The Caribbean island of Antigua one of the two islands that make up the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda. The island is a dream for all beach hoppin’ lovers. Picture endless stretches of powdery sand alongside crystal-clear waters.
Antigua is one of the few places where I’ve actually lost track of which beach I was on. I remember driving along the coast and pulling over every literally ten minutes because another perfect stretch appeared out of nowhere. Just as you start thinking, “Okay, this must be the best beach on the island,” the next one will turn up and prove you wrong.
Not only is Antigua packed with dazzling beaches but it also has lush rainforests. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, pack your boots and spend your days hiking and ziplining through the forests.
But, Antigua is no small island and its 365 white-sand beaches will test even the most advanced beach hoppers skills. Deciding where to stay in Antigua is an important but daunting task. The island is home to many areas to choose from, each offering something unique.
But don’t you worry about a thing! That’s where I come in. I’ve travelled all over this little island and have compiled Antigua’s best neighbourhoods into this easy-to-digest guide. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, looking to party the night away, or simply want to find the cheapest bed in town – I’ve got ya covered.
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Jolly Beach
There’s no doubt about it, Jolly Beach is the best neighborhood to stay in Antigua if you’re visiting for the first time.
Runaway Beach
Situated just north of Saint John’s is the serene and stunning Runaway Beach. This is one of the best areas to stay in Antigua if you’re looking to be close to the centre but need a break from the crowds.
Saint John’s
Not only is Saint John’s our top pick for first-time visitors, but it’s also our best recommendation for where to stay in Antigua for nightlife. Tucked throughout this vibrant and vivacious capital city is a vast array of bars, clubs and restaurants that offer up plenty of after-dark fun.
Falmouth
Falmouth is located on the southern shores of Antigua. It is the island’s original British settlement and offers plenty of historic attractions and landmarks for visitors to explore and experience.
Saint Mary
Set on the west coast is the stunning parish of Saint Mary, our number one pick for where to stay in Antigua with kids. Saint Mary is a large parish that is lined with incredible pristine beaches.
A Guide to Antigua’s Best Neighbourhoods
Antigua is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands to visit. From beaches to rainforests, there is so much to explore. However, each neighbourhood on the island offers something completely different.
From wild nightlife to family-friendly resort towns, you’ll want to choose the area that’s best for you. In this next section, I’m going to highlight the best things to see, do, and eat in each area. Sooo, let’s gooo!
1. Jolly Beach – Where to Stay for Your First Time
There’s no doubt about it, Jolly Beach is the best neighbourhood to stay in Antigua if you’re visiting for the first time. Staying at Jolly Harbour is a Jolly good idea, ha ha ha. Jokes aside, this little town is just 30 minutes from the airport, basically in the middle of everywhere you’d want to visit, and SUCH A VIBE! Stroll into town and hang out with the locals to get some inside tips on the island’s hot spots.
OR, you can stay at COCOs and never leave your adults-only all-inclusive resort… but, while this is one of the best hotels in Antigua, I’d recommend getting out and about. There are too many epic things happening – scuba diving, evening entertainment at beachside restaurants, lush rainforests to wander through… the choice is yours!
- Best For: Classic Caribbean beach days, all-inclusive resorts, couples, families, and convenience.
- The Vibe: Relaxed and sun-soaked, big-resort energy with calm waters.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 25-30 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.
- Transport Level: Easy, there are regular taxis and resort shuttles.
- Budget: “More” budget-friendly than many of Antigua’s luxury beaches. But honestly, still bloody expensive for a mere common backpacker.
- Crowds: Busy in front of the main resort, especially on weekends and at sunset, but the beach is long enough to find peaceful spots.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Top Things to Do in Jolly Harbour
- Take a day trip into the rainforest behind Jolly Harbour, a short drive inland, and take a hike through the trails of Greencastle Hill National Park for a different Caribbean sea view.
- Tee off at Jolly Harbour Golf Club, an 18-hole course with stunning sea views.
- Make the most of the crystal clear waters, don your snorkel, and explore the stunning reefs along the sandy beaches in Jolly Harbour.
- Soak up the rays, via sunlounger or paddleboard, and choose your adventure.
- Book a Jetski tour of the coastline and feel the rush of speeding over the Caribbean Sea.
