One of my dream ways to spend a day is to hop from one beach to another. Going from one white-sand beach to the next. Diving into each pool of water like it offers something completely different to the last (which I swear it does).
The Caribean island of Antigua is a dream for all beach hoppin’ lovers. Picture endless stretches of powdery sand alongside crystal-clear waters.
Not only is Antigua packed with DAZZLING beaches but it also boasts lush rainforests just begging to be explored. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, pack your boots and spend your days hiking and ziplining through the forests.
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 compiled Antigua’s best neighborhoods into easy-to-read but detailed sections so you can quickly pick the area that’s right for you.
So, 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 you covered.
Let’s jump right to it and find where in Antigua is best for you!
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Antigua?
- Antigua Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Antigua
- Antigua’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Where to Stay in Antigua
- What To Pack For Antigua
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Antigua
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Antigua
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Antigua.
St James Club And Villas | Best Hotel in Antigua
This all-inclusive four-star resort is one of the best places to stay in Antigua. Each room is spacious and beautifully decorated and provides gorgeous views over the landscape. The resort boasts a private beach, an on-site bar and restaurant, and a pool and fitness center.
Hermitage Bay | Best Luxury Hotel in Antigua
Private infinity pools overlooking Hermitage Bay, secluded and private, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, is there anything more you could want? Spas, massages, an outdoor pool (with a poolside bar), and a gym, all here at Hermitage Bay babay!
There’s an organic restaurant and cooking classes available so the taste of the memory of this dreamy holiday can come home with you. Hermitage Bay is just 10 minutes drive away and you can be at Saint Johns in 30 minutes.
The Waterfront | Best Hostel in Antigua
The Waterfront is an iconic travelers inn in the thumping, bopping heart of this Caribbean island. This hostel is such a vibe and conveniently located in English Harbour, is one of the coolest places to stay.
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.
Relaxing and Spacious Place in Saint John’s | Best Airbnb in Antigua
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 center and close to the Villa O’Maria airport. Equipped with all the basic amenities required to feel home, the space comes with air conditioning and ceiling fans to stay cool in summer.
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.
Antigua is one of several islands that make up the nation of Antigua and Barbuda. It is the country’s main island and tourist hub and offers so much to travelers and tourists.
One of the most beautiful places on the planet, Antigua is an island with lush jungles and colorful villages and is surrounded by golden sand beaches and glistening turquoise waters.
The island covers an area of roughly 281 square kilometers and is divided into six parishes, each home to several diverse towns and villages.
In this Antigua neighborhood guide, let’s to look at the best places to stay based on what you want to do.
Starting with Jolly Beach, a wonderful example of all this sweet island has to offer. Nestled on the picturesque west coast of Antigua, Jolly Beach is nothing short of a pristine white-sand tropical utopia. With a warm local atmosphere and a world-class marina, this is my pick for where to stay in Antigua for your first time.
The capital and largest city on the island, Saint John’s is best to stay in Antigua if you’re after nightlife, drinking, dancing, and partying. From cozy pubs to stylish lounges, there’s something for every taste. Be sure to visit Saint John’s, it has great restaurants, charming shops, and plenty to see and experience.
North of Saint John’s is idyllic Runaway Beach. this charming area is the best neighborhood 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.
Set on the island’s west coast is Saint Mary. This parish is my best recommendation for where to stay in Antigua for families because it has glorious beaches, calm waters, and lots of all-ages fun and adventures.
And finally, situated on the southern coast is Falmouth, the big sister town to English Harbour just five minutes inland. One of the coolest places to stay in Antigua, Falmouth is a charming village that is packed with good food, cool vibes, and breathtaking views.
Antigua’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Still not sure which of Antigua’s best neighborhoods is right for you? Don’t worry because, in this next section, I’m going to highlight the best things to see, do, and eat in each area.
1. Jolly Beach – Where to Stay in Antigua for Your First Time
There’s no doubt about it, Jolly Beach is the best neighborhood 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… 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!
Orrie’s Beach Hotel | Best Hotel in Jolly Harbour
“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. Or, you can cook your own food if you choose one of their suited with a kitchenette and just make use of the bar. If you are looking for nightlife, Saint John’s is just a 20-minute drive away.
COCO’s Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Jolly Harbour
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.
