Antigua, or ‘Wadadli’, is one of the most luxurious places to holiday in the world, and is one of the most culturally significant islands in the West Indies. The Spanish translation of Antigua actually means ‘ancient’, and the island was named by Christopher Columbus, one of the world’s foremost explorers at the time. Currently, Antigua’s capital city St. Johns is home to over 30,000 people, and it also has one of the biggest deep water harbours in the Caribbean, able to accommodate some of the biggest cruise ships in the Caribbean.
Whether you’re looking to holiday in Antigua, or take a brief day trip from another island in the Caribbean, there are plenty of things to see and do. Not only is the climate great if you want to top up on your tan, but the food is simply spectacular and the locals are ever so hospitable. Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do when on a port visit to glorious island of Antigua.
Indian Town National Park
From bird watching and snorkelling to hiking and swimming, there are so many things to do at this national park you won’t know where to start! Located towards the eastern end of the island, the Indian Town National Park is a great day of for the family, but remember to buy a map of the area before you come – it really is quite big and you don’t want to get lost.
Image from NYTimes
Offering some of the best hiking on the entire island, you’ll have to get up early if you want to cover ground in this national park, however the views of the ocean and lush green landscapes make it well worth the while. Furthermore, there are also great snorkelling sites here, some with shallow waters suitable for kids. There are even waters so clear that you can see the amazing coral reefs right under your feet!
Finally, make your way down the coast towards Indian Town Point for more beautiful views, including bird watching hotspots. There’s also the famous Devil’s Bridge in Indian Town Point, which is a limestone arch that has been formed over thousands of years by battering waves on the rocks. Before booking your holiday to Antigua, make sure you compare prices online – cruise.co.uk help you find tailor made cruises.
British Forts and St. John’s Cathedral
If you’re looking to visit Antigua for the day, then the British Forts and St. John’s Cathedral is a must-visit place on your tour. Not only are they great insights into the architectural history of the island, but these amazing structures also show the influence of religion throughout hundreds of years of settlements on Antigua.
The British Forts on the islands may be in ruins, but the views of forts, and the views offered by the structures across the rest of the island are simply fantastic. Furthermore, it’s completely free to get in, and if you’re traveling to the island with your children, then there’s no need to worry about eating into your budget!
Constructed in 1683, St. John’s Cathedral is one of the most famous places to visit on the island, and also culturally significant too. It can be found in the heart of St. John’s town, and the baroque architecture is a joy to behold. A stroll through the cathedral’s gardens will a great way to end your day on the island, and with an entrance fee of only $3, it’s a cheap date too!