Dickenson Bay Travel & Vacation Guide

Dickenson Bay is Antigua's classic north-shore stretch — a long, calm curve of soft white sand just minutes from St. John's, sheltered enough for easy swimming and beginner watersports alike. It's lined with beach bars and casual seafood spots where you can order a fresh grilled catch or a rum punch with your feet still in the sand, and the turquoise water stays shallow and clear well out from shore, making it a favorite for families and paddleboarders. Come late afternoon, it's also one of the better spots on the island to watch the sunset over Guiana Island in the distance.

Current Weather

85.35 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 81.7 °F / 85.35 °FFeels: 95.16 °F Humidity: 74%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

St John's is the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda. It is a port city located on the island of Antigua, and it's home to a third of the country's population as well as the seat of government. The islands were first colonized by Britain in 1632 and St John's still retains its look from more than three centuries of British rule. Nevertheless, tradition, climate and available materials in the area make the city's architecture unique. Some of the best things about St John's include beaches with crystal-blue waters, lush vegetation, as well as the island's history and culture. The destination is popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts for its variety of activities such as snorkelling, diving, fishing and hiking. The city also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the summer carnival, food and wine festivals, and the Antigua Sailing Week.

Useful information

Population:

25,035 (2022)

Currency:

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) 1 Estern Caribbean Dollar = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

911 or 999

Opening Hours:

Regular shopping hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Many stores still close at noon on Thursdays.

Do & See

268 Buggies

268 Buggies provide a thrilling opportunity to explore Antigua's untravelled regions, including dormant farmlands, hills and swamplands. Their tours end at secluded and untouched beaches where you can... Read More

5am Hike Club

The 5am Hike Club is an experience designed for early birds who want to get some outdoor physical activity at the crack of dawn, in the friendly company of other nature lovers. The hike is free, but d... Read More

Adventure Antigua Tours

Adventure Antigua offer unique snorkelling and sightseeing tours which stand out from others on the island. The trips are designed to provide an educational and authentic experience on the water. The ... Read More

Betty’s Hope

Established in 1650, Betty's Hope was the first sugar plantations on the island of Antigua. It is one of the most significant places to visit and to learn about the history of slavery in Antigua. Duri... Read More

Fort James

Fort James is a 17th-century fort at the entrance to the harbour of St John's. Walk around the site and see the old cannons, and even stand on the gun-points to either enjoy the breathtaking views or ... Read More

Heritage Quay

Heritage Quay is a shopping village located by the waterfront. It offers a variety of places to buy souvenirs, perfumes, watches, cigars, designer labels, china, art, as well as food and clothing. Mos... Read More

Museum of Antigua & Barbuda

The Antigua Museum is the best way to get to know more about the history of the island. Not only can you enjoy the exhibits on Antigua’s historical and archaeological sites, but also also get a sense ... Read More

Pig’s Paradise

Pig's Paradise gives you the opportunity to enjoy the beach in an unusual way — with friendly piglets on a secluded beach! Visitors can pet, feed and cuddle the pigs under supervision of a team of exp... Read More

Dining

Alligators Bar & Restaurant

Located near the Heritage Quay complex, Alligators Bar & Restaurant is a cosy venue with great food, drinks and service in a peaceful setting. They specialise in seafood and Caribbean cuisine with a v... Read More

Ana's on the Beach

Whether you choose to visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Ana’s on the Beach offers a wide variety of local and international dishes cooked with fresh ingredients in a stylish atmosphere. Enjoy loca... Read More

Cloggy’s

Cloggy's is a well-known establishment in Antigua, located in Falmouth Harbour. Their menu offers Caribbean, Contemporary, Central Asian and European cuisines with options for vegetarian, vegan and gl... Read More

Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe

Hemingway's is housed in a historic wooden West Indian-style building from the 1800s. The restaurant has a terrace where you can sip a nice cocktail or have a meal with a view of the bustling centre o... Read More

Le Bistro Restaurant

There's always a gentle breeze passing through Le Bristo's beautifully decorated dining room. It offers a romantic experience with a seamless dinner and personalized service. Choose from an array all ... Read More

Nomad Restaurant

With over two decades of experience, Nomad's innovative recipes are considered one of the best on the island. Their vast menu offers anything from pasta and burgers to seafood and vegetarian fare. Mak... Read More

Bars & Nightlife

King's Casino

There are only two options when it comes to casinos in St John's, and King's casino is one of them. It is a small venue where you will feel right at home to either take part in their karaoke nights, t... Read More

The Lime Lounge

The Lime Lounge is a lively club situated in the renowned English Harbor. It's popular for its live music performed by both local and visiting bands. The venue plays a diverse range of music styles: f... Read More

Shopping

Jolly Harbour

Jolly Harbour is a resort village on the west coast of Antigua, near St John's. It has a marina with a diverse range of shops. You can find art galleries and unique souvenir stores, as well as boutiqu... Read More

Redcliffe Quay

Redcliffe Quay is a shopping village where Antiguans run their shops and sell local souvenirs at affordable prices. Long ago, the village used to be the main trading place for slaves, rum, sugar and c... Read More

Vendor's Mall

Vendor's Mall is located near other shopping areas like Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay in St John’s. However, unlike its more upscale neighbours, this mall is home to local vendors selling crafts, a... Read More

Woods Mall

Woods Mall is an air-conditioned, modern shopping complex northwest of St John's with a large number of shops, a supermarket and a pharmacy. Woods Mall is the mall of choice for most locals for both g... Read More

Tourist Information

V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU)

V. C. Bird International Airport is a former US military base located 8 km northeast of St John's. There are a few companies that offer airport transfers, but you can always take a taxi or rent a car ... Read More

Public Transport

St John's has a transport system of privately owned buses that run from 5:30 am to 6 pm daily. All buses start from either the East Bus Station, near the Antigua Recreation Grounds or the West Bus Sta... Read More

Taxi

Finding taxis in Antigua could not be any easier. They run 24/7 throughout the island and can be easily stopped in the street. They are also easy to find outside the biggest hotels in Antigua as well ... Read More

Antigua Cruise Port

The cruise port of St John's is right in the middle of the city. Cruise ships usually dock in St John’s harbour, specifically in Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay. The port has currently 3 piers. Expec... Read More

Electricity

The standard voltage in Antigua and Barbuda is 230 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. You can use your electric appliances if the voltage in your country is 220-240 V as is in the UK, Europe and Australia.... Read More

Internet

You'll be able to find decent connection speeds in Antigua and Barbuda. Most cafes and restaurants offer WiFi connection.

Pharmacy

One of the most well known pharmacies in St John's is Medicare.

Telephone

Country code: +1-256

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