Darkwood Beach: A Caribbean Dream
Escape to Darkwood Beach in Antigua: Pristine sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets await on this Caribbean paradise.
Darkwood Beach, on Antigua's southwest coast, is a serene escape with powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. Framed by lush hills, it offers calm seas perfect for swimming and snorkeling, plus stunning sunset views. A few beach bars provide refreshments, completing this idyllic Caribbean getaway.
A brief summary to Darkwood Beach
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Local tips
- Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money, as the food shacks have limited and pricier options.
- Stay for the sunset – it's one of the best spots on the island to watch the sun sink into the sea.
- Snorkeling gear is available for rent, but consider bringing your own for a more comfortable fit and to save on rental costs.
- Apply insect repellent, especially in the late afternoon, to avoid sandflies and mosquitoes.
- While generally safe, avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach to prevent opportunistic theft.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From St. John's West Bus Station, take the #22 bus towards Jolly Harbour. The bus passes close to Darkwood Beach. The interval is approximately 30 minutes during the day. Ask the driver to stop at Darkwood Beach. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the beach. The bus fare from St. John's to Darkwood Beach is approximately 3 XCD.
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Taxi
From the cruise terminal or anywhere in St. John's, a taxi is a convenient option. Taxis in Antigua don't have meters, but fixed rates are set by the government. A taxi from St. John's to Darkwood Beach costs around 20 USD / 54 XCD. The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
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Driving
From St. John's, take Valley Road (heading south-west). Follow the signs to Jolly Harbour. Darkwood Beach is located a few minutes south of Jolly Harbour, directly off Valley Road. There is free parking available along the foreshore, a few feet from the beach.
Discover more about Darkwood Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Darkwood Beach Bar and Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience the essence of Caribbean dining at Darkwood Beach Bar and Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and beachside charm.
Darkwood Sea views
0.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Darkwood Sea Views in St. Marys, Antigua, with stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere for a perfect getaway.
Tamarind Hills Resort and Villas
0.8 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Tamarind Hills Resort and Villas, a premier Caribbean destination for relaxation and adventure.
Conch Beach Cabins (Rumbus Beach)
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Conch Beach Cabins at Rumbus Beach, where delicious grill flavors meet stunning seaside views in Crab Hill.
Victory Villas Antigua
1.0 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Victory Villas Antigua, where comfort meets Caribbean hospitality in the heart of stunning St. Mary's.
Turners Beach
1.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Turners Beach in Antigua, where soft sands and azure waters create the perfect Caribbean escape.
Turner's Beach
1.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Turner's Beach, a stunning destination in Antigua with soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Cocobay Resort (Antigua)
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Cocobay Resort in Antigua - a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and Caribbean charm.
Sheer Rocks
1.5 km
Discover the exquisite dining experience at Sheer Rocks, where fine cuisine meets stunning Caribbean views on Ffryes Beach.
Our Lady of the Valley Anglican Church
1.6 km
Discover tranquility and architectural beauty at Our Lady of the Valley Anglican Church in Bolands, a hidden gem of spiritual heritage.
Nelson’s Rock
1.9 km
Explore Nelson's Rock, a historical landmark in Johnson's Point, Antigua, where maritime history meets breathtaking coastal views.
The Nest -Beach Bar, Antigua
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere at The Nest Beach Bar, Antigua’s top destination for grilled delights and stunning ocean views.
Big Head Lobster Seafood Restaurant And Reggae Bar
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Big Head Lobster Seafood Restaurant and Reggae Bar in Jolly Harbour, where fresh seafood meets lively reggae.
Shanaz’s curry house
2.4 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean and India at Shanaz's Curry House in Jolly Harbour—where every dish tells a story.
Sugar Ridge Resort Antigua
2.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and luxurious amenities of Sugar Ridge Resort Antigua, a premier destination for relaxation and adventure in the Caribbean.
