st johns antigua shirley heights the lookout
SANDY SHORES GALORE

Cruise to St. John's, Antigua

Antigua has a beach for every day of the year— literally. But the island experience goes beyond 365 distinct ribbons of white sand and clear waters. In the capital city of St. John's, you’ll discover charming candy-colored architecture, lively markets, and a beautiful baroque cathedral. And smiling locals greet you everywhere you go. On the southern coast, you can explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a centuries-old British naval base built by Admiral Horatio Nelson. Past Antigua’s yacht-studded coastline, you’ll find upscale boutiques, wild forest trails, hidden coves, and coral reefs bustling with tropical fish. But the best way to really see the island is from up above, so cruise to Antigua and hop into a helicopter for a panoramic look at lush jungles, golden beaches, and the nearby volcanic island, Montserrat.
National Language English
Currency Accepted East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), U.S. Dollar (USD)

Things To Do in St. John's

st johns antigua bettys hope

HUNT FOR HISTORY

st johns antigua bettys hope

st johns antigua bettys hope

HUNT FOR HISTORY

Explore Betty’s Hope, two restored stone windmill towers that were once part of Antigua’s first major sugar plantation. The site dates back to the mid-1600s.

Nelson's Dockyard Historic Building, St. Johns, Antigua
Nelson's Dockyard Historic Building, St. Johns, Antigua

DISCOVER THE DOCKYARD

Once the base of the British Royal Navy, Nelson’s Dockyard is now the only working Georgian dockyard in the world. It’s home to several sailing and yachting events, and close to the historic Clarence House.

st johns antigua shirley heights
st johns antigua shirley heights

SOAK UP THE HEIGHTS

For some of the best views on the island, head to Shirley Heights— a restored military lookout nicknamed ‘The Lookout.’ It offers the best views of the Falmouth and English Harbors.

Fish and Chips on a white tray
Fish and Chips on a white tray

LOCAL CUISINE

In Antigua, British, Creole, and West Indian flavors come together to spice up local ingredients and fresh seafood. Must-try dishes include fungi— a cooked cornmeal paste similar to Italian polenta— and ducana dumplings made of sweet potato. If you wander the harbor front, you’ll find traditional English fish and chips paired with locally brewed Wadadli beer.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 Antigua is the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean islands, so don’t forget your sunscreen. Do not wear camouflage clothing— it’s against the law  in Antigua— and leave your beach attire for the beach.  
2 A service charge is often included in the check at restaurants, but you may wish to add a standard 5% gratuity.

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