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Romantic things to do in Antigua
The best of romantic Antigua for couples
The honeymoon haven of Antigua (and Barbuda) is one of the top destinations for loved-up couples. So when you get here, what romantic things does this intimate island have for you? Choose from moonlit strolls along the beach, head out on a charming boat tour to secluded bays with white-sand beaches, or tuck into fresh seafood washed down with fruity concoctions. From natural landscapes to charming attractions, Antigua is known as the ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ for good reason. Just browse our selection of holiday package of Antigua today.- Stroll along the white-sand beaches of Dickenson Bay
- Take in the harbourside views in Falmouth
- Watch the sunset from a beachside wine bar
- Treasure the memories with local artwork
- Head out on a horseback ride to Rendezvous Bay
- Unwind together with traditional spa treatments
- Dine with a Caribbean ambience
1. Stroll along the white-sand beaches of Dickenson Bay
A stroll along Dickenson Bay might be one of the most romantic things to do in Antigua. White-sand beaches, turquoise-blue waters, protected swimming areas… it may be one of the more popular parts of Antigua, but there are couple-friendly resorts, and the mile-long stretch of beach means that there’s still plenty of space to laze about and soak up each other’s company.
Best for: Rest and relaxation.
Don’t forget: Nearby Runaway Bay is a palm tree-lined alternative.
2. Take in the harbourside views in Falmouth
The horseshoe-shaped Falmouth Harbour backs onto a stunning hillside. The marina caters for mega-yachts, and its jetty makes for a romantic visit in the early evening when you can go for a stroll to admire the stretch of water, luxury boats and gin palaces that dot the harbour. Head up to nearby English Harbour and Pigeon Point, which offers perfect views of the Falmouth Harbour.
Best for: Romantic harbour views.
Don’t forget: The Great George Fort is a crumbling historic site, perched atop Monk’s Hill; it’s perfect for a rustic, romantic setting.
3. Watch the sunset from a beachside wine bar
Antigua’s nightlife casts a romantic hue over the evening. Wind down at a beach bar where you can enjoy a drink while watching the tropical sunset, savour the balmy evenings at a mellow wine bar or pass the evening at a foot-tapping jazz bar. Or why not get dressed up and head out to a glitzy casino?
Best for: Soaking up the ambience.
Don’t forget: Dance along to SoCa, reggae, calypso and jazz live music bands that frequent the bars here.
4. Treasure the memories with local artwork
What better way to remember a romantic trip than through a piece of art? Antigua is a haven for artists, and as such there’s a pretty large community of creatives there. You can browse local artwork in the many shops and galleries spread across the island, with many artists taking inspiration from the picturesque landscapes that the Caribbean gem has to offer. Head to Gilly Gobinet’s art gallery at Fitches Creek for your watercolour and acrylic fix, or the Fig tree Studio Art Gallery for showcases and prints of regional art.
Best for: Savouring the romantic moments.
Don’t forget: Explore the rest of Fitches Creek, where there’s an abundance of orchids, flowering trees and tropical plants
5. Head out on a horseback ride to Rendezvous Bay
Grab your partner and saddle up for a horseback ride, which is undoubtedly one of the most romantic things to do in Antigua. The trips depart close to Falmouth, so once you’ve taken in the picturesque bay (see above), you can venture across to the Spring Hill Riding School who will show you the reins. The excursions head out from here over to Rendezvous Bay, where you’re free to lead your horses into the shallows of the water. Horse rides across the beach? Don’t mind if we do.
Best for: Couple activities.
Don’t forget: Take plenty of photos to capture this unique experience.
6. Unwind together with traditional spa treatments
You and your partner should treat yourself to a spa day in Antigua; most resorts have their own offerings, but the rest of the island is sprinkled with blissful treatment centres. Allow yourselves to totally unwind in each other’s company with a traditional treatment, such as a mud wrap or deep-tissue massage. There are Caribbean-inspired options which use local ingredients such as coffee, seasalt and seaweed. The ancient techniques of reflexology and Reiki are also on the menu, so you truly are spoiled for choice.
Best for: Unwinding together.
Don’t forget: Some spas offer yoga, pilates and excursions to the likes of Shirley Heights, too.
7. Dine with a Caribbean ambience
You couldn’t find a more romantic setting for an evening meal on Antigua. After all, it is hailed as the most romantic spot in the Caribbean. From upmarket dining in romantic courtyards to casual haunts with harbourside views, there’s a distinctive cosmopolitan yet laidback vibe when it comes to Antigua’s dining scene. As far as food goes, tuck into a range of Creole cuisine, conch soup or curried goat, all served with that passionate Caribbean flair.
Best for: Tucking into the culinary scene.
Don’t forget: Buy a coconut from a beachside vendor who’ll crack it open and serve it to you to drink with a straw.
