Despite seeming similar at first glance and in size, Barbados and Antigua are two very different locations. They offer different experiences for different kinds of travelers. Barbados is more well-known than Antigua, but it doesn’t mean that the smaller and also underrated Antigua doesn’t have anything to offer.
Barbados is for delicious rum and unending good times. Antigua is all about the warm, welcoming, and beautiful atmosphere paired with a lively carnival celebration. It is all about choosing which one you want to experience, or rather, which one you want to dive in first.
Barbados
Barbados is known as an island country with some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Although it’s best known for its white-sand beaches, it offers a lot beyond the clear waters and soft white sand.
Barbados captivates you with its picture-perfect beaches. Unbeknown to you, it will slowly lure you further with its rum, culture, history, and attractive sceneries left and right. There is something in Barbados for every kind of individual looking to escape to tropical heaven on Earth.
Vibrance and thrill are what Barbados is all about, and anyone who wants these things will fit right into this enchanting island.
What Makes Barbados Unique?
Tropical Beaches
No one doubts the beauty that is Barbados beaches. Barbados has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Beaches in Barbados range from serene and relaxing, to exhilarating and dramatic. If there’s a specific mood you’re looking for, you will surely find it in Barbados.
It makes perfect sense that Barbados is the first thing that comes to people’s minds when they think of tropical beaches. Every single beach in Barbados offers you bright sunshine with long stretches of white sand and clear aquamarine waters. Anyone will fall in love with Barbados’ beaches.
Here are some of the best beaches in Barbados:
Bottom Bay Beach
If you’re after a stunning beach, Bottom Bay Beach should be on top of your beaches to visit in Barbados. If you’re not convinced that the view is breathtaking, just think about what you have to go through to get there. You can reach the beach by descending a set of stairs through a cut in a cliff. Once you get to the beach, you’ll be greeted by palm trees and cliffs towering over the stunning white-sand beach.
The beach is large, and not many people come by to visit it. This makes it the perfect place to go to if you want to get some peace and quiet while being surrounded by nature. If you take a walk on the cliffs of Bottom Bay Beach, you will be amazed because of the beautiful views of the coastline.
Crane Beach
Imagine a beach with towering cliffs behind it. It’s a very stunning picture to paint. However, you won’t have to imagine it in Crane Beach because that’s exactly what the beach looks like. Because of how beautiful the scenery is, it’s no wonder that it’s one of Barbados’ most popular beaches.
The beach is perfect for those who want to unwind or experience a romantic getaway. The whole atmosphere of the beach really encourages you to sit back and relax.
Accra Beach
Accra Beach is one of the most popular south coast beaches in Barbados. The draw of this beach is the mixture of calm and adventure that it presents to tourists.
Around the beach are lively areas for tourists to explore and immerse in what Barbados has to offer. However, once you go to the beach, you will be welcomed with a tranquil atmosphere.
Accra Beach is perfect for people of every age. The shallow waters make it best suited for families with kids, but it also works for more adventurous swimmers.
Silver Sands Beach
Despite what most people think of beaches, it’s not only for those looking to slow down and relax. Beaches can be a place to experience thrilling adventures. That’s exactly what Silver Sands Beach in Barbados is all about.
Silver Sands Beach always experiences steady and strong winds that make it the ideal place to go kiteboarding. It’s also a great place for surfers of all experiences because of the large waves that the beach has. Kiteboarding and surfing are just some of the many water sports you can enjoy in Silver Sands Beach.
Oldest Rum in the World
Like any other beaches, rum is the drink of choice in Barbados, but it doesn’t end there. It’s not just any other rum that Barbados boasts. Barbados has been producing world-class and high-quality rum in Mount Gay Distillery since 1703. This practically makes Barbados the place where rum originated.
A tour of Mount Gay Distillery will show you how delicious the varieties of rum are. You will also get a glimpse of Barbados’s rich culture and history.
Across the island of Barbados, you can find more than a thousand rum shops, all of which offer high-quality rum that’s bound to be your next favorite.
Rich History
A short tour around Barbados will already reveal the rich history and heritage of the place. Only by looking at the architecture of the island will you know that it has been through a lot already. Beyond the architecture, Barbados also has UNESCO World Heritage Sites that deserve a visit from tourists.
Another interesting part of Barbados’ history is its pirate history. If you dig into the Caribbean’s very real pirate history, you will learn that Barbados is home to two of the most innovative pirates in history. They are Sam Lord and Stede Bonnet.
With all the stories that surround Barbados, it’s hard not to see it as an island that’s full and interesting. Your eyes, body, and mind will all be satisfied.