Best Hotel: Orrie’s Beach Hotel
“Come as guests, leave as family” is the motto welcoming you to this boutique hotel just down the coast from Jolly Harbour. With a hammock on your private balcony and an (almost) private beach on your doorstep, you’ll adore this tranquil getaway.
Choose to eat at the on-site beachside restaurant and enjoy the fresh home-cooked food of the attentive family that runs Orrie’s.
Best Luxury Hotel: COCO’s Hotel
Coco’s is one of the best hotels in Antigua for a holiday in Jolly Harbour. This all-inclusive resort has it all, private Caribbean-style cottages on the sea, or set back from it, with private infinity pools or without. Breakfast daily and a beachside restaurant where you can eat with your toes sunk into the sandy beaches of this Caribbean Island. Although it is lovely, it is pricey – so it’s not one for those travelling on a shoestring.
Best Airbnb: Caribbean Villa
This sweet villa has four bedrooms, an outdoor pool, and everything you could want for a tropical island holiday. Just a five-minute walk into town to the bars and restaurants, all the amenities you may need, and the sandy beaches of Jolly Harbour.
One of the best things about staying at James’s villa is the local hookups. He’s got his finger on the pulse and is responsive to any queries you may have.
2. Runaway Beach – Best Place to Stay on a Budget
Runaway Beach is a charming area and is the best neighbourhood in Antigua to stay in if you’re backpacking on a budget. While there are a couple of hostels on the island, Runaway Beach has a great selection of good-value hotels, apartments, and chalets.
Situated just north of Saint John’s is the serene and stunning Runaway Beach. This is one of the best areas to stay in Antigua if you’re looking to be close to the centre but need a break from the crowds. Stretching nearly 2 kilometres, Runaway Beach is one of the most spectacular places to spend a day. It is covered in pristine sands and offers picture-perfect views, making it the best place to sit back and relax in paradise.
- Best For: Quiet, relaxed beach days, white sand beaches, calm water.
- The Vibe: Relaxed and understated. It’s simple, calm, and not overbuilt (unlike some of its neighbours)
- Proximity to Airport: Around 15-20 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.
- Transport Level: Pretty easy! It’s a quick taxi ride from St John’s, walkable from some guesthouses, and straightforward to reach by bus if you don’t mind a short walk.
- Budget: Generally more budget-friendly, with affordable lounger rentals and reasonably priced food and drinks from the beach bars.
- Crowds: Quiet to moderately busy. There is plenty of space to spread out, with a calm vibe.
Top Things to Do in Runaway Beach
- Learn to cook Caribbean dishes at Nicole’s Table, just a short drive from Runaway.
- Soak up the sun on the soft white sands of Runaway Beach.
- Swim in the clear, gentle waters right off Runaway Beach.
- Walk around the headland to neighbouring Fort James Beach for another beautiful stretch of sand and a couple of livelier beach bars.
- Grab a drink or chilled-out lunch from one of the local beach bars along Runaway Beach.
- Take a sunset stroll along the bay.
- Join a boat or snorkelling trip from nearby St. John’s or Dickenson Bay.
Best Hotel: Buccaneer Beach Club
This property has the friendliest staff, they will cater your holiday to you, from taking you out on a tour to delivering groceries – just ask kindly!
There is an outdoor swimming pool at this beachfront hotel, surrounded by tropical gardens. You can even rent a bicycle and explore the rest of the sandy beaches in the area. It’s really good value for money.
Best Apartment: Vista Mare apartment
This beautiful home is a bit further from the beach, but you’ll still be within short walking distance. You can enjoy some beautiful views right from your terrace and an outdoor pool, which is perfect to cool down during the hot months. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms, so you can even bring some friends along!
3. Saint John’s – Best Area to Stay For Nightlife
Tucked throughout this vibrant and vivacious capital city is a vast array of Antigua’s coolest clubs, bars, and restaurants offering up plenty of after-dark fun. So whether you’re looking to dance all night or sip seaside cocktails, Saint John’s has something that will satisfy travellers of all types and budgets.
Set on the island’s northwest coast, Saint John’s is the largest city and capital of Antigua. It is the island’s centre of tourism and is where you’ll find a great selection of shops and cafes to spend the day perusing.
