The island is also circled by well-preserved coral reefs; keen divers and snorkellers will be donning their gear the minute they hit the beach. 

Formerly part of the British Empire, Antigua and Barbuda retain some traditions and culture from this period of reign, during which Horatio Nelson took residence in the 1780s. You can visit Nelson's Dockyard in the popular English Harbour for a taste of this history thanks to restored buildings and a collection of artefacts and art. This area is also a great base for the yachting pleasures to be found on Antigua. 

Cruise ships drop by for the day in the capital of St John's, and passengers hop off to take advantage of the excellent shopping in the port city. 

There are holiday resorts scattered around the coastline of Antigua, with Mamora Bay and Dickenson Bay proving to be two of the most popular with British holidaymakers.

Half Moon Bay is one of Antigua's most talked-about beaches, and the island's reputation for natural beauty is deserved. You can get an eyeful of it by heading to the top of Mount Obama (formerly known as Boggy Peak) for some of the best 360-degree views in Antigua. The 400-metre peak was renamed in 2009 after US president Barack Obama. There are also unforgettable views to be enjoyed from Shirley Heights, a former military lookout, while Devil's Bridge is a natural rock formation on the coast that offers a unique set of holiday photographs. 

Antigua and Barbuda holidays can be reached with direct flights from the UK into VC Bird International Airport (ANU) on the larger island of Antigua. It's a short ferry ride to nearby Barbuda, which is less developed than its bigger sister and offers an even more unspoiled island holiday experience. 

On lovely Barbuda you'll discover a smaller version of Antigua, where wild deer roam and frigate birds can be spotted at the sanctuary. The resort of Coco Bay is a popular choice for those looking for their beach paradise. 

Whether you choose Antigua or Barbuda, TravelSupermarket can help you to get there. Enter your requirements into our search tool and we'll find your dream beach break.

Antigua and Barbuda enjoy one of the sunniest and driest climates in the Caribbean, with the added bonus of one of the shortest flight times from the UK. Temperatures don't vary much throughout the year, with daily averages of 30C in August and 26C in January. Trade winds also help to keep the islands pleasant at any time. June to November is hurricane season in the Caribbean, and this threat should always be considered.

Barbuda Caribana; May: Be sure to catch some of this tropical action during your holiday in Barbuda. Traditional music and dance dominate in this lively and fun-filled annual event.

Antigua Carnival; July/August: This riot of colour and pleasure takes place every summer and visitors are warmly welcomed into the fold during this month-long shindig. Expect plenty of wild parades and parties.

Antigua and Barbuda Independence Festival; November: The islands won total independence on November 1, 1981, and the event is celebrated every year with a week of parades, competitions and food fairs at various venues around the islands. 

Sporty types: Why not try one of the many watersports on offer, from jet skis and sailing boats to windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling? Plus, many hotels offer tennis courts and gyms.

Sightseeing: Nelson's Dockyard, Shirley Heights, Fort Berkley, the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda and St John's Cathedral all make for great places to visit.

Relaxing: Take a day out and enjoy Rendezvous Bay, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Get there on a rainforest walk or a 4x4 drive and find a beach where you can be on your own and undisturbed.

Nature lovers: Enjoy rainforest walks to see the local flora and fauna or visit Stingray City to swim with and feed stingrays.