Top Family-Friendly Excursions in Antigua and Barbuda
The Caribbean’s twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda hold a wealth of incredible experiences that have endeared these diminutive destinations to travellers of all ages for decades. Whether your family prefers the beaches and luxury or wild, unspoilt beauty of the countryside, you’ll find a suite of activities and excursions tailor-made to excite families of all stripes. From aquatic adventures to equine introductions, we’ve compiled a greatest hits list of the can’t-miss activities you’ll want to include on your next Caribbean itinerary.
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Catamaran Cruising
A catamaran cruise with Wadadli Cats or The Excellence is a classic way to spend an entire day exploring the crystal, clear Caribbean Sea at your leisure. Come aboard a stunning luxury Catamaran and get a glimpse of key destinations such as the Pillars of Hercules, Jumby Bay, Great Bird Island, and Devil’s Bridge in sublime comfort. As a bonus, you’ll have an opportunity to swim and snorkel around the waters of Green Island before getting back on the boat for a delicious lunch and open bar service. Soak up the Caribbean sun in nautical style and admire the coastal views on this experience of a lifetime.
Off-Road Odyssey
One automatic buggy for two, please! Take the driver’s seat at Salty Dogs Adventures, Antigua’s #1 buggy tour operator, and experience the thrill and adrenaline rush of taking the path less travelled. A full fleet of 268 Buggies is guaranteed to deliver an action-packed day full of mud-soaked fun and laughter. Discover the island of Antigua in the most unique and exciting way. There are three different tour options for you to choose from based on what sites you want to see and how fast you dare to go. Drive through the Antiguan countryside at your own speed...just don’t forget to snap a selfie before you wash off the mud with an ocean swim break!
Exceptional Ecotours
Ecotours in Antigua & Barbuda are available on both land and sea! While many associate the Caribbean solely with beaches, Antigua boasts a diverse ecosystem that even includes a rainforest. Learn about the local ecology while having fun hiking and exploring the canopy, observing the wildlife from the shifting vantage point of your treetop zipline. Buggies are also on hand to take you on and off road. Birdwatchers won’t want to miss a visit to the wilder sides of Barbuda, where you’ll find the Western Hemisphere’s largest colony of captivating Frigate Birds in Codrington Lagoon.
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Enjoy Peace and Quiet at Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is one of the destination’s more remote beaches - its crystal sand beaches offering visitors an opportunity to escape the comparative bustle of some of Antigua's most popular beaches. The bay is partially sheltered from the Atlantic Sea by a large reef which makes it safe to swim and snorkel in the clear and inviting turquoise waters. This lovely bay offers opportunities for surfing in the open bay and snorkelling in the sheltered cove. Tina’s Hotspot now offers beach chairs and umbrellas for rent if you want to catch some rays! Check out two great restaurants in this area, the Beach Bum Bar & Grill on the beach, and Smiling Harry’s located just a short walk away.
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Stingrays all Day at Stingray City
Get up close and personal with stingrays! Located just north of Seatons Village, Stingray City is an open but shallow spot in the sea. The stingrays swim to this area when they hear the boats! Nothing gets children (and most adults) more engaged than handling, petting, and even feeding beautiful stingrays. The stingrays at Stingray City are calm, gentle, and playful as they are well-acclimated to the presence of humans. A guide will explain how to properly approach them in a friendly way. You can also go on a safari tour where you will get to meet parrots, tortoises, iguanas, and more.
Photo: Antigua and Barbuda