Antigua

Antigua is the quintessential Caribbean island, caressed with warm, steady winds, fringed by a complex of safe harbours and protected by an almost unbroken fringe of coral reef.

Like so many of the islands in the region, Antigua was settled by tribes from Central America but it was the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in 1493 that brought the first contact with European conquistadors – indeed the name Antigua means ’old’ from an ancient icon that resided in the Cathedral in Seville from which many of the settlers came. The English harbour, famed for its shelter at times of storms, was Nelson’s principal naval base in 1780s making Antigua Britain’s gateway in and out of the Caribbean.

This historical legacy is seen today in restored dockyard areas teaming with recreational and business activity, former slave plantations that can be visited, and an annual world class sailing regatta of international importance – and of course cricket, the national sport followed assiduously by the islanders.

If you can tear yourselves away from your villa there is much to see and enjoy on the island, with distances conveniently compact. There are countless sun drenched beaches of white sand such as Cades Reef or Falmouth Harbour from which you can swim in crystal clear aquamarine water even perhaps hiring a sailing boat with a skipper and exploring the coastline and other islands.

Private charter sailing days

Sail the beautiful coastlines of Antigua aboard your own private luxury catamaran or yacht. Spend the day aboard your own sailing boat and take in the wondrous scenery of the island, whilst friendly and attentive crew adhere to your every need.

Why not opt for a luxurious massage, followed by a barbeque lunch and glass of champagne or rum, before anchoring down for a quick dip in the crystal clear waters. Or simply sit back and enjoy the sun, sea and beauty of your surroundings.

Private charter sailing days usually last around eight hours and can be tailored to your wishes.
Explore Antigua’s beaches on horseback

With 365 beaches dotted around Antigua, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring them. However, discovering Antigua’s finest white sands can only be enhanced when done on horseback. The attentive guides will help you saddle up and explore the island, whilst informing you of Antigua’s history and culture.

Afterwards, trot into the sea and ride the exhilarating waves
with your calm and well trained horse, an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Experience Antigua underwater

Antigua has a multitude of offerings not just on land, but beneath the water surface too. The crystal blue waters are home to an abundance of sea life, which is waiting to be discovered.

Antigua and nearby Barbuda both host excellently preserved coral reefs, walls and shipwrecks, and with little or no current in most places, the conditions are perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling.

Dive depths range from 25 to 80 feet, and tropical marine plants and animals are diverse and plentiful making Antigua a divers paradise.
Shirley Heights

This former military lookout is at the most southern tip of Antigua.
The Lookout, part of the Shirley Heights military complex, commands stunning views over the whole of English Harbour.

Watch the sun sprawl itself across Antigua’s scenery as it sets, and enjoy one of Shirley Heights most famous events – The Sunday Barbeque Party!

Every Sunday from 4pm, the islanders gather together for rum punch, live reggae music, an extensive barbeque, and dancing – as if Antigua wasn’t enough, this will definitely get you in the holiday spirit!

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Antigua's proximity to the equator means the island enjoys a tropical climate with long days of sunshine throughout the year. Read More

Destinations

Private charter sailing days

Explore Antigua’s beaches on horseback

Experience Antigua underwater

Shirley Heights

Properties

+44 (0) 1993 824 198