The Beaches of Antigua

Back in May of 1997, a friend and I spent a week on the island of Antigua with no real agenda beyond exploring the beaches. Antigua is famous for claiming 365 beaches—one for every day of the year—and while we barely scratched the surface, the variety of coastline we experienced left a lasting impression. Some beaches were wide and calm, perfect for lazy afternoons, while others had a bit more surf and energy, inviting long walks and swimming.

We kept our trip simple—no big tours or elaborate itineraries—just a couple of friends discovering coves, stretching out on white sand, and enjoying the turquoise Caribbean water. Every day felt like a different postcard, and without modern distractions like smartphones, our rhythm was slow, centered on the sun, the sea, and the occasional beachside bar.

Of course, Antigua has more than just sand and sea. At one point we ventured inland to see Nelson’s Dockyard, the historic naval base that once anchored Britain’s Caribbean fleet. The restored 18th-century buildings and stone fortifications provided a striking contrast to the relaxed beaches, reminding us of the island’s layered history. We also drove through the island’s rolling green hills, passing villages where brightly painted houses stood out against the lush backdrop.

What stood out most, though, was the friendliness of the people we met. Whether pointing us toward a quieter beach, serving fresh grilled fish, or simply sharing a smile, the Antiguans we encountered made us feel welcome. Combined with the simple joy of a week devoted to beaches, it was the kind of trip that stays with you—not for its complexity, but for its ease.

Looking back almost three decades later, that week in Antigua remains one of my purest travel memories: no rush, no obligations, just sand between my toes and the sense that life could be measured in beaches.