Exploring Antigua: How to Make the Most of Your Island Days

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a Caribbean island where every day feels like summer, Antigua might just be that place. Known as the “Land of 365 Beaches,” Antigua is the kind of destination that offers something new every single day — from quiet beaches to vibrant towns full of color and charm. I spent a few days here for a content creators’ conference hosted by Traverse Events at the beautiful Verandah Resort & Spa, and it turned out to be one of those trips that makes you see life a little slower, warmer, and sunnier.

Just a little history, many visitors are surprised to learn that Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island country that gained independence from Britain in 1981. For nearly 350 years before that, it was a British colony, and you can still see that influence in the island’s architecture and old forts. The main island, Antigua, lies between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Here’s a practical and useful guide to the best things to do in Antigua, written to help you make the most of your time and effort.

Let’s start where I stayed, The Verandah Resort & Spa. One of the best parts about this resort is its private beaches. If you’re the type who loves lounging under palm trees with a drink in hand, you’ll find yourself right at home here. You can rent kayaks, go paddleboarding, or simply float around in the turquoise water.
To make the most of your stay, wake up early and enjoy breakfast with a view, then spend the rest of the day alternating between the beach and the pool. The resort also offers guided tours, which makes it easy to explore the island without worrying about transport.
You can check room availability or deals directly on their website.

Antigua’s capital, St. John’s, is where most cruise ships dock and where the heart of local life beats. You’ll see colorful pastel buildings that reflect the island’s personality: cheerful, lively, and welcoming.

Stroll through Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay, two shopping areas perfect for picking up souvenirs or enjoying a quick local meal. Don’t miss the pink church, one of the most charming landmarks in town. It’s worth snapping a few photos against the pastel walls for that perfect Caribbean shot.
If you like animals, you might even come across a few friendly dogs wandering around the streets. I met one who smiled so big it instantly made my day, just one of those unexpected travel moments that stick with you.

If there’s one thing you must do in Antigua, it’s watching the sunset from Shirley Heights. Locals and visitors gather here every Sunday evening for a lively barbecue party with reggae music, grilled food, and a panoramic view over English Harbour.

It’s one of those experiences that sums up Antigua perfectly, good vibes, good food, and a view you’ll never forget. If you can’t make it on a Sunday, it’s still worth visiting during the week for the peaceful atmosphere and unbeatable sunset.

The climb up the hill can be steep, so bring comfortable shoes, water, and maybe a light jacket if you’re staying late. Arrive before 5 PM to catch the golden hour for photos.

One of my favorite memories from Antigua was snorkeling with a sea scooter. If you’ve never heard of it, a sea scooter is a small underwater device that helps you glide through the water with minimal effort, perfect for people who love snorkeling but want to explore deeper spots.

During my session, I saw sea turtles, an eagle ray, colorful fish, and even a shipwreck. It’s both thrilling and peaceful at the same time. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner, local guides are very patient and make sure you’re comfortable before heading out.

You can book tours through the resort or find local operators online by searching “scooter snorkeling Antigua.”

If you love local crafts, spend some time exploring the souvenir shops near Pineapple Beach Club. I stumbled upon small colorful stalls early one morning while walking along the beach, and it was one of the most relaxing ways to start the day.

During the day, these shops sell handmade jewelry, local rum, beachwear, and snacks. Talking to the vendors is part of the experience — they’ll often share personal stories about the island and even recommend hidden spots to visit.

Bring some cash, as not all shops accept cards. It’s also polite to bargain gently, but keep it friendly.

Before flying to Antigua, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and check the latest entry rules on the official tourism website. The island has warm tropical weather year-round, so pack light clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and a waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables, especially if you’ll be snorkeling or joining boat tours.

It’s also smart to carry some local cash (Eastern Caribbean Dollars), though U.S. dollars are accepted in most places. Download offline maps before your trip since internet service can be spotty outside resorts. If you’re bringing gadgets, remember that Antigua uses Type A and B plugs (like the U.S.), so pack an adapter if needed. A little preparation means you’ll spend more time enjoying the beaches, food, and local culture, and less time worrying about small details.

Once you’re all set, you can focus on enjoying your trip. And if you need ideas on what to do, read my full blog on things to do in Antigua for practical tips and local experiences.

Antigua is one of those destinations that’s easy to fall in love with. It’s not just the clear water or the postcard-perfect views, it’s the people, the colors, and the laid-back rhythm that makes every day feel special.

If you’re planning your own trip, save this guide and use it to map out your days. Start with the beaches, catch a sunset at Shirley Heights, visit Nelson’s Dockyard, and end the day with some pineapple by the sea.

To plan your visit, check out Visit Antigua & Barbuda’s official tourism page for updated travel information, events, and activity ideas.

Every corner of Antigua has something worth discovering, you’ll understand why they say there’s a beach for every day of the year.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo