Cades Reef: Antigua's Underwater Paradise
Discover Antigua's underwater wonderland: Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and create lasting memories at Cades Reef.
Cades Reef, located off the coast of Antigua, is a vibrant underwater park and one of the island's premier snorkeling and diving destinations. This protected marine area boasts diverse coral formations and an abundance of marine life, offering an exciting and family-friendly experience.
A brief summary to Cades Reef
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Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (mid-December to mid-April) for the best weather and calmer sea conditions.
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best visibility.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystem.
- Bring an underwater camera to capture the stunning marine life.
- Consider joining a guided tour for expert insights and a safe snorkeling experience.
Getting There
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Boat
Most visitors access Cades Reef by boat from various points along Antigua's coast. Numerous tour operators offer snorkeling and diving excursions to the reef, departing from marinas such as Jolly Harbour and St. John's. These tours typically include snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. The cost for a Cades Reef snorkel and sail tour ranges from $100 to $150 USD per person.
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Public Transportation & Walking
If starting from Darkwood Beach, take a bus towards St. John's and ask the driver to drop you off at Urlings. The bus ride costs approximately $2-$3 USD. From Urlings, walk towards the coast (approximately 10 minutes) to reach the boat departure points for Cades Reef. Alternatively, water taxis may be available from nearby beaches or marinas. Inquire locally for water taxi services and confirm the return schedule.
Discover more about Cades Reef
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cades Bay Agricultural Station
2.4 km
Explore the lush landscapes and sustainable practices at Cades Bay Agricultural Station, Antigua’s vibrant hub for agriculture and local culture.
Nelson’s Rock
2.5 km
Explore Nelson's Rock, a historical landmark in Johnson's Point, Antigua, where maritime history meets breathtaking coastal views.
South Coast Horizons
2.7 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at South Coast Horizons, a stunning villa in Cades Bay, Antigua, offering luxurious accommodations and tailored tours.
Turner's Beach
3.1 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.
Turners Beach
3.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Turners Beach in Antigua, where soft sands and azure waters create the perfect Caribbean escape.
Curtain Bluff
3.2 km
Discover the serene luxury of Curtain Bluff, a premier resort hotel in Antigua offering stunning views, exquisite dining, and endless activities for an unforgettable getaway.
Conch Beach Cabins (Rumbus Beach)
3.6 km
Discover the charm of Conch Beach Cabins at Rumbus Beach, where delicious grill flavors meet stunning seaside views in Crab Hill.
St. Mary's Parish Church
4.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St. Mary's Parish Church, an Anglican treasure in the heart of Old Road, Antigua.
Darkwood Sea views
4.0 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.
Darkwood Beach Bar and Restaurant
4.4 km
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean at Darkwood Beach Bar and Restaurant, where exquisite dining meets stunning beach views in Antigua.
Grant's Claremont Farms
4.9 km
Experience the lush beauty and agricultural heritage of Antigua at Grant's Claremont Farms, a charming destination for all nature and food lovers.
Victory Villas Antigua
5.1 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Victory Villas Antigua, where comfort meets Caribbean hospitality in the heart of stunning St. Mary's.
Tamarind Hills Resort and Villas
5.1 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Tamarind Hills Resort and Villas, a premier Caribbean destination for relaxation and adventure.
Our Lady of the Valley Anglican Church
5.7 km
Discover tranquility and architectural beauty at Our Lady of the Valley Anglican Church in Bolands, a hidden gem of spiritual heritage.
Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour
5.7 km
Soar through Antigua's lush rainforest canopy on an unforgettable zipline adventure, experiencing the island's stunning natural beauty from above.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cades Bay
1.8 km
Discover Cades Bay, Antigua: a serene escape with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Johnson's Point
2.8 km
Discover Johnson's Point: Antigua's serene coastal village with stunning beaches, tranquil waters, and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Morris Bay
3.0 km
Discover Morris Bay: Antigua's hidden gem with calm waters, golden sands, and a tranquil escape for relaxation and snorkeling.
Fort Johnson’s Point
3.0 km
Explore Antigua's colonial past at Fort Johnson's Point: stunning views, historical ruins, and a peaceful escape await!
