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About this guide
Saint John's, the gorgeous capital of Antigua and Barbuda, beautifully showcases its rich blend of Caribbean history and island culture framed in natural beauty. This charming archipelago city invites visitors to indulge in an atmosphere where African heritage is celebrated through music, cuisine, and festivals. There are historical sites with stories of resilience, bustling artisan markets, and authentic Caribbean restaurants. With a welcoming local community and beautifully serene landscapes, Saint John's offers island adventure honoring history while embracing new experiences.
To get to Saint John's by air, travelers can book direct flights from major cities in North America and Europe to V.C. Bird International Airport. Located just 15 minutes from the city center and most accommodations on the island, visitors have convenient transportation and access to local hot spots.
Traveling to Saint John's by car can be convenient and flexible. Plenty of local rental cars are available from the V.C. Bird International Airport and within the city. Driving allows travelers to explore at their own pace when visiting beaches, historical sites, and local markets — just remember to drive on the left side of the road.
Public transit in Saint John's, Antigua, and Barbuda offers affordable and efficient travel. Local buses and minibusses identified by their license plates run frequently and connect major points of interest. Fares are inexpensive to get to local attractions.
Saint John's has incredible views of the ocean, mountains, and lush jungles perfect for exploring with individual and group tours. The compact city center makes walking easy with attractions like Heritage Quay, Redcliffe Quay, and local artisan markets within close proximity.
Quick facts
Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$)
English, Antiguan Creole
Good For
Luxury Island Getaways
Beach Adventures
Honeymoon and Couples Trip
Sustainable Nature Enthusiasts
Keep in mind
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Saint John's, Antigua And Barbuda
Housed in a once-renowned historic 1800s West Indian building, Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe & Restaurant serves Caribbean cuisine on the sea terrace. Dishes include Antiguan fricassee of saltfish, local lobster flambéed with Cavalier rum, and Antigua bread pudding.
At Antigua's Historic Fort James, Beach Limerz offers Caribbean cuisine, live music, and beach activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. For true beachside dining, the menu has coconut-flaked butterfly shrimp and house-baked coconut bread pudding with coconut rum sauce.
Dawne's Soleil Kafe has a calming island atmosphere with open outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant colors. The authentic Caribbean menu includes fried or roasted whole red snapper, Jerk chicken wings, and seafood-stuffed chicken with island creole sauce.
The Garden Grill is an outdoor, family-friendly, farm-to-table restaurant with locally sourced cuisine. Their brunch, lunch, and dinner menus offer delicious Caribbean food, from homemade salads and fresh grilled fish to stuffed French toast and grilled steak.
The renowned gourmet deli-cafe The Larder offers a sushi bar, upscale takeaway, and catering services. They serve Napolitano-style pizza, build-your-own salads, freshly squeezed juices, premium spirits, and fine wines.
Fred’s Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream serves authentic Belgian waffles handmade in Brussels paired with freshly whipped cream and real salted caramel sauce. With locally sourced and regional ingredients, each waffle, scoop of ice cream, and coffee shows how tasty dessert can be on the islands.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Saint John's, Antigua And Barbuda
The Stingray City Experience takes guests on an eight-minute boat ride suitable for all ages and with mild mobility issues. This unforgettable encounter lets visitors swim and interact with stingrays in their natural habitat.
Sail and Snorkel in Cades Reef offers a relaxing six-hour boat tour with snorkeling and white sand beaches. There's also a barbecue lunch prepared by the crew, complimentary drinks, and round-trip transportation from local hotels and cruise ports.
For foodie travelers, the City Lime Food Tour offers traditional island dishes and locally produced rum while walking with a local expert guide through Heritage Quay. This tour shares the authentic, hidden gems often overlooked in busier tourist areas.
Horseback Riding at Hawksbill Beach in Five Islands Antigua creates an authentic St. John's experience while riding friendly horses along the picturesque seashore. Guided by experienced locals, guests can enjoy stunning views of Galley Bay Resort and George Armani's Beach House.
This half-day Mangrove Kayaking & Reef Snorkeling creates an adventurous outdoor experience exploring mangrove lagoons and snorkeling at Cades Reef. The tour includes refreshments, equipment, and convenient hotel or port pickup and drop-off.
For exhilarating four-hour aerial fun, Antigua Zipline Canopy Adventure features ziplines, suspension bridges, rope challenges, and stunning natural mountainous scenery. Enjoy the day with snacks, equipment, and a certificate of completion included for a safe experience.
With admission to Betty's Hope, Devil's Bridge, and Half Moon Bay, this all-inclusive buggy tour rides on a comfortable two-seater. Guests visit historical sites and national parks with admission to iconic landmarks, lunch, beverages, and transportation included.
For outdoor enthusiasts, this small group hiking experience takes visitors along the island's scenic trails with breathtaking mountain views. National park fees, transportation, and expert guidance included make this great for moderately fit travelers who love exploring on foot.