Dickenson Bay
#5 in Best Things To Do in Antigua
1 of 4
2 of 4Price & Hours
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scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 3.5Facilities
- 4.0Atmosphere
Located in northwest Antigua in St. John Parish, Dickenson Bay is considered the island's premier beach. That's because Dickenson offers a little something for every type of beachgoer. Do you like lying in the warm sand? Check. Have you always wanted to go on a glass-bottom boat tour? Check. Maybe you like water sports to get your heart rate pumping? Check – Dickenson has it. On some days, you'll even find a few dolphins swimming alongside you in the crystal-clear water.
Dickenson Bay is one of the more accessible Antiguan beaches (plus, it's free). The beach is only a 15-minute drive north of the cruise port and there's a nearby taxi stand if you're not staying in one of the area hotels. Plenty of umbrellas and beach chairs are available to rent, according to recent beachgoers. The beach's convenient location attracts a lot of families; trek 1 mile south to Runaway Bay if you want more peace and quiet or consider a beachside stroll. Local vendors set up kiosks for a little light souvenir shopping, and there are also a handful of moderately priced shops and eateries in the area. The tourism board offers more information on its website.
More Best Things To Do in Antigua
#1 Shirley Heights
Wear some comfortable shoes and make the hike from Galleon Beach in English Harbour to the summit of Shirley Heights. On a clear day, the panorama (located approximately 492 feet above sea level) affords views of the southern island of Guadeloupe and the active volcano Montserrat, which recent visitors called simply breathtaking.
It's a challenging hike up to the lookout and the Antiguan heat makes early morning the best time to make the trek. If you're not up for the task, you can also hop in a taxi – a recommendation from many past visitors. The popular Shirley Heights Lookout Restaurant & Bar rests at the summit. Come prepared to party on Sundays from 4 to 10 p.m., when local bands perform Caribbean music live, the barbecue is fired up and drinks are flowing. Be prepared for crowds, though. Recent travelers warned that, while worth it for the awe-inspiring sunset views, this party gets packed.
Wear some comfortable shoes and make the hike from Galleon Beach in English Harbour to the summit of Shirley Heights. On a clear day, the panorama (located approximately 492 feet above sea level) affords views of the southern island of Guadeloupe and the active volcano Montserrat, which recent visitors called simply breathtaking.
It's a challenging hike up to the lookout and the Antiguan heat makes early morning the best time to make the trek. If you're not up for the task, you can also hop in a taxi – a recommendation from many past visitors. The popular Shirley Heights Lookout Restaurant & Bar rests at the summit. Come prepared to party on Sundays from 4 to 10 p.m., when local bands perform Caribbean music live, the barbecue is fired up and drinks are flowing. Be prepared for crowds, though. Recent travelers warned that, while worth it for the awe-inspiring sunset views, this party gets packed.
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