Saint John’s

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Saint John’s's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore St. John's
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Relax at a local beach, watching the sunset while sipping on a tropical drink. Dine at a seaside restaurant to taste local seafood dishes.

day 2
Beach Day at Dickenson Bay
morning
:

Spend a relaxing morning at Dickenson Bay, where the soft sand and clear waters await. Engage in water sports like paddleboarding or jet-skiing.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy beach bar for a cocktail. Treat yourself to a sunset dinner with fresh fish and tropical flavors.

day 3
Adventure at Shirley Heights
morning
:

Begin with an adventurous hike up to Shirley Heights for stunning panoramic views of English Harbour. Capture the perfect photographs of this breathtaking landscape.

afternoon
:

Discover the history behind the fort and enjoy a packed lunch with a view. Later, venture down to the local beaches for a swim.

evening
:

Join the locals for a lively evening at Shirley Heights, famous for its Sunday night parties with live music. Dance the night away under the stars!

day 4
Historical Tour of Nelson's Dockyard
morning
:

Take a guided tour of Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about its restoration and significance during the Colonial era.

afternoon
:

Explore the surrounding area, including the Dockyard Museum, to delve even deeper into maritime history. Enjoy lunch at one of the stunning dockside restaurants.

evening
:

Return to St. John's and visit a local craft market. Discover handmade souvenirs and taste various local snacks before heading to dinner.

day 5
Snorkeling at Half Moon Bay
morning
:

Set off early to Half Moon Bay for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Discover vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine life.

afternoon
:

Relax on the beach after snorkeling, and enjoy a picnic lunch you brought along. Take a nap in the shade or enjoy some beach games.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a scenic drive back to St. John's. Treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant offering authentic Antiguan cuisine.

day 6
Day at the Botanical Gardens
morning
:

Visit the Antigua Botanical Gardens to see a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you stroll through the paths.

afternoon
:

Have a relaxing lunch at the garden café, savoring local ingredients. Post-lunch, take part in a gardening workshop if available.

evening
:

Spend your evening at a local art gallery or cultural venue. Attend an art exhibition or a live performance to immerse yourself in local culture.

day 7
Culinary Experience
morning
:

Start your day with a cooking class where you'll learn to make traditional Antiguan dishes. Enjoy the delicious results of your effort.

afternoon
:

Explore a local market to gather fresh ingredients and engage with vendors. A small lunch can be made with the produce you just bought.

evening
:

Dine at an upscale restaurant that showcases local flavors in a fine dining setting. Pair your meal with a cocktail made from local rum.

day 8
Island Hopping Tour
morning
:

Join an island hopping tour that takes you to nearby islands like Barbuda. Enjoy the boat ride and the spectacular ocean views.

afternoon
:

At Barbuda, explore the famous Frigate Bird Sanctuary and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Take some time to relax and explore the island's natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Antigua and settle into a cozy restaurant for dinner. Reflect on the day's adventure while enjoying a dessert made with local fruits.

day 9
Local Festival Fun
morning
:

Check out any local festivals taking place during your visit. Begin your day by participating in street activities and enjoying local music.

afternoon
:

Dive into the local cuisine with festival food stalls offering traditional dishes. Engage with local artisans displaying crafts and products.

evening
:

End your day with a live music performance or a cultural show. Dance and celebrate the vibrant culture of Antigua and Barbuda with the locals.

day 10
Eco Adventure at Long Bay
morning
:

Enjoy a guided eco tour at Long Bay Beach, focusing on marine conservation. Learn about sea turtles and the importance of preserving their habitat.

afternoon
:

Take a kayaking trip through the mangroves, experiencing the rich biodiversity up close. Stop for a picnic on the beach to refuel.

evening
:

After a day of adventure, head back to St. John's and enjoy an informal seaside dinner. Share tales of your adventures with fellow travelers.

Discover Saint John’s

Read more in our Saint John’s 2024 Travel Guide.

Saint John’s Travel Guide