11 TOP Things to Do in Antigua & Barbuda + Tips
When you think of the Caribbean, you probably picture beautiful beaches, palm trees swaying, colorful buildings, calypso and reggae tunes, and a slow pace of life.
And yes — Antigua really is all of that.
But if you’re like me and you can’t sit still for seven straight days, don’t worry. There are plenty of adventures to be had too.
No, you won’t be ascending snowy mountain peaks, training for wild expeditions, or bumping into Bear Grylls.
But the “soft adventures” here are perfect for a chill vacation with a little dash of excitement.
I’m always hunting for some kind of adventure… so here’s what I found during my time in Antigua.
Table of Contents
- Quick Lowdown on Antigua
- 1. Kayaking Around
- 2. SUPing The Coastline
- 3. Snorkeling With The Fish
- 4. Biking Through The Local Towns
- 5. Learn to Sail
- 6. Whiz By on a Zipline
- 7. Combo Adventure Tour
- 8. Hop on a Catamaran
- 9. Hiking in Antigua
- 10. Visiting Barbuda
- 11. Visiting Shirley Heights is a Must
- Tips for Visiting Antigua
Quick Lowdown on Antigua
🗺️ Top Experiences and Tours
- Shirley Heights Sunset Party – Iconic viewpoint + reggae BBQ vibes
- Kayak Trip – Easy paddle + coastal scenery
- Combo Antigua Highlights Tour – Kayaking mangroves, biking St. John’s, beach stop, old fort
- Sunset Catamaran Cruise – Rum punch + sunset sailing
🏨 Where to Stay
🚘 Looking for a way to get around?
See current car rental deals here.
🛟 Safety
Travel insurance is a must, and it doesn’t have to cost much—Here’s what I use.
1. Kayaking Around
Have kayak, will paddle.
Kayaking is my go-to. It’s one of the best ways to get a little workout in while seeing the island from a different angle.
A lot of kayaking in Antigua is around mangroves and marshlands, which means you’ve got a great chance of spotting wildlife using the area as a refuge. We saw upside-down jellyfish, turtles, birds, starfish, and more.
👉 BOOK IT: Kayak Trip
2. SUPing The Coastline
Like kayaking, taking a SUP board out is such a fun way to get on the water and actually do something besides rotate between beach chair and snack bar.
The ocean side of Antigua can be a bit too rough for SUPing, but there are plenty of calmer inlets where it’s smooth and easy.
I took advantage of my resort’s SUP boards because… how else was I supposed to work off those buffet meals?!
3. Snorkeling With The Fish
Antigua’s bright blue water is ridiculously inviting and basically a requirement on those fiery summer days.
If you’re getting in anyway, you might as well slap on a snorkel and see what’s happening below the surface.
I snorkeled off the coast of Mercer Bay and at Galleon Bay. Neither disappointed.
Starfish, stingrays, turtles, schools of blue fish… you name it.
Galleon Bay was my favorite for two reasons: I tried scooter snorkeling (so fun), and it’s where I spotted turtles and a stingray. You also get a view of the Pillar of Hercules from here, which is pretty spectacular.
👉 BOOK IT: Try Scooter Snorkeling
4. Biking Through The Local Towns
Guys. I’m usually the first one to say NO to biking.
I’m not into it, and honestly I’m scared I’ll fall flat on my face (I’m clumsy, okay).
But when the chance to bike around St. John’s came up, I decided to go for it. I hadn’t biked in nearly seven years, so this was… a moment.
And it was awesome. Also: I did not fall. Huge win.
It’s such a fun way to see the town and surrounding neighborhoods — and it’s way faster than walking when you want to cover a lot in one day.
5. Learn to Sail
Recommended by Dan from Dan Flying Solo
Antigua and Barbuda are known for sailing and seamanship — and with Sailing Week being a big deal here, it’s basically the perfect place to learn how to navigate the wind and waves.
I spent a few hours out on the water with the National Sailing Academy of Antigua. I was definitely not an expert by the end… but I did pick up the core beginner skills and felt like I could at least pretend I knew what I was doing.
Our teacher was super patient, and with only four people per boat there was enough time (and way less pressure) to actually learn. I got to rig the boat and practice tacking — aka getting it to steer in the general direction you want.
The setting near English Harbour was beautiful even on an overcast day, and it was such a fun way to spend a morning. If you want to really commit, you can also book multi-day courses.
6. Whiz By on a Zipline
I didn’t personally get to do this one, but thrill-seekers will love flying over the tree canopy.
It doesn’t seem too intense either — so if you’re curious but a little wary, this could be a great “entry level” adrenaline activity.
👉 BOOK IT: Zipline Adventure
7. Combo Adventure Tour
Low on time but still trying to squeeze in the good stuff? This is a solid option.
The guys at Triflexcursion offer a fun half-day adventure: kayaking through mangroves, biking through St. John’s, stopping at a beautiful beach, and visiting the nearby old fort.
We had a great time and got a lot of bang for our time with them.
They also took us to a cute little beach hut run by the former Ms. Antigua, which was honestly adorable.
They’re two dudes who love their home and started their adventure business so they can share Antigua with visitors.
👉 BOOK IT: Combo Antigua Highlights
8. Hop on a Catamaran
Hey — you’re on an island. Adventures can be chill too, okay?
