Where to Stay in Saint John’s
Antigua and Barbuda
|Pop. 52K
|4 neighborhoods covered
Saint John’s at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Saint John’s
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Rent a car for at least a few days to explore the island's more secluded beaches and interior, as public transport is limited and taxis can be expensive for extensive travel.
Getting Around
Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey, especially for longer distances, and have small USD bills or Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$) for bus fares.
Watch Out For
Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare beforehand.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe during the day in tourist areas and resorts. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in unlit or deserted areas, and be firm in declining unwanted attention.
Hidden Gems in Saint John’s
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Shirley Heights Lookout
While popular for sunset on Sundays, visiting on a weekday offers stunning panoramic views of English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour without the crowds. It's a fantastic spot to appreciate the island's natural beauty and historical naval significance.
Devil's Bridge National Park
Witness the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean as waves crash against this unique natural limestone arch. It's a dramatic and less-visited spot on the island's wild eastern coast, perfect for dramatic photos and appreciating nature's artistry.
Bert's Bar
Located at the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, this casual bar is a favorite among sailors and locals. Enjoy a cold beer or rum punch with delicious pub fare while soaking in the vibrant marina atmosphere.
Betty's Hope Plantation
FREEExplore the ruins of Antigua's first sugar plantation and learn about the island's colonial past. The site offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of sugar production and the lives of those who worked there.
Fig Tree Drive
FREEThis scenic drive winds through the lush rainforest in the interior of the island, dotted with fig trees and offering opportunities to spot local wildlife. Stop at roadside stalls for fresh tropical fruit and a taste of local life.
Local Market (St. John's)
FREEExperience the authentic buzz of local life at the public market in St. John's. Browse vibrant displays of fresh produce, spices, local crafts, and perhaps grab a delicious local snack from a vendor.
What It Costs in Saint John’s
Daily budget per person in USD
💡50% cheaper than New York
USD 100/day
USD 250/day
USD 600/day
Where to Stay in Saint John’s
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Dickenson Bay Beach5 min
- Runaway Bay Beach15 min
Pros
- +Beautiful beaches
- +Wide range of amenities
- +Good for water sports
Cons
- -Can feel very touristy
- -Limited local flavor
Top stays in Dickenson Bay
Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa
$$$An all-inclusive, adults-only luxury resort with multiple pools and dining options.
Galley Bay Resort & Spa
$$$An adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront resort offering tranquility and gourmet dining.
St. James's Club & Villas
$$$A family-friendly resort with a variety of accommodation types and activities on a private peninsula.
Best for
Walk to
- Jolly Harbour Marina5 min
- Jolly Beach10 min
- Commercial Centre5 min
Pros
- +Convenient amenities
- +Good value for money
- +Lively atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be noisy
- -Less scenic than some other areas
Top stays in Jolly Harbour
Jolly Harbour Antigua
$$Offers self-catering apartments and villas with access to the marina and beach.
Harbour View Antigua
$$A small, charming boutique property with views of the marina.
Alport House
$Affordable and friendly boutique guesthouse located within Jolly Harbour.
Best for
Walk to
- St. John's Cathedral10 min
- Public Market15 min
- Museum of Antigua and Barbuda15 min
Pros
- +Authentic local experience
- +Abundant local food options
- +Historical attractions
Cons
- -Can be crowded and chaotic
- -Limited tourist infrastructure outside main attractions
Top stays in Saint John's City Center
Admiral's Inn
$$Historic boutique hotel located in the Nelson's Dockyard area (a short drive from St. John's center but often associated with it).
King's Court
$A small, centrally located guesthouse offering simple and affordable accommodation.
Palm's Hotel
$A no-frills, budget-friendly hotel popular with locals and budget travelers.
Best for
Walk to
- Nelson's Dockyard5 min
- Shirley Heights30 min
- Pigeon Point Beach20 min
Pros
- +Stunning historical site
- +Beautiful scenery
- +Excellent dining options
Cons
- -Can be expensive
- -Less accessible without a car
Top stays in English Harbour
The Inn at English Harbour
$$$Elegant beachfront hotel set in a beautiful bay, offering refined service and dining.
Copper and Lumber Store Hotel
$$Restored historic building within Nelson's Dockyard offering unique, colonial-style rooms.
Admiral's Quarters
$$Apartment-style accommodation offering more space and kitchen facilities within the dockyard.
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding the main bus terminal in St. John's, especially after dark.: Can be prone to petty crime and is not well-lit or maintained for tourist comfort.
- Isolated beaches or poorly lit streets away from tourist centers.: Increased risk of opportunistic crime and lack of immediate assistance.
Insider tip: Rent a car for at least a few days to explore the island's more secluded beaches and interior, as public transport is limited and taxis can be expensive for extensive travel.
Safety in Saint John’s
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Generally safe during the day in tourist areas and resorts. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in unlit or deserted areas, and be firm in declining unwanted attention.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially in St. John's. Resort areas are generally safer but still require awareness. Avoid walking on beaches or quiet streets after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare beforehand.
- 2Distraction theft: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in markets or crowded places.
- 3Beach vendors: Be polite but firm if you are not interested in purchasing goods or services.
Getting Around Saint John’s
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxis are readily available, approximately USD 30-40 for a 30-45 minute ride to St. John's or Dickenson Bay. Pre-booked shuttles can be slightly cheaper.
🎫
Day Pass
Not available for public buses; pay per ride.
Single: USD 1-2 (EC$2.50-5.00) on public buses.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Lyft
📶
WiFi
Good20-50 Mbps (in cafes/hotels)
Public Transport
Public buses are the primary local transport, running frequently between major towns and popular beaches during daylight hours. The main hub is in St. John's. Taxis are plentiful but pricier.
Ride-share
Uber and Lyft are not available. Local taxi apps are emerging but less reliable than hailing a taxi directly. Typical taxi cost for short trips within St. John's: USD 10-20.
Transport Tip
Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey, especially for longer distances, and have small USD bills or Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$) for bus fares.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Most hotels, resorts, and many restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi for patrons.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces. Some cafes in St. John's and Jolly Harbour can accommodate remote work for short periods. No standard daily cost, but expect to purchase food/drinks.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Mar, Dec
Hotels & Accommodation in Saint John’s
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Who Is Saint John’s Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Beach Lovers
Offers direct access to beautiful, well-maintained beaches with ample amenities and water sports.
Culture Seekers
Provides an authentic urban experience with historical sites, local markets, and a glimpse into daily Antiguan life.
Families
Features self-catering options, a calm beach, and a convenient complex with shops and restaurants.
Luxury Couples
Combines historical charm with upscale dining and beautiful, serene surroundings, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Budget Backpackers
Offers the most affordable accommodation and food options, with easy access to local transport.
About Saint John’s
Saint John’s is a popular travel destination. Explore accommodation options on the interactive map below to find the perfect place to stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Saint John’s
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Saint John’s Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel