Antigua (pronounced An-tee'ga) is located in the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean. There are 365 beaches on Antigua. The great majority rest inside the calm, protected waters of the island's Caribbean side and all are open to the public. Antigua's special Caribbean charm, its enormous range of activities, and the lazy pace make this pretty island an ideal tropical destination in every respect.
With a landmass of 108 square miles, it's the largest of the Caribbean's Leeward Islands - but that's not Antigua's claim to fame. What gives this island paradise bragging rights is the 365 sugar sand beaches along its coastline. As the locals like to point out: You can stay on Antigua for a year and never have to go to the same beach twice! But the beautiful stretches of pink and white sand beaches are not all there is to love about Antigua. For centuries, English Harbour was the British Navy's Caribbean base; today, yachting enthusiasts from around the world cruise the coastline's tranquil coves and bays, creating a spirited sailing scene. If fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling or windsurfing is your passion, you'll have nearly unlimited opportunity to follow your bliss in the crystalline waters surrounding Antigua and its sister island, pristine Barbuda. And when you're up for a break from the surf and sand, lively harbor towns, a forested interior, great golf courses and rich heritage sites provide all kinds of recreational alternatives.
Beaches of Antigua
With 365 beaches to choose from on Antigua, finding a beach in not a problem. Most of the beaches are located within the calm and protected waters on the Caribbean side of the island. Antigua's beaches are open to everyone. Have fun exploring all the beautiful beaches to find your favorite one.
Antigua's top 6 things to do
- St. John's: After you visit the Catherdral of St. John the Divine, make a beeline for Heritage Quay, the best spot for duty-free deals; for handicrafts, charming shops and a lively atmosphere, head for Redcliffe Quay.
- Fig Tree Drive: Explore the botanical side of Antiqua with a ride along this lush road into the island's scenic interior. Nature-lovers will also enjoy the sights en route to Boggy Peak, the highest spot on the island.
- Betty's Hope: Drive to the east coast to see Betty's Hope, the remains of Antigua's first sugar plantation. And don't miss nearby Devil's Bridge, a natural limestone arch formed by the pounding Atlantic surf.
- English Harbour: This south coast harbor town attracts sailors from around the globe. Glimpse the past at Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a restored historic site; then relax with a cold drink in a waterfront pub.
- Half Moon Bay: This tranquil, crescent-shaped stretch of pink sand is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. If you are up for something livelier then head for beach bar lined Dickenson Bay.
Barbuda: Located just 26 miles to the north, Antigua's tranquil sister island seems a world away! Spend the day basking on beautiful beaches or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters; or make it an eco-adventure with a kayak tour of the famed Frigate Bird Sanctuary.
Getting Married in Antigua
More and more people are getting married while on vacation, and it's now easy to do in Antigua. There are three simple steps: Visit the Ministry of Justice located on lower Nevis Street in downtown St. John's with your valid passports, complete the Antigua marriage application and pay applicable fees. Registration fee of US$40 must be paid at the courthouse in the new government buildings on Queen Elizabeth Highway. The application fee for the special marriage license is US$150, and the Marriage Officer's fee is US$50. Then confirm a date and time for the ceremony with a Marriage Officer, and get married - Congratulations!!
What documents do we need?
You both will need valid passports as proof of citizenship. If either of you have been previously married, then bring along the original divorce decree or, in the case of a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificates.
For a copy of the marriage license application, please click here for the pdf form.
Are there any other legal requirements?
Both parties must be over 15, if under 18, written authorization from your parents or guardians is required. It is important that all documents presented are original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices. Ensure that all documents are in your legal name, and provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name. Your marriage must also be solemnized or celebrated in the presence of two or more witnesses, apart from the Marriage Officer. (Just ask a guest or two to do this for you).
Is the marriage ceremony legal?
Of course, it is both legal and binding. Additionally, consent must be expressed by both parties to accept each other as husband and wife.
Can I be married in a church?
Yes, but it requires the permission from the church authorities where you wish to be married. Have your pastor contact the church to establish the requirements. Some churches ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony.
Where can I get a list of churches in Antigua?
Contact the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism (below) for a list of churches on the island.
Can my hotel assist with the arrangements?
Certainly, as most hotels in Antigua and Barbuda offer wedding and honeymoon packages. Check with your travel agent or the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism for more information.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs is open Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8:00am to 3:00pm. Flights which arrive into Antigua after 3:00pm will not permit couples to get to the Ministry of Justice in time to apply for the Special Marriage License. In such cases, the couple can arrange for the marriage to take place either the next day after completing the application process, or, on any available day thereafter.
Visit www.antigua-barbuda.org/Agmarr01.htm for more information.
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