8 Ways to Experience History and Beauty in Antigua
Be Enveloped in the Heart of the Caribbean
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the beautiful island of Antigua attracts visitors from around the world looking for a slice of paradise. A former British colony, the island has an abundance of history in addition to its spectacular natural beauty.
Visit former sugar plantations, forts and navy shipyards, or engage in exciting water sports or eco-tourism among the beaches and rainforests. Despite the impact of Hurricane Irma in September 2017, Antigua has fully recovered and even saw an increase in tourism by nearly 13% in 2018. So whether you arrive by cruise ship, plane or yacht, these are the best things to do in Antigua.
Nelson’s Dockyard
Used in the 18th century by the British Royal Navy, Nelson’s Dockyard is the largest of Antigua’s national parks and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. Many of the original buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries still stand, restored to their former glory.
You can even watch ships and yachts come to shore as Nelson’s Dockyard is a fully functioning, modern port. An onsite museum showcases the dockyard’s historical and archaeological significance in the Caribbean and is also surrounded by a myriad of shops, hotels, bars and restaurants to enjoy, in addition to historic forts and plenty of hiking trails to explore.
Stingray City
Considered one of the top things to do in Antigua, Stingray City has a variety of hands-on experiences with stingrays. After a short boat ride from the tour company’s base of operations on shore, you’ll get to stand in a shallow pool surrounded by stingrays where you can feed, pet and swim with them in the tropical waters.
Surrounded by coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish, you can also snorkel the area and observe the stingrays swimming in their natural habitats. Snorkel City tours also include complimentary rum or fruit punch and the ability to purchase pictures of your adventure to take home with you.
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Devil’s Bridge
At the eastern tip of Antigua, a natural rock formation that was shaped by the ocean over thousands of years has evolved into a local tourist attraction. The natural arch, nicknamed Devil’s Bridge, supposedly got its name from an old myth about slaves throwing themselves into the ocean from it.
As the rumor spread, locals believed it must have been the work of the Devil to have so many lives lost in the same spot. Regardless of whether or not the legend is true, Devil’s Bridge still fosters a sense of awe and reverence.
The open ocean lies on one side — as the tide brings in new water and as waves crash against the rocks, a large opening in the top of the formation acts as a powerful blowhole, spraying water many feet into the air.
It’s impressive to look at, but proceed with caution if you decide to try and walk across it. Centuries of salt water have made it extremely slippery, and high winds may make it dangerous to attempt.
Shirley Heights
What was once a fort and military complex now enjoys a reputation as Antigua’s best viewing point. You can hike or take a taxi or bus up to Shirley Heights, which looks out over the boats of English Harbour (in Nelson’s Dockyard National Park). On a clear day, you may even see the active volcanoes on nearby Guadeloupe or Montserrat.
While the views are certainly pretty, the real draw is Shirley Heights Lookout, a bar and restaurant on the summit of the hill that holds weekly Sunday night parties. End your week with a perfect view of the sunset, a live reggae band as your soundtrack, and mouthwatering seafood to fill your hungry belly.
Dickenson Bay
One of the most popular beaches in Antigua, Dickenson Bay has lots to offer beach-goers, whether they’re looking for relaxation or adventure. Surrounded by resorts, villas and cottages, and only 15 minutes from the capital and cruise port of St. John, the beach’s convenient location on the north side of the island makes it an ideal spot for tourists and locals alike.
Pick a spot, rent an umbrella or beach chair, and spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water or lounging on pure white sand. Before you go, snag a photo in the red English telephone booth or enjoy a sunset dinner from the quaint blue and white Warri Pier.
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Donkey Sanctuary
Are you an animal lover? At Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary, you can get up close and personal with native donkeys like Charley, Dee or even Stevie the blind donkey. Over 150 donkeys live at the sanctuary, which is operated by the Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society. Wild donkeys live all over Antigua, and the sanctuary takes in and rehabilitates injured or sick ones.
Visitors can brush, pet and take photos with the donkeys or even sponsor one through their adoption program, making it a favorite attraction for families, especially those with small children.
Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tours
Does soaring through a tropical rainforest on a stainless steel wire sound like a good time to you? If so, don’t miss a chance to take one of the Antigua Rainforest Zipline tours. Choose from packages that include anywhere from six to 12 zip-lines, or try your hand at the more strenuous challenge course.
Take in the natural beauty from a treehouse or relax by the rock pool after getting your Certificate of Bravery. Young or old, the zip-lines are appropriate for most ages and will inspire a sense of thrilling adventure no matter what your experience level.
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Betty’s Hope
Founded over 300 years ago, Betty’s Hope was one of many slave-run sugar plantations operating on Antigua. Although not much is left of the former buildings, visitors can follow a trail system to view the ruins of each of the buildings where the sugar cane was stored, processed and turned into sugar crystals or rum.
Twin windmills used to crush the sugar cane have been restored to working order, giving the site a picturesque quality and allowing for a rare glimpse into the plantation’s past. A visitor’s center and museum give further insight into the history and workings of the plantation, with photos, maps and artifacts from the early days of its operations on display.
