Explore Antigua: What can you do in Antigua in 24 hours?
Traveling to the Caribbean with one day to spend in Antigua?
The Caribbean Islands are known for the crystal blue water, pristine beaches and tropic lifestyle. Antigua is no exception with 365 beaches between Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua is one of the many tropic islands located in the Caribbean that you can catch a direct flight from Miami to anytime of year!
I had the opportunity to explore Antigua for a day as a layover for my final destination of Montserrat. You can easily spend a day exploring the Island during your layover, whether it’s kicking back at a pristine beach or trying some of the local cuisine (the sugar cane is amazing).
Antigua Highlights
🏝️ Antigua Rainforest Zip Line
🏝️ Anas on the Beach
🏝️ Shop in Heritage Quay
My Top 5 Things To Do in Antigua in One Day
Antigua has plenty of activities and sights to see that you can fit into your 24 hour layover. Here are my top 5 things to do in Antigua in one day.
1. Hire a cab to take you around the island
Most of the cab drivers in Antigua are more than happy to spend a day driving around the island to the “must-see” places. The cab driver is going to know the best places to go-to that aren’t tourist traps.
This is a fantastic way to check off a lot of the places/activities listed below in one day on Antigua.
Be prepared to pay with Eastern Caribbean cash or USD. While this option can be pricier than renting your own car, you’re guaranteed a safe ride vs. driving in a new country on your own. Recommended companies to book:
Shan’s tip: Avoid renting a car in Antigua! My cab driver told us that accidents on the island are common due to tourists not being familiar with the roads. He also told me that if you were to get into an accident in a rental car, the accident citation must be resolved prior to you leaving the island. Otherwise they can fine you and/or keep you on the island!
2. Spend a couple of hours and Zip Line in the jungle
Antigua Rainforest Zip Line offers several different packages, anywhere from 45 minutes to 6 hours. I’d recommend booking your Zip Lining reservation a couple months in advance if possible as the spots fill quickly, especially for the shorter packages.
3. Enjoy Shirley Heights Lookout
Shirley Heights was a military fort built in the 1780’s by and for the British Military. There is a restaurant at the top of the lookout that has the best Rum Punch on the island.
There is an entry fee of $15 EC to visit the entire space. For those who are looking to get a workout in, you can hike to the lookout. Nelson’s Dockyard is also worth a quick visit.
Shan’s tip: If you want to hike to the lookout, do it first thing in the morning. The extreme/excessive heat is no joke on the islands. Be sure to bring a pack with plenty of water and snacks to avoid heat exhaustion.
4. Visit Devil’s Bridge
Devil’s Bridge is made up almost entirely of limestone that has changed in shape and size for thousands of years. Most days you’ll find local vendors near the parking lot selling souvenirs and snacks if you’re interested. If you have time, check out Long Bay Beach just 10 minutes away from Devil’s Bridge.
5. Shop in Heritage Quay
There are plenty of shops to check out when visiting Heritage Quay. The key thing? Most of the shops are duty free. One thing to be mindful of, this area will be extremely busy when the cruise ships are in town.
While I jam packed all of the activities above into a short 24 hour window during my visit, there’s nothing wrong with posting up at a beach for a few hours before you head back to the airport.
Best Beaches on Antigua
Here are some of the best beaches where you can spend a day enjoying the sun and a few cocktails.
⛱️ Dickenson Bay
Ana’s on the Beach offers fantastic views, great cocktails and yummy snacks. Ana’s also offers chair and towel rentals.
⛱️ Ffryes beach
This beach is usually less busy than some of the other large beaches, it’s great for families!
⛱️ Half Moon Bay beach
The locals I spoke with mentioned this is their favorite spot to snorkel. You can snorkel right off the beach. There are usually vendors on the beach who will rent gear for a fixed price.
Is it safe to travel to Antigua?
Antigua is relatively safe for tourists visiting. The best advice I received from the locals is below:
- Don’t take public transportation
- It’s rarely on schedule and is not recommended for tourists
- Don’t go out at night alone, travel in pairs or groups
- Take cabs to get around, especially at night
Where should you stay in Antigua?
The island is known for its luxury resorts that are all-inclusive, but there are also some great hotels on the island. Here are my top recommendations:
👉 Hermitage Bay Resort 👉 Inn at English Harbor 👉 Heritage Hotel
Final Thoughts
The island of Antigua is a wonderful place to spend a day or week if you’re lucky! I hope you can start planning your trip to the Caribbean with the 5 things to do in Antigua in 24 hours .
My top recommendation is to spend time at Shirley Heights and the English Harbor. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider exploring Montserrat. Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!
