There are so many things to do when visiting Antigua and Barbuda. Like we say, and you will experience, “the beach is just the beginning”.
Here are only a few of some of our favorite and recommended activities that may be of interest to you and yours for a superlative stay.
A visit to English Harbour, the once important naval base and now a flourishing boating center, is accessible by public transportation from the Lamblion Holiday Apartment. Your first stop in English Harbour should be Nelson’s Dockyard, the only continually working Georgian-era dockyard in the world. Ten minutes away from the Dockyard is Fort Berkely, a 1704 fort accessed via the back of the Copper and Lumber Store at Nelson’s Dockyard. Your next recommended stop is the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre. In an air-conditioned and comfortably seated arena, the Centre brings to life the Antiguan way of life detailing the eras of the Amerindian hunters, the British military, and the struggle against slavery. Be sure not to leave English Harbour without a visit to the Shirley Heights Lookout, for a panoramic view, sighting Guadeloupe and Montserrat on a clear day.
Nelson’s Dockyard | Source: Discover Antigua Barbuda
Shirley Heights Lookout | Source: Visit Antigua & Barbuda
English Harbour | Source: Caribbean Journal
Are you a nature enthusiast, you may be interested in the hiking trail to Fort George, constructed by freed slaves in the late 1600s; and Monk’s Hill, home to an ancient defense structure. The spectacular views from atop Monk’s Hill are a sight to behold.
Monk’s Hill | Source: TripAdvisor
Accessible by public transport, too, is the City of St. John’s, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda. A city Tour may include, just as you exit the West Bus station, the Bust of Sir Vere C. Bird Sr. a Stop at the Public Market, and a visit to the Fish Market. The Vendor’s Mall, a typical Caribbean Artisan Market to purchase your gifts and souvenirs. The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is only a few minutes away, covering the history of Antigua & Barbuda from the formation of the island to today. If it’s your thing, take a tour of two of our historic churches, the St. John’s Cathedral, and the Ebenezer Methodist Church.
Bust of Sir Vere C. Bird Sr. | Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda | Source: Expedia
Easily accessible from the Lamblion Holiday Apartment is the South and southwest coastline with several beaches. These beaches can be accessed by taking a Public bus to the West bus station, and then a second public bus going to Old Road via Bolans Village. Stop at Jolly Beach for a swim or a dive. Then drive or walk to the Valley Church Beach! Less than 5 minutes away is Little Ffryes Beach and 3 minutes further is Big Ffryes Beach. Hop over to Darkwood Beach to enjoy the floating water slide and no, we are not finished yet, Carlisle Bay is just a few minutes away. Finally, have a swim at Turner’s Beach.
Local foods and drinks, freshly caught lobster, catch of the day, and other local foods and drinks are available at beach bars and restaurants, and at most places of interest throughout the island.
On the East and Located about 5 minutes from the village of Willikies is the Long Bay Beach offering fine white sand and crystal blue waters. The East Coast is also home to a tourist favorite sight, the Devils Bridge, a naturally created bridge formed as a result of the crashing of the Atlantic waves on the east coast. However, journey just a little further; we call it ‘The Far East’ to my Favourite Half Moon Bay, the beach I grew up on.
Jolly Beach | Source: Wikipedia
Valley Church Beach | Source: Visit Antigua & Barbuda
Darkwood Beach | Source: Visit Antigua & Barbuda
There is a huge choice of organized tours and excursions in Antigua & Barbuda on offer from eco-tours, sailing tours, motorboat tours, land tours & yacht charters to a day of sport fishing. Each excursion will give you a different way to discover our beautiful twin islands. You can spend time snorkeling at a beach, circumnavigating while you sunbathe, sightseeing, relaxing, or doing whatever suits your fancy – your wish is your tour guide’s command. Here are just a few organized tours:
- BARBUDA EXPRESS: a fast comfortable ferry service between Antigua & Barbuda offering a selection of fantastic trips/tours.
- ANTIGUA RAINFOREST CANOPY TOUR: a unique eco-tour through Antigua’s lush rainforest on swinging through the verdant forest, high above the trees.
- CALVINAIR HELICOPTERS: for an aerial excursion one that they will never forget.
- STINGRAY CITY: this is where you can pet and feed Southern Stingrays in their natural environment & learn all about these amazing animals from an experienced guide.
- SOUTH COAST HORIZON: offers kayaking through our mangrove lagoon and snorkeling at the breathtaking Cades Reef
- WADADLI CATS: offers day tours around the island by sea on tours to Bird Island, the North-South, and completely around the island.
- EAT N LIME FOOD TOURS: A food-focused exploration, giving you the chance to sample all sorts of traditional dishes and even stop to taste some local produce rum.