Falmouth, Antigua and Barbuda - Things to Do in Falmouth

Things to Do in Falmouth

Falmouth, Antigua and Barbuda - Complete Travel Guide

Falmouth, located on the southern coast of Antigua, is a charming historic harbor town that offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Caribbean colonial life. This picturesque settlement, with its Georgian-era architecture and deep natural harbor, served as an important naval base during British colonial rule and remains one of Antigua's most well-preserved historical areas. The town's narrow streets are lined with restored colonial buildings, traditional Caribbean houses with wooden shutters, and remnants of old fortifications that tell the story of its maritime heritage. Today, Falmouth attracts visitors with its peaceful atmosphere, stunning harbor views, and proximity to some of Antigua's most beautiful beaches and attractions. The town serves as a gateway to Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers excellent opportunities for sailing, snorkeling, and exploring the island's rich history. With its blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and authentic Caribbean culture, Falmouth provides a perfect base for experiencing the best of Antigua's heritage and coastal attractions.

Top Things to Do in Falmouth

Explore Nelson's Dockyard National Park

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the world's only continuously working Georgian dockyard, complete with restored naval buildings, museums, and historic fortifications. The park offers stunning harbor views, walking trails, and insights into Antigua's colonial maritime history through well-preserved 18th-century architecture.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $8 USD for adults, with guided tours available for $15-25. Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better photography light. Look for combination tickets that include nearby attractions.

Sailing and Harbor Cruises

Experience Falmouth's magnificent natural harbor aboard traditional sailing vessels or modern catamarans, with options ranging from sunset cruises to full-day sailing adventures. Many tours include stops at secluded beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and refreshments while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.

Booking Tip: Half-day sailing trips cost $60-100 per person, full-day excursions $120-180. Book sunset cruises in advance during peak season. Choose operators with good safety records and included snorkeling equipment.

Shirley Heights Lookout

Climb to this historic military lookout point for breathtaking panoramic views over English Harbour, Falmouth, and the surrounding coastline. The site features ruins of 18th-century military fortifications and hosts famous Sunday evening parties with steel drum music, barbecue, and spectacular sunset views.

Booking Tip: Free to visit during the day, Sunday party entry is $10-15 USD. Arrive early for sunset parties as it gets crowded. Bring comfortable walking shoes for the uphill climb and cash for food and drinks.

Pigeon Point Beach and Water Sports

Enjoy one of Antigua's most beautiful beaches, featuring pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and excellent facilities for swimming and water sports. The beach offers kayak rentals, paddleboarding, and easy access to coral reefs perfect for snorkeling just offshore.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but parking may cost $5. Water sports equipment rentals range from $20-40 per hour. Visit weekdays for fewer crowds, and bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

Historic Falmouth Walking Tour

Discover the town's colonial heritage through its well-preserved Georgian architecture, historic churches, and traditional Caribbean buildings. Walk along cobblestone streets, visit local craft shops, and learn about the area's role in British naval history while experiencing authentic Antiguan culture.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with maps available at visitor centers. Guided tours cost $25-40 per person and provide deeper historical context. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting and cooler temperatures for walking.

Getting There

Falmouth is located about 30 minutes drive from V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua's main airport. Most visitors arrive by rental car, taxi, or pre-arranged transfers, with taxi fares from the airport costing approximately $35-45 USD. Many hotels and resorts offer shuttle services, and tour operators frequently include transportation in their packages. The town is also accessible by local buses, though service can be infrequent. For cruise ship passengers, Falmouth is often included in shore excursions, or you can take a taxi from St. John's port for about $25-30.

Getting Around

Falmouth is best explored on foot due to its compact size and historic narrow streets. The main attractions, restaurants, and harbor area are all within easy walking distance of each other. For reaching nearby beaches and attractions like Shirley Heights, rental cars offer the most flexibility and cost around $40-60 per day. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive for multiple trips. Local buses connect Falmouth to other parts of the island but run on irregular schedules. Many visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation, especially for day trips to multiple attractions.

Where to Stay

English Harbour area
Falmouth Harbour
Pigeon Point vicinity
Nelson's Dockyard area
Shirley Heights surroundings
Cobbs Cross

Food & Dining

Falmouth offers a delightful mix of Caribbean cuisine and international flavors, with many restaurants taking advantage of the harbor setting to provide waterfront dining experiences. Local specialties include fresh seafood, conch fritters, saltfish and fungee, and tropical fruits, often accompanied by local rum punches. The area features everything from casual beachside bars serving grilled fish and local beer to upscale restaurants offering gourmet Caribbean fusion cuisine. Many establishments source ingredients locally and offer outdoor seating with harbor views. Don't miss trying the local hot sauce, fresh lobster when in season, and traditional Sunday barbecues at various venues around town.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Antigua and Barbuda

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Papa Zouk

4.5 /5
(550 reviews) 2

Le Bistro Restaurant

4.6 /5
(342 reviews) 3

Paparazzi Pizzeria & Bar

4.5 /5
(295 reviews) 2

Casa Roots - Beach - Food & Drinks

4.7 /5
(260 reviews)

South Point | Antigua

4.5 /5
(264 reviews)
bar lodging night_club

The Fox House Bar & Restaurant

4.5 /5
(231 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Falmouth is during the dry season from December to April, when temperatures are comfortable (75-85°F), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. This period coincides with peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The shoulder seasons of May-June and November offer good weather with fewer tourists and better rates. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in August and September, though Antigua is located in the southern Caribbean where storms are less frequent. Trade winds provide natural cooling year-round, making the climate generally pleasant even during warmer months.

Insider Tips

Visit Nelson's Dockyard early in the morning before cruise ship crowds arrive for a more peaceful experience and better photos
Sunday evening at Shirley Heights is a must-do cultural experience, but arrive by 4 PM to secure a good viewing spot for sunset
Rent a car for maximum flexibility to explore hidden beaches and local restaurants that aren't accessible by tour buses

Explore Activities in Falmouth