Built between the beaches of Jolly Harbour, Coco’s beach, often called Little Ffrye’s, is one of the calmest you’ll find on the island. If that doesn’t get you going, live your best Bond life, hire a jet-ski – private infinity pools to the jet ski, ya feel me? When you’re ready, take yourself back to Coco’s to indulge in the wellness center – not only massages but yoga classes too, for ultimate relaxation.
Caribbean Villa | Best Airbnb in Jolly Harbour
This sweet villa has four bedrooms, an outdoor pool, and everything you could want for a Caribbean seaside 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, is responsive to any queries you may have, and is good friends with Mary. Mary runs a taxi service and also a car rental business, look her up if you want to explore more of Antigua.
Things to See and Do in Jolly Harbour
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Venture into the rainforest behind Jolly Harbour, and take a hike through the trails of Greencastle Hill National Park trails of Greencastle Hill National Park for a different Caribbean sea view
- Learn more about the surrounding area with this Antiguan day out
- 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.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Runaway Beach – Best Place to Stay in Antigua on a Budget
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 center but need a break from the crowds.
Stretching nearly 2 kilometers, 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.
Runaway Beach is the best neighborhood to stay in Antigua if you’re backpacking on a budget. Here you’ll find a nice selection of apartments and chalets as well as good-value hotels.
Buccaneer Beach Club | Best Hotel in Runaway Bay
This is my top pick for where to stay in Antigua for one night because it offers comfortable rooms and a great location all at a fantastic price. 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.
Vista Mare apartment | Best Apartment in Runaway Beach
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!
Spacious Beach Apartment | Best Airbnb in Runaway Beach
This peaceful apartment couldn’t be any better. With an ideal beach location, you’ll only have to walk a couple of steps until your toes hit the sand. It’s pretty much like a private beach area as well, with no sellers or bars, so you can enjoy some quiet tanning time.
The apartment accommodates 4 guests and can be recommended to pretty much all travelers, including small families. The host is known to go above and beyond to meet their guest’s expectations, so you’ll be in good hands!
Things to See and Do in Runaway Beach
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Learn to cook your favorite Caribbean dishes at Nicole’s Table.
- Soak up some rays on the white sands of Runaway Beach.
- Swim in the crystal clear and calm emerald waters of Fort Bay Beach.
3. Saint John’s – Best Area to Stay in Antigua For Nightlife
Saint John’s is my best recommendation for where to stay in Antigua 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 travelers 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 center of tourism and is where you’ll find a great selection of shops and cafes to spend the day peruuuusing. Here you can indulge in everything from local cuisines and drinks to international favorites and lively libations.
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 artifacts and ancient charm.
St James Club And Villas | Best Hotel in Saint John’s
This spectacular hotel has four stars and six tennis courts. It has luxurious rooms with comfortable beds and amazing views of garden and the Caribbean Sea. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining, nightlife, and shopping options at this all inclusive hotel, they even have a watersports center on-site.
Free windsurfing, sailing, or kayaking lessons and equipment are available, en plus, the Billiards Center has pool and ping pong tables. Game on!
Eko Cozy Guest House | Best Homestay in Saint John’s
This cozy guesthouse is conveniently located in Saint John’s, my top pick for where to stay in Antigua 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.
Villa O’Maria | Best Airbnb in Saint John’s
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 center 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.
Things to See and Do in Saint John’s
Photo: Chris Lininger
- Place a few bets and listen to great live music at King’s Casino.
- Discover the only Stonehenge in the Caribbean, Antigua!
- Learn to cook food the Caribbean way, and dine overlooking the sea
- Fly over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to experience the volcano of Montserrat
- Yoga on the Verandah Overlooking St Johns
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Grab an eSIM!4. Falmouth – Coolest Place to Stay in Antigua
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.
This town is my pick for the coolest place to stay in Antigua. 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.
If you love to eat or want to be where the cool kids are, Falmouth is the town for you!
Admiral’s Inn and Gunpowder Suites | Best Hotel in Falmouth
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.
The Waterfront | Best Hostel in Falmouth
The Waterfront is an iconic traveler’s inn in the thumping, bopping heart of this Caribbean island. This hostel is such a vibe and conveniently located in English Harbour, is one of the coolest places to stay.
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.
Cute Studio Cottage | The Best Airbnb in Falmouth
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. Tradewinds blow through the windows, which are installed with white-painted burglar bars and no glass or screens.
Things to See and Do in Falmouth
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Climb to the top of Monks Hill and take in the breathtaking views.
- Venture up the east coast and take a trip to Halfmoon Bay.
- Explore stunning Nelson’s Harbour in nearby English Harbour.
