Antigua: More Than Just The Beaches. Top Things to See
Published Monday, April 10th 2023 - Updated Wednesday, October 23rd 2024
Antigua is located in the heart of the Caribbean, east of Jamaica. With 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, Antigua is a picturesque island that people dream of visiting when fantasizing about a Caribbean vacation with beautiful ocean views and turquoise blue waters. Most people don't realize there is much more to this island than just the beaches.
Antigua has beautiful beaches like Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church. These are just the right places to enjoy sunbathing, water sports with the family, swimming, and snorkeling, but there is so much more to do.
Betty's Hope
Dating back to 1651, Betty's Hope was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. It was a plantation that helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean. It is now a reminder of Antigua's role in the British colonial era.
Two sugar mill towers are fully restored complete with sails. The comprehensive visitor's center and museum educate tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation. It also offers a way to understand Antigua's rich history.
St. John's Saturday Morning Market
St. John is Antigua's capital and the center of island life on Saturday mornings. This market draws in vendors from all over the island and provides a wonderful place for tourists to spend time. This market is a beautiful reflection of Antigua. You can get in touch with the locals, their incredible culture, and their fun way of life.
Nelson's Dockyard National Park
Nelson's Dockyard, located in English Harbor, served as the headquarters for Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson from 1784-1787. It also served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). In addition to the historic sites, there are gift shops, art galleries, restaurants, and even a museum where you can spend a fantastic day in Antigua.
Shirley Heights
Shirley Heights is a restored military lookout and gun battery. You can hike to Shirley Heights from the Dockyard. The summit offers the best view in Antigua, the iconic English and Falmouth Harbours. On Sunday evenings, go for the party. Enjoy drinks, barbecue, and local bands playing a mixture of Caribbean music.
With a wide selection of markets, shops, and restaurants to tour while in Antigua, this island, filled with rich colonial history, offers plenty of activities away from the beach.
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