Barbuda's Open Doors: Exploring The Island's Accessibility

The Caribbean island of Barbuda is a beautiful haven with long sandy, palm-fringed, pink and white beaches, warm turquoise seas and a chilled, laid-back vibe. It is known for its untouched pink coral and white sand beaches, the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere, and its crystal-clear waters.

Barbuda was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017, which forced the evacuation of the entire island. The island is now repairing itself and is open to visitors.

Getting to Barbuda

Barbuda is located 28 miles north-east of Antigua, in the north-eastern Caribbean. It is part of a three-island state with Antigua and uninhabited Redonda. It is a low-lying coral island known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. The island is home to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere.

To get to Barbuda, you must first travel to Antigua. There are daily flights between the two islands, with options including:

• SVG Air: offers one-way and round-trip flights on light twins and business jets.
• Fly Montserrat: operates two daily flights and private charters between Antigua and Barbuda on a nine-seater aircraft.
• Caribbean Helicopters: offers a charter service for up to five passengers, either from the airport or from their heliport near the centre of St. Johns.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Antigua to Barbuda. The most popular option is the Barbuda Express, a powerful catamaran that offers same-day one-way and round-trip services. The crossing takes approximately 90 minutes. Another option is the Island Escape.

Once you arrive in Barbuda, the majority of the island's inhabitants live in the town of Codrington. Taxis and rental cars are available for getting around the island.

Barbuda's nature and wildlife

Barbudans Nature and Wildlife

Barbuda is a haven for nature lovers, boasting an array of wildlife and natural wonders. The island is known for its pristine pink sand and white sand beaches, with the stunning Princess Diana Beach and the 17-mile-long coral beach being standout features. Barbuda is also home to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere, where you can witness the majestic frigate birds displaying their bright red chests.

The island's low-lying coral landscape and untouched natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway and a connection with nature. The Atlantic side of the island offers wild beaches full of driftwood and shells, while the Caribbean Sea side delights with pink sand beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Barbuda's small population and large areas of undeveloped land make it an ideal habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. The island is home to sea turtles, land turtles, land crabs, guinea birds, donkeys, cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, and more. The bushland also provides the perfect environment for wild boar and deer, although their habitats are increasingly threatened by development.

The Barbudans have a strong connection to nature and have traditionally maintained a rural way of life, resisting unnecessary large-scale development. However, recent construction, particularly on the south coast, poses a threat to the environment and the local way of life.

For those seeking a unique nature and wildlife experience, Barbuda offers a glimpse into an untouched paradise, where humans and animals coexist in perfect harmony.

Barbuda's beaches

Barbudan Beaches

Barbuda is known for its pristine beaches, which are often described as the best part of the island. The beaches are natural, miles long, and often sprinkled with pink sand. The island has a variety of beaches that cater to different preferences, from those seeking peace and tranquility to those looking for adventure and water sports.

Pink Sand Beach

One of the most iconic beaches on the island is the Pink Sand Beach, located on the southern shore of the island, just west of the centre. The alluring pink hue of the sand is caused by shells deposited on the beach by surging waves. The turquoise waters are welcoming and the shells are easy to navigate, even with bare feet.

Princess Diana Beach

Princess Diana Beach is a secluded, crescent-shaped beach with turquoise waters and white sand, located on the southern part of the island, just north of Barbuda's southernmost tip. It is named after Princess Diana of Great Britain, who often visited this beach when it was called Access Beach. The beach offers lounge chairs and a beach shack for a relaxing day by the water.

11 Mile Beach

For those seeking solitude and tranquility, 11 Mile Beach is a long stretch of shoreline featuring sand, water, and little else. There are no restaurants, bars, or fishing shanties, allowing visitors to fully embrace the local nature. The beach is located along the western edge of the island.

Two Foot Bay

Two Foot Bay offers a relaxing stretch of beach and convenient access to several caves containing prehistoric petroglyphs and stunning viewpoints. The east-facing beach is ideal for taking in the sunrise and offers a good swimming spot. Two Foot Bay is located on the northeastern shore of Barbuda.

Low Bay

Low Bay caters to both relaxation and adventure. The soft sand is perfect for strolling or sunbathing, while the clear waters provide excellent opportunities for snorkelling and swimming. Low Bay is situated on the western coast of the island.

