Antigua With Kids

Antigua is an island paradise perfect for families looking to unwind in a serene, safe setting. With 365 beaches to explore, Antigua is a dream destination for families seeking a relaxed Caribbean getaway with a touch of luxury.

Antigua is often a top choice for honeymooners drawn to its wide selection of adults-only, romance-focused all-inclusives. But families will find several standout resorts here. In fact, Antigua is one of the few islands other than Jamaica that focuses on all-inclusive resorts – but unlike Jamaica, the resorts here tend to be boutique with a small footprint, offering the ease of all-inclusive with a bit more local charm.

Beyond the beach and resort, Antigua stands out for its rich history and naval heritage. The island is home to the historic Nelson’s Dockyard, a beautifully restored 18th-century British naval base, where families can wander through old forts, explore maritime artifacts, and soak in scenic views of the harbor.

Its safe, welcoming vibe and peaceful beaches make Antigua an ideal destination for parents traveling with babies, toddlers, and even grandparents.

Mango Tree Memory

I took a solo trip to Antigua with my almost-two-year-old son, and we stayed at 3 hotels in 5 days — not the speed I would suggest for your trip! What I remember most was the kind staff at each hotel that made my life easier and his trip a delight – from a top luxury resort to a tiny boutique in town. On the last day, despite being tired, we decided to explore one more beach at sunrise, which was totally worth getting out of bed for, a reminder to make that extra effort. 

 

– Lee, Founder of Mango Tree Travel 

Best For:

  • Families with babies, toddlers looking for calm beaches and all-inclusive options
  • Multigenerational trips with grandparents who want a comfortable refined hotel 
  • Travelers who want a relaxed, beach-focused vacation without megahotels
  • Boat lovers and history buffs, with attractions like Nelson’s Dockyard

Not For:

  • Those seeking a fast-paced island with nightlife or large waterparks
  • Travelers expecting big, all-inclusive resorts with multiple pools, waterslides, etc. 

Key Facts For

Your Antigua Family Vacation

Known For

Antigua’s stunning beaches, countless coves, and historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard. It’s a sailing haven and home to one of the Caribbean’s most iconic annual sailing weeks.

Language

English is the primary language, making it an easy destination for families to navigate and communicate.

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency, though U.S. dollars are accepted widely in tourist areas.

Size and Vibes

Antigua spans roughly 108 square miles and has a laid-back, peaceful vibe, with scenic marinas, historical landmarks, and quiet beaches perfect for family relaxation.

Getting Around

Antigua’s roads are generally well-maintained, and so a car rental is straightforward and offers flexibility. It may be tempting not to rent a car when staying at an all-inclusive resort, but Antigua is worth exploring. With all the coves and inlets, just about everything in Antigua is 30-45 minutes from each other, making day trips easy and accessible.

Where to Stay

Family-friendly beachfront resorts are abundant all over the island, but stay in the south if you’re a history buff and want to experience the walkable area of Nelson’s Dockyard. There are several top luxury resorts in Antigua totally worth the splurge, but we also have a few favorites for more budget conscious travelers too.  

When To Go

Peak Season: December to April; sunny days and cooler nights make this the perfect time for a beach getaway.

Shoulder Season: May to August; enjoy warm weather and fewer crowds, though occasional rain showers are expected.

No Go: September to November; this is hurricane season, so travel might be more challenging during these months.

How To Go

Direct flights to Antigua (ANU) are available from several major cities, making it a convenient family getaway without lengthy travel times.

Why choose Antigua for your family?

Antigua offers a peaceful Caribbean retreat with a family-friendly vibe and boutique all-inclusives that make relaxation easy for parents and kids alike. Plus, you get:

  • 365 beaches to explore, from calm coves to lively bays
  • A safe, laid-back atmosphere perfect for families with young kids
  • Historical spots like Nelson’s Dockyard for easy family outings
  • Boutique all-inclusives with intimate, kid-friendly touches
  • Quick flights from major East Coast cities, making it an accessible getaway
Experience Antigua ...

