Pigeon Point Beach
Photo source: tripadvisor
The Pigeon Point Beach is in the Parish of St. Paul at the Southeastern side of the island. It is one of the popular beaches visited by persons in the neighbouring English Harbour community as well in other communities. The beach has on property two restaurants which include Catherine’s Cafe and Bumpkins and is close in proximity to hotels and guest houses (Antigua Yacht Club, South Point Hotel, etc., restaurants (Trappas, Club Sushi, Los Cabrones and more, the bank Eastern Caribbean Bank (ECAB), supermarket (Covent Garden), a pharmacy, a gas station and more. Decked out on the beach are gazebos which visors can shade from the sun and set down their picnic items before entering the crystal-clear waters. Additionally, a bathroom facility is located on property equipped with showers and changing rooms. During the Sailing season which runs from January – May, yachts are seen docked offshore. The beach also has a play park for the kids, perfect for a family fun day.
Galleon Beach
Photo source: sandee
Galleon Beach is one of the best beaches for snorkelling and sea turtle sightings as it is tucked away on the Southeastern side of the island surrounded by historic forts, lookouts, trails, small hotels and guest houses in St. Paul. The crystal-clear waters, the lush coconut trees, the diverse species of marine life all compliment this beautiful beach. On property, there is a restaurant, and bar called the Loose Cannon Beach Bar & Restaurant, which is a good spot to experience live music, authentic food, cocktails, and more after day at the beach. The beach has trails which lead to the Pillars of Hercules which a geological beauty of cliff faces which have been formed from wind and wave action over a period of years, one of the best attractions on the island. The beach is also close to the historic Shirley Heights Lookout which oversees Nelson’s Dockyard and the Yacht Club Marina. One your way up tot he beach; you will be introduced to historic site such as the Dow’s Interpretation Centre and the Clarence House.
Pillars of Hercules
Dieppe Bay Beach
in Falmouth Harbour is this beautiful, secluded beach Dieppe Bay Beach, complimented by the Dieppe Bay House which is a beautiful six-bedroom sea front villa perfect for a family get away. The beach has stunning views of the neighbouring Antigua Yacht Club and the Nelsons Dockyard.
Windward Bay
Photo source: relocateantigua
The beautiful beach is a 3–5-minute drive from the Pigeon Point Beach and is the favourite for fishermen who enjoy casting their lines in the untouched waters which hosts diverse marine life. It is the perfect beach to get away from the crowds which may be on the Pigeon point beach especially on holidays. During the sailing season, this beach provides a great vantage point to see yachts sailing across the horizon as it is close to the Antigua Yacht Club and the Nelsons Dockyard. It is also in close proximity to restaurants, hotels, guest houses and more in the area.
Info from sandee
Rendezvous Bay
Photo source: rendezvousbayantigua
Located on the south of the island in the Parish of St. Paul is Rendezvous Bay which can only be reached via boat or by hiking. The beautiful blue of untouched water is perfect for scenic views and photos once you can reach the beach. For those curious on exploring this uninhabited beach you can follow the instructions below.
- Your journey begins by taking a drive to Falmouth, St. Paul. Take the route to Spring Hill Stables.
- At the Stables you’ll have to abandon your vehicles and continue your journey on foot as the path is unsuitable for even for a good 4-wheel drive vehicle.
- Once you past the stables taken a left to the Birds and Bees Cottages. Keep taking the left at the white house.
- Keep straight and you will reach the coastline of Rendezvous Bay.
- If you want an extended hike, you can take the trail from the western end of the beach, through the trees to Wallings Dam, now a nature reserve.
Half Moon Bay
Photo source: facebook
Set on the East coast of Antigua is 132 acres of natural lush green vegetation, coconut trees with a beautiful backdrop of blue picturesque waters. This beach was once home to the Half Moon Bay Hotel which was one of the first hotels built on the island. However, the hotel has since been damaged and abandoned following the arrival of hurricane Luis back in 1995. An exploration of the beach will reveal the ruins of the once existing hotel which will transport you back in time if you use your imagination. The waters can be a bit rough for swimming on some days but is loved by many locals and visitors. The winds in the area can be strong perfect for those who enjoy kite surfing. Hungry? then take a trip up the road and grab some food from Smiling Harry’s or the Beach Bum Bar.