Unmissable attractions to see
Swash Water Park
0.1 km
Antigua's only open-water park, featuring a 150-foot inflatable obstacle course on beautiful Darkwood Beach. Fun for all ages!
Crabbe Hill Beach Rentals
0.6 km
Discover tranquility at Crabbe Hill Beach Rentals, a serene escape on Antigua's stunning coastline perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.
Ffryes Bay
0.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Ffryes Bay, a hidden gem in Antigua with stunning waters and serene sands perfect for relaxation.
Ffryes Beach
1.1 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Ffryes Beach in Antigua, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters create the perfect tropical getaway.
Ffryes Beach Bar/ Dennis Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean at Ffryes Beach Bar, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in a relaxed beachside setting.
Little Ffryes Beach
1.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Little Ffryes Beach in Jolly Harbour, where crystal-clear waters meet stunning sunsets for a perfect getaway.
Coco Beach
1.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Coco Beach in Antigua, where soft sands meet turquoise waters for the ultimate Caribbean escape.
Johnson's Point Beach
1.6 km
Escape to the serene shores of Johnson's Point Beach in Antigua, where tranquility meets Caribbean beauty and historical intrigue.
Fort Johnson’s Point
1.6 km
Experience the allure of Fort Johnson's Point, a captivating fortress in Urlings, Antigua, where history and stunning coastal views meet.
Johnson's Point
1.6 km
Discover Johnson's Point: a serene Antiguan village with pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Wild Lotus Camp Valley Church Beach
1.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Wild Lotus Camp Valley Church Beach, a serene wildlife park in Jolly Harbour perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Valley Church Bay
1.7 km
Discover the beauty of Valley Church Bay, Antigua - a tropical paradise with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets.
Picards Estate
2.2 km
Explore the stunning hiking trails of Picards Estate, where nature's beauty meets adventure in a serene Caribbean setting.
Jolly Beach
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Jolly Beach in Antigua, where relaxation meets adventure amid stunning coastal views.
Jolly Harbour
2.8 km
Experience the beauty of Jolly Harbour, a captivating Caribbean destination with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless adventure.
Essential places to dine
Aunty Cavell's Restaurant
0.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Caribbean cuisine at Aunty Cavell's Restaurant in Urlings - where tradition meets flavor.
Sunset Horizon Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Experience exquisite dining with stunning sunset views at Sunset Horizon Restaurant & Bar in Old Road.
Sandra’s Island Fusion Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Sandra's Island Fusion Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of island culture and culinary tradition.
Jacqui O's Beach House
0.7 km
Jacqui O's Beach House: A taste of Caribbean paradise with stunning ocean views and delightful cuisine in Valley Church, Antigua.
OJ's Beach Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at OJ's Beach Bar and Restaurant with stunning ocean views in Crabb Hill Village.
Wild Tamarind Beach Club
0.8 km
Experience delightful Caribbean cuisine with breathtaking views at Wild Tamarind Beach Club on Ffryes Beach.
Julia's on the Beach
0.8 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Julia's on the Beach in Urlings.
Fryes Tiki Beach Bar
0.9 km
Discover tropical bliss at Fryes Tiki Beach Bar - where exquisite barbecue meets breathtaking ocean views in Antigua.
Turner's Beach Cottages
1.3 km
Discover Turner's Beach Cottages: A Culinary Oasis on Antigua's Breathtaking Coastline Offering Local Flavors and Stunning Views.
Kaikoconut - Floating Bar - Pick up
1.4 km
Experience unique dining at Kaikoconut - a floating bar in St. Mary's offering grilled delights and stunning Caribbean views.
The Fox House Bar & Restaurant
1.9 km
Discover the taste of Antigua at The Fox House Bar & Restaurant – where local flavors meet international flair.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pops N Stuffz
0.6 km
Discover the sweetest spot in St. Mary's at Pops N Stuffz, where delightful cakes and pastries await every dessert lover.
