How to make the most out of your trip to Antigua!
Ever since I was a kid, my family has been vacationing to the small Caribbean island of Antigua. The island only covers 108 square miles, but has 365 beaches and amazing activities for your to-do list. Since I have spent quite a bit of time there, I wanted to share with y'all some of my favorites, and what excursions are worth your time and money!
Best Beaches: Without a doubt my favorite beach is Ffryes Beach, solely based on beauty and privacy. Ffryes is made up of a soft white sand beach that stretches far enough that you don't have to worry about crowding another group. On one end, you'll find Dennis's Beach Bar, a great spot for a post-swim drink and snacks. Although their food isn't my first choice, it's still worth checking out, especially if Dennis himself is around!
Pigeon Beach is also a favorite for many reasons. Not only is it extremely close to town, but it also has amazing views of the island and harbor. Pigeon Beach tends to be more popular to locals, and hosts two great beach bars, Bumpkins and Catherine's Cafe. Catherine's is only open during the high season, so make sure to grab a bite for a luxury beachside brunch if it is open!
Last but definitely not least, visit Half Moon Bay for a change in atmosphere! About 45 minutes up the Eastern Coast, Half Moon Bay is more isolated but just as beautiful. The bay creates rougher waves that are great for body surfing, and if rough and rowdy isn't your cup of tea, head to the left side of the beach for calm tide pools and relaxation. Beach Bum Bar isn't one to miss, but expect to wait at least an hour for your food as there is only one man working. But hey, grab a glass of their famous "Martha's passionfruit rum punch” and enjoy the view- you're on island time! Lastly, walk around the rocks on the left side of the bay, and seek out the natural mud baths!
Food: Now for my favorite topic, FOOD! Antigua has a wide variety of food options, so if you aren't a seafood lover, there is no need to worry!
Trappas: After years of visiting, I think my family has managed to try everything on this menu, and the owners now know us by name! Trappas is our favorite place to eat due to it's relaxed atmosphere, amazing service, and delicious menu. My family's favorites are the pork schnitzel, Trappas salad, fish and chips, and creole shrimp. Make sure to get the baked brie for appetizers, and the best Pina Colada on the island. Thank me later!
Boom: Infinity pool overlooking the harbor, free hammock's and cabana's, and an outrageous steak aioli sandwich with a side of parmesan truffle fries. Need I say more?
Club House: Antigua Yacht Club in Falmouth Harbour is a great place for sushi and seafood lovers. I would highly recommend going on Wednesday's for a few rounds of trivia and plenty of British banter!
Excursions: In my opinion, most of the excursions in Antigua are not worth the hype, and I would rather go to the beach instead. However, there are a few activities that are worth it for those who don’t like to sit still!
- Cool Cat Catamaran: Enjoy a 6+ hour catamaran sail up the west side of the island, with a snorkel around a sunken ship and jumping into private bays.
- Kon Tiki Bar: Oh boy, this place is trouble! This is a great place for the younger (but legal) crowd to go for drinks and "partying". Located about half mile off the shore of Dickenson Bay, this floating bar is good ole’ fashion fun. Feel free to ignore the "no jumping" signs, and taking a shot-ski of mysterious purple liquid is a must-do!
- Stingray City: Normally this isn't the type of activity my family would participate in because it's a huge tourist attraction. However, I must admit this place is freaking cool! After taking a 7 minute boat ride to a sand bar in the middle of the ocean, you get about 30 minutes to feed, swim, and pet stingrays in the wild. It took me about 3 trips to stop squealing when a ray would slide between my legs!
Honorable Mentions: Sunday nights at Shirley Heights, Prickly Pear (I haven't been yet, but it's my mom's favorite spot on the island!), Espresso Martini's at Skullduggery, Papparazzi Pizza (ask for the passionfruit shots post-dinner), and a walk around the dockyard in English Harbor.
