On Antigua’s southeast side, Saint Paul parish offers appealing activities on and away from the area’s gorgeous beaches. Imagine yourself a resident in the 1700s as you stroll along historic harbors near the town of Falmouth.
Explore the area around Falmouth Harbour and English Harbour, where British Admiral Horatio Nelson created fortifications as protection from both hurricanes and the French navy. Admire modern yachts and old structures at the restored Nelson’s Dockyard. Learn more at the Admiral’s House Museum. Follow a nature trail to Fort Berkeley at the harbor entrance for pretty views.
Across the bay, Clarence House showcases how British officers lived during these early days. Continue uphill to Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre for pre-colonial historical info and views. These areas are part of the large Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. Head inland to Fort George on Monk’s Hill to see where wealthy residents expected to seek refuge in case of an attack from the sea.
On Freeman’s Bay at the entrance to English Harbour, the quiet Galleon Beach is great for snorkeling. You’ll likely see colorful fish, rays, sea turtles and even lobsters, along with a small shipwreck in shallow waters. Walk to the Pillars of Hercules, an intriguing natural formation of tall sandstone cliff eroded into tubular pillars. Continue to Shirley Heights with restored gun battery and lookout offering exceptional vistas as well as Sunday evening concerts.
Pigeon Point Beach, at the entrance to Falmouth Harbour, has similar calm waters and snorkeling opportunities. The beach is near Nelson’s Dockyard, within walking distance of several local restaurants and a yacht club resort. Drive east to Mamora Bay, where you’ll find quiet beaches and luxury accommodations.
Entice the kids to leave the beaches for farm experiences at Goatland, with goats, of course, plus sheep, a cow and a dog to meet. Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary, operated by the local humane society, has 150 donkeys, often including cute babies.
Drive from V.C. Bird International Airport to Saint Paul in about 30 minutes.