Nature All Over
The aquatic life and the clear waters aren’t the only gifts of nature to Barbados. Everywhere you go in Barbados, you’ll be overwhelmed with nature’s wonders– from gardens to interesting animal species.
Barbados is never boring because of the abundant natural wonders everywhere. Your eyes will be more than satisfied to look around and discover new sights.
Here are some of the best attractions in Barbados:
Botanical Gardens
Beyond beaches and cliffs, Barbados is also home to a luxurious and stunning botanical garden. The Orchid World and Tropical Flower Garden display dozens of different orchid species. The area is a whole six-acre garden (2.4 ha) where you can take in different shapes and colors of flowers and plants.
Harrison’s Cove
Barbados is famous for Harrison’s Cove, where you will be able to travel through a cave system. This cave system stretches up to a mile. You will be able to see a waterfall, a pool, and wonderful stalagmites and stalactites. The Harrison’s Cove also boasts the Great Hall. It’s a part of the cave that soars over 50 feet high (15.2 m).
Harrison’s Cove is definitely one of the must-see attractions in Barbados. The limestone cave is breathtaking and historical.
Green Monkeys
Monkeys are a rare find in smaller Caribbean islands, but Barbados is different. Monkeys are a common sight on the island. What’s interesting about them is that they have developed different characteristics over time. So, don’t be surprised to find mischievous green monkeys on your trip to Barbados. Sometimes, they’re just loitering around in resorts and gardens.
Mongoose
These small and furry animals are a very common sight in Barbados, especially in places surrounded by greenery. Mongeese were introduced to the island to ward off rats, but it didn’t work out because rats are nocturnal and Mongoose aren’t. Because of this, some Mongeese are still present on the island. You can expect to see them in the Barbados countryside.
Antigua
Antigua is a part of the country known as Antigua and Barbuda. It’s the largest island in the country, twice as big as its twin island, Barbuda. Because it’s large, you can expect a lot from the islands. There are plenty of things to do and sights to see.
Mountains, hills, and low-lying lands are what give life to Antigua. Antigua is captivating beyond the beautiful scenery it offers. More than the beautiful sights, it’s also an excellent culinary destination. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, Antigua never fails to offer something new to you. There is a lot to explore on the island, and you’ll never run out of new experiences.
What Makes Antigua Unique?
365 Beaches
One beach for every day of the year. That’s the biggest draw of Antigua. It’s so large that it can take you a whole year to explore the breathtaking beaches that it has if you visit one per day. There really is no shortage of places to be for the beach lover or marine explorer.
Many of the beaches in Antigua are those picture-perfect beaches that you see in travel magazines. Those that take your breath away even when you haven’t seen them in person. Just imagine what it would look like once you step foot in one.
Here are the best beaches in Antigua:
Dickenson Bay
Dickenson Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Antigua. It boasts some of the best powder-white sand and aquamarine waters you’ll ever see. It’s one of Antigua’s most developed beaches, so you know that you’ll be busy in Dickenson Bay.
Since it’s popular, expect this beach to be crowded. There are many people to talk to and a lot of activities to do. If you’re into meeting new people, this is a good place to be. Don’t worry if you want to separate yourself, though, because there are still a lot of spaces to lie down and relax.
Rendezvous Bay Beach
If you’re looking for a remote beach, then the Rendezvous Bay Beach on the south side of Antigua is where you should head to. Rendezvous Bay Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Antigua. This also means you have more space to just immerse in the beautiful view before you.
Fort James Beach
Fort James Beach is the beach where you’ll see the most locals. A visit to this beach will show you locals playing volleyball or beach cricket.
This beach is part of a Caribbean cruise, so you should expect to see ships and yachts here. Despite having a long stretch of soft white sand and a historical atmosphere, there aren’t a lot of visitors to expect on this side of Antigua.
Pigeon Point Beach
Pigeon Point Beach is perfect for families and couples because of the gentle shore it showcases. Beyond the breathtaking beach, the biggest draw of Pigeon Point Beach is the UNESCO-listed site: Nelson’s Dockyard. It’s one of the oldest dockyards that is still being used up to this day.
Local Food Scene
One of the biggest draws of Antigua, and really the top thing that makes Antigua popular, is the exquisite local food scene it has. The food scene in Antigua is vibrant and special. There are a lot of native delicacies to try.
The national dish of Antigua is the Pepperpot and fungee, which is a filling combination of salted meat, spinach, pumpkin, and eggplant. Locals and tourists alike rave about these delicious food.
Of course, you can expect a lot of fresh seafood when you eat at Antigua restaurants.
Antiguans are also known to love spicy food, so you can expect a lot of spicy but delicious food in the area.
