Antigua and Barbuda in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Antigua and Barbuda

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season continues with only 51mm (2.0 inches) rainfall across 10 days - rain typically comes as brief afternoon showers lasting 15-20 minutes, clearing quickly for evening activities
Ideal sailing and snorkeling conditions with trade winds at 15-20 knots providing natural cooling and calm seas on the leeward (western) coast where most beaches are located
Shoulder season pricing begins mid-month as peak winter season ends - accommodation rates drop 20-30% after Easter while weather remains excellent
Perfect temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) for outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer months - comfortable for hiking, cycling, and beach walks throughout the day

Considerations

Easter holiday period (March 29-April 1, 2025) brings peak crowds and highest prices of the year - book accommodations 8+ weeks ahead or wait until after April 7th for better availability
Trade winds can reach 25+ knots on windward (eastern) beaches making swimming choppy at Antigua and Barbuda and Long Bay - stick to western beaches like Dickenson Bay for calmer waters
Afternoon humidity peaks at 80-85% between 1-4pm making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - plan beach time for mornings (7-11am) or late afternoons (4-7pm)

Best Activities in April

Antigua Sailing and Catamaran Tours

April offers peak sailing conditions with consistent 15-20 knot trade winds and minimal rainfall. The famous Antigua Sailing Week (late April/early May) creates excellent infrastructure for day charters. Water visibility reaches 24-30m (80-100ft) for snorkeling at Cades Reef and Green Island. Morning departures (9am-3pm) avoid afternoon wind increases.

Booking Tip: Book sailing tours 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators. Full-day catamaran tours typically cost US$80-120 per person including lunch and snorkeling gear. Look for boats departing from Jolly Harbour or Antigua and Barbuda for shortest travel time to best spots.

Nelson's Dockyard Historical Walking Tours

April's moderate temperatures make this UNESCO World Heritage site ideal for 2-3 hour walking exploration. The restored Georgian naval base offers shade from historic buildings and cooling trade winds. Combine with Shirley Heights sunset viewing - the 30-minute hike up is comfortable in April's weather.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, guided tours cost US$15-25 per person. Visit mornings (8-11am) or late afternoons (3-6pm) to avoid midday heat. Purchase entrance tickets on-site, no advance booking needed except for Sunday steel band performances at Shirley Heights.

Stingray City Snorkeling Adventures

April's calm seas and excellent visibility create perfect conditions for the shallow-water stingray encounters. Water temperature averages 26°C (79°F) - warm enough without wetsuit. The protected location means weather rarely affects tours, unlike open-ocean activities.

Booking Tip: Book through certified marine tour operators 3-5 days ahead. Tours typically cost US$65-85 per adult including equipment and often combine with other snorkel sites. Morning tours (9am-1pm) offer best visibility and calmer conditions before afternoon wind pickup.

Rainforest Canopy Zipline Tours

April's lower rainfall keeps forest trails in excellent condition while maintaining lush green scenery. The Fig Tree Drive scenic route offers spectacular views without wet season accessibility issues. Treetop adventures provide natural cooling from forest shade and elevation up to 400m (1,312ft).

Booking Tip: Reserve zipline tours 5-7 days ahead as groups are limited to 8-12 people. Tours cost US$75-95 including safety equipment and transportation from major hotels. Book morning slots (8am-12pm) for cooler temperatures and better wildlife spotting opportunities.

Barbuda Day Trip Pink Sand Beach Excursions

April offers ideal conditions for the 90-minute ferry journey to Barbuda with calmer seas and minimal rainfall. The famous Antigua and Barbuda stretches 27km (17 miles) with April's moderate temperatures perfect for beach walking and bird watching at Frigate Bird Sanctuary.

Booking Tip: Book Barbuda day trips 10-14 days ahead as ferry capacity is limited and weather-dependent. Full-day tours typically cost US$180-220 including round-trip ferry, lunch, and island transportation. Bring seasickness medication as seas can still be choppy in 15-20 knot winds.

Kayak Mangrove Eco-Tours

April's stable weather and moderate rainfall create excellent conditions for exploring North Sound's mangrove channels. Bird activity peaks in April as migratory species prepare for departure. Calm morning conditions make kayaking accessible for beginners, with guided tours covering 3-5km (2-3 miles).

Booking Tip: Book eco-tours 3-5 days in advance through certified guides. Half-day kayak tours cost US$55-75 per person including equipment and refreshments. Early morning departures (7:30am) offer best wildlife viewing and coolest temperatures before humidity peaks at midday.

April Events & Festivals

Mid to Late April

Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta

Historic sailing vessels from around the Caribbean compete in this prestigious regatta featuring boats built before 1976. Spectacular viewing from Nelson's Dockyard and Falmouth Harbour with shore-side festivities including local food vendors and live music. Free spectator access to harbor areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers last 15-20 minutes and occur on 10 days, but pass quickly

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and Caribbean sun reflects intensely off white sand beaches and turquoise water

Quick-dry swimwear in multiple suits - you'll want dry options for morning snorkeling and afternoon beach time

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid synthetic fabrics which trap heat in 70% humidity conditions

Sturdy water shoes for reef walking - many beaches have coral fragments and sea urchins in shallow areas

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds can reach 25 knots making loose hats impractical

Lightweight long pants and sleeves - for evening mosquito protection and air-conditioned restaurants

Waterproof phone case - essential for snorkeling photos and protection during brief rain showers

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes emerge after afternoon rains, particularly around mangrove areas

Comfortable walking sandals - for exploring Nelson's Dockyard's cobblestone paths and beach walking

Insider Knowledge

Local 'Wadadli' beer costs half the price of imported brands at beach bars - EC$5 vs EC$10 - and pairs perfectly with April's warm weather

Book accommodations for the week after Easter (April 7-14) for 25-30% savings as peak season officially ends but weather remains ideal

Morning fish markets in Stjohns (6-8am) offer the freshest catches for beach picnics - red snapper and mahi-mahi are April specialties

Dickenson Bay's northern end has the calmest waters during trade wind periods while the southern end near restaurants can get choppy

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking eastern coast beaches for swimming - Antigua and Barbuda and Long Bay face trade winds making waters rough in April, stick to western leeward beaches

Planning outdoor activities between 1-4pm when humidity peaks at 85% - schedule beach time early morning or late afternoon instead

Not bringing cash for local vendors and beach bars - many don't accept cards and ATMs charge high fees, bring US dollars in small denominations