Lighthouse Bay

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and a mangrove lagoon, Lighthouse Bay offers the chance to explore a frigate bird habitat or enjoy the crystal-blue beach. While the resort here is closed, the beach remains a great spot for catching waves or going for a stroll. On the east side of the bay is a massive lagoon where you can spot frigatebirds. Lighthouse Bay is located on the western shore of the island.

Barbuda's accommodation

Barbudan Accommodation

Barbuda is described as a hidden gem in the Caribbean, with its idyllic turquoise waters, pink and white sandy beaches, and lush natural landscape. After being devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017, the island has been slowly rebuilding and welcoming visitors since 2019.

When it comes to accommodation, Barbuda offers a range of options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to rustic glamping experiences. Here are some of the top choices for places to stay on the island:

Hotels

• Barbuda Belle Resort: This boutique resort offers the ultimate in luxury, with eight private stilted bungalows spread along a pristine beach. The bungalows feature elegant decor, king-sized beds, and stunning views of the sea and mangroves. The resort also boasts a spa, a Clubhouse for dining, and a range of water sports equipment for guests to use.
• Barbuda Cottages: These pastel-coloured, stilted cottages are located on a white sand beach, offering calm and tranquil accommodation. Each cottage is self-contained, with a fully equipped kitchen and lounge, as well as comfortable beds with mosquito nets. Guests can enjoy meals on their private balconies while taking in the breathtaking sunsets.

Glamping

Frangipani Glamping: For those seeking a digital detox, Frangipani Glamping offers a secluded cabin experience on the east coast of the island. Run by sisters Asha and Afiya, this solar-powered cabin provides an outdoor shower, twinkling solar lights, and a private beach. Guests can also enjoy water sports activities, fishing, and cooking in the open-air kitchen or on the BBQ.

Guest Houses

• Timbuk One: Located in central Codrington, Timbuk One offers a range of accommodation options, including individual double en-suite rooms and hostel-style rooms. They also have plans to expand with shipping container conversions.
• Island Chalets: Painted in lavender, these chalets stand out in Codrington. They offer four double en-suite rooms with fans, a fully equipped kitchen, a guest lounge, and a balcony overlooking Madison Square.
• Gerald's Place: A simple accommodation option with two rooms available, each featuring a single bed, a fridge, and a sink. There is also a shared bathroom and a small balcony to enjoy the peace and quiet.

The holiday season in Barbuda runs from November to June, with most places closed during the hurricane season from July to October. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.

Barbuda's food

Yes, you can visit Barbuda now. The island is known for its stunning beaches, natural landscapes, and unique wildlife. Barbuda is a tranquil getaway, offering a connection with nature and the warm hospitality of Barbudans.

Now, let's talk about Barbudan food! The Barbudan diet is heavily influenced by the island's natural resources and cultural heritage. Here are some insights into the culinary delights you can expect when visiting Barbuda:

• Seafood: Being an island, it's no surprise that seafood features prominently in Barbudan cuisine. Lobster is a particular delicacy, with Barbuda being renowned for having some of the best lobster in the Caribbean. The island's clear waters provide an ideal habitat for lobsters, making them a fresh and tasty treat for visitors.
• Conch Curry: Conch, a type of sea snail, is commonly used in Barbudan cooking. Conch curry is a popular dish, often served with local fish and salads. It offers a unique flavour of the sea, and its white meat is known for its tenderness.
• Fish and Salads: Barbudans often pair their seafood with fresh, locally sourced salads. Green and potato salads are common side dishes, complementing the main course with a healthy and tasty option.
• Barbudan Beach Shack Dining: Barbudan dining experiences often involve beach shack restaurants. These rustic establishments offer an authentic culinary journey, where you can savour the catch of the day while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
• Frigate Bird Sanctuary: While not exactly food per se, the Frigate Bird Sanctuary is worth mentioning as it adds to the overall culinary experience. This sanctuary is home to one of the world's largest colonies of frigate birds, and the males, in particular, are known for their impressive displays of colourful chests and loud caws.
• Local Specialities: Barbudans take pride in their local specialities, such as "yabba" dumplings and "wa'omoni" cuisine. The latter term possibly refers to the island, as it is believed that the Caribs, the island's original inhabitants, called Barbuda "Wa'omoni".
• Tropical Fruits: Being a tropical island, Barbuda boasts an array of fresh fruits. From juicy pineapples to coconuts, these fruits often find their way into Barbudan desserts and drinks, adding a touch of natural sweetness to the local cuisine.

Frequently asked questions