Planning a holiday with a family or a large group comes with unique challenges. Families need to balance value for money with creating a memorable experience for their loved ones, so the following questions are often asked in the planning stages of a holiday to Antigua. This Antigua Travel Guide will help you discover why Antigua is a perfect choice for a memorable family holiday.
Is Antigua a Good Holiday Destination for Families?
Antigua, with its stunning beaches, warm climate, and family-friendly attractions, is an ideal destination for families. The island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and hospitable locals make it a top pick for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Where Should Families Stay in Antigua?
When it comes to family accommodation, Antigua offers a variety of options. Most families tend to flock to the west side of the island for its blend of family-friendly beaches and family-friendly accommodation. For those seeking luxury close to beautiful Ffryes Beach, Tamarind Hills stands out. Offering a range of upscale villas, it’s a great choice mentioned in many Antigua Travel Guides. Families can enjoy spacious living with stunning ocean views, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Which Beaches In Antigua Are the Most Popular With Families?
Antigua is renowned for its 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Popular family-friendly beaches include Dickenson Bay, Pigeon Point Beach, and of course, Ffryes Beach. Ffryes Beach is particularly popular with families for its clear blue water, shallow sandy beach and minimal waves. The snorkeling there is pretty good too. The Beach Bar at Ffryes Beach is very popular with parents while supervising their children swimming or snorkeling, and a number of restaurants are also close by, including the Wild Tamarind Beach Club
Just around from Ffryes Beach next to Tamarind Hills Resort sits Darkwood Beach, which is also very popular with families.
Here you can find Swash Water Park – a big hit with families. Swash Water Park is usually open seven days a week from 10.00am to 6.00pm.
These beaches offer calm waters and are perfect for various water activities, a highlight in any Antigua Travel Guide.
What Activities Are Popular With Families in Antigua?
Antigua offers a plethora of activities for families. From snorkeling in its clear waters to exploring the historic Nelson’s Dockyard, there’s something for everyone. Rainforest ziplining and boat tours around the island are also popular activities mentioned in our Antigua Travel Guide.
Here are a few family activities for you to explore, all located just a short drive from resorts on the west coast:
Does Renting a Car in Antigua Save Money?
Antigua Travel Guides advise renting a car in Antigua can be a cost-effective way to explore the island at your own pace. It allows families to visit different beaches and attractions without the constraints of public transport or the cost of taxis. Ideally, you should hire a car at the airport to save transfer fees to your accommodation. Budget Rent a Car is available from V.C. Bird International Airport as well as a number of other hire companies.
Can You Rent Villas with a Fully Equipped Kitchen in Antigua?
Yes, in Antigua, many villas, especially those at Tamarind Hills, offer fully equipped kitchens. This feature allows families to save money by cooking meals, a tip often shared by Antiguan Travel Guides. It’s a great way to enjoy a bespoke holiday without sacrificing luxury.
Are there local markets to buy food?
Antigua has several local markets where you can purchase fresh produce. St. John’s Market is a popular choice, offering a variety of local fruits, vegetables, and other goods, making it easy for those staying in villas to prepare their meals. St John’s Public Market is open most days 6.00 am – 6 pm. To enrich your travel experience, consider a guided food tour of the market. Families may also like to explore Heritage Market on Saturday mornings which is a little more touristy.
Are Resorts in Antigua Family Friendly?
Many resorts in Antigua are designed with families in mind. They offer various amenities, including kids’ clubs, family pools, and special activities. Tamarind Hills, for instance, provides luxury accommodations that cater for large family groups, along with family-friendly amenities.
How much does it cost to eat in Antigua?
Dining out in Antigua can vary in price. While some upscale restaurants can be pricey, there are also budget-friendly options. Exploring local eateries for authentic and affordable meals is fun for the whole family. Alternatively, the convenience of dining in or at your resort’s restaurant is equally enjoyable.
Do Resorts Offer Free Breakfast in Antigua?
Some resorts in Antigua do offer free breakfast, but it’s not universal. Our Antigua Travel Guide suggests checking with your chosen accommodation to confirm their meal offerings and special offers.
Are there hidden fees at resorts in Antigua?
Some resorts in Antigua might have additional fees not included in the initial price, like service charges or resort fees. It’s advisable to inquire about any additional costs when booking.
In Antigua, there are specific mandatory charges associated with hotel accommodations that travelers should be aware of. These include a 14% sales tax on the cost of your hotel room, a required 10% service charge (intended for staff tips), and a Tourism Guest Levy of US$5 per guest per night.
It’s important to note that when booking a stay at any resort in Antigua, the Tourism Guest Levy is typically not included in the advertised rate. Instead, it is added to your hotel bill, and you will usually settle this fee upon your arrival at the resort.
Read More About Resort Fees in Antigua
Are there many four and five-bedroom villas available for large families or groups?
Any Antigua Travel Guide will tell you larger villas are scarce in Antigua; Tamarind Hills is an exception, offering luxurious 4 and 5-bedroom villas. These villas, with private infinity pools and beach access, are very popular with families.
What is the best time of the year for Families to Visit Antigua?
Most Antigua Travel Guides advise the shoulder season, from May to November, is often considered the best time to visit Antigua for families. The weather is pleasant, around 80 degrees, and there are fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for a family holiday. Your accommodation investment tends to be less at this time of the year, another attraction for families.
How Far in Advance do I need to book a family holiday in Antigua?
Due to the popularity of destinations like Tamarind Hills, it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially if you are eyeing one of the luxurious 4 or 5-bedroom villas for a larger family or group.
The Verdict
Antigua offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it an ideal destination for families. With careful planning and choices like Tamarind Hills, families can enjoy a bespoke holiday experience without forgoing the comforts and luxuries they desire.
Keep this Antigua Travel Guide handy when planning your family vacation in Antigua.
