Antigua, Caribbean

One of the original Sportif windsurf holiday destinations, this Caribbean island has a rich colonial history, over 350 beaches and a lively atmosphere to make for a wonderful Caribbean holiday. This 14 by 11 mile island has a beach for every day of the year and its low humidity make it comfortable whenever you go. Windsurfing is based now around Jabberwock Bay with choice a of cabana, lodge or hotel accommodation. There are few windsurfers, so if you like it quite, the mobile centre will see to all your needs, with guided surfaris available, ideally suited to those wishing to explore the amazing beaches.
 

Sailing Spot and Conditions
The windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions in Antigua are a mix of mainly flat water and some bump and jump from the off shore chop. Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, the North East trades produce steady winds from November with the best sailing conditions from December through to July. The best sailing area is Jabberwock Bay, a beautiful National Park on the North coast. Here, the consistent side / onshore winds makes Antigua an extremely safe environment for windsurfers and kiters.  Other locations include Dutchmans Bay and Dickinson Bay where the Halcyon Cove Hotel has a small windsurfing centre close by with shallow water and no shore break. The wind is offshore here so not so suitable in stronger wind conditions. However as a beach holiday to try windsurfing where a full range of equipment is not so important, this would be a suitable location.
 

Culture and Activities
Antigua's history is that of an important British colonial trading centre in the eighteenth century with over 150 sugar plantations. In 1784, Nelson supervised the building of the historic Nelson’s Dockyard which still exists today along with yachts, bars, shops and museum. Much of Antigua’s character can be found in St. Johns, the capital on the west coast. St. John's is a lively hub for shopping, dining and sites such as the Cathedral and museum. On Friday and Saturday mornings, be sure to visit the vibrant farmers market on the southern edge of the city with a great choice of crafts and colorful tropical fruits. An absolute must on a Sunday is Shirley Heights for the steel bands and reggae music and barbeque. The view from the Heights is breathtaking, looking far out over English Harbour and beyond. There are many other local events, festivals and carnivals with colourful costumes, parades and partying until the early hours. Other activities include snorkeling, diving, boat trips and visits to nearby islands, Barbuda, Mortserrat and Bird Island.