Things To Do In Saint John’s, Antigua, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites

March 30, 2024

Saint John’s, Antigua: 5-Day Itinerary, History, Weather & Activities

Saint John’s, the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, is a beautiful island destination in the Caribbean Sea. Here’s a brief guide to get you started planning your trip:

Brief History

Saint John’s was founded in 1632 by British colonists. The city was named after Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Antigua. Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from Britain in 1981. Saint John’s is a major cruise ship destination and a popular tourist destination for its beaches, history, and nightlife.

Weather in Saint John’s

Saint John’s has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average high temperature in the winter (December to February) is 28°C (82°F), and the average low temperature is 23°C (73°F). The average high temperature in the summer (June to August) is 31°C (88°F), and the average low temperature is 25°C (77°F).

Here’s a quick guide on what to expect weather-wise throughout the year:

Winter (December to February): Pleasant temperatures, occasional showers.
Spring (March to May): Warm weather, less rain than winter.
Summer (June to August): Hottest weather, possible afternoon thunderstorms.
Fall (September to November): Warm weather, hurricane season (although most storms typically bypass Antigua).

5-Day Itinerary in Saint John’s

Here’s a possible itinerary for a 5-day trip to Saint John’s, Antigua:

Day 1:

Arrive in Saint John’s and check into your hotel.
Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s historic sites, such as Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and St. John’s Cathedral.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of Saint John’s many restaurants.

Day 2:

Take a day trip to one of Antigua’s many beaches, such as Half Moon Bay Beach or Dickenson Bay Beach. Relax on the sand, go for a swim, or try some water sports.
In the evening, head to Shirley Heights for stunning sunset views and lively nightlife.

Day 3:

Rent a car and explore the island’s interior. Visit Devil’s Bridge, a natural rock formation, or hike to the top of Shirley Heights for panoramic views.
In the afternoon, go snorkeling or diving at one of Antigua’s many coral reefs.

Day 4:

Take a boat trip to Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island. Visit Barbuda’s Long Beach, one of the longest pink-sand beaches in the world.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Antiguan barbecue.

Day 5:

Do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Heritage Quay before departing Saint John’s.

Outdoor Activities in Saint John’s

Bike Paths:
- There aren’t many designated bike paths within Saint John’s city itself. However, you can cycle on the main roads with caution, or explore Antigua’s coastline with beautiful ocean views.
Campsites:
- Camping isn’t as common in Antigua as staying at hotels or resorts. However, there are a few options available around the island, including:
  - Long Bay Campground on Long Island (not to be confused with Long Beach on Barbuda)
  - Jolly Beach Camping near Jolly Harbour.
  - Valley Road Camping near Valley Church Beach.

Tips:

The best time to visit Saint John’s is during the dry season, from December to May.
Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and swimsuit.
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted.
Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated.
Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace.
Be sure to bargain when shopping at local markets.