffed full of both food and local knowledge. It begins at 10 am, and all of the food included adds up to a very hearty lunch, so make sure to arrive hungry.
Ready to eat your way through Antigua? Book your food tour here!
9. Explore Antigua in a Tuk-Tuk
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Explore Antigua’s streets by tuk-tuk, see local landmarks, visit hidden spots off the beaten path, learn about Antiguan culture and history from a local guide
- Inclusions: Tuk-tuk tour, local guide, bottled water, hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you want a unique sightseeing tour of Antigua, we highly recommend this tuk-tuk tour. We love any sightseeing tour that allows you to explore in the open air, and a tuk-tuk ride is always a fun adventure.
The tour includes pickup for extra ease, and then you’ll hop in a tuk-tuk and zoom through the lush greenery of Fig Tree Drive. It’s super scenic and you’ll stop along the way to chat with local vendors, and maybe even sample some fresh fruit – yum!
The tour also takes you to three of Antigua’s stunning white-sand beaches, where you can take a dip or just relax and soak up the sun. If you’re into snorkeling, make sure to bring your goggles because some beaches have incredible underwater life to see! There will be plenty of fruity rum punch and snacks to keep you refreshed between stops, which is just what you need in the Caribbean climate.
We think that this tour works beautifully as a first-day activity or even as a short shore excursion, especially if you want to experience both Antigua’s natural beauty and its local culture without the stress of navigating on your own. It’s a fun adventure and it doesn’t take itself too seriously, so if you’re craving a lighthearted way to see the island, this fits the bill perfectly.
Book your tuk-tuk adventure here and see Antigua in style!
10. Soar through the canopy on a zipline
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Soar through Antigua’s rainforest on ziplines, enjoy panoramic island views, cross suspension bridges, learn about local flora and fauna
- Inclusions: Guided zipline canopy adventure, safety gear and harness
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed way to experience Antigua’s rainforest, this zipline tour is the one! You’ll meet your guide in Redcliffe Quay and ride out to the rainforest, which is about 40 minutes away.
Once you arrive, the expert guides give a full safety briefing and help you gear up with a harness and helmet, so it doesn’t matter if you haven’t ziplined before! The course itself is thrilling yet accessible, featuring 13 ziplines, nine rope challenges, and two suspension bridges. Ziplining is always great fun, but this adventurous course really stands out.
As you soar through the trees, you’ll have wonderful views of the deep gorges and fruit trees below, and there are plenty of moments to pause and take it all in along the way. In fact, you can even take a moment to chill inside a treehouse and listen to the birdsong all around you!
And as if that weren’t enough, you’ll also get complimentary fruit juice and banana bread on the way round – well, you’ve got to keep your energy up, after all! This is the perfect way to dive into the heart of Antigua’s rainforest and get a taste of its beauty beyond the coastline.
Book this epic zipline adventure here and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!
Where to Stay in Antigua and Barbuda
Now that you’ve seen all the amazing things to do in Antigua, it’s time to think about where to stay! The best base depends on what kind of experience you’re after, but fortunately Antigua offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses. To make planning easier, we’ve rounded up our top picks for where to stay in Antigua below.
Luxury – $$$
Dickenson Bay Oasis at Antigua Village is a dreamy beachfront escape in Saint John’s, perfect for travelers who want the flexibility of apartment-style living with all the perks of a resort stay. Set right along the golden sands of Dickenson Bay, it offers stunning sea views, a tranquil atmosphere, and that unmistakable Caribbean charm.
The apartments are spacious, stylish, and designed for comfort, each featuring a private balcony or terrace, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a cozy seating area for relaxing after a day at the beach. The property’s swimming pool overlooks the ocean, while the lush gardens and sun terrace create the perfect environment to unwind!
Rooms and suites typically range from $500 to $1,000 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here.
Mid-range – $$
Passion Village Apartments is a great choice if you’re after a comfortable stay with a little more independence. It’s an aparthotel that offers modern, air-conditioned units that can sleep up to 6 people, making it a great choice for groups and families visiting Antigua.
We love the peaceful setting, surrounded by tropical greenery and plenty of outdoor space to unwind. There’s free WiFi, private parking, and even a washing machine on-site, which is super convenient!
The location is another big plus, as you’ve got Valley Church Beach just an 8-minute walk away, and Coco Beach and Jolly Beach are also nearby. It’s a great base for exploring St Mary or simply enjoying Antigua’s coastline.
Apartments here typically cost between $225 and $600 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here.
Budget – $
Ellen Bay Cottages is a charming beachfront stay in Saint Phillips that’s perfect if you’re looking for something both peaceful and affordable. The property sits right by the water, surrounded by lush gardens and sea views, so you get a cute little Caribbean hideaway on a budget!
Each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen so that you can save money by self-catering, and you’ll have a balcony or terrace to relax on. There’s also a washing machine, barbecue area, and outdoor seating, which makes it great for longer stays or families.
Rooms here typically cost between $90 and $150 USD per night. Check reviews and book your stay here.
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
- Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
- Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
- Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
- Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
- An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Thanks for reading!
If you’re looking for a Caribbean getaway, Antigua and Barbuda is the place to be! We loved sinking into the relaxed island vibes, exploring a few of the vast number of beaches, and snorkeling with some incredible marine life. You won’t regret planning a trip here, and our list of top things to do will fill your trip with lasting memories.
Before you go, check out all of our Caribbean blogs. We have explored these islands extensively and have multi-day itineraries, where to stay guides, and the best things to do no matter where your travels take you. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next getaway – cheers!
How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Turks and Caicos – The Best 5-Day Itinerary
Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico: 5 Best Areas & Hotels