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Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Antigua and Barbuda, the twin-island country nestled along the coast of the Caribbean’s turquoise waters, is its promise of 365 beaches—one for every day of the year. At just 442 square kilometres, this nation may be small, but its sugar-white waterfronts seem to stretch endlessly. Known as sister islands, Antigua (the larger of the two) and Barbuda are distinct in character and brimming with bucket-list experiences, whether you prefer languid lounging or spontaneous day-of outings. Antigua boasts a rocky volcanic terrain that gives way to winding trails and panoramic sights. Hike to Shirley Heights for the ultimate lookout above crystal-clear harbours that glow at sunset. For an even more immersive experience, try a private helicopter ride. You’ll be able to take in stunning aerial views of Antigua and its neighbouring island of Montserrat, which is home to an active volcano.
Horse riding in Antigua, Fort James Beach. photography COURTESY OF THE ANTIGUA AND
BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Back on land, mineral-rich soil nurtures a rare delicacy: the black pineapple—smaller and sweeter than its golden counterpart. In fact, flavour-packed delights can be found all over the island, from award-winning restaurants to humble roadside stands. (Susie’s Hot Sauce is a decades-old institution and a must-try.) Barbuda—the quieter island, a 90-minute ferry ride away—provides another retreat entirely, with flat coral ground, limestone caves and its own kind of otherworldly beauty. Among its iconic landmarks is the all-pink Princess Diana Beach—a long stretch of sand given a rosy glow by the tiny crushed shells washed ashore—reportedly cherished by the late royal for its peaceful beauty and privacy. Whether you’re on foot or riding horseback, Barbuda’s beaches are meant to be explored, as is the island’s famous Frigate Bird Sanctuary, home to one of the largest frigate-bird colonies in the world.
Princess Diana Beach in Barbuda. COURTESY OF THE ANTIGUA AND
BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Beyond its wide-spanning natural wonders, the country is a cultural hub. Antigua’s renowned Sailing Week is a highlight of the global regatta calendar, and Barbuda’s days-long Caribana festival celebrates Afro-Caribbean heritage through street parties and colourful costumes. Indigenous history also pulses through the islands, with sights of ancient ruins and rock carvings left by the Arawak and Carib peoples. The feeling of a close-knit community comes alive every Sunday night, when, apart from holding hotly anticipated annual events, the picturesque Shirley Heights hosts tourists and locals for traditional steel-pan performances and golden-hour barbeques. And if by the end of your stay you weren’t able to hit every single beach? All the more reason to return. [content_module id=”1″]
The Itinerary
Where To Stay
Hermitage Bay
photography COURTESY OF HERMITAGE BAY
Resting on the peaceful hillside, this recently renovated five-star boutique resort offers sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. It also offers equal opportunities for rest and play. From slow morning Pilates sessions at the Garden Spa to diving adventures at the nearby Cades Reef, it’s a hotel that helps you ease into island life. [cta affiliate=”cj” align=”center” format=”button” url=”https://www.hermitagebay.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnMOgt2MeIkypeZgLHztauUVSt7SxtedEcTtK-3GJ5-25tOWNiH–0BhGCMyc_aem_66dBE931DPItKKCCBwLKYQ”]Learn More[/cta]
Where To Eat
Rokuni
photography courtesy of rokuni
Fuelled by a fusion of Asian and Caribbean flavours, Rokuni brings a polished, high-energy atmosphere and avant-garde menu to Antigua’s tranquil west coast. Standout delicacies include sakusaku lobster, aromatic duck leg and bulgogi beef sushi rolls—each with its own bold take on the island’s culinary creativity. [cta affiliate=”cj” align=”center” format=”button” url=”https://rokuni-antigua.com/”]Learn More[/cta]
Where To Shop
Heritage Quay
photography COURTESY OF THE ANTIGUA AND
BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY
Tucked among historic buildings with views of incoming cruise ships, this two-storey waterfront market overlooks the harbour in the nation’s capital city of St John’s. The market offers a mix of global designer brands and local favourites, but its greatest gems are the Antiguan-specific finds, including jewellery intricately crafted from tamarind seeds—a tradition passed down through generations of African women. [cta affiliate=”cj” align=”center” format=”button” url=”https://discoverantiguabarbuda.com/where-to-shop-in-antigua-heritage-quay/”]Learn More[/cta]
Where To Explore
Greencastle Hill
Aptly dubbed the “Stonehenge of the Caribbean,” Greencastle Hill is a roughly three-hour hike through Antigua’s volcanic uplands. Its steep elevation makes it arduous, but the trail rewards adventurers with stunning views of megaliths: towering stone structures thought to mark the sites of ancient Indigenous rituals.
Where To Relax
The Spa at Blue Waters
[instagram-oembed url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/C-qHeeSiOZ6/” /] A sanctuary just steps from the sea, this spa takes a tropical approach to rejuvenation with its marine-flora body treatment, a 90-minute experience using lymphatic-drainage techniques and sea-derived products. For sun-kissed skin in need of soothing, the rose-and-aloe body wrap calms and replenishes with aloe and rose-quartz crystals, leaving you feeling rested and ready for island excursions. [cta affiliate=”cj” align=”center” format=”button” url=”https://bluewaters.net/spa/”]Learn More[/cta] This article first appeared in FASHION’s Winter 2026 issue. Find out more here. Continue Reading