The Mango Tree Way

You could spend dozens of hours researching your trip. Or you could have a family travel expert curate your personalized itinerary. What’s stopping you?

Snag our FREE Caribbean Guide

Explore the islands with kids — and confidence! Our ultimate guide to the Caribbean for families offers specific destination and hotel recommendations for every age, from newborn to teen and everything in between.
Caribbean Island Guide For Families

Where to stay

Best Family Hotels in Antigua

Overview of Curtain Bluff

Curtain Bluff

St. Mary’s,
Antigua and Barbuda
View of Admiral's Inn and Gunpowder Suites

Admiral’s Inn and Gunpowder Suites

English Harbour,
Antigua and Barbuda

Where to play

Best Activities for Families in Antigua

Must See
Shirley's Heights in Antigua
Sunday BBQ at Shirley Heights
Take in Antigua's iconic view to the tune of steel drums every Sunday from 4pm-10pm. The local BBQ is not to be missed.
Around Town
Cooking class in Antigua
Take a Cooking Class at Nicole's Table
If your kids like to cook, don't miss this top Antigua experience with a local chef where you can learn to master the jerk flavors of the islands.
Around Town
Island Tour in Antigua
Scenic Full Day Island Tour
Antigua's best sights range from natural beauties like Devil's Bridge to the history of Nelson's Dockyard. Because the island is quite a small, you can get great vibe in one day tour.
Get Outside
Ziplining in Antigua
Rainforest Zipline
Kids as young as 4 can enjoy sailing through the Antigua rainforest on this zipline tour.

*Please note that some of the suggested actives are affiliate links. We only recommend activities that we know and trust.

What to bring

Favorite Travel Products for Antigua

Travel Gear
ALOHA Collection Tote Bag - Packable Splash-Proof Beach Bag with Zipper Top. Washable Tote Bag for Pool, Beach & Travel
Aloha Collection Beach Bag
This is our go-to beach bag for island getaways: It comes in multiple cool patterns, is water resistant, folds down into a suitcase, and can fit tons of travel toys and snacks.
For Kids
Greatever Dry Snorkel Set,Panoramic Wide View,Anti-Fog Scuba Diving Mask,Professional Snorkeling Gear for Kids
Snorkel Set
If you want to get your kids comfortable snorkeling, getting them their own gear will get them excited, involved, and give them a practice in the pool.
For Kids
Antigua and Barbuda ABC Coloring Book for Toddlers & Kids - Alphabet Coloring book for Toddlers and Kids about Antigua and Barbuda - Cute Animals
Antigua Coloring Book
Get your kids excited on the plane with an Antigua themed coloring book -- we always encourage the whole family to learn about the island before arriving for the best experience.
Travel Gear
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick Sunscreen | Broad Spectrum Sunblock with Vitamin E | Wet or Dry Skin Application | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free)| Travel Friendly 0.53 oz
Clear Sunscreen Face Stick
We've tried a lot of face sunscreens, and these clear sunscreen sticks are really the best no-tears solution. Goes on wet or dry, and reef safe too!
For Mom
One Piece Bathing Suit For Mom
Change of Scenery Swimsuit
There’s a new gem in the market for mom swimsuits! Change of Scenery, an accessible but luxurious resort wear and swimwear line, designed by Jamie Banks, working mom of three, will make you feel fantastic on your next beach trip.
For Babies
Dad wearing Integra Solar Baby Carrier
Integra Solar Baby Carrier
Our founder spent hundreds of hours researching the best lightweight, waterproof baby carrier with sun protection for her Caribbean travels, and this is the winner. Beach naps baby.

* Please note that some of these product links are affiliate links, but we only recommend products we would use on our own travels.

Dive deeper

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Rave Reviews

Hi Lee! I’ve been meaning to touch base w/ you since we got back. We had such an amazing trip! Thank you so much for all your help with the planning for Antigua. We were thrilled with Blue Waters. . . I wanted you to know now how much we enjoyed everything and can’t wait to do another trip like this!
5/5

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