A Spontaneous Day in Antigua

A Serendipitous Day in Antigua with Disney Cruise Lines

On a recent Disney Cruise, we disembarked in Antigua with no solid plan in place—and that turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. The moment we stepped off the ship, we were greeted by the bustling port, filled with options for day trips to stunning beaches and other island adventures. With so many opportunities available, not having an itinerary was actually perfect.

After chatting with a friendly couple we met on board, we decided to share a taxi to Valley Church Beach, one of the many beach destinations within easy reach from the port. From the moment we arrived, I knew we had made the right choice. The beach’s coarse, bright sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters made it an unforgettable experience. In fact, I now consider it the best beach I’ve ever visited. At one point, I dropped my sunglasses into the water. In most places, they’d be lost for good, but here the water was so clear, I could easily spot them resting on the ocean floor and retrieve them without a problem.

But Antigua is more than just beautiful beaches. As we soaked up the sun and marveled at the stunning scenery, I couldn’t help but think about the island’s rich history. Antigua was first inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, and later became a key location in the sugar trade during the colonial era. Today, Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into that history, showcasing restored Georgian-era naval buildings.

While Valley Church Beach was the highlight of our day, Antigua has plenty more to offer. If you’re interested in adventure, a visit to Shirley Heights provides incredible panoramic views of the island, while the hike up Mount Obama (Antigua’s highest point) rewards you with a breathtaking landscape. Water lovers can also take a boat tour to Great Bird Island, where you can explore reefs, snorkel, and witness Antigua’s unique wildlife.

For anyone visiting this island, whether you arrive with a plan or not, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences waiting. We left Antigua feeling like we’d barely scratched the surface, but content in the knowledge that sometimes, the best days are the ones where you just let the island guide you. Interested in exploring the Southern Caribbean? We can help! Contact us below: