Getting Around Antigua. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Minivans

Antigua's public transportation mainly consists of privately owned and operated minivans. These serve as buses. They are typically white with green license plates. They run on fixed routes, but schedules are informal; buses usually depart when full.

Routes generally originate from the two main bus stations in St. John's: the West Bus Station (for routes to western and southern parts of the island, including English Harbour, Freetown, Jolly Harbour) and the East Bus Station (for routes to eastern and northern parts).

Routes & Fares

Official route maps are not widely distributed. Locals and bus drivers are the best source of information.
Routes connect St. John's to major towns and tourist areas.
Pay fares directly to the driver upon boarding. Fares are inexpensive: XCD 3.75 to XCD 5 (USD 1.40-1.85) depending on distance. Have small local currency ready.
No multi-day passes or fixed ticketing systems exist.

Hours & Frequency

Buses operate from early morning (5:30-6:00 AM) until early evening (6:00-7:00 PM). Service becomes infrequent or ceases after dark. Frequency varies; buses depart when full.

Accessibility

Public buses are not generally wheelchair accessible. They are minivans with steps for entry.

Efficiency Tips

Ask locals for directions to stops. Wave down buses. Confirm destination with driver. Be prepared for flexible schedules. Not ideal for tight schedules.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Identification & Hailing

Licensed taxis have "TX" or "H" on their license plates. Drivers often show official ID.
Find taxis at the airport, cruise port, major hotels, and designated taxi stands in St. John's.
Call them by phone or arrange through hotels. Street hailing is possible but less common outside St. John's.

Fares & Safety

Fares are regulated by government, based on distance and passengers. Fixed, typically quoted in USD. Confirm fare before departure. Taxis do not use meters.
Cash (USD or XCD) is preferred. Some drivers may accept credit cards, but do not rely on it.
Generally safe. Use licensed taxis. Solo travelers may wish to inform someone of their route.

Ride-Sharing & Airport Arrangements

No Major Apps

Uber or Lyft do not operate in Antigua.

Local Apps

Some local taxi services may have their own apps.

Airport Taxis

Taxi stand outside arrivals. Fares posted.

Cruise Port Taxis

Abundant at Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay.

Rental Options

Car rental is the most common option. Motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles have limited availability and specific safety considerations.

Car Rental

Requirements: 21-25+ years old, valid foreign driver's license (held for 1+ year), temporary Antiguan permit (XCD 50 / USD 18.50).
Companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, and local companies (Budget Car Rental Antigua, Vernon's, Biggs).
Insurance: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is recommended and often needed. Check credit card coverage.
Booking: Book in advance, especially during high season.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Some companies offer them, but less common than cars.
Safety Warning: Roads can be challenging; other drivers may not be accustomed to motorcycles/scooters. Helmets are usually needed.
Experience driving motorcycles is advisable.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: St. John's downtown (Heritage Quay, Redcliffe Quay) and English Harbour/Nelson's Dockyard are walkable.
Beaches are ideal for leisurely walks.
Walking tours are available (guided historical tours, nature walks) or self-guided with offline maps.

Bicycle Rentals: No island-wide sharing programs. Some hotels or tour operators may offer rentals, especially in flatter areas like Jolly Harbour.
Safety: Dedicated cycling lanes are limited. Caution is advisable due to varying road conditions and aggressive driving. Helmets strongly recommended.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking alone in dimly lit St. John's side streets at night. Avoid cycling on unlit, remote roads at night or busy main roads with no sidewalks.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Side

Drive on the left side of the road.

Mandatory Seatbelts

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.

Parking

Generally ample parking at hotels, attractions, and beaches. Limited street parking in St. John's.

Public Transport Hubs & Options

Antigua's main public transport hubs are in St. John's. Buses are an informal but economical way to get around.

St. John's West Bus Station

Provides connections to western and southern parts of the island.
Destinations include Jolly Harbour, Old Road, English Harbour, and Nelson's Dockyard.
Look for buses operating on fixed routes, departing when full.
Fares are low, paid directly to the driver.

St. John's East Bus Station

Offers connections to eastern and northern parts of the island.
Destinations include Parham, Willikies, Long Bay, and Airport Road (not directly to the terminal).
Buses generally operate from early morning until early evening.
Public buses are not recommended for late-night travel.

Safety & Efficiency on Buses

Asking Locals

Do not hesitate to ask locals or shopkeepers for directions to the nearest bus stop or which bus to take.

Local knowledge is .

Bus Stops

Some stops are marked; otherwise, wave down a bus on its route. Always confirm your destination with the driver.

Wave clearly.

Travel Safety

Public buses are very safe for daytime travel, mainly used by locals. Not recommended for late-night travel due to infrequent service and less lighting.

Daytime travel recommended.

Walking & Cycling Details

Pedestrian Experience

St. John's downtown and English Harbour are pedestrian-friendly.
Sidewalks can be uneven or absent in some areas.
Beaches are excellent for leisurely strolls.

Cycling Landscape

Dedicated cycling lanes are limited. Cyclists share the road with vehicles.
Caution is advisable due to varying road conditions and aggressive driving.
Cycling is best during daylight hours and away from main arterial roads. Helmets are strongly recommended.

Pedestrian & Cyclist No-Go Zones

St. John's at Night: Some areas, specifically less-trafficked side streets, may not be safe for walking alone after dark.
Remote Roads: Avoid cycling on unlit, remote roads at night.
Busy Main Roads: Walking or cycling on main roads with heavy traffic and no sidewalks can be hazardous.
Always prioritize your safety, especially when sharing roads.

Be mindful of uneven terrain, especially outside main tourist areas.
Local drivers may not expect pedestrians or cyclists on all roads.
Use reflective gear if walking or cycling near dusk or dawn.
Carry a fully charged phone for any unexpected situations.

Airport & Cruise Port Accessibility

Various transportation options are available directly from Antigua's arrival points.

V.C. Bird International Airport ANU

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Fares are fixed and posted.
Car rental agencies have desks at the airport. You will need a local driving permit.
Many resorts offer pre-arranged airport transfers. Inquire when booking.
No direct public bus service from the terminal; involves a walk to the main road. Not recommended with luggage.

St. John's Cruise Port

Taxis are abundant directly at Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay, serving cruise passengers.
The port disembarks directly into shopping areas, making it easy to access taxis and tours.
Public buses are a short walk away from the port area for budget-friendly transport.
For ferry travel, the terminal is centrally located, close to land transport options.

Taxi Availability

Taxis are readily found at tourist spots and major hotels throughout the day.

Rental Car Freedom

A rental car offers the most independence for exploring the island's many beaches and attractions.

Public Bus Economy

For budget travel and local immersion, public minivans cover major routes during daylight hours.

Best Ways to Explore

Flexibility & Independence

Drive to secluded beaches, historic sites, and local villages.
Be mindful of varying road conditions and driving on the left side of the road.

Budget & Local Experience

Public minivans offer a very economical way to travel between towns and some tourist areas.
This option provides a more authentic local experience.
Be prepared for flexible schedules and waiting times.

Final Transport Advice

For shorter distances or after dark, taxis are the most reliable option. Always confirm the fare before starting your trip.

Getting Around Antigua