Exchange Bay
Photo source: flickr
Exchange Bay is set on the eastern side of the island in the parish of St. Philip just a few minutes drive from Half Moon Bay. The Bay is surrounded by villas, houses and the Mill Reef Club hotel. The beach is primarily secluded but offers the most amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach formation is mostly from limestone rock where you can observe marine organisms which have been cemented into the rocks over a period. A hike around the area will lead to some amazing discoveries that exists in the area.
Long Bay
Photo source: /relocateantigua
Brilliant blue, calm, shallow water awaits you at Long Bay, St. Philip. This bay is located on the eastern edge of the island with coconut tree cascaded on the beach in a bright banket of white sand. The beach has many amenities at your fingertips including a nearby beach bar, The Grand Pineapple Beach Club which houses most of the visitors to the beach, many small kiosks and beach huts where local souvenirs can be purchased. Additionally, this beach is nearby to our National Park, Devils Bridge.
Laury’s Bay
Photo source: facebook
Looking for a secluded and quiet beach, then Laury’s Bay is perfect for you. The perfect getaway from the crowd which may be at its neighbouring beach, Long Bay. There aren’t any amenities on the beach, but it is near the Grand Pineapple Beach Club which houses restaurant and bars, kiosks and more in the village of Seatons.
Shell Beach
Photo source: antiguamarineguide
Located in the parish of St. George on the Northeastern edge of the island is the beautiful Shell Beach Marina. This beach is called home to locals who enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, diving, swimming and any water sports activity. The marina harbours boats from the locals in the area and from visitors to the area. There are bathroom facilities available, gas stations, nearby restaurants, shops and more which makes it a great picnic spot. The beach is very close to the airport so a perfect first adventure to those wanting to experience a beach on island, for history lovers The Sugar Factory is nearby as well as the St. George Church. For those wanting to stay near to the hotel, there are guest houses and hotels in the area which will offer you a comfortable stay with amazing foods (local and international).
Dutchman’s Bay
Photo source: dutchmansbay
Imagine waking up to a beach just outside your door, this experience can be fulfilled at Dutchman’s Bay which houses private Caribbean style cottages on the beach. The beach is found on the Northeastern side of the island near to the airport. This beautiful beach provides refreshing trade winds and crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for a cool down on a hot day and for windsurfing. Its proximity to the airport provides you with amenities such as restaurants, gas stations, historic sites, shops and more.
Jabberwock Beach
Photo source: lonelyplanet.com
Beautiful baby blue, calm waters, lush green vegetation surrounded by a white blanket of sand are just some of the few characteristics of the Jabberwock beach located at the northeastern tip of Antigua. This beach is great for wind and kite surfing due to the prominent Tradewinds and is the main hub for kitesurfing on the island. It is close to the airport so perfect for those visitors who want to experience kite surfing on the island. Near to the beach are restaurants such as Garden Grill which serves exceptional food, The Hodges Bay Hotel, apartments, guest houses, shops and more.
Kite surfing,
Photo source: https://www.kitesurfantigua.com/
Soldier Bay Bush Beach
Photo Soure: sandee
Seated on the Northwestern tip of the island in Cedar Grove, St. John is a mile long beach of beautiful white sand, calm blue sea enclosed by beautiful cliff faces creating a secluded paradise. Soldier Bay Bush was named after a military instalment in the area years ago. The beach is ideal for those interested in sailing, fishing, picnics and even a camping adventure. There are bathrooms, vendors and more on the beach which makes it ideal for camping. Nearby are several complexes which have supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, stores and even a movie theatre for your enjoyment. Nearby attractions include the historic Fort Barrington as well as hiking trails for the adventure lovers.
Dickenson Bay
Photo Source: sandals
One of the most popular beaches on the island, loved by visitors and locals. This beach is a hotspot for water sports activities due to the crystal-clear waters, pristine sand and overall clean environment. The beach is loved due to its scenic atmosphere, a perfect backdrop to your photos. The beach is lined with beautiful resorts, guest houses and cottages which offer a comfortable and luxury stay on the island with great music and delicious local cuisines.
