Antigua and Barbuda
Ringed with coral reefs, the sister islands of Antigua & Barbuda are known for their stunning white, pink and golden sand beaches (365, one for every day of the year!). With lively cultural festivals, mouthwatering local cuisine, and thrilling excursions for all ages, the beach is just the beginning. The unique allure of Antiguan and Barbudan culture has attracted many visitors to its shores over the years. Visit both islands! They offer two distinct vacation experiences – Antigua, where you can enjoy beaches, art, history and culture and be as busy as you want AND Barbuda, where you can completely relax and unplug.
For some, these trips are a chance to relax on the beach, crack open a new book and bask in the beautiful Caribbean sun. For the perfect escape in Antigua and Barbuda, rent a bike or a car and wander from beach to beach, never seeing another soul…and never having to visit the same beach twice!
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There are many activities on land and sea to keep you busy. Learn to sail! Sailing and boat racing are a large part of the Caribbean lifestyle. Swim with stingrays…go snorkelling or scuba diving and discover a world under the sea. Everything from learning to cook our national dishes, to hiking, to kitesurfing, to back-country off-roading – we have it all for you here in Antigua and Barbuda.
There are also various accommodation options from all inclusive, ultra-exclusive boutique style and AirBnb’s.
Dining
Antigua and Barbuda offers a wide choice of restaurants and bistros including authentic Antiguan and Barbudan cuisine, Italian, French and International cuisines. There is something to satisfy every palate.
No visit to Antigua is complete without enjoying music, rum punch and a barbecue each Sunday and Thursday night at Shirley Heights – all while enjoying a magnificent view of Falmouth and English Habours.
Quick Facts
Language: English
Banking & Banking Hours: Antigua and Barbuda hosts a diverse range of banks, including both local and international institutions. CIBC First Caribbean Bank is represented here as is ACB Caribbean, and Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank. ATMs are located throughout Antigua and Barbuda. Banking hours are usually weekdays, from 8:00am to 2:00pm, with longer hours on Fridays.
Currency: The currency used in Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (E.C); the US Dollar is widely accepted
Climate: Average daytime temperature is 28C in winter, Average daytime temperature 30C in summer; nighttime temperature is an average of 25C. Antigua and Barbuda enjoys soft trade winds year round.
Dress Code: The dress code in Antigua and Barbuda is generally casual and relaxed, especially in beach areas and tourist spots. Lightweight, tropical clothing is common due to the warm climate. However, modest attire is expected in towns, public buildings, and when dining out—beachwear should be reserved for the beach. In business or formal settings, smart attire is customary, with men typically wearing collared shirts and women opting for dresses or blouses with skirts or trousers. Camouflage clothing is illegal for civilians and should be avoided.
Driving: Driving is on the left hand side of the road; seatbelts are mandatory. Visitors are required to present their valid driver’s license but must also obtain a temporary license to drive in Antigua and Barbuda. Car rental agencies can provide this temporary license for visitors (cost is $20 USD) which is valid for three months.
Electricity: Mainly 110V some exceptions for 220V. Sockets are American style with 2 slots side by side for 110V and 2 slots one above the other for 220V; adaptors are not required.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4); Daylight Savings is not observed.
Activities
There is something to do for everyone. Whether you want to relax or get out and explore. We offer a wide array of outdoor adventures and activities.
Some examples are: diving, sailing, horseback riding, zip lining just to name a few.
Travel Essentials
- Flight Info
- Entry Requirements
- Long Stays
- Getting Married
- Local Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
- Voluntourism
Flight Information
A short 4.5 to 5 hour flight from Eastern Canada to Antigua; all flights are direct, non-stop from Toronto. Ask your Travel Advisor for add-on fares from other gateways in Canada.
Toronto to Antigua
Air Canada: In high season (November through April), Air Canada operates three weekly flights (every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday).
In low season (May through October), Air Canada operates one weekly flight (every Sunday).
WestJet: WestJet offers year-round flights on Sundays, and a Wednesday flight in high season. *NEW: WestJet has expanded summer flights with a Wednesday nonstop flight in July and August for 2026.
Sunwing: Sunwing offers a flight each Saturday during high season, under the WestJet banner.
For additional information on how to get to Antigua and Barbuda from other gateways, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Canadians
A valid Canadian passport, with 6 months validity beyond your return date as well as a return or onward ticket is required when entering Antigua and Barbuda. Canadians are able to stay up to a maximum of 180 days without a Visa.
A digital arrival and departure system has now been implemented. Visitors are encouraged to complete a digital form (accessed through a mobile device only) in advance of travel (72 hours prior to arrival). A QR code will be provided upon completion which can be saved via screenshot, added to an iPhone wallet, or accessed through an email confirmation. Link: ArriveAntigua
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Please remember to see the Quick Facts section above for information on languages spoken, banking information, currency, weather, driving requirements, and more.
Please see the Medical tab for information on hospitals and pharmacies. If you are a diver, information on Antigua and Barbuda’s hyperbaric chamber is included.
Here is additional information that you may require when planning a longer stay away:
Entry Requirements for Longer Stays
Canadians are able to stay up to a maximum of 180 days without a Visa. There are no additional requirements needed.
Pet Policy
Please remember to check with both your airline and your long stay residence, to ensure you are familiar with their pet policies and procedures for transportation.
An importing license is required by the Veterinary & Livestock Divison. Along with a government veterinarian issued offical health certificate, stating the animal is in good health. Must be dated within 7 day prior to arrival. Your pet must also be treated for internal/external parasites noted on the health certificate. Animals are to be inspected at the port of entry. Inform the Veterinary & Livestock Division 48 hours prior to pet arrival. Inspection fee is EC$130.00 or US$50.00.
