Antigua, with its 365 beaches – a different one for every day of the year – and secluded harbors, hidden coves and secret inlets is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Each beach area is unique – Some like Dickenson Bay and Runaway Beach are busy with bars, resorts and water sports concessions, while others such as Long Bay and Carlisle Bay are quieter with only one or two hotels. The Five Islands Peninsula has four quiet beaches including a clothing optional beach. It’s sister island, Barbuda has an eight-mile stretch of pink sand at Coco Point. Offshore islands provide even more seclusion and more beaches and are accessible by day charters.

St. John’s is Antigua’s capital and economic centre. Here there are two main shopping areas, with everything from tropical fashions and t-shirts to luxury goods and duty-free items. Look for artwork, European fashions, and island-made clothing.

Antigua is a great spot for windsurfing and other water sportsi, including diving and snorkeling. Divers should not miss a trip to Barbuda, where there are more than 200 shipwrecks. As well, naturalists will want to visit Barbuda’s bird sanctuary.

In the evening you can enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant followed by local entertainment Dance to a steel band, visit a casino, or watch the sun set at one of the island’s many beaches.