Runaway Beach
Photo source: expedia
Located on the Northwestern end of the island is Runaway Beach a popular beach for excursions and tours. Perfect for those interested in snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and as the calm, crystal-clear waters provide the ideal environment. The beach has amenities such as bathrooms with showers and changing rooms, benches, beach chairs and more along with access to nearby restaurants, supermarkets and shops to grab essential items for a day on the beach. The beach is nearby the capital, St. John’s where you can indulge in our local food and culture at cook shops and restaurants.
Fort James Beach
Photo source: worldbeachguide
Located south of Runaway beach is Fort James Beach. Fort James Beach is named after the nearby Fort James, which was built by the British in the 18th century to protect the island from French invaders. The beach stretches half a mile and on a clear day you an see the neighbouring offshore islands, Redonda and Monseratt. Accompanied by the blue, calm waters are various restaurants, apartments, supermarkets, two major hotels (Grand Royal Antigua, Blue Waters Resort and Spa) near by. Additionally, the Blue Harbour Helicopters and the Calvin Air Helicopters tour companies are nearby affording you the opportunity to view the beauty of Antigua and Barbuda from the sky.
Side Hill Beach
Photo source: sandee
Side Hill Beach is located on the Northwestern side of the island in St. John. This small beach provides a calm relaxing environment for those interesting in snorkelling, swimming or even picnicking. The beach has a bathroom facility available and is nearby to a major supermarket, car rental companies and local shops.
Pillar Rock Bay Beach
Photo source: airbnb
Pillar Rock beach is located on the Northwestern side of the island in St. John. This beach is ideal for snorkellers as the water is filled with colourful reefs with a range of diverse marine life. The calm clear waters provide an excellent environment for paddle boarders and kayakers. For the adventure lovers, discover the trail from the beach to Fort Barrington or take a walk from Pillar Rock to Fort James where you can see ruins from the colonial period. For those interested in staying in the area, condominiums are available providing you with a comfortable stay on the island. There are local shops in the area to grab essentials and local food.
Deep Bay
Photo source: encirclephotos
Deep water Harbour is mile long blanket of white sand, complimented by lush green trees and blue crystal-clear water. The beach is perfect for small, motorized boats for those interested in diving or just up for an adventure. Also, for campers, snorkellers, those wanting aesthetic photos, and those interested in hiking. There is a hiking trail which leads to historic Fort Barrington from the colonial period. Behind the beach is a lagoon which may have given the beach its name Deep water beach. On the beach is the 5-star hotel Royalton Antigua where you can enjoy a comfortable stay on your visit to the island with delicious local cuisines.
Galley Bay
Photo source: booking.com
With the beautiful 4.5-star Galley Bay Resort & Spa hotel on the beach, the Galley Bay beach is the perfect beach for those who want to wake up with the beach at their front door. A unique feature of this beach is the sea turtles which nest and frequent the area during the nesting season from June to December each year. The beach is about 3 miles of white, pristine sand perfect for any activity. Water sport activities are a big feature on this beach due to the presence of the hotel. The beach is near to Five Islands village for those interested in local snacks, cuisines and more for a day at the beach.
Hawksbill Bay
Photo source: virginholidays
The Hawksbill beach is named after the hawksbill sea turtle due to a large offshore rock which resembles the turtle. The hotel on the beach, Hawksbill Hotel is an adult-only hotel which provides a luxurious, comfortable stay for visitors. There are four soft white sandy beaches to explore on the property, including Antigua’s only clothing optional beach which allows you to truly feel the elements of nature on your bare skin. Due to the presence of the hotel, guests can enjoy a list on amenities which include kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, bathrooms and changing rooms and more. The hotel is in driving distance to the Five Islands Village where you can shop for picnic essential for a beach day of choice or just to sample local snacks, food and treats.
Seaforth Beach
Photo source: relocateantigua
This mile-long beach is located on the West of the island in the village of Jennings tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city life in the capital. The path to the beach is a bit rocky and bumpy so we encourage persons to uses a 4×4 vehicle or book a guided buggy tour with a local tour company. The beach is calm and quiet and don’t be surprised if you see tiny piglets swimming around as they are part of the Pig’s Paradise Antigua tour which you can book on their website pigsparadiseanu
Hermitage Bay
Photo source: blacktomato
Tucked away on the West coast of Antigua is the luxurious Hermitage Bay with the 5-star Hermitage Bay Hotel. The perfect beach for snorkelers and those who want a beautiful backdrop to their photos. The beach is quiet and the waves calm creating the perfect family picnic experience.
