Easter is a special occasion in Antigua and Barbuda as the island comes together to celebrate with family and friends while making the most of the weather and atmosphere of the twin island nation. And what better time to celebrate the festivities by swapping the grey and rainy skies of England for the sun, sea and sand of Antigua.
With over 365 beaches, an incredible topography to discover and some of the most beautiful hotels and villas, Antigua is the place to be for a relaxing Easter holiday.
With this in mind, we have rounded up some of Antigua and Barbuda’s top activities packages and things to inspire a much-needed getaway to the Caribbean this April.
Easter in Antigua – ACTIVITIES
LET’S GO FLY A KITE
Kite flying is one of the preferred activities all over the Caribbean for people to take part in. Thanks to the exceptional weather that provides ideal conditions to fly kites, families are often seen along the 365 beaches of Antigua taking part in the hobby. Over the Easter weekend, the island of Antigua hosts their annual kite festival that sees the sky filled with colourful and traditional home-made kites. Celebrating their 17th year, the International Kite Festival will be held on 18th April during the peak of the windy season, at the Devil’s Bridge national park. Many local families will have created their own kites for the occasion but visitors to the island can buy them from the many shops selling these for the occasion and take part in the festivities. The young and young at heart will particularly enjoy learning about the art of flying a kite and trying their hand at the activity. It is also a wonderful sight to experience for spectators who will witness hundreds of kites take to the sky – a wonderful display of colour and grace.
Visitors can embark on an eco-adventure just off Antigua’s North Coast, in the island’s largest marine park which has several islets and the picturesque Great Bird Island. In order to reach the Bird’s Nest at the Great Bird Island, visitors can travel through the protected marine coast with its bird-covered islets and mangrove shorelines. Hikers will love the trail with its canopies, and they should be on the look-out for the endemic and harmless racer snakes located on Antigua’s Northern coast. The grand stairs, stretching across the highlands, offer special access. Snorkel around the coral reef and meet turtles, stingrays, and other ocean life, then enjoy an Antiguan BBQ lunch. With a multitude of things to do such as a scenic boat cruise, snorkelling (where all equipment is provided), island hiking and much more, Great Bird Island offers the perfect mix of relaxation and nature immersion.
Opened in 1924, Quin Farara is an Antiguan staple that has been the number one retailer for all things Rum since its opening. Guests can now visit the rum shop and take part in a short rum punch experience or delve deeper into the history of rum making on the island with an in-depth one-hour Rum master class and tasting with an expert mixologist. This class will enable visitors to learn more about the family business while also demystifying the classic old fashioned rum punch and breaking down the elements of this classic cocktail. A fun experience for cocktail enthusiasts and couples alike who will find the masterclass both informative and delicious.
Easter in Antigua – HOTELS
FOR A CULTURAL BREAK: THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR
Set on a picture-perfect bay in Antigua, this split-level resort features a hilltop building overlooking English Harbour and the picturesque waters of the Caribbean Sea. The hotel has its own white sandy beach, with a small but lovely private dock. The Inn blends the perfect balance of Colonial style building with luxurious and contemporary comfort. The Inn at English Harbour was first conceived in the 1960s by British BWIA pilot Peter Deeth who fell in love with this immaculate corner of Antigua, situated right next to the historic harbour of Nelson’s Dockyard.
INFO: From April through to August pay 5, stay for 7 in a Junior or Deluxe Junior Suite.
FOR A HISTORICAL BREAK: THE GREAT HOUSE
A cool sanctuary in the Antiguan sunshine, the recently opened Great House is set in a stunning 17th century plantation. The Great House Antigua recently opened new cottage suites which are all equipped with modern and luxurious features, in vibrant Caribbean hues topped with traditional Antiguan pyramid roofs and vaulted ceilings. All garden suites are equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, mini fridges, crisp linens, private terraces and his and her showers, the perfect location to relax after a long day enjoying the Caribbean paradise. Nestled within 26 acres of tropical gardens each cottage suite is designed with guest comfort and privacy in mind.
INFO: A 20% discount is available for all bookings made directly on the website for the month of March.
FOR A FAMILY BREAK: ST JAMES’S CLUB & VILLAS, ELITE ISLAND RESORTS
Described as one of the best resorts in Antigua, St. James’s Club Resort & Villas invites families and groups to enjoy quality time together in a fun, laid-back Caribbean setting. Lush, landscaped grounds sweep down to two beautiful white-sand beaches: Mamora Bay Beach, and Coco Beach. Families can pick from an array of outdoor-oriented activities, including tennis, water sports, and deep-sea fishing to name a few. Dine at one of the five restaurants, complete with panoramic views and menu offerings to please every palate.
