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Antigua Accommodation Guide

Antigua Accommodation Guide

Antigua And Barbuda

Accommodation Types

Hotel & Resort Categories

  • Hostels/Guesthouses

    Limited availability, mainly in St. John's. Budget-friendly dorms or private rooms.

  • Budget Hotels

    Smaller, locally owned properties in St. John's or villages, basic amenities.

  • Mid-range Hotels/Resorts

    Many options island-wide, with pools, restaurants, and amenities. Some are The Verandah Resort & Spa, Coconut Beach Club.

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-end, often all-inclusive properties with extensive facilities and private beach access.

Specialty & Alternative Stays

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish properties recognized for personalized service and distinct charm.

  • All-Inclusive Resorts

    A common lodging type in Antigua, bundling meals, drinks, and activities into one price.

  • Vacation Rentals/Apartments

    Available via Vrbo and local agencies, from apartments to luxurious villas with privacy.

  • Homestay/Community Tourism

    Less formalized. Opportunities found via local connections or specialized tour operators for cultural immersion.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Antigua offers a distinct character and experience.

St. John's

Highlights
  • Central for transportation
  • Local culture and markets
  • Budget-friendly dining
  • Proximity to cruise port
Considerations
  • Not on a prime swimming beach
  • Can be crowded on cruise ship days
  • Less resort ambiance
  • Awareness of pickpocketing in crowded areas

English/Falmouth Harbour

Highlights
  • Rich history (Nelson's Dockyard)
  • Excellent dining and lively atmosphere
  • Easy access to hiking
  • Yachting scene
Considerations
  • Can be pricier
  • Beaches often smaller or require short drives
  • Lively atmosphere, especially during yachting season
  • Further from airport

Jolly Harbour/Dickenson Bay

Highlights
  • Good beaches and water sports
  • Supermarket and restaurants
  • Family-friendly amenities
  • Reasonable proximity to St. John's
Considerations
  • Can feel self-contained
  • Less authentically Antiguan vibe
  • Can be very touristy and crowded in Dickenson Bay
  • Mainly vacation rentals in Jolly Harbour

Safety Across Antigua

General Safety

Antigua is generally safe island-wide. General caution is advisable, notably after dark in isolated areas.

Remote Areas

On remote beaches, avoid leaving valuables unattended. Some areas are isolated; exercise common sense.

Booking Strategies

Securing your preferred accommodation at favorable rates is possible with timely booking.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Dec-May): 3-6 months prior, especially for holidays or Sailing Week.
  • Shoulder Season (May-Jun, Nov-mid Dec): 1-3 months prior for good options and prices.
  • Low Season (Jul-Oct): Few weeks in advance for deals, but booking at least a month prior is advisable.
  • Trusted Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and direct hotel bookings.

Deposit and Cancellation

  • Policies vary by property. High-end resorts often require 25-50% deposits.
  • Strict cancellation policies are common for luxury properties (e.g., full payment 30-60 days prior, non-refundable).
  • Smaller properties or vacation rentals may have more flexible terms. Always review the fine print.
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not customary for established hotels.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Season (Dec-May)
  • Prices typically surge by 30-50% or more.
  • Peak demand around Christmas, New Year's, and Sailing Week.
Low Season (Jul-Oct)
  • Most discounts available, often 20-40% off high season rates.
  • Fewer crowds.

House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters

A platform for house/pet sitting exchanges. Explore TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Cost-Effective

An option for travelers seeking longer, budget-friendly stays by caring for homes and pets.

Local Immersion

Accommodation Recommendations

Select lodging that aligns with your budget and travel preferences.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget Options

For value-focused travelers.

  • Caribbean Inn & Suites (St. John's): Basic, clean rooms.
  • Concordia Cottages (near English Harbour): Self-catering, good value. A car is needed.
Mid-Range Options

A balance of comfort and cost.

  • Antigua Village (Dickenson Bay): Apartment-style, beachfront.
  • Keyonna Beach Resort Antigua (Five Islands): Adults-only, boutique, all-inclusive.

Top Picks for Luxury

Exclusive Experiences

For ultimate indulgence.

  • Jumby Bay Island (Private Island): Ultra-luxury, all-inclusive, private island.
  • Curtain Bluff (Old Road): Classic luxury, all-inclusive, known for service.
Secluded Luxury

Wellness-focused high-end stays.

  • Hermitage Bay (Jennings): Secluded, boutique, all-inclusive wellness resort.

Family & Solo Traveler Stays

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Jolly Beach Resort & Spa (Jolly Harbour): Large, all-inclusive with kids' club. The Verandah Resort & Spa (Long Bay): Family-oriented, all-inclusive. St. James's Club & Villas (Mamora Bay): All-inclusive with multiple pools.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Guesthouses or smaller hotels in St. John's or English Harbour are considered for access to local life.

Long Stays & Historical Charm

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals (villas or apartments) are suitable for extended stays, featuring self-catering facilities and weekly/monthly rates.

  • Properties with Historical Significance

    Admiral's Inn & Gunpowder Suites (Nelson's Dockyard): Historic stone building within Nelson's Dockyard. The Inn at English Harbour (English Harbour): Classic colonial style, overlooking the harbor.

Accommodation Comparison Table

Luxury Resort

Price Range: $500 - $1500+

  • Best For: Honeymoons, special occasions, pampering.
  • Features: All-inclusive, private beaches, fine dining, spas.
  • Considerations: Very exclusive, limited local interaction, high cost.
Mid-Range Hotel

Price Range: $200 - $450

  • Best For: Couples, families, active travelers.
  • Features: Pools, restaurants, often beachfront, good amenities.
  • Considerations: Can be busy, may not be all-inclusive.
Vacation Rental

Price Range: $100 - $800+

  • Best For: Families, groups, long stays, self-catering.
  • Features: Privacy, kitchen facilities, varied locations.
  • Considerations: Requires own transport, less service than hotels.
Guesthouse/B&B

Price Range: $80 - $150

  • Best For: Budget travelers, cultural immersion.
  • Features: Local charm, personalized service, often breakfast.
  • Considerations: Fewer amenities, may be away from main beaches.

Other Accommodation Types

Camping & Outdoor

Not a widely promoted option for tourists in established campgrounds. Informal camping on remote beaches is not generally recommended due to security and lack of facilities.

Pet-Friendly Stays

Specific hotels or vacation rentals may permit pets. It is advisable to confirm pet policies directly with the property before booking.

Eco-Lodges

Some properties emphasize sustainability and minimal environmental impact, integrating with the natural surroundings. These are often boutique or unique stays.