Carnival
Are you up for a Carnival celebration? Antigua has one of the most popular and lively Carnival celebrations in the Caribbean. It’s such a wonderful sight to see that many people go to Antigua just to experience the celebration.
The Carnival celebration in Antigua lasts for 10 days, and each day is packed with activities, music, costumes, and parades. There is always something for you to enjoy during the celebrations. Go to Antigua between July to early August if you want to see the entertaining parades and live music for yourself.
The Antiguan Carnival is held annually. The most important day of the celebration is the J’ouvert, where brass and steel bands perform in front of the island’s tourists and locals.
Breathtaking Views
Antigua has a lot of surreal attractions for you to see. If the beaches can keep you busy all year round, so can the different places to be! Shirley Heights, Mount Obama, St. John’s, and Devil’s Bridge are just some of the many tourist attractions in the area. They will all really make your mouth hang open with amazement.
Here is what’s so special about these places:
Shirley Heights
Shirley Heights is an Antiguan attraction that no visitor should miss. The biggest draw of this location is that the sunsets are a sight that you will never be able to get out of your mind. The views from the elevated spot are awe-inspiring.
An interesting fact about Shirley Heights is that it used to be a military lookout. Now, it’s filled with restaurants and bars that are as lively as they can get.
Mount Obama
If you want to be at the highest point of Antigua, go to Mount Obama. It had been formerly called Bogey Peak but was renamed in 2009. The renaming of the location is a way for Antigua to celebrate the success of black people.
St. John’s
St. John’s is the capital of Antigua. It’s the place where most tourists spend the most time during their vacation. If you’re one to enjoy pops of colors left and right, St. John’s will be like paradise to you.
St. John’s is a great place to know more about the history and heritage of Antigua. There are many ruins and attractions to visit, which date back to the 18th century.
Devil’s Bridge
Is it possible for a bridge to change its shape based on how the sea carved it? Hard to imagine, isn’t it? The amazing thing is that you can see something like that in real life. It’s in Antigua.
The Devil’s Bridge is a limestone bridge that’s shaped by the sea. It’s a natural arc surrounded by blowholes and geysers.
Although it’s a wonderful sight to see, it’s not advised to walk around the site. It can be slippery and dangerous to do so.
Exciting Activities
What’s an island that boasts more than 300 beaches if there’s nothing you can do in them? Antigua has many exciting activities to match the wonderful natural wonders around it.
Sailing and surfing are two of the most popular activities in Antigua. This is due to the windy climate that’s perfect for these activities.
Sailing is so popular in Antigua that there’s an Antigua Sailing Week where over 150 yachts appear in Nelson’s Dockyard. If you’re a big fan of sailing, it’s recommended that you visit during this time.
Which Is Nicer – Barbados or Antigua?
If you’re looking for the ultimate tropical getaway, Barbados and Antigua are both awesome choices. However, where Barbados is abundant in beaches and history, Antigua seems to be more abundant in these areas. Antigua is the perfect definition of a tropical vacation, but Barbados isn’t far behind.
Barbados is a bigger island and has some of the most stunning beaches in the world. If you’re looking for endless attractions paired with a tropical and relaxing vibe, Barbados is the place to be. Those who enjoy a relaxing beach trip would enjoy Barbados.
Barbados is perfect for individuals looking to explore many options and relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Antigua, on the other hand, gives tourists a lot of options. Imagine having a place to go for every day of the year. It seems that attractions in Antigua never get old. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is exquisite. A vacation to Antigua means that you have everything you’re looking for on one island.
Antigua is perfect for individuals, couples, and families that are looking to enjoy the island and gain more experiences. Antigua really is a place for everyone.
Despite Antigua seeming to offer more options, it doesn’t mean that Barbados isn’t a place worthy of a visit. The question now really is – where should you go first?
FAQ
Which Is Safer – Barbados or Antigua?
Both Barbados and Antigua have relatively low crime rates. But like any other tourist destination in the world, it’s best to take extra precautions when traveling. Antigua has reported some robberies that target tourists, so it’s always best to stay one step ahead of these possible situations.
Barbados and Antigua both do measures to ensure that tourists enjoy their time without any worry in their minds.
Which Is More Expensive – Antigua or Barbados?
Between Antigua and Barbados, Barbados has more options when it comes to your shopping. However, despite having more options, it doesn’t mean that the price is lower. Barbados is a little more expensive than Antigua, but not by a significant amount.
When it comes to going around the islands, it can be cheaper to stay in Barbados. The beaches in Barbados can be traveled with your own two feet. This is impossible in Antigua. You’ll have to take different modes of transportation to get from one place to the other.
