On the northwest coast of Antigua, the beguiling 5 islands village is a stone’s throw from the capital of St John but seems a million miles away. Here, on these sweet shores named after the five rocky islands that sit across the bay, you will find lots of laid back style, a low population, and one of the oldest hotels on the island. The 5 Islands Village is a slice of classic Caribbean at its best. Think sleepy fishing boats trawling in the catch of the day, turquoise coves glittering in the sunlight, and lazy cocktails overlooking the sweeping grace of the bay. There are no less than twelve blissful beaches within easy reach, ensuring that whatever scenic stretch of sand you have your mind on, you have every chance of finding it here. With a couple of elegant resorts, there’s good options for dining on the freshest fish while falling in love with blazing sunsets.
The capital of Antigua, S John’s can be a live wire but is every inch laid-back Caribbean cool too. Candy coloured architecture weaves even more colour into the dazzling display that St John’s offers up. Along with sugar sweet buildings populating the capital, there’s a frenzy of fun things to do - from the weekly markets bursting at the seams with tropical fruits to a glut of glorious museums, historical sites, and happening shopping, dining, and playing. Be sure to swing by Betty’s Hope to learn about the sugar plantation history that shaped the island and duck into the museum of Antigua and Barbuda so you can track the heritage.
Walk along the 17th century ramparts that crown the town, and mingle with the cruise crews at Heritage Quay where shopping and dining options line the waterfront. Golf enthusiasts can head over to the emerald greens of Cedar Valley and all charter guests are sure to fall in love with Dickenson Bay - named the best beach in Antigua.
Antigua is an award winner when it comes to beautiful bays, blissful beaches, and balmy scenes of sand and stars and Nonsuch Bay certainly deserves its spot at the top. Perched on the eastern side of Antigua and with Green island in striking distance, it's the perfect spot for dropping anchor for a day or two. This glorious golden spot is all tropical vibes and the handful of resorts promising everything from romance to active watersports and everything in-between means that despite its remote vibes, there are certain elements to keep you entertained. The secluded shores are a dream for charter guests wanting to snorkel, swim, and explore by kayak or stand up paddleboard.
A smidge of an island off the eastern coast of Antigua, Green Island is a beauty queen. The island is now privately owned but was once the home to a former sugar mill. The ruins of the mill still occupy the island marking its history as being an important part of the story of Antigua and its colonial history. Now, Green Island is mainly used as a foothold for those who want to pursue the pleasures of the sea. Wrapped with epic reefs and blissful beaches, it is a great place to snorkel. Tropical fish and turtles teem in the waters and with water this warm and temperate you will never want to get out. Back on land and the island is home to lizards and rabbits and little else. Sometimes larger tour groups do arrive on the soft white beaches but those moments where you have Green Island all to yourself are simply heaven sent.
One of the most exclusive hideaways in the whole of Antigua, Carlisle Bay can be found on the south side of the island with nothing but the grand sweep of sand and sea and a tiny village perched on its doorstep. The poster child of Caribbean perfection - charter guests can drink in the gauzy waters, the crescent of silver sands, the graceful mature trees, and the attention to luxury detail. With lashings of activities to enjoy, you can play tennis, enjoy pampering at the spa, dine in leisurely style on the beach, indulge in watersports, and even take a hike in the Mt Obama National Park. For keen golf lovers there is also the option to tee off at two impressive courses close by. Carlisle Bay is the ultimate fantasy for guests wanting a wealth of things to do.
A slice of heaven - Falmouth Harbour sits on the south east coast of Antigua and is a sprawling picture perfect hub that extends to include the villages of Falmouth, Cobbs Cross, and the English Harbour who share in its facilities. Cerulean waters, a glut of greenergy, and the dazzling whites of sail boats and yachts all set the scene at Falmouth. After dropping anchor, charter guests can head up to Fort Berkeley to see the ageing remnants of the island's military history. From 18th century cannons to intact outer walls, any history buff will be bedazzled by the offerings close to Falmouth Harbour. Back in the modern world, the harbour is a gorgeous spot for visiting the waterfront cafes, grabbing a casual lunch, and even booking an off road adventure to explore the rest of the island in an adventure vehicle or heading down to the reefs for a spot of snorkeling.
Sun and fun sit at the epicenter of the Jolly Harbour ethos. A pretty bustling marina offering everything from dockside dining to buzzing bars, shops, and plenty of watersport options, this Caribbean hub stays true to its name. The marina village sits at the heart of the Jolly Harbour and is where the yachts come to drop anchor and soak up the Caribbean spirit. Close by there’s also the commercial center where you can splurge on local handicrafts and fall in love with waterfront dining. The sports center is for those active charter guests who want to splash in the pool or play tennis. There’s gorgeous golf greens close by and a one mile stretch of simply stunning sandy white beach and sublime sunsets. With the capital of St John a short distance away, charter guests can enjoy the chilled out surroundings of Jolly Harbour with close proximity to the candy coloured charm of St John.