Johnson's Point Beach
3.0 km
Escape to Johnson's Point Beach in Antigua for serene sands, turquoise waters, and a tranquil Caribbean experience. Perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.
Cades Peak
4.1 km
Discover Antigua's natural beauty with a hike to Cades Peak, offering panoramic views and an invigorating rainforest experience.
Carlisle Bay Beach
4.2 km
Discover Antigua's tranquil Carlisle Bay Beach: Swim, snorkel, and unwind in a serene Caribbean paradise away from the crowds.
Cactus Hill
4.2 km
Hike Cactus Hill in Antigua for stunning coastal views, panoramic vistas, and a rewarding outdoor adventure near Old Road.
Winter’s Hill
4.2 km
Hike Winter's Hill near Old Road, Antigua, for panoramic views and a refreshing escape into nature's beauty. A must-do for outdoor enthusiasts!
Carlisle Bay
4.4 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Carlisle Bay, Antigua. Pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and world-class amenities await.
Mt Obama
4.4 km
Hike Antigua's highest peak, Mount Obama, for panoramic views and a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history in the heart of the Caribbean.
Swash Water Park
4.4 km
Antigua's only open-water park, featuring a 150-foot inflatable obstacle course on beautiful Darkwood Beach. Fun for all ages!
Mount Obama
4.4 km
Hike to Antigua's highest point, Mount Obama, for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's natural beauty and history.
Winter Hill Beach
4.4 km
Discover Winter Hill Beach in Antigua: a serene escape with soft sands, clear waters, and vibrant marine life for a perfect tranquil retreat.
Darkwood Beach
4.4 km
Escape to Darkwood Beach in Antigua: Pristine sands, calm turquoise waters, and breathtaking island views await. Your tranquil Caribbean getaway.
Essential places to dine
Seaview Lawn Bar And Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Seaview Lawn Bar And Restaurant with stunning ocean views and a menu full of Caribbean flavors.
Di Shack Grill & Bar
2.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at Di Shack Grill & Bar in Urlings - where every dish tells a story!
Turner's Beach Cottages
3.1 km
Discover Turner's Beach Cottages: A Culinary Oasis on Antigua's Breathtaking Coastline Offering Local Flavors and Stunning Views.
Gina's Cook Shop
3.2 km
Experience authentic Antiguan cuisine at Gina's Cook Shop in Old Road - where every dish tells a story.
Food Haven
3.2 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at Food Haven, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition in Old Road.
Karnagio Antigua
3.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Karnagio Antigua in Old Road Grace Bay – where tradition meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Julia's on the Beach
3.6 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Julia's on the Beach in Urlings.
EVERYTHING WITH FRIES BAR AND RESTURANT
3.7 km
Discover the unique flavors of Everything With Fries Bar and Restaurant in Old Road – where every dish is served with crispy fries.
OJ's Beach Bar and Restaurant
3.7 km
Discover OJ's Beach Bar and Restaurant - A Caribbean culinary gem in Urlings offering stunning ocean views and vibrant local flavors.
Jacqui O's Beach House
3.8 km
Jacqui O's Beach House: A taste of Caribbean paradise with stunning ocean views and delightful cuisine in Valley Church, Antigua.
Tramontina
4.1 km
Discover Tramontina in Antigua: A charming restaurant offering authentic local flavors and an unforgettable culinary experience amidst lush landscapes.
Sandra’s Island Fusion Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Sandra's Island Fusion Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of island culture and culinary tradition.
Aunty Cavell's Restaurant
4.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Caribbean cuisine at Aunty Cavell's Restaurant in Urlings - where tradition meets flavor.
Sunset Horizon Restaurant & Bar
4.6 km
Experience exquisite dining with stunning sunset views at Sunset Horizon Restaurant & Bar in Old Road.
Hidden Secrets Bar
5.0 km
Experience culinary delights at Hidden Secrets Bar in Antigua - where exceptional food meets vibrant island culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
J&J Enterprise
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant shopping scene at J&J Enterprise in Antigua, a perfect blend of local crafts and international brands.