Pearns Bay
Photo source: exceptionalvillas
Pearns Bay is located on the West coast of the island in the village of Jennings with a blanket of white sand, lush green backdrop of trees with calm waters perfect for snorkellers and those who enjoy picnicking. The beach is perfect for those who want to experience an entire beach to themselves without any traffic. Due to its location, there is only one main access to the beach which begins from the road of Hermitage Bay, which goes on for a mile and a half then take the second right onto the dirt road. Continue on that stretch then take the left turn and continue on that road until you reach the coastline.
Jolly Beach
Photo source: booking.com
Home to the Jolly Beach Hotel on the south of the island, is the mile long beach of beautiful white sand and warm water from the Caribbean Sea. The beach is perfect for those wanting to go picnicking due to the nearby supermarket and shops in the area. The beach has water sports activities for those staying at the nearby hotel.
Valley Church Beach
Photo source: worldbeachguide
Loved by the locals in the south, Valley Church Beach is the perfect picnic spot, swimming, camping and much more. The beach has a restaurant (The Nest Beach bar) nearby where you can grab a quick meal along with a beach officer for the security of patrons. There are local hotels and guest houses in the area which will provide a comfortable stay for visitors on the island. The beach is an ideal camp site and is wheelchair access friendly.
Ffryes Beach
Photo source: worldbeachguide
Ffryes beach is classified into two beaches, Big Ffryes and Little Ffryes separated by an outstretched piece of land. Both are perfect for picnics, water sports activities, swimming and snorkellering. The waves are calm and warm which makes the beaches loved by locals and tourists especially on holidays. The beach is wheelchair access friendly and has a beach officer for the safety of patrons on the beach. Nearby are restaurants, The 5-star luxurious Sheer Rocks and Dennis Restaurant. The Cocobay Hotel is located on Little Fryes beach providing a comfortable stay for visitors on the island.
Darkwood Beach
Photo source: tripadvisor
Darkwood beach is a popular beach for water sport activities due to the water park on the beach. The beach has three restaurants and bars (Darkwood Beach bar, Rum Bus Beach bar, OJ’s Restaurant) for those looking for local cuisines and a good beer or cocktail. The beach is perfect for picnic lovers, due to its calm and scenic atmosphere. For adventure lovers, there are trails to take you to Boggy Peak, The Shekerley Mountains, Fig Tree Hill and more.
Turner’s Beach
Photo source: exploringantigua
Located on the south of the island in the village of Old Road is Turner’s Beach. The beach is home to Turner’s Beach Bar where you can find good food and drinks for a day at the beach. Turners Beach was once a coconut plantation and is still lined with coconut trees to this day perfect for those who are coconut lovers. There are also umbrellas on the beach a source of shade on a bright sunny beach day. You can venture off into the village to get some local snacks and treats, a taste of culture. For adventure lovers, there are trails to take you to Crab Hill, Boggy Peak, The Shekerley Mountains, Fig Tree Hill and more.
Cades Beach
Photo source: reservemytours
Located in the village of Old Road, Cades beach is about half a mile long with soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach is perfect for snorkellers due to its popular dive site known as Cades Reef which is home to turtles, rays and vibrant marine life. Thus, making it a marine reserve. The beach is close to the Antigua and Barbuda Black Pineapple farm where we grow the sweetest pineapple in the world. For the adventure lovers there are a few trails in the area for exploration.
Morris Beach
Photo source: sandee
Morris Beach is in the village of Old Road. The beach boasts white rich sand, with coconut trees lining the beach, surrounded by bright blue warm waters creating the perfect background to any photo. The beach offers parking for locals and visitors and perfect for those who enjoy snorkelling and swimming. Locals and tourists can enjoy a stroll through the village where they can grab some local food and treats and learn some history on the island. The beach is nearby to a rocky cliff which houses the 5-star hotel Curtain Bluff which offers a luxurious and comfortable stay on the island with great food, drinks and atmosphere.