Groceries
Major supermarkets include Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy (offering a wide range of local and imported goods), First Choice Supermarket, Cost Pro, Gourmet Basket, Island Provisions (known for bulk items, and specialty items for those interetsed in larger quantities). Local Markets such as St. John’s Public Market, Heritage Market, Colsesome Farmers Market.
Phone Plans & Internet
Main providers include Digicel, Flow and APUA inet Mobile offer prepaids SIM cards to tourists. They are not available at the airports. Around ECD$20-25 ensure phone is unlocked and supports GSM networks. Top-up vouchers avaiable at operating stores, grocery stores, gas stations and bars. SIM card registration with a valid ID (e.g., passport) is mandatory.
APUA (Antigua Public Utilities Authority) iNET provides fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband service, ideal for streaming, remote work, video conferencing, and smart home setups. Several packages are offered. Sign up requires a complete application form, valid photo ID and a utility bill from current residence.
Getting Married
Getting Married in Antigua and Barbuda is as easy as 1,2,3! There is no residency requirement. Both parties must be over 15. If under 18, then written authorization is required by a parent/guardian. All documents must be original or certified copies. Documents not in English must be translated and certified. Please see below for documents needed to obtain marriage license:
- Valid passports
- Proof of status
- Application form- filled/signed at Ministry of Legal affairs
- Unmarried: statement signed in Antigua
- Divorced: Original divorce decree with Seal of origin court or certified copy
- Widowed: Original marriage and death certificates
- Fees: Registration- $40US License :$150US Marriage officer Fee:$100US or $250US for ceremonies held outside Courthouse
Cultural/Annual Events
- Antigua Sailing Week
- Antigua’s Carnival
- Barbuda’s Caribana
- Independence Celebrations
- Antigua and Barbuda Restaurant Week
- Antigua and Barbuda Art Week
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, May 4, 2026 – Labour Day
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Monday, August 3, 2026 – Carnival Monday
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 – Carnival Tuesday
Sunday, November 1, 2026 – Independence Day (will be observed on Monday, Nov. 2)
Wednesday, December 8, 2026 – V.C. Bird Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
Both Antigua and Barbuda have designated hospitals; Antigua also has urgent care facilities. Health care services are adequate in Antigua but limited in Barbuda. Medical treatment can be expensive; insurance is recommended.
Mount St. John’s Medical Centre (Antigua)
Michael’s Mount, St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, WI
Hours: 24 hour service
Phone: +1-268-484-2700
Learn more
Woods Urgent Care
Woods Mall, Antigua and Barbuda
Phone: +1-268-562-1160
MD Urgent Care
All Saints Road, St. John’s (Antigua)
Phone: +1 268-464-3277
ER 24/7 Clinic
Factory Rd (Antigua)
Phone: +1 268-764-8990
Hanna Thomas Hospital (Barbuda)
Codrington, Barbuda
Phone: +1 268-736-5094 / +1 268-736-5096
Emergency (EMS): +1 268-736-5100
Pharmacies:
Many in and around St John’s: Woods Pharmacy; Ceco Pharmacy; St John’s Pharmacy; Dockyard Pharmacy Plus.
EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
268 Dental Antigua: PH 268-764-9501
Ghanem Dental Center: PH 268-562-5393
Dockyard Dental and Medical: PH 268-764-5000
Williams & Associates Dental Ltd.: PH 268-462-1381
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber in Antigua and Barbuda. There is however, a hyperbaric chamber located in St. Kitts at the CDA Technical Insititute, Basseterre.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from Canada.
Airport Services
VC Bird International Airport (ANU): Learn more
- Accessible parking in the short-term parking lots
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are placed throughout the terminals
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators, escalators and ramps are available
Transportation:
Barry Taxi & Tours offers private transportation for those with physical disabilities and include WC accessible vans for both airport transfers as well as sightseeing.
Email: vbarryoliver@hotmail.com
Phone: 268-724-9119
For Accessibility information at hotels located in Antigua and Barbuda please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
Sustainability
Sustainability Commitment
Beyond it’s 365 beautiful beaches, within Antigua and Barbuda lies a profound commitment to preserving the natural environment of the twin-islands. Here, sustainable tourism isn’t a trend; it’s a necessity to ensure many future generations can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the islands.
This dedication is enshrined in pioneering laws which prohibited the importation and use of single-use plastics, starting with plastic shopping bags in 2016 and later expanding to polystyrene (Styrofoam) food containers, straws, cutlery, fruit/vegetable/meat trays, and egg cartons.
The twin-island nation has also been focused on protecting the coral reefs that surround and protect its shores. A new initiative is focused on encouraging visitors to only use reef-safe sunscreen when bathing in the island’s bays.
From resorts harnessing solar power to farm-to-table dining experiences, the islands are embracing practices that protect their crystal waters, lush rainforests, and rich heritage for generations to come.
Voluntourism
This is where your journey can make a real difference, voluntourism offers a unique path to connect deeply with natural heritage in Antigua and Barbuda. Imagine spending a morning helping to monitor a sea turtle nesting site, joining a coral reef restoration project, or participating in a community beach cleanup alongside locals. These impactful experiences allow you to give back while gaining an authentic understanding of the environmental and cultural heart of Antigua and Barbuda.
For those moved by animal welfare, immerse yourself in the vital work of the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary, where visitors are able care for sheltered donkeys or visit PAAWS Antigua, to offer much-needed affection to rescue dogs and cats with leash training and social skill building. Beyond just visiting you can participate in local adoption programs or by serve as a Travel Buddy Volunteer, a rewarding initiative where visitors escort a rescued pet on your return flight to meet its new family abroad.
Whether you are rehabilitating coral or helping a local animal find a forever home, these impactful experiences ensure that your stay enriches both your life and the vibrant ecosystem of the islands.