Boasting a beach for every day of the year, incredible ecotours and a fascinating history, Antigua is the ideal destination for a tranquil family holiday. The island’s lush shores have fine white sands and calm waters ideal for young swimmers, while the charming capital St. John’s offers the chance to trace Antigua’s English roots. Discover five activities that make Antigua the perfect destination for an unforgettable Easter holiday the whole family can enjoy.
Encounter exotic wildlife
Antigua offers families the chance to get up close and personal with some of the sea’s most incredible creatures. Located north of the Willikies Village, Stingray City is made up of a sandy lagoon and nearby safari. Petting, touching, holding, and feeding stingrays are some of the most exciting things to do in Antigua with young children. The stingrays at Stingray City are gentle, playful and accustomed to human presence, and a guide will show families how to approach and befriend the creatures. There are also other tours where families can meet tortoises, iguanas, parrots and more.
Paint with the locals
At WadARTli, community Sip &Paints are curated with different themes to give art hobbyists a unique experience every time. These intimate events of only 12 people per session allow visitors to truly bond with the local community and leave with an incredible souvenir. Children can join the WadARTli programme, designed to nurture their love and ability in the arts. Children will leave knowing the value of the arts with experience and advice on how to navigate the creative industry.
Learn about Antigua’s history
Antiguans and Barbudans boast a rich, vibrant culture shaped by African heritage, British history and modern influences evident in their language, cuisine, architecture, religion, art and culture. Travellers looking to better understand this fascinating history should immerse themselves in a culture and history tour through Antigua’s beautiful and historic South Coast, which includes Nelson’s Dockyard and famous Shirley Heights. English Harbour, Antigua’s historic district, was developed as a base for the British Navy and served as it’s headquarters for years, and above the walk to restored fortress Shirley Heights boasts some of the best views in the Caribbean.
Experience an eco-tour
There’s no better way to view Antigua’s beauty than on an eco-tour. Antigua Paddles offers families a fantastic half day eco adventure. Fast motorboats take travellers to a remote lagoon where expert guides will lead them in kayaks through mangrove inlets and tiny, uninhabited islands. To experience Antigua’s rainforests, families should look no further than Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tours, where children as young as four years old can soar high above the verdant canopies. Enjoy a series of 13 zip lines, three aerial walkways, one tree house and two suspension bridges, all offering unparalleled views of the island’s flora and fauna.
Explore below the waves
For children over the age of 10, scooter snorkelling is the perfect way to explore below the waves. Also known as Power Snorkelling, each participant is equipped with an easy-to-use sea scooter. With the push of a button, adventurers can glide through warm waters and explore the ocean like never before. Turtles, rays, crabs and a wide array of colourful tropical fish await at Antigua’s Galleon beach for a truly unforgettable experience, and the package also includes high-resolution photos for guests to look fondly back on their time in Antigua.
Book it: Seven nights in Antigua from £6874 for a family of four
Seven nights in Antigua with Virgin Atlantic Holidays, including scheduled Virgin Atlantic Economy flights direct from London Heathrow to Antigua. All-inclusive accommodation at The Verandah Resort & Spa. Price is based on a family of four (two adults, two children) travelling and sharing a Hillside Garden Suite and includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. Price is based on a departure on 10th April 2023. Virgin Atlantic Holidays is a member of ABTA and is ATOL protected. To book: www.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0344 557 3859.
Prices subject to change and availability. Virgin Atlantic Holidays terms and conditions apply.
For more information on travel to Antigua and Barbuda, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
