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Great Bird Island: A Pristine Caribbean Sanctuary

Discover Great Bird Island: A Caribbean paradise for birdwatchers, snorkelers, and nature lovers seeking pristine beaches and rare wildlife encounters.

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Great Bird Island, a 20-acre islet off Antigua's northeast coast, is a nature lover's paradise. Named for its abundant birdlife, it offers pristine beaches, clear waters for snorkeling, and the chance to see the rare Antiguan racer snake.

A brief summary to Great Bird Island

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Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the tranquility of the island before the tour boats arrive.
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life around the island.
  • Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are no facilities or eateries on the island.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, as they can be uneven and rocky.
  • Don't forget your binoculars for bird watching and spotting the Antiguan racer snake.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    Great Bird Island is only accessible by boat. Several tour operators offer excursions from various points on mainland Antigua, typically lasting around 4-5 hours. These tours usually depart from marinas in the North Sound area, such as Shell Beach Marina or Parham Marina. The boat trip to the island offers scenic views of the coastline and surrounding waters. Tour costs vary, but typically range from $100 to $200 USD per person, including lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment. Some tours also include visits to nearby mangrove creeks.

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Discover more about Great Bird Island

Great Bird Island, a tiny islet located 2.5 kilometers off the northeast coast of Antigua, is a true gem of the Caribbean. This 20-acre island, part of the North East Marine Management Area, is a protected haven renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Originally named by sailors who were amazed by the sheer number of birds inhabiting the island, Great Bird Island remains a significant bird sanctuary. It forms part of Antigua's Offshore Islands Important Bird Area, supporting populations of West Indian whistling-ducks, brown pelicans, laughing gulls, and various tern species. Birdwatchers will be in paradise with over 182 species of birds to observe. Beyond its avian residents, Great Bird Island is the only place on Earth where you can spot the Antiguan racer snake in the wild. This harmless, non-venomous snake was once on the brink of extinction but has thrived thanks to conservation efforts. The island is also home to the near-threatened lizard Pholidoscelis griswoldi and red-billed tropicbirds. The island boasts two beautiful beaches, North Beach and South Beach, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. The clear waters surrounding the island are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Hiking trails connect the beaches and offer panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Great Bird Island is accessible by boat, with several tour operators offering excursions from mainland Antigua. These tours often include snorkeling, lunch, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore hidden caves and coves, relax on secluded beaches, and immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty.

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