- Rent a car and explore the lush rainforest that surrounds Fig Tree Drive.
- Soak up some rays at Pigeon Point Beach.
5. Saint Mary – Best Neighborhood in Antigua 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 in Antigua with kids.
Saint Mary 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. Whether you’re looking to hang ten or explore what lies beneath, the coast of Saint Mary is ideal for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
Looking to explore more of the land? Well, you’re in luck! Saint Mary is 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 marvelous panoramic views.
South Coast Horizon | Best Hotel in Saint Mary
South Coast Horizon offers a peaceful holiday among the lush green nature of Saint Mary’s Parish. Choose suites with either a sea view, looking out to the calm waters, or garden views looking at the colorful flowers of the tropics.
This eco-resort is a short walk to Morris Beach or you can mingle with the other guests around the pool. You can choose a suite with a kitchenette at South Coast Horizon which can be handy for saving some dollars.
Carlisle Bay | Best Luxury Hotel in Saint Mary
Carlisle Bay is one of those accommodations you never want to leave. Tennis courts, a fitness center, and spa treatments, stay fit and bring your bae to Carlisle Bay 😉
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, and hiking are more your speed, Carlisle Bay can organize that too, talk to their friendly staff.
Surrounded by Nature | Best Airbnb in Saint Mary
Ideal for family vacations, this private home offers everything you will need during your stay in Antigua, 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.
Things to See and Do in Saint Mary
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Bat a few balls around at Antigua Tennis Pros.
- Climb to the top of Greencastle Hill.
- 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.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Antigua
Here’s what people often ask me about where to stay in Antigua.
What To Pack For Antigua
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where is the prettiest beach?
A fair question! If you’re short on time or want to see the creme de la creme, head straight to Carlisle Beach. This Bay close to the English Harbour, on the South Coast, is an expansive, clean sandy beach, with crystal clear waters.
When is hurricane season?
Hurricane Season is savage so avoid the months of June to November to stay safe, when the risk of these wild storms is highest. The best months in Antigua are December through February.
How long do you need in Antigua?
10 days in Antigua is a good amount of time I reckon! You need at least four and most people usually spend three to five days on this island but I feel like there’s such a deep wealth of culture to uncover. Take some time to get to know the local people, experience their kindness, and vibe out, mon!
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.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
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.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Antigua
With its pristine beaches, glistening water, and vibrant villages, Antigua is one of the best travel destinations in the Caribbean. It offers travelers an array of interesting attractions, as well as delicious food, lively nightlife, and plenty of surf, sand, and sun.
From north to south, east to west, Antigua is an island that will captivate travelers of all ages, styles, and budgets. If you’re still not sure which is the best neighborhood to stay in Antigua, here is a quick recap of my favorite places.
Hermitage Bay is my top pick of all the picks. The private infinity pools amongst the tropical gardens just get me fizzy.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option though (I do feel ya, Hermitage Bay is just a dream to me too!) stay at The Waterfront. This hostel has options for dorm rooms or private rooms and is walking distance to all the cool that’s Falmouth.
I hope I’ve helped narrow down the options of where to stay in Antigua for you. Regardless of where you stay, the people are warm, the weather is warm, and the water is warm, I’m sure you’ll be more than fine. Enjoy your time in Antigua!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Antigua.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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This is a useful site and information. I’d like to add some comments based on our own experience as first-time visitors.
Caveat first – I’m Greek-American and my wife is from Greece. We are more prone to staying in AirBnB type places vs a large resort/all-inclusive…we rent cars…we like to explore and do not like to be confined –> immersion into all-things local is what we’re looking for.
All that said, we booked an apt in Saint Johns because that’s where a lot of the blogs we read recommended first-timers to stay. While we were super happy with the apartment and our host (Friar’s Hill) – we were VERY disappointed with Saint Johns. This is the “Town” on the island and where the cruises port. Unfortunately, there is little-to-no nightlife. Even our apartment host who owns businesses in Saint Johns told us that by 530/6pm – everything shuts down. We strolled through around 7pm looking for some action – a bar, music, whatever and we found none of it. There may have been a few spots down near the piers but you had to drive through some unsavory areas to get there so we nixed that idea.
Our favorite part of the island and where we would stay during our next trip is anywhere in or near to English Harbor. This is where you’ll find the night-life and the ‘action.’ There’s a ton of bars & restaurants, plenty of yachts to stare at and just a good ‘vibe’ overall.