Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Antigua, and it is protected as a National Park. A near-perfect crescent of pale, fine sand curves for almost a kilometer along the wild Atlantic east coast, backed by low scrub and framed by rocky headlands, with no large development to spoil the view.

The bay offers two beaches in one. The open, central section faces the Atlantic and catches a real swell, with surf and bodyboarding waves and a breeze that keeps it cooler than the leeward coast. The sheltered southern corner, protected by the reef and headland, stays much calmer and is the spot for safe swimming and snorkeling.

Its east-facing, Atlantic position means stronger currents in the open water and a seasonal risk of sargassum seaweed, so judge conditions and swim in the calm corner. Facilities are minimal, in keeping with its National Park status, so bring water and shade. Remote and unspoiled, Half Moon Bay rewards the longer drive to Antigua's eastern tip with raw, dramatic Caribbean beauty.

The beach is one of the furthest from V. C. Bird International Airport and the main resort areas, roughly a 45-minute drive to the southeastern tip near Long Bay, so it is best planned as a half-day trip rather than a quick stop. Parking is free in the lot, and there is no lifeguard, which makes the calm corner the only sensible place to swim when the Atlantic swell is up. Pack water, snacks, and an umbrella, since shade and services are sparse. It pairs well with the reef-protected, family-friendly Long Bay a little to the north. For its scenery alone, the sweeping crescent, the rolling surf, and the wild, empty feel, Half Moon Bay is many travelers' favorite beach on the island.