Overview Of Antigua
Antigua is a beautiful Caribbean island that is an amazing kitesurfing destination! It is geographically small in size (11 by 14 miles), which makes it very accessible and with so many beautiful beaches, you are truly spoilt for choice. For this reasons it is advisable to hire a car, which Planet Kitesurf can organise, to make the most of the small distances between the different kitesurfing spots.
The Wind In Antigua
From November all the way through until July, Antigua is blessed with steady and reliable north-east trade winds. The wind blows side onshore, making Antigua a safe place for kiters and windsurfers of all levels and abilities.
From November until March the wind blows north-easterly from America, averaging approximately 12 - 18 knots everyday. The month of June offers the best wind conditions of the year as the warm easterly wind blows strongly.
Antiguas Kite Beach
Jabberwock Bay - This bay is the most well-known area in Antigua for kiters. It is situated within a beautiful National Park on the northern coast. of the island. The conditions are suitable for both beginners and advanced kitesurfers. The bay is beautifully sandy with shallow areas that drop off steeply into deeper waters, especially after storms, or with very strong winds. Bump 'n' jump conditions are also common with strong winds. Overall the wind generally blows between 12 to 20 knots in Jabberwock Bay, making it perfect conditions for all levels. Our partner kitesurf school who operate from this kitesurf beach will do pick ups from near by hotels for lessons (our top hotel is Bleu Waters Antigua)
Green Island and Nonsuch Bay - This kite spot is a beautiful area to kitesurf, but it only accessible by boat, making it very limited to access (and a bit expensive). The kitesurfing area of two square miles is on the windward side of Antigua, behind a barrier reef and with a launching point from a sandy beach at the mouth of the bay. We can provide lessons here with instructors providing constant support and guidance from inflatable boats.
Activities In Antigua
St John's is the capital city of Antigua which has many museums, a cathedral and duty-free shopping. Nelson's Dockyard will fascinate everyone, as will the natural landmark, Devils Bridge located on the east coast. Barbuda, Antiguas' small sister island, is home to Coco Bay, one of the finest beaches on the planet.
Other excellent activities, apart from windsurfing and kitesurfing, include helicopter tours, snorkelling cruises, 4x4 island tours, sightseeing and deep sea fishing.
With the island being so small, it is really easy to visit the different towns and cities, however, a temporary driving license for Antigua is required. These licenses are easily obtained from all police stations or from the airport.
The Nightlife In Antigua
There are plenty of diverse restaurants on the island, offering everything from fine French cuisine, Mexican, pizzerias to local cuisine. Eating out on the island can be very reasonably priced, especially when eating in a local restaurant.
There are a few nightclubs and lively bars on the island. 'Rabbit Night Club' is located on the southern coast, which is known for being a busy place in the evenings. 'Abracadabra' is a bar/nightclub that serves food during the day with live music, then transforms into a nightclub in the evenings. It is located in English Harbour, a 20 minute drive from the capital St John. 'Last Lemming' is just a few minutes walk from 'Abracadabra', and is situated at the Antigua Yacht Club, making it a favourite for sailors and travellers.