A sun worshipper's dream with a beach for each day of the year

The tranquil island of Antigua lies low in the enticing waters of the Caribbean - brushed by the passing trade winds, the offshore clouds destined for Antigua's more lush, mountainous neighbours. This gentler climate means it is drier and not quite as scenic as some of the nearby islands and water shortages can occur from time to time.

A busy day here is a gentle stroll from poolside to gleaming white sand beach and with 365 to choose from, you are never far from a sun-drenched strand. Many of the popular beach hotels lie in the north west of Antigua near the capital of St John's whilst the more scenic south west offers natural harbours and beaches with a touch more seclusion. 

Watersports are abundant - while the novice takes gingerly to the windsurfer in the transparent shallows, the more serious yachtsman is making for the deep water anchorage and international yachting centre of English Harbour where the sympathetically restored Nelson's Dockyard affords a picturesque glimpse of naval life in the Admiral's day and a perfect spot for an evening stroll or a leisurely lunch. Survey the scene from Shirley Heights nearby - white yachts now moored where once warships lay at anchor.

Most holidaymakers tend to stay close to their hotel; public transport is practically non-existent but if you do want to get out and about the best way is to hire a car for a few days. Visit the neat little capital of St John's with its colourful Saturday market and boutiques stocked with British made duty free goods. If you're looking for gifts then locally grown sea island cotton, attractive straw goods and red clay pottery are all authentic purchases. 

Evening entertainment is generally limited to the hotels; barbecues with island music accompaniment, al fresco dinner dances and beach buffets are all on the menu with romantic wining and dining on ocean terraces a feature in many of the hotels.

• View all accommodation in Antigua

Please note:

Local airport departure tax US$20/EC$50 (approx. £12) per person payable locally on departure (children under 12 yrs exempt).
Payable in US Dollars or local currency