TJH Shop 26Ate
2.2 km
Explore the delightful offerings at TJH Shop 26Ate, a cozy convenience store and restaurant in Urlings, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
S&B superette
2.2 km
Experience the charm of S&B Superette, a local grocery store in Old Road offering fresh produce and unique Caribbean products.
Moden's Enterprise Marketplace & Deli
2.8 km
Explore local flavors at Moden's Enterprise Marketplace & Deli, a charming grocery store in Urlings offering essentials and delightful refreshments.
Fridric Enterprise
3.0 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Fridric Enterprise, the charming grocery store in Old Road, perfect for all your culinary needs.
The House Of Fashion268
3.2 km
Explore The House of Fashion in Old Road for unique fashion accessories that celebrate local artistry and style.
Pops N Stuffz
3.8 km
Discover the sweetest spot in St. Mary's at Pops N Stuffz, where delightful cakes and pastries await every dessert lover.
Clemie's fruits and vegetables
4.2 km
Discover the freshest local produce at Clemie's Fruits and Vegetables in Old Road, offering a delightful taste of the Caribbean's agricultural richness.
Shri Sai Supermarket
5.0 km
Explore local flavors at Shri Sai Supermarket, the perfect grocery store for tourists seeking a taste of Antigua's vibrant culinary scene.
Eyesdelight
5.0 km
Discover the ultimate gaming experience at Eyesdelight in Bolands, featuring a wide range of video games, board games, and community events.
Caliente Chic's Apparels
6.5 km
Explore the vibrant world of women's fashion at Caliente Chic's Apparels in Bolands, where style meets the Caribbean spirit.
Flavoured Art
6.5 km
Experience the sweetest side of Bolands at Flavoured Art, where every dessert is a masterpiece crafted with love and local flavors.
Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy
6.5 km
Discover the finest selection of local and international foods at Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy in Jolly Harbour, Antigua.
Thesia
6.5 km
Discover the sweet taste of local culture at Thesia Bakery, where every bite is a delightful journey into the heart of baked perfection.
Vincy’s Fresh Produce
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Vincy’s Fresh Produce, your go-to gourmet grocery store for fresh, locally sourced delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Orrie's Beach Bar and Hotel
3.5 km
Discover the ultimate Caribbean retreat at Orrie's Beach Bar and Hotel, where relaxation meets vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine.
MAIN ROAD TAVERN
3.7 km
Main Road Tavern: Your gateway to an authentic Caribbean bar experience in Old Road, offering a lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks.
FLAMBOYANT TAVERN
3.8 km
Dive into the lively ambiance of Flamboyant Tavern in Old Road, where local flavors and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
Jazzy’s Coco Bar Valley Church Beach
5.8 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.
The Fox House Bar & Restaurant
5.8 km
Discover delightful dining at The Fox House Bar & Restaurant in Antigua, where local flavors meet refreshing cocktails near Valley Church Beach.
Sizzling Spices
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Sizzling Spices, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
T. N. A SPORTS BAR & RESTURANT
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at T. N. A Sports Bar & Restaurant in Antigua, where every meal is a celebration!
TIPSY TURBY SPORTS BAR
6.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tipsy Turby Sports Bar, where sports, drinks, and great company come together in a lively atmosphere.
The Boardroom - The Premium Gentleman's Club
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jolly Harbour at The Boardroom, a premier gentleman's club blending exquisite dining with electrifying entertainment.
Samsara restaurant louge bar
6.1 km
Discover culinary delights and a relaxed atmosphere at Samsara Restaurant Lounge Bar in Jolly Harbour, where every meal is a memorable experience.
Kaikoconut
6.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kaikoconut in Jolly Harbour, where tropical drinks and live music create unforgettable Caribbean nights.
Sea Dream Restaurant and Bar
6.6 km
Experience the best of Caribbean cuisine at Sea Dream Restaurant and Bar, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.
Petal's Cafe
6.6 km
Discover the culinary delights and cozy ambiance of Petal's Cafe in Jolly Harbour, where every meal is a taste of paradise amid stunning surroundings.
