Fort James
St. John’s, Antigua
For a fantastic view of the Caribbean waters, one of the best places to go on Antigua is Fort James, which sits in an ideal position overlooking St. John's Harbour. Built by the British in 1706, the fort was intended to prevent the French from invading the island. Today you can see its remains, including the cannons, gunpowder magazine, and foundation of the wall.
The basics
While the 18th-century military site carries historic interest, the highlight of a visit to Fort James is the unbeatable view of St. John's Harbour. With its bright blue waters, nestled among towering cliffs and the picturesque town of St. John's, the harbor is one of the most beautiful sights Antigua and Barbuda has to offer. You can easily navigate the grounds on a guided Segway tour, or saddle up and head to the fort on horseback. Afterward, stop at nearby Fort James Beach, a popular spot for cruise ship passengers to relax.
Things to know before you go
- The Fort James Beach area includes showers, changing facilities, and chair and umbrella rentals.
- You'll find restaurants and bars at the beach.
- Keep in mind, if you rent a car here, drive on the left (the steering wheel is on the right).
How to get there
Fort James is located on a headland on the northwestern end of Antigua, about a 20-minute drive west from the airport or a 15-minute drive from the cruise-ship dock in St. John’s. Taxis are available, but remember to confirm the price before heading off. Car rentals are also an option, but road conditions in Antigua can be poor. Segway and e-bike tours can be a fun way to go.
When to get there
Visit Fort James during sunset for fiery views of the sky. Seasonally, tourists flock to Antigua from December to April, when the island experiences less rain and humidity (though this is also when hotel rates are highest). Another popular time is during Carnival, which happens at the end of July.
Nelson's Dockyard
For those looking for more naval and military history, plus waterfront views, visit Nelson's Dockyard. Here, you’ll see colonial buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, along with warships of the British Royal Navy. Today, the site functions as a working dockyard for yachts and ships. There is also a museum on-site, as well as a hotel, gift shops, and restaurants.
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