My friends and I hopped on a giant catamaran on our last night together and sailed into the sunset with rum punches in hand, music blasting, and all of us thinking the same thing: “Why are we leaving?”
Out of all the things to do in Antigua, I can’t think of a better way to end your trip than a sunset cruise.
Also… may I add how perfect my dress was for catamaraning (is that a real word?) in Antigua? Bring all the flowy dresses, ladies.
👉 BOOK IT: Sunset Cruise
9. Hiking in Antigua
You won’t need special gear or mountaineering skills for hiking in Antigua — but that doesn’t make these hikes any less worth it.
Both of these give you a great perspective from the top, and both are totally doable for most travelers.
Pillars of Hercules
Recommended by Jessie from Jessie on a Journey
If you’re interested in hiking in Antigua, the 5.4-mile Pillars of Hercules loop is a must. The trek begins at Galleon Beach, heads into the forest, and winds through tamarind trees.
As you climb higher, you’ll scramble over boulders and uneven ground — but it’s worth it. You’ll reach Shirley Heights Lookout with big views over English Harbour.
After you take approximately 101 photos (trust me), you’ll descend toward the famous limestone pillars along the coast. The Pillars of Hercules feel like Mother Nature showing off, with waves crashing hard against the rock.
Signal Hill Hike
Recommended by Tom from Travel Tom Tom
Signal Hill is a great early-morning hike — and yes, it’s also a strong way to sweat out the rum punch from the night before.
It takes about an hour to reach the top, and it’s easy to do on your own (just follow the signs). A few trails cross each other, but it’s not the kind of hike where you’re going to accidentally end up in another country.
The vegetation along the trail is thick and jungle-y, and the views open up as you climb. On a clear day, you can see Montserrat and stretches of Antigua’s coastline.
From the summit, you can see more than half the island — from St. John’s to English Harbour. The descent takes about 30 minutes.
10. Visiting Barbuda
Recommended by Lily from TourismLens
If you want even more beaches — and more of that “wait… why aren’t more people here?” feeling — take a day trip to Barbuda, about a 1.5-hour ferry ride north of Antigua.
Start at Princess Diana Beach, then head to River Beach (which can turn pink in summer). Bring sunscreen — shade is limited.
For lunch, stop at the Art Café for fresh catch and cocktails. Then take a boat ride to Codrington Lagoon to see frigate birds perched on mangroves.
If you’re staying overnight, add Two Foot Bay for caves and big Atlantic views.
The Barbuda Express offers day tour packages with local guides. You can also build your own day through Barbudaful — the owners also run the Art Café.
Confirm schedules ahead of time, bring your passport and round-trip fare in cash, and double-check the day before in case weather changes plans. Day trippers are usually back on Antigua in time for early dinner.
11. Visiting Shirley Heights is a Must
Sunday or Thursday are the classic nights to go.
If reggae BBQ parties with a view are your thing — and honestly, how is it not when you’re in the Caribbean — then tear yourself away from the all-inclusive buffet and get up here.
On other nights, it’s still worth visiting for the view alone. If you do the Pillars of Hercules hike, you’ll likely stop here. If not, your front desk can help you arrange a ride.
This is the Antigua viewpoint. You’ll see it everywhere for a reason.
👉 BOOK IT: Shirley Heights Party
Tips for Visiting Antigua
- Say no to unethical animal tourism. Avoid tours that allow touching, feeding, or handling wildlife. Always ask questions before booking. You can also enjoy free tours in Antigua that don’t involve animals.
- It’s pronounced “Antigah,” not “Antigwuah.” You’ll hear the difference once you arrive.
- There are two currencies. Both the EC Dollar and US Dollar are widely accepted. Always confirm which one you’re being charged in, and expect EC change even if you pay in USD.
- All-inclusive resorts make life easy. Many include kayaking, SUP boards, snorkeling gear, sailing, and more. It’s an easy way to pack in activities with zero planning. Here are the all-inclusive resorts in Antigua I recommend.
- Book popular tours early. Sunset cruises, sailing lessons, and combo tours can fill up, especially in high season.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen. You’ll be in the water a lot, and reefs will thank you.
- Pack water shoes. Helpful for rocky beaches, snorkeling spots, and boat excursions.
A very interesting and detailed article, I was just looking for any information about Antigua and Barbuda, language, culture, nature.
I loved reading how much you enjoyed Antigua and it’s fantastic that you are keen to recommend it to others- although as someone who lives there for 6 months every year- there are a few things I think it’s worth adding! Resorts are all well and good- but if you really want to experience the island- and not be stuck surrounded by other tourists-there are so many beautiful Airbnb properties that will allow you to do this! This way you can save money for more adventuring by eating in, or use it as an excuse to wonder around to different spots for breakfast lunch and dinner! There are many restaurants that are not expensive and will provide you with a much more Caribbean culinary experience rather than an all inclusive buffet bar! This way you get to meet and hang out with more locals and make friends with neighbours! There are many secret old forts and beaches to hike…you won’t read about these in travel blogs- you’ll need to chat to real people!
There also several sailing events throughout the season where the local community really make an effort to involve and excite everyone
There is a fabulous riding stables near Falmouth harbour that provides a really one of a kind trail experience.. allowing you to actually swim bare back on your chosen steed!
Thanks for the additions! I’m sure there’s a million more thing we could add, but being that I’m only one person, this is what I LOVED about my one week there. Definitely excited to go back and see more 🙂