Moden's Enterprise Marketplace & Deli
1.6 km
Explore local flavors at Moden's Enterprise Marketplace & Deli, a charming grocery store in Urlings offering essentials and delightful refreshments.
Shri Sai Supermarket
2.2 km
Explore local flavors at Shri Sai Supermarket, the perfect grocery store for tourists seeking a taste of Antigua's vibrant culinary scene.
Eyesdelight
2.2 km
Discover the ultimate gaming experience at Eyesdelight in Bolands, featuring a wide range of video games, board games, and community events.
TJH Shop 26Ate
2.6 km
Explore the delightful offerings at TJH Shop 26Ate, a cozy convenience store and restaurant in Urlings, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Thesia
2.8 km
Discover the sweet taste of local culture at Thesia Bakery, where every bite is a delightful journey into the heart of baked perfection.
J&J Enterprise
2.8 km
Explore the vibrant shopping scene at J&J Enterprise in Antigua, a perfect blend of local crafts and international brands.
Vincy’s Fresh Produce
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Vincy’s Fresh Produce, your go-to gourmet grocery store for fresh, locally sourced delights.
Epicurean Fine
2.9 km
Discover the sweetness of Jolly Harbour at Epicurean Fine, a candy store filled with delightful treats and local flavors.
Sha Sade
2.9 km
Discover tranquility and rejuvenation at Sha Sade, the ultimate beauty salon in Jolly Harbour, perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and pampering.
Antigua Estates
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Antigua Estates in Jolly Harbour, where local artisans meet international brands amidst stunning island scenery.
Jolly Harbour Commercial Centre
3.0 km
Explore the lively Jolly Harbour Commercial Centre for a unique shopping and dining experience in the heart of the Caribbean.
Sandra’s Beach Shop Bar and Grill
3.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant dining at Sandra’s Beach Shop Bar and Grill, offering stunning views and delicious Caribbean cuisine.
Things Antiguan
3.0 km
Explore Things Antiguan - the ultimate gift shop on Palm Beach Drive, showcasing unique local crafts and souvenirs for every traveler.
Budget Marine
3.0 km
Discover Budget Marine in Jolly Harbour for top-quality boat accessories and expert advice to enhance your Caribbean adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Orrie's Beach Bar and Hotel
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate Caribbean retreat at Orrie's Beach Bar and Hotel, where relaxation meets vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine.
Jazzy’s Coco Bar Valley Church Beach
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Jazzy’s Coco Bar at Valley Church Beach, where Caribbean flavors meet stunning ocean views for an unforgettable experience.
Kaikoconut
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kaikoconut in Jolly Harbour, where tropical drinks and live music create unforgettable Caribbean nights.
Hidden Secrets Bar
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable offerings at Hidden Secrets Bar, a hidden gem in Antigua perfect for foodies and night owls alike.
The Boardroom - The Premium Gentleman's Club
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jolly Harbour at The Boardroom, a premier gentleman's club blending exquisite dining with electrifying entertainment.
Sizzling Spices
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Sizzling Spices, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
TIPSY TURBY SPORTS BAR
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tipsy Turby Sports Bar, where sports, drinks, and great company come together in a lively atmosphere.
T. N. A SPORTS BAR & RESTURANT
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at T. N. A Sports Bar & Restaurant in Antigua, where every meal is a celebration!
Samsara restaurant louge bar
2.4 km
Discover culinary delights and a relaxed atmosphere at Samsara Restaurant Lounge Bar in Jolly Harbour, where every meal is a memorable experience.
Arlecchino's Steak and Seafood
3.0 km
Experience the finest steaks and freshest seafood in a stunning waterfront setting at Arlecchino's Steak and Seafood in Jolly Harbour, St. Mary's.
La Cantina
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cantina in Jolly Harbour, where every dish tells a story and every sip is a celebration.
Sonice beach bar n rental
3.0 km
Discover the charm of Sonice Beach Bar & Rental in Jolly Harbour, where Caribbean flavors and stunning views await you.