Saint John’s is also where you’ll find most of the island’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions. The capital is home to the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda as well as forts and fortifications bursting with artefacts and ancient charm.
- Best For: Nightlife, culture, museums, local markets, colourful streets.
- The Vibe: Busy and vibrant. There is a cruise port at Heritage Quay, pastel colonial buildings, local food spots, and a mix of history and everyday island life.
- Proximity to Airport: Easy to reach; approximately 15 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.
- Transport Level: Very easy! It’s the island’s main transport hub, with buses, taxis, and ferries all congregating in the city.
- Budget: Generally budget-friendly. The accommodation here is limited, especially in the city centre, but nearby areas offer mid-range options.
- Crowds: Lively, especially on cruise ship days when the quays fill with shoppers. It is quieter in the evenings and on non-cruise days.
Top Things to Do in Saint John’s
- Place a few bets and enjoy live music at King’s Casino in the heart of Saint John’s.
- Swim in the calm, clear waters of nearby Fort James Beach, only a short drive from the city centre.
- Explore the colourful streets, markets, and historic buildings of Saint John’s, including the Cathedral and the lively Heritage Quay.
- Take a day trip to Greencastle Hill for panoramic island views and ancient rock formations, about 25 minutes from Saint John’s.
- Book a scenic flight to Montserrat to see the dramatic Soufrière Hills volcano from the air, arranged through local tour operators.
Best Apartment: Dr Fiona’s Animal Cottage
Dr Fiona’s Animal Cottage has a kinda scruffy, sweet, backpacker-friendly vibe and offers simple, clean rooms that are run by a welcoming host. It’s right in Saint John’s, so you can walk to cheap eats, buses, and the harbour. A solid budget base if you want to experience local life over resort polish.
Best Homestay: Eko Cozy Guest House
This cosy guesthouse is conveniently located in Saint John’s for nightlife. It is close to great bars and restaurants, as well as shops, beaches and landmarks. This property has two rooms, various amenities, and provides a sit-down breakfast each morning.
Best Airbnb: Villa O’Maria
This comfortable and relaxing entire space is ideal for first-time visitors to Antigua. Located in Saint John, it’s just a walk away from the centre and close to the Villa O’Maria airport. Equipped with all the basic amenities required to feel at home, the space comes with air conditioning and ceiling fans to stay cool in summer.
4. Falmouth – Coolest Place to Stay
Falmouth is located on the southern shores of Antigua. It is the island’s original British settlement and offers plenty of Antigua’s beautiful attractions and historical landmarks for visitors to explore and experience. From the top of Monk’s Hill to the shores of English Harbour, Falmouth, and its surrounding area are packed with adventure, excitement, and intrigue.
Falmouth is a small town that punches well above its weight in hospitality. Home to a great selection of bars and many restaurants that serve mouthwatering seafood and other local delicacies, you’ll be well cared for in Falmouth.
- Best For: Sailing, marina nightlife, chilled beaches, and a younger crowd that likes bars over big resorts.
- The Vibe: Laid-back by day, busy by night. Yachts, rum punches, and a proper harbour-town feel.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 30-35 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.
- Transport Level: Easy enough! Taxis are common, buses run to English Harbour, and everything in Falmouth is walkable once you’re there.
- Budget: Mid-range but doable for backpackers if you stick to guesthouses and local food spots.
- Crowds: Busy during sailing season and weekends; and quieter and more local the rest of the year.
Top Things to Do in Falmouth
- Climb up to Monks Hill Fortress for amazing views over Falmouth Harbour and the south coast.
- Walk or taxi to English Harbour to explore Nelson’s Dockyard, historic forts, and the marina.
- Relax on Pigeon Point Beach, the closest and most popular beach for anyone staying in Falmouth.
- Take a day trip to Half Moon Bay on the east coast for wild waves and a gorgeous crescent of sand.
- Drive the lush Fig Tree Drive route to see Antigua’s rainforest and small local villages.
Best Hotel: Admiral’s Inn and Gunpowder Suites
Settle yourself into this seaside paradise and enjoy the private infinity pools this Caribbean destinations offering. Stay in 18th-century buildings with modern amenities, including the private infinity pools I mentioned and extensive gardens overlooking English Harbour for a tranquil holiday. Feel like a real swashbuckler and take the hotel’s boat to Galleon Beach, just five minutes away.
