Long Bay beach
Long Bay Beach is an idyllic destination for a family holiday, especially with children. Encircled by protective reefs, the beach is a haven from strong waves, ensuring a safe swimming experience. Nestled on the east coast of Antigua Island, within the resort that shares its name, Long Bay is a secluded gem. It's important to note that there is no public transport available to this tranquil spot; visitors can only reach it from the airport by taxi or by renting a car. Aficionados of serene getaways often remark on the pristine quality of the sand here, which boasts a subtle pink hue. This unique sand creates a striking contrast with the stretch of turquoise and crystal-clear waters that beckon you to dive in and embrace the tranquility of Long Bay Beach.
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Beach description
Yachtsmen particularly adore Long Bay for its ability to offer a secluded spot where one can revel in the picturesque surroundings and explore the vibrant underwater world. Long Bay's beaches are renowned for their unique flora and fauna, including majestic turtles, soaring frigatebirds, and a diverse array of marine life such as wrasses, barracudas, dolphins, and parrotfish, as well as the docile sharks affectionately known as "babysitters." All essential facilities, including restaurants and other amenities, are conveniently located in the heart of the celebrated resort.
A plethora of activities awaits families, ensuring that no one will be left wanting:
- Diving;
- Water ski rental;
- Romantic strolls at sunset;
- Fishing;
- Tours on boats with see-through bottoms;
- Bicycle mini-tours;
- Sightseeing in the town.
Should you decide to bring children to the Long Bay resort, a visit to the local zoo or Devil's Bridge is a must. The latter is a favored spot for families to enjoy picnics and kite-flying. A host of attractions and activities are available for both children and adults near the shore, including cricket, zipline adventures, trampolines, ball pits, entertainers, and tours to local eco-farms. Such a variety ensures that a vacation at Long Bay is not only delightful but also educational for children.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda for a beach vacation is largely dependent on the traveler's preferences for weather, events, and crowd levels. However, there are certain periods that are generally considered ideal:
- Peak Season (December to April): This is the most popular time to visit, thanks to the dry and sunny weather. The temperatures are comfortable, making it perfect for beach activities. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive period.
- Shoulder Season (May and June): The shoulder season offers a great balance with fewer crowds and lower prices. The weather remains pleasant, although there is a slight increase in rainfall as the months progress.
- Off-Peak Season (July to November): This is the hurricane season, and while the risk of storms is present, it's also the time when you can find the best deals. The islands host several exciting events during this period, such as the Antigua Carnival in late July to early August.
Ultimately, the best time for a beach vacation in Antigua and Barbuda is during the peak and shoulder seasons when the weather is most conducive to outdoor beach activities.