Overall, the two islands are almost the same when it comes to how much you’ll spend. However, Barbados continues to be one of the most expensive places to visit in the Caribbean.
Does Antigua or Barbados Have the Better Beaches?
Barbados and Antigua both have breathtaking beaches that you shouldn’t miss. For both locations, you also have endless options when it comes to sceneries, atmosphere, and activities. This means it’s really hard to choose which has better beaches between the two.
If you have to choose depending on how picture-perfect the beaches are, Barbados takes the trophy. Barbados is filled with beaches that won’t seem real at first because of how perfect they look. The soft white sand and the clear waters teeming with marine life seem like a dream.
However, if you’re looking for more kinds of beaches, Antigua is the place to be. Because it has 365 beaches, you’ll never run out of the beach that’s right for the mood you’re in.
Barbados or Antigua for Honeymoon
Both are top destinations for couples to have their honeymoon because of the romantic atmosphere that they have.
Barbados has spectacular landscapes, and all-inclusive resorts left and right. The general atmosphere on the island is chill and relaxing, which gives couples a no-pressure environment that they can enjoy. The luxurious locations in Barbados are perfect for a romantic getaway for couples of every kind.
Antigua, on the other hand, is one of the most scenic destinations in the Caribbean. Couples on their honeymoon will be able to enjoy everything that Antigua has to offer. Couples looking to relax have everything they will need, the same with couples looking for more adventure.
The cherry on top is the local cuisine on the island. They say that the way to a man’s heart is through their stomachs, which means you’ll fall in love all over again in Antigua.
Barbados or Antigua in April
April is one of the best months to visit both Barbados and Antigua. Both destinations are at their peak because of the weather during this time.
Barbados in April means a dry season and less rainfall. It’s the best time to enjoy yourself under the sun, admiring the beautiful sceneries all around. You also know that your plans won’t be ruined by rain because it’s sunny all over.
April is one of, if not the best time to visit Antigua. There’s less rainfall, and the average sunshine lasts for about 8 hours a day. Your time visiting the beautiful beaches and attractions of Antigua will be warm.
Barbados or Antigua in August
In Barbados, August is already the rainy season. It may not be the best time to visit the island, but it doesn’t mean it’s not worth it during this time. You can expect some rainfall during this month, but they all quickly leave the island because of the constant tradewinds.
Antigua, on the other hand, isn’t as rainy as Barbados. However, August is an off-peak season in Antigua. This can either be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you look at it. It’s good because the prices are cheaper, but it could also mean that there’s not a lot to enjoy as there are during the peak season.
Barbados or Antigua in September
During September, Antigua and Barbados are experiencing completely different weather.
In Barbados, September is the time with the most rainfall. It’s not the ideal time to visit the island at all because many activities will not be as fun as they are when it’s sunny. However, the rainfall during September is just brief, so it’s still possible to enjoy the sunshine.
In Antigua, they experience the highest temperature in September. If you’re one who enjoys beaches during the heat, it’s the best time to visit. It never gets cold during this time. It’s also the perfect weather for both day and night swimming.
Barbados or Antigua in October
In both destinations, October is a good time to visit. It may not be peak season for both places, but in October, people who enjoy a cool breeze will enjoy Antigua and Barbados.
In Antigua, you’ll be kept cool by the winds, whether it’s day or night. Despite having cooler winds, the overall atmosphere is still warm. You’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing day swimming by the beach without feeling like you’re on ice. It doesn’t get too cold at night, but it’s cool enough to keep you comfortable.
October is one of the rainiest months in Barbados, but you still experience a lot of sunshine despite the rainfall! In the same way that Antigua is cool during this time, so is Barbados. It’s also not a peak season, so prices are cheaper.
Are Antigua and Barbados the Same?
When you look at the beaches, it seems like Barbados and Antigua are the same places. However, that’s really where their similarity ends. Antigua and Barbados offer very different experiences to tourists. The atmosphere is also different.
Barbados is known for its beaches, but the atmosphere is more relaxed. There are many activities, but not as much as Antigua offers. It’s more of a destination for people who want to be laid-back, just taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Although Antigua is equally breathtaking, there’s more thrill to be found here. It’s also known for its beaches, but the food and lively atmosphere is what really draw the people in and make them stay.
Is Barbados Bigger Than Antigua?
Barbados and Antigua are almost the same when it comes to how big they are. However, Barbados is slightly larger than Antigua. It has 60 miles (96.5 kilometers) of coastline, while Antigua has only 54 (86.9 kilometers). There’s not a big difference, but Barbados offers more land areas to explore.
