Summer has officially started and what better way to enjoy the sunset after a long day than with drinks in hand. This list has been curated with spots located in Antigua for residents and visitors to experience. These spots include restaurants located on a beach or areas you can bring your own drinks and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
1/ Sheer Rocks
You’ve probably seen this spot all over social media, it’s popular among tourists and locals alike. Sheer Rocks is located on the property of Cocobay Hotel and is a part of the Rocks Group chain of establishments. It has the perfect vantage point of capturing the sunset, given its a clear day. The restaurant offers lunch and a selection of tapas which can be enjoyed by dining in the restaurant or at one of their plunge pools. You’re encouraged to make a booking to secure your spot.
2/ Hawksbill Beach
If you’re looking to catch a sunset, head to the west coast! One of the beaches located at this point is Hawksbill Beach which offers varying sunset views. You can opt for a view from the top by pulling off on the hillside, which also gives you a view of Galley Bay. There’s also a lots of space on the beach where you can set up a picnic and enjoy the sounds of the waves as the sun sets in the distance. Perfect opportunity for a date night and there are businesses available which offer picnic setup and decor. P.S the featured photo was taken from Hawksbill Hill
3/ Starfish Beach Bar
A new addition on the Dickenson Bay stretch is Starfish Beach Bar, an accompaniment to Salt Plage restaurant. They’re open from daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with cocktail specials between 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. perfect for a sundowner. They also serve bar bites to keep you satisfied while you take in the views. Click here for the menu. Starfish is a nice casual spot right on the beach so feel free to also pack your swimsuit or visit for an afterwork drink. FYI Salt Plage has a monthly sunset party on the beach, don’t forget to wear white!
4/ Deep Bay or Fort Barrington
Another beach located on the western end of the island is Deep Bay. It’s a bit of a drive to get to but the experience is well worth it. The beach is wide enough to accommodate guests from Royalton resort on one end and beachgoers on the other. Deep Bay is a great spot for weekend picnics whereby you can stay until sunset and capture amazing views. If you’re up for the challenge you can also take a short hike up to Fort Barrington for a different view.
5/ Julia’s on the Beach
One of the newest beach bars on island located on Valley Road just after OJ’s Beach Bar and Restaurant. A spacious beachfront with a variety of lounge options available, Julia’s on the Beach also sports a signature boat lounge pool. Sunset tapas and bites are available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
6/ Casa Roots by the Sea
One of my fave restaurants for dining, however as the name suggests, they are located by the sea which also makes it a great sundowner spot. It gives a more intimate and luxurious vibe so ensure to make a reservation if you’d like to visit. I definitely like their aesthetic when it comes to their beach props and mini bar on the shore.
7/ Kon Tiki Bar & Grill
For something a little different check out Antigua’s one and only floating bar located in the Dickenson Bay area. Catch a boat over from the beachfront closest to Buccaneer Beach Club by waving a flag and spend your afternoon at sea with good cocktails and fun times.
8/ Treehouse Beach Club
This is another one of the newer spots on island located on Fort James beach. Treehouse Beach Club is an “experiential beach day” whereby there’s something for everyone; remote workers, kids, adults, families etc. Their aim is to be fun, wholesome and sustainable. Check out their website here. They are open daily from 10:30 a.m. until sunset.
9/ Pop Up Beach Bar
Located in Jolly Harbour, right on the beachfront before Jolly Harbour villas is Pop Up Beach Bar with an open and inviting atmosphere. It may be one of the best places to soak up the sun and indulge in a refreshing cocktail. Check out the menu here.
10/ Shirley Heights Lookout
Last, but by no means least, is one of Antigua’s top spots on island, Shirley Heights Lookout. Known worldwide for its Sunday BBQ, be sure to visit this historical landmark for their famous rum punch, sweet sounds of steel pan and live entertainment while catching the sunset. FYI they also have the same BBQ every Thursday from 4:30 p.m. “Come for the view, stay for the party.” Check out their website here.
I’ll definitely be checking some of these out and sharing them with you over on my social media channels. Hope you enjoyed this list and found an activity to add to your summer bucket list!
Until next time,
As Told by Ali 
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