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Too many choices can cause uncertainty in the mind. When it comes to an island that boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the week, you’re going to have some choices to make. This is what visitors to Antigua run into during their vacation.

So many choices, so little time.

If you’re Antigua vacation is for 7 days, then try and hit a different beach each day. But what beaches do you hit with so many options! I’m glad you asked.

Here is a list of 7 of the best beaches Antigua has to offer. Obviously this is a subjective list and everyone’s tastes are different, but these 7 will give you a great overall beach experience and wonderful vacation memories.

Let’s go beach hopping!

1. Dickenson Bay

antigua beaches

On the island’s more developed northwestern coast is its best-known beach — Dickenson Bay Beach. Hotels, restaurants and beach bars abound; water sports range from parasailing to banana boats to jet boats. It also offers views of rolling green hills, stunning sunsets and accommodation ranging from luxury resorts to private villas. You could easily spend a day or your entire vacation at Dickenson Bay.

2. Jabberwock

This is a surprisingly secluded strip of sand on the northeast coast, close to the highway and the airport. Surprising given its convenient location, secluded thanks to the lack of beach huts or bars. This is the place to try more adventurous water sports such as taking lessons in windsurfing or kite surfing.

3. Valley Church Beach

antigua beaches

Just south of Jolly Harbour on the island’s west coast, you’ll find the calm waters and soft sand of Valley Church. The natural beauty of the palm tree-lined beach is a pleasant contrast to the buzz from the nearby casino and restaurants. And since locals use the spot for casual boating and fishing, you’ll avoid too many tourists competing for the chairs and umbrellas available for rent.

4. Deep Bay

antigua beaches

This beach, on the island’s western side, is quite secluded despite its proximity to the capital, St. John’s. There are few facilities, although you can have lunch at Jimmie’s Beach Bar. In the calm waters of Deep Bay you can snorkel above the wreck of the Andes, whose masts just break the surface. From the beach’s north end, you can hike to the ruins of 18th-century Fort Barrington.

5. Half Moon Bay

Antigua beaches

Catch the catamarans sailing in Half Moon Bay. This is a local’s favorite beach for water sports. Waves at this beach can be five to six feet on a good day, so chances are you’ll spot some body boarders, surfers, and windsurfers taking advantage of a good swell.

6. Hawksbill

Antigua beaches

A five-minute drive from St. John’s will take you to four gorgeous beaches on a beautiful bay, with views of craggy red rocks jutting out of the water, one looking like a hawk’s bill…hence the name. The first beach has public access, the other three are reached through the Hawksbill Resort. The fourth beach is the island’s only clothing-optional stretch of sand. Bring lots of sunscreen.

7. Rendezvous Beach

Antigua beaches

(photo by creativelunatics.com)

Those who prefer privacy should head to this beach, accessible only by water, horseback or a long hike through the hills. The difficulty in reaching Rendezvous means the secluded stretch on the south coast of the island is often deserted.

If you have other Antigua beaches that you think should have made the list, leave a comment below and let us know.

Cheers!
RumShopRyan

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About the Author: RumShopRyan

Just a salty pirate looking to explore and document the wonders of the Caribbean. Professional blogger, rum judge, consultant, marketer, and consumer of blue water beauty. To learn more, visit our About Us Page.