Best Hostel: The Waterfront
The Waterfront is an iconic traveller’s inn in the thumping, bopping heart of this Caribbean island. A true hostel, as in a home away from home for all vacationers wanting to stay in a world-class location without breaking the bank.
Walk down to the beach for a lazy day and return to the large water view terrace and enjoy the stunning view of Falmouth Harbour.
Best Airbnb: Cute Studio Cottage
You’ll have no choice but to fall in love with this stunning Airbnb in Falmouth. The beautiful cottage is nestled in a little green garden and is truly a hidden gem. The inside is spacious – thanks to the high ceilings – super bright and welcoming.
It’s a studio, but it’s fully equipped, including a great kitchen, a massive bathroom, and a work desk. The cottage is designed to be open to the breeze throughout the day & night.
5. Saint Mary – Best Neighbourhood for Families to Stay In
Set on the west coast is the stunning parish of Saint Mary, my number one pick for where to stay with kids. It is a large parish that is lined with incredible, pristine beaches. It sits sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean, making it the perfect place to try your hand at a few different watersports. Saint Mary is also home to Greencastle Hill, one of the tallest hills in the country. There’s no better place to lace up your boots, hit the trails, and enjoy the marvellous panoramic views. It’s a stunning tropical island spot.
- Best For: Beaches, sunsets, chilled bays, small villages, and a quieter southwest-coast base.
- The Vibe: Relaxed and scenic with a slower pace than the north.
- Proximity to Airport: About 25-35 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport.
- Transport Level: Easy with taxis or a rental car. Buses reach Jolly Harbour, but not every beach.
- Budget: Mostly mid-range to upscale, with a few self-catering spots that work for backpackers.
- Crowds: Popular beaches fill up on weekends and cruise days, but there’s always a quieter stretch nearby.
Top Things to Do in Saint Mary
- Lounge on the pristine white sands of Jolly Beach.
- Slip, slide, splash, and play at Swash Water Park.
- Spend a day at Ffryes Beach, a 400-meter bay covered in soft sand and brilliant blue waters.
- Swim in the clear waters at Turners Beach.
- Head into St. John’s if you want tennis lessons at Antigua Tennis Pros.
- Climb Greencastle Hill for epic island views, about a 25-30 minute drive from Saint Mary.
Best Budget Hotel: South Coast Horizon
South Coast Horizon offers a peaceful holiday among the lush green nature of Saint Mary’s Parish. This eco-resort is a short walk to Morris Beach.
You can choose a suite with a kitchenette at South Coast Horizon, which can be handy for saving some dollars. It’s one of the cheapest bases that you’ll find around.
Best Luxury Hotel: Carlisle Bay
Carlisle Bay is one of those accommodations you never want to leave. Tennis courts, a fitness centre, and spa treatments! This luxury hotel also offers a children’s club, a library, and a private screening room. If you’re here with the family, you’ll be plenty entertained. Not to mention the private beach Carlisle Bay has to offer. If windsurfing, sailing, boat excursions, or hiking are more your speed, Carlisle Bay can organise that too.
Best Airbnb: Surrounded by Nature
Ideal for family vacations, this private home offers everything you will need during your stay, from breathtaking sunset views and pristine beaches to lush hills. Equipped with modern amenities, you will have everything you need to have a very comfortable stay. Accommodating up to seven guests, you will have enough space to relax with your family.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Antigua
Here’s what people often ask me about where to stay in Antigua.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Antigua
A coconut could fall on your head. Get good travel insurance.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Antigua Should You Choose?
After spending so much time exploring Antigua’s coastline, I can tell you this: no matter where you base yourself, you’re never more than a short drive from one of the island’s damn gorgeous beaches. Each corner of the island has its own vibe, some slow and sleepy, some buzzing and social.
Choosing the right area isn’t just about picking a hotel; it’s about choosing the version of Antigua you want to experience. Whether that’s a peaceful sunrise over the horizon, sunset cocktails by the bustling marina, or just a simple budget?friendly base, there’s a neighbourhood that fits!
I hope you enjoy your time on this magical island as much as I did <3
