From A-Z in A&B: 8 Incredible Excursions in Antigua and Barbuda |
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The Caribbean’s twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda hold a wealth of incredible experiences that have endeared these diminutive destinations to travellers for decades. Whether you opt for the beaches and luxury of Antigua or the wild, unspoilt beauty of Barbuda, you’ll find a suite of activities and excursions tailor-made to excite individuals and groups of all stripes. From aquatic adventures to equine introductions, we’ve compiled a greatest hits list of the can’t-miss activities you’ll want to include on your next Caribbean itinerary.
A Snorkelling Tour for Two
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Explore the breathtaking south coast of Antigua in the company of a friend or loved one as you captain your own mini boat and snorkel around Cades Reef. Accommodating two passengers, these 25 horsepower crafts are perfect for cruising and admiring the scenery. Simple controls and relaxed speeds mean you don’t need any previous experience to drive, making this an ideal attraction for travellers of all ages. Enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of the Cades Reef either on your own or with a fully guided tour through Antigua Reef Riders, led by a professional diver who will guarantee your enjoyment and safety.
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A catamaran cruise with Treasure Island Cruises is a classic way to spend an entire day exploring the crystal, clear Caribbean Sea at your leisure. Come aboard a stunning luxury Catamaran and get a glimpse of key destinations such as the Pillars of Hercules, Jumby Bay, Great Bird Island, and Devil’s Bridge in sublime comfort. As a bonus, you’ll have an opportunity to swim and snorkel around the waters of Green Island before getting back on the boat for a delicious lunch and open bar service. Soak up the Caribbean sun in nautical style and admire the coastal views on this experience of a lifetime.
Off-Road Odyssey
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Photo courtesy of Salty Dogs Adventures
One automatic buggy for two, please! Take the driver’s seat at Salty Dogs Adventures, Antigua’s #1 buggy tour operator, and experience the thrill and adrenaline rush of taking the path less travelled. A full fleet of 268 Buggies is guaranteed to deliver an action-packed day full of mud-soaked fun and laughter. Discover the island of Antigua in the most unique and exciting way. There are three different tour options for you to choose from based on what sites you want to see and how fast you dare to go. Drive through the Antiguan countryside at your own speed...just don’t forget to snap a selfie before you wash off the mud with an ocean swim break!
Exceptional Ecotours
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Ecotours in Antigua & Barbuda are available on both land and sea! While many associate the Caribbean solely with beaches, Antigua boasts a diverse ecosystem that even includes a rainforest. Learn about the local ecology while having fun hiking and exploring the canopy, observing the wildlife from the shifting vantage point of your treetop zipline. Buggies are also on hand to take you on and off road. Birdwatchers won’t want to miss a visit to the wilder sides of Barbuda, where you’ll find the Western Hemisphere’s largest colony of captivating Frigate Birds in Codrington Lagoon.
Enjoy Peace and Quiet at Half Moon Bay
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Photo courtesy of Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Half Moon Bay is one of the destination’s more remote beaches - its crystal pink sand beaches offering visitors an opportunity to escape the comparative bustle of some of Antigua's most popular beaches. The bay is partially sheltered from the Atlantic Sea by a large reef which makes it safe to swim and snorkel in the clear and inviting turquoise waters. This lovely bay offers opportunities for surfing in the open bay and snorkelling in the sheltered cove. Tina’s Hotspot now offers beach chairs and umbrellas for rent if you want to catch some rays! Check out two great restaurants in this area, the Beach Bum Bar & Grill on the beach, and Smiling Harry’s located just a short walk away.
Fun at Ffryes Beach, Jolly Harbour
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Photo courtesy of The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, photographer Visual Echo
If you’re looking for another picturesque beach getaway, then Ffryes Beach is the perfect choice. Due to the incredible clarity of the water, Ffryes Beach is an ideal location for swimming and snorkeling, but also offers the adventurous a launch point for jet skiing. However, if going into the water isn’t really your thing, worry not: this spot offers plenty of natural shade. Unwind after an afternoon in the sand with a few drinks from the beach bar and a nice meal from one of the nearby restaurants.
Make Friends with a Donkey
Forge new, lifelong friendships with adorable donkeys at the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary, located in Saint Paul Parish. Operated by the Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society, the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary is home to over 150 happy donkeys among other animals such as dogs and cats which roam freely on the property. This sanctuary offers visiting families one of the best kid-friendly experiences on the island. Each donkey has a story to tell: after getting hands-on with your favourite, don’t forget to stop by the giftshop to learn about their history.
Stingrays all Day at Stingray City
Get up close and personal with stingrays! Located just north of Seatons Village, Stingray City is an open but shallow spot in the sea. The stingrays swim to this area when they hear the boats! Nothing gets children (and most adults) more engaged than handling, petting, and even feeding beautiful stingrays. The stingrays at Stingray City are calm, gentle, and playful as they are well-acclimated to the presence of humans. A guide will explain how to properly approach them in a friendly way. You can also go on a safari tour where you will get to meet parrots, tortoises, iguanas, and more.
All photos courtesy of the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority unless otherwise stated.
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About Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua (pronounced An-tee'ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Voted the World Travel Awards 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination, the twin-island paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches - one for every day of the year. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua’s tourism events calendar includes the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua’s smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east of Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 17 mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere.
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Media Contact:
Nicola Blazier / Nancy Drolet
Jesson + Co. Communications
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