Snorkeling

Antigua is ringed by shallow fringing reef, which means good snorkeling is rarely far away and much of it is reachable straight from the beach. Warm water (around 26 to 29 degrees Celsius), generally calm leeward bays, and easy entry points make it one of the friendliest Caribbean islands to put your face in the water.

Among the best-known sites is Cades Reef, a roughly three-kilometre barrier reef off the southwest coast that is usually visited by boat and protected in part as a marine area. Closer to shore, the wreck of the Andes sits in shallow water in Deep Bay near the Five Islands peninsula, its masts almost reaching the surface, an easy and atmospheric snorkel. On the east side, the reef-sheltered lagoon off Green Island is a favourite for clear water and fish life.

Other reliable shore-snorkel spots include the rocky ends of Galley Bay and Hawksbill Beach on the west coast. Expect parrotfish, sergeant majors, blue tangs, the occasional southern stingray, and turtles grazing the sea grass.

Bring or rent a mask, snorkel and fins; many beaches and the catamaran day cruises supply gear. Always use reef-safe sunscreen and never stand on or touch coral. For deeper reefs, walls and wrecks, step up to guided scuba diving.