Summer is no longer the low season in Antigua and Barbuda as the twin-island nation anticipates arrivals will continue to rise with the temperature. Following a record-breaking summer in 2021 which saw visitor levels surpass pre-Covid levels, many of the islands’ favourite hotels are extending their opening season to encompass the summer months while a range of unique tour operators have announced a variety of special offers to encourage travellers to stay for longer.
With over 365 beaches, beautiful landscapes, and stunning accommodation options, Antigua and Barbuda are the ultimate island escapes for a summer in paradise. We have rounded up the islands’ best deals and packages available from June to August across top hotels and tour providers for visitors to explore the best of Antigua and Barbuda this summer.
Hotels
For a cultural escape: The Inn at English Harbour
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the picture-perfect bay and historic English Harbour, The Inn at English Harbour perfectly blends post-colonial design with luxurious, contemporary comforts. Its pristine beachfront location is punctuated by its proximity to the historic Nelson’s Dockyard. To meet the demand from eager visitors, The Inn is extending its open season by two months beyond its usual 30th June closing date, to 31st August 2022.
For a wellness escape: Carlisle Bay
Set in the southwest of Antigua on a picturesque horseshoe bay, Carlisle Bay combines the best of Caribbean conviviality with modern amenities and views of tranquil turquoise waters. The resort is a haven of seclusion and relaxation surrounded by beaches and lush rainforests, complemented by the serenity of Cara Organic Beauty Spa as well as superb facilities including tennis courts and yoga pavilion. Guests will be able to relax and refresh all summer long as Carlisle Bay will remain open through to 1st September 2022. The resort will reopen for their winter season from 1st October.
For a family friendly escape: Blue Waters
Set amongst freshwater pools, secluded beach coves and seventeen acres of tropical gardens, Blue Waters is the perfect location to enjoy their effortless style of laidback luxury. The family-run resort will remain open throughout the summer, closing for just three weeks from 7th to 27th September. Whether guests are looking to recharge with a soothing massage at The Spa at Blue Waters, indulge a sense of adventure with a range of water sports, or make new friends at the Kids Club, there is something for all ages.
For an active escape: Curtain Bluff
Curtain Bluff offers a variety of activities ranging from daily yoga with Curtain Bluff’s in-house expert trainer to private tennis lessons with two resident professionals. Following promising demand for stays past 31st May and to celebrate its 60th-anniversary season, Curtain Bluff will remain open from 1st June to 31st July, just over two months longer than its usual 1st June closing date.
For a break with everything at your fingertips: Elite Island Resorts
From the luxurious Hammock Cove to the family friendly The Verandah Resort, Elite Island Resorts provides a range of high-end, all-inclusive resorts across the island of Antigua. With a variety of accommodation options, every visitor will find a resort to suit them perfectly.
Activities
Lagoon Adventure with South Coast Horizon
During this four-hour tour with South Coast Horizon, adventurous hearts will kayak through a mangrove lagoon to a secluded beach – spotting the local wildlife including tropical fish, crabs, jellyfish, sea birds along the way. Following the kayak tour, hike to Goat Head Hill for panoramic views of neighbouring islands and the southside of Antigua before a delicious Caribbean lunch. This summer, South Coast Horizon is offering a Summer Special rate of £23 per person (drinks included). southcoasthorizons.com/tours-list/.
Eat ‘n Lime Food Tours
Get an authentic taste of Antigua and Barbuda with Eat ‘n Lime Food Tours, tasting beloved local dishes on a food focused exploration with an expert guide. Tours booked for dates between 1st July and 31st August are eligible for 10% off with summer promotion code, SUMMERLIME. www.eatnlimefoodtours.com/
Fat Tire Electric Bike Tours
Fat Tire Electric Bike Tours offer a fun, informative and adventurous way to learn about Antigua and Barbuda. Guests can choose from the Historic City Tour – diving into the island nation’s history and culture – or the Forts, Harbours and Beach Tour which covers the south-eastern end of Antigua. Specialised, custom tours are also available for a uniquely bespoke experience. All tours booked between 1st July and 31st August will be eligible for £15 off and Fat Tire Electric Bike Tours will also be running a Carnival buy one tour, get one free special on all tours from 27th July to 2nd August 2022. www.fattireelectricbiketours.com
Wallings Nature Reserve
In the south-west of Antigua, Wallings Nature Reserve is renowned for its picturesque views and its vast variety of flora and fauna. Visitors to Antigua and Barbuda can get back to nature with their guided tours throughout the summer. Tickets for the Reforestation Guided Tours starts from £48, while Signal Hill, Rendezvous and Rendezvous to Claremont Guided Tours are 5% off during the summer months. www.wallingsnaturereserve.org
