Two Visits to Antigua: Dockyards, Lookouts, and Beaches

Sailing into the cruise port at St. John’s, Antigua, immediately presents a vibrant blend of Caribbean color and colonial charm. I’ve visited twice by cruise ship, once in the spring of 2018 and again in 2024, each time uncovering more of what makes Antigua a port worth slowing down for.

Known as Wadadli by the native Arawak people, Antigua’s natural harbors and strategic location attracted the British in the 1600s. Today, that legacy remains visible in places like Nelson’s Dockyard, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the capital of St. John’s is bustling and colorful, some of the best experiences await just outside the city.

From dramatic clifftop views to quiet stretches of sand, this island has a way of inviting you to both explore and relax. Each visit added new depth to my appreciation of the island’s history and landscapes.

My first visit to Antigua included a full-day excursion that covered some of the island’s most scenic and historic locations. We started at Turner’s Beach, a quiet and calm stretch of sand with crystal clear water. From there, the drive up to Shirley Heights brought postcard-perfect views over English Harbour. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and soak it all in.

We also visited Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre, which turned out to be a highlight. Through layered exhibits and immersive dioramas, the center provides a powerful look at Antigua’s colonial timeline. It helped me better understand the significance of the ruins and historic structures across the island. The day ended at Nelson’s Dockyard, where yachts now sit where British naval ships once anchored.

When I returned in 2024, I retraced some of the same steps but took it slower. I spent more time exploring Nelson’s Dockyard, noticing details I missed the first time, stone warehouses, weathered anchors, and artisan shops nestled in historic buildings. A rainbow briefly appeared during a sun shower over the harbor, and I just stood there watching. It felt like the island’s quiet way of saying welcome back.