Things To Do
in Saint John’s
As the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, this charming locale is celebrated for its lively market, baroque cathedral, and the historic Fort James at the harbor entrance. Its harbour, deeply indented and protected by a series of coral reefs, serves as a crucial port for both tourism and commerce, bustling with cruise ships and yachts.
The city's vibrant streets, rich history, and picturesque beaches make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and tropical leisure.
- "Wah gwaan" - What's going on
- "Irie" - Cool/Alright
- "Big up" - Respect/Well done
- "Likkle more" - See you later
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling St. John's Market, where you can find local crafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit the Antigua and Barbuda Museum to learn about the island's rich history. After, take a leisurely stroll through the streets to admire colonial architecture.
Relax at a local beach, watching the sunset while sipping on a tropical drink. Dine at a seaside restaurant to taste local seafood dishes.
Spend a relaxing morning at Dickenson Bay, where the soft sand and clear waters await. Engage in water sports like paddleboarding or jet-skiing.
Enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant, then continue soaking up the sun while lounging or swimming. Don't forget to explore some local boutique shops nearby.
As the sun sets, find a cozy beach bar for a cocktail. Treat yourself to a sunset dinner with fresh fish and tropical flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
- Rich history and colonial architecture, providing a charming atmosphere.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming community.
- A variety of outdoor activities including snorkeling, sailing, and hiking.
- Mild tropical climate, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-residents.
- High cost of living compared to other Caribbean islands.
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms during the season.
- Public services and infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger countries.
- Tourist areas can be crowded during peak seasons.
Best Activities in Saint John’s
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning coral reefs and marine life in the waters around Saint John’s through snorkeling.
Visit the beautiful beaches such as Dickenson Bay, Runaway Bay, and Fort James for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Take a sailing trip or join a boat tour to enjoy the panoramic views and crystal-clear waters around Saint John’s.
Discover the natural beauty of Antigua through hiking trails like the Signal Hill Trail and the Falmouth Harbour Trail.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint John’s with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint John’s
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of English Harbour and provides a perfect vantage point for photographing the sunset.
Provides beautiful panoramic views of the coastline and is a great spot for capturing picturesque scenes of the island.
Features picturesque waterfront scenery and historic architecture, ideal for capturing memorable photos of the harbor and surrounding area.
Food in Saint John’s
Saint John’s Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fungi, a cornmeal-based side dish, served with a hearty stew of vegetables, meat, and spices known as Pepperpot, is a must-try traditional Antiguan dish. For an authentic experience, visit Mama Lolly's in St. John's for a taste of this flavorful comfort food.
Must-Try!
Ducana, a sweet potato dumpling steamed in banana leaves and often paired with saltfish, coconut, and spices, is a beloved Antiguan favorite. Head to the Heritage Quay Market to sample this delectable dish prepared by local vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint John’s better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a diverse range of street food stalls and vendors selling freshly prepared local delicacies, including seafood, grilled meats, fruits, and traditional snacks like conch fritters and coconut tarts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Antigua and Barbuda, it is important to greet people with a warm handshake and maintain eye contact. Showing respect through proper greetings is highly valued in the culture.
Respect for elders is a significant cultural norm in Antiguan and Barbudan society. It is important to address elders with titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' as a sign of respect.
When visiting the beaches in Antigua and Barbuda, it is important to respect the local customs and avoid any behavior that may be considered inappropriate. Modest beachwear is recommended out of respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint John’s with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint John’s
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not always expected in Antigua and Barbuda, but it is appreciated for good service, especially in tourist areas. It is common to leave a 10% - 15% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets, where cash is the preferred form of payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint John’s.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit, with pleasant weather and lower chances of rain
Rainy season with higher humidity, but also lower accommodation rates
Saint John’s at Night
Hiking in Saint John’s
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest point in Antigua, Mount Obama offers scenic views and various trails for hiking enthusiasts.
A popular area for hiking that features lush greenery and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
This location offers a unique hiking experience through the rainforest, complete with guided tours and educational insights about the local ecosystem.
A natural reserve with well-marked hiking trails that wind through diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers.
While primarily known for its beach, the surrounding areas provide hiking trails with stunning coastal views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint John’s through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint John’s by plane.
The main international airport serving Antigua and Barbuda, located approximately 8 miles northeast of Saint John's.
Located in Barbados, approximately 130 miles southeast of Saint John's, it serves many international flights.
The main airport in St. Kitts, around 50 miles southwest of Saint John's, serving regional and some international flights.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, approximately 150 miles west of Saint John's, serving a wide range of international flights.
Situated on the island of Sint Maarten, about 80 miles to the north of Saint John's, this airport services numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly the largest demographic group in Saint John’s, comprising a significant majority of the population.
Includes individuals of both Black and European descent, often reflecting a historical mixture of the island's colonial past.
A smaller percentage of the population, primarily consisting of descendants from European settlers.
Includes a minority population, primarily consisting of individuals from Indian and Chinese descent.
Very small percentage, as the indigenous populations have largely been assimilated or displaced.
The Soul of Saint John’s
Discover the essence of Saint John’s through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Antigua and Barbuda, with a rich history and a strong following. The island has produced several renowned cricketers who have represented the West Indies.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Antigua and Barbuda, with local leagues and a national team that competes in regional tournaments.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Antigua and Barbuda, with various clubs and competitions that attract both players and fans.
Basketball has a growing presence in the country, with many youth programs and local competitions fostering talent among young athletes.
Netball is a popular sport, particularly among women and girls, with organized leagues and a national team that competes in international events.
Given its location and beautiful waters, sailing is a popular recreational activity and sport, with various events and regattas held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint John’s.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Antiguan cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, many local eateries and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, incorporating fresh island-grown produce and creative plant-based dishes. Notable establishments such as Ana's On the Beach and Island Fusion provide diverse vegetarian and vegan menu options to cater to dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore gluten-free dining options at various restaurants and cafes in St. John's, including Le Bistro, renowned for its accommodating approach to crafting gluten-free versions of classic Antiguan dishes and international favorites.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint John’s with these cultural adventures.
