🐾 Traveling to Antigua And Barbuda with Pets
Pet-Friendly Antigua And Barbuda
Antigua And Barbuda offers a tropical paradise for pet owners, with beautiful beaches and relaxed island vibes. Many resorts, beaches, and outdoor areas welcome well-behaved pets, making it a great Caribbean destination for traveling with animals.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Barbuda Affairs, obtained at least 7 days before arrival.
Submit application with health certificate and vaccination records via email or in person.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered between 30 days and 1 year before entry.
Vaccination certificate must be endorsed by a government veterinarian from the country of origin.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Include microchip number on all documentation; scanners are available at entry points.
Health Certificate
Veterinary health certificate issued within 7-10 days of travel, confirming pet is free of infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on treatments for external parasites and internal deworming.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may be restricted; check with authorities for specific list.
Muzzles and leashes required for larger dogs in public areas; no federal breed bans but local rules apply.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require additional CITES permits and quarantine upon arrival.
Small mammals like rabbits need similar health docs; contact Veterinary Services for specifics.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Antigua And Barbuda on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (St. John's & Dickenson Bay): Beachfront resorts like Jolly Beach Resort welcome pets for EC$50-100/night, with beach access and pet amenities. Many all-inclusive options available.
- Villa Rentals (English Harbour Area): Private villas often allow pets at no extra charge, offering space for play and proximity to sailing spots. Ideal for longer stays.
- Pet-Friendly Hotels & Guesthouses: Boutique hotels in St. John's accept small pets for EC$27-54/night fee, with nearby parks and walking areas.
- Beach Cottages (Long Bay & Barbuda): Seaside cottages welcome dogs, especially in quieter areas, with direct beach access for pet exercise.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, providing kitchens and yards for family and pet comfort.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale resorts like Curtain Bluff offer pet packages including beach walks, grooming, and special menus for EC$135+ per stay.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beaches & Coastal Walks
Antigua's 365 beaches like Dickenson Bay and Long Bay allow leashed dogs in designated areas.
Early morning walks are best; check for seasonal turtle nesting restrictions.
Sailing & Boat Tours
Many catamaran and snorkel tours from English Harbour welcome small pets in life jackets.
Fees EC$27-54 for pets; book pet-friendly operators like Antigua Sailing Week charters.
Historic Sites & Parks
Nelson's Dockyard and Shirley Heights allow leashed pets on outdoor paths and viewpoints.
St. John's markets and gardens are pet-friendly for casual strolls.
Snorkeling Spots
Shallow reefs near Green Island permit dogs on boats; pets can join family snorkel trips.
Keep pets shaded and hydrated during water excursions.
Nature Trails
Fig Tree Drive and rainforest hikes in Antigua's interior welcome leashed pets.
Avoid peak heat; carry water and watch for wildlife like monkeys.
Ferry to Barbuda
Daily ferries from St. John's allow small pets in carriers for EC$13.50 fee.
Barbuda's pink sands and bird sanctuary offer off-leash beach areas.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Minibuses (Public Transport): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs EC$5-10 with leash/muzzle. Routes cover St. John's to beaches; avoid crowded times.
- Taxis & Shared Vans: Most taxis accept pets with notice; fees EC$13.50-27 for short trips. Select pet-friendly rides via apps like Antiguan Taxi Service.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Budget and Hertz allow pets with EC$27-54 cleaning fee. Jeeps ideal for island roads and pet comfort.
- Ferries to Barbuda: Antigua Barbuda Ferry allows pets in designated areas for EC$13.50; book in advance during peak season.
- Flights to Antigua And Barbuda: Check airline pet policies; LIAT and American Airlines allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, and British Airways accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for EC$135-270 each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in St. John's like Animal Welfare Antigua offer 24-hour emergency care.
Costs EC$135-540 for consultations; travel insurance recommended for pet emergencies.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet stores in St. John's and supermarkets like First Choice stock food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basic pet treatments; bring prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Grooming services in resort areas for EC$54-108 per session; some hotels offer pet daycare.
Book ahead for beachside spas catering to pets during family excursions.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services like Antigua Pet Sitters provide in-home care for EC$54-108/day.
Resorts often recommend trusted sitters for day trips to Barbuda or sailing.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed on beaches, roads, and public areas; off-leash allowed in private yards or designated spots.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles in crowded areas like markets; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up after pets everywhere; bins available at beaches and parks. Fines up to EC$270 for violations.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but not during turtle season (May-Nov); keep away from swimmers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor patios welcome leashed pets; indoor areas generally prohibit animals. Ask staff first.
- Protected Areas: National parks and bird sanctuaries require leashes; no pets in Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Antigua And Barbuda
Antigua And Barbuda for Families
Antigua And Barbuda is a family dream with pristine beaches, calm waters, and adventure activities. Safe resorts