Antigua’s Beautiful Beaches: Where to Relax & Unwind

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What makes Antigua's beaches special?
- Antigua has an extensive list of exceptional beaches, with the island being blessed with one of the most visually impressive stretches of coastline you could ever hope to find.
How does Antigua compare to other Caribbean islands?
- Antigua can rival any other Caribbean island in terms of beauty and coastal activities, so it's definitely a super place to visit, but choosing an Antigua beach is quite a challenge given that there are so many of them.
How can I find the best beaches in Antigua?
- If you're looking for the best beaches in Antigua, we're here to help.
What will this guide provide?
- This guide will highlight some of the island's key coastal locations, offering useful information and details on each beach.

Best Time to Visit Antigua’s Beautiful Beaches

December to April – Best overall time for sunny skies, calm waters, and perfect beach days.
January to March – Peak season with warm temps, vibrant beach life, and ideal conditions for snorkeling and sailing.
May & June – Fewer crowds, great deals, and beautiful weather for romantic beach escapes.
July to November – Warm and lush, with occasional rain and the possibility of tropical storms.
August to October – Peak hurricane season; quieter beaches but monitor forecasts for safe travel.

Jolly Beach

What is special about Jolly Beach?
- This pleasantly-named beach is decorated with little rocky spots and gorgeous trees offering small patches of shade that can be very welcome on sunny days.
How long is Jolly Beach and what is the water like?
- Jolly Beach runs for around a mile in total and is located in a bay, meaning that the waters are exceptionally calm and gentle here, ideal for families with young children.
What is the crowd situation at Jolly Beach?
- Crowds can gather around the central spot of the beach, but if you walk a little further out in either direction, you'll find some more secluded spots to relax and listen to the soft sounds of island life.
What activities are available at Jolly Beach?
- Scuba diving expeditions can be booked at the local shop and there's a great bar right on the beach itself selling both drinks and meals throughout the day.

Dickenson Bay

What can you expect at Dickenson Bay?
- When we picture a Caribbean beach in our minds, the image we create usually features gentle waves, awesome views, and white sands. That's exactly what Dickenson Bay has to offer.
Why is Dickenson Bay so popular?
- A picture perfect Caribbean beach location, Dickenson Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Antigua.
How long is Dickenson Bay and what is the water like?
- It runs for about a mile in length, so there's plenty of room here for everyone, and the sea conditions make it a good spot for a variety of water sports.
What amenities are available at Dickenson Bay?
- There are also plenty of excellent bars nearby serving up juicy fresh cocktails to help you cool off on the warmest, sunniest days.

Darkwood Beach

Where is Darkwood Beach located?
- Down in the southwestern edge of the island, Darkwood Beach is one of the lesser-known beaches of Antigua, meaning that you won't see too many tourists around here, even though there are a couple of little hotels and resorts nearby.
Who tends to visit Darkwood Beach?
- This beach is a big hit with solo travelers and couples in search of the most pristine, untouched parts of the island.
What makes Darkwood Beach special?
- There are some astonishing views to be seen from Darkwood Beach and a nice romantic atmosphere, ideal for newly-weds or those seeking a romantic getaway.
What amenities are available at Darkwood Beach?
- Food and souvenir vendors can be found here on busy days, but the beach is generally quiet and mostly empty, with a few charming local bars offering good drinks and affordable snacks.

Hawksbill Bay

Where is Hawksbill Bay located?
- Located on the northwestern shores of the island, Hawksbill Bay isn't the easiest Antigua beach to get to, but it's definitely worth a detour and holds a lot of appeal to backpackers in search of an 'off the beaten path' location.
What makes Hawksbill Bay special?
- Alongside nearby locations like the naturist-friendly Eden Beach and Landing Bay, Hawksbill Bay is home to some of the whitest, cleanest sands anywhere on the island.
What is the sand and water like at Hawksbill Bay?
- The sands are so soft and perfect here, you almost don't want to disturb them, and the waters are the perfect shade of turquoise, just right for paddling, wading, swimming, and snorkeling.
How can visitors access Hawksbill Bay?
- You have to actually pass through the grounds of the Hawksbill Resort to get to this beach, but it is open to the public like all other Antigua beaches, so it definitely deserves your attention.

Pigeon Point Beach

Where is Pigeon Point Beach located?
- Not far from Falmouth Harbor, Pigeon Point Beach is situated on the southern coast of Antigua and is one of the main beaches on this stretch of shoreline.
What makes Pigeon Point Beach scenic?
- With sea grapes lining the edge of the sand, it's a really pretty beach and a lovely spot to stop off and take some photos or simply admire the views all around.
Who visits Pigeon Point Beach?
- Lots of locals come here to hang out at the weekends and Pigeon Point Beach is also one of the best family-friendly beaches in Antigua as well.
What is the best time to visit Pigeon Point Beach?
- Come here on a weekday to get the place to yourself or visit at the weekend if you prefer a lively atmosphere.
What amenities are available at Pigeon Point Beach?
- There aren't too many amenities here, but you can find a restaurant or two at either end of the beach and the conditions are just right for working on your tan or splashing around in the Caribbean Sea.

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