Where is Antigua and Barbuda Located?

Where is Antigua and Barbuda located on the map? Antigua and Barbuda is an independent nation located in North America. Check out the following images to see location of Antigua and Barbuda on maps.

Antigua and Barbuda Location in World Map

Location of Antigua and Barbuda in North America

Location Information of Antigua and Barbuda

Latitude and Longitude

Antigua and Barbuda is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, situated to the east of the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands chain. The country consists of two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, as well as several smaller islands. The geographical coordinates of Antigua and Barbuda are:

• Latitude: 17.0608° N
• Longitude: 61.7964° W

These coordinates place Antigua and Barbuda in the northeastern part of the Caribbean, close to other islands such as St. Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, and Guadeloupe. The country is located approximately 1,350 kilometers (840 miles) east of the United States’ southern coastline.

Capital City and Major Cities

• Capital City: St. John’sSt. John’s, located on the island of Antigua, is the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda. It is situated on the western coast of Antigua, along the coastline that faces the Caribbean Sea. St. John’s is the economic and cultural heart of the country, serving as a hub for government, trade, and tourism. The city features colorful colonial architecture, bustling markets, and numerous historical landmarks, including the St. John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. St. John’s is also known for its busy harbor, where cruise ships dock and tourists flock to enjoy its scenic beauty, shopping, and vibrant culture.
• Major Cities:
  1. All Saints – Located on the island of Antigua, All Saints is one of the larger towns in the country. It is known for its agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of sugar cane and other crops.
  2. Liberta – Situated in the southern part of Antigua, Liberta is an important community known for its agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. The town is also close to several historical sites.
  3. English Harbour – On the southern coast of Antigua, English Harbour is an important historical and tourist site. It is home to Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a British naval base. Today, it attracts visitors for its marina, historical significance, and beautiful landscapes.
  4. Codrington – The largest settlement on the island of Barbuda, Codrington is the administrative center of Barbuda. It is a small village that serves as the main hub for the island’s residents, who rely on fishing, agriculture, and tourism for their livelihoods.

Time Zone

Antigua and Barbuda is in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) zone, which is UTC -4. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains constant throughout the year. The country’s time zone is shared by several other Caribbean islands and eastern parts of the Caribbean region, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Climate

Antigua and Barbuda have a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The islands are influenced by the trade winds, which provide a cooling effect during the hotter months. Below are the primary features of the climate:

• Dry Season: The dry season typically runs from December to May, with the least amount of rainfall and higher sunshine. This period is characterized by warm temperatures, with average daily highs ranging from 28°C (82°F) to 31°C (88°F). The dry season is a peak time for tourism, as visitors flock to the islands to enjoy the pleasant weather and pristine beaches.
• Wet Season: The wet season lasts from June to November, with the highest rainfall occurring between August and October. During this time, the islands experience occasional tropical storms or hurricanes, although Antigua and Barbuda are generally less affected by storms than some other Caribbean islands. The wet season is marked by warmer temperatures, with average highs around 31°C (88°F), but more frequent rainfall and higher humidity.
• Hurricanes: Antigua and Barbuda are located within the Atlantic hurricane zone, which means that the islands are susceptible to hurricanes, especially during the hurricane season from June to November. However, the country has relatively strong infrastructure and preparedness for hurricane-related events.

The overall climate is ideal for outdoor activities such as beachgoing, water sports, and sightseeing. The consistent warmth and gentle breezes make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tropical vacation.

Economic Status

Antigua and Barbuda has a relatively small, open economy that is heavily reliant on tourism, agriculture, and services. The country’s economic performance has grown steadily over the years, bolstered by tourism revenues and a favorable business climate. However, it faces challenges related to limited natural resources and vulnerability to external economic shocks such as natural disasters.

• Tourism: Tourism is by far the most important sector of the economy, contributing around 60% of GDP and employing a significant portion of the population. Antigua and Barbuda’s tropical beaches, clear waters, luxury resorts, and water sports have attracted tourists from around the world. The country is particularly popular among tourists from the United States, Canada, and Europe, who come to enjoy the islands’ famous beaches, resorts, and marine activities such as sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
• Agriculture: Agriculture plays a smaller role in Antigua and Barbuda’s economy but still contributes to the livelihoods of many residents. Key agricultural products include sugar cane, cotton, corn, and vegetables. The country’s fertile land supports the cultivation of crops for domestic consumption, although the islands must import many food products to meet demand. Antigua and Barbuda also relies on the livestock sector, which includes poultry and cattle farming.
• Financial Services: In recent years, Antigua and Barbuda has developed a growing financial services sector. The country is considered a financial center for offshore banking, with favorable laws that encourage foreign investment. This has attracted international businesses and financial institutions, although the country has faced scrutiny in recent years due to concerns over transparency in offshore financial activities.
• Construction and Real Estate: The construction sector has also seen growth due to the booming tourism industry and the development of luxury resorts, hotels, and villas. There is considerable foreign investment in real estate, especially in tourism and vacation properties, which has stimulated economic growth.
• Challenges: Despite the country’s growth, Antigua and Barbuda faces several challenges, including high unemployment rates, income inequality, and a reliance on foreign imports. Vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters, such as hurricanes, also presents a significant risk to the country’s economy. Additionally, there are concerns over the country’s dependence on tourism and the need to diversify the economy further.

Tourist Attractions

Antigua and Barbuda is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural history, making it a premier tourist destination in the Caribbean. Some of the top attractions include:

• Antigua’s Beaches: Antigua is famous for having 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Some of the most popular beaches include Dickenson Bay, Half Moon Bay, and Jolly Beach, all offering white sand, turquoise waters, and water sports activities like snorkeling and jet skiing.
• Nelson’s Dockyard: Located in English Harbour on Antigua, Nelson’s Dockyard is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant historical landmarks in the Caribbean. The dockyard was once a British naval base and has been preserved as a cultural and historical attraction, with museums, galleries, restaurants, and sailing events.
• Shirley Heights: A famous viewpoint overlooking English Harbour, Shirley Heights offers panoramic views of the coastline, and it is a popular spot for tourists to take in the scenery. On Sundays, visitors can enjoy a lively barbecue and live music event, which is a key attraction for locals and tourists alike.
• Antigua Rainforest: The rainforests on the island of Antigua provide a lush and verdant contrast to the beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore hiking trails, discover local flora and fauna, and take guided tours to learn about the island’s natural history. The Fig Tree Drive is a popular route that runs through the rainforest and offers spectacular views.
• Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary: Barbuda is home to the largest frigate bird sanctuary in the western hemisphere. This protected area provides a unique opportunity for birdwatching, where visitors can observe thousands of frigate birds and other species in their natural habitat.
• St. John’s: The capital city, St. John’s, offers attractions such as the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, which showcases the islands’ history and culture, and the St. John’s Cathedral, an iconic Anglican church with historical significance. The city’s markets, particularly the Heritage Quay shopping area, are also popular with tourists seeking local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Devil’s Bridge: Located on the east coast of Antigua, Devil’s Bridge is a natural limestone arch formed by the erosive forces of the ocean. The area is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography, offering dramatic views of the waves crashing against the rocks.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens planning to visit Antigua and Barbuda for tourism do not require a visa for stays of up to 180 days. The following are the requirements for U.S. citizens:

• Passport: A valid U.S. passport is required, with at least six months of validity beyond the intended departure date.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: U.S. visitors may need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Antigua and Barbuda, particularly when arriving at the port of entry.
• Return Ticket: U.S. travelers may be asked to show proof of a return or onward travel ticket upon entry.
• Purpose of Visit: The visa exemption applies to tourism, business, and family visits. For longer stays, or if traveling for purposes such as work, study, or residence, a visa must be obtained through the Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda.

Distance to Major U.S. Cities

The approximate air distances from Antigua and Barbuda’s capital, St. John’s, to major U.S. cities are as follows:

• Distance to New York City: The distance from St. John’s to New York City is approximately 1,600 miles (2,575 kilometers). The flight time is typically around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the route and layovers.
• Distance to Los Angeles: The distance from St. John’s to Los Angeles is approximately 3,500 miles (5,633 kilometers). Flights usually take 7 to 8 hours, with one or more layovers depending on the flight route.

Antigua and Barbuda Facts

Size	442 km²
Residents	96,300
Language	English
Capital	Saint John’s
Longest river	–
Highest mountain	Mount Obama (402 m)
Currency	East Caribbean dollar