Antigua is the archetypal Caribbean island - sun-drenched, fringed with dazzling white sand and set by a warm jade and aquamarine sea. There are some excellent hotels, and increasingly villas, and the island has a long tradition of sailing, both in historic association with Britain (Horatio Nelson was stationed here) and sailing in its modern form, as the venue for the Caribbean’s major regatta and winter home to a number of megayachts. However, it is for the easy life and friendly islanders - and the wide variety of beaches - that most people visit.
The best of Antigua’s beaches are the deserted stretches of sand in the south-west, beyond Jolly Bay. Day sails are always popular – take a trip to Rendezvous Bay in the south, the offshore islands of the north east or a sunset cruise along the west coast. Harmony Hall is lovely, lazy lunch with a view. If you tour St John’s, make sure to end up in the restored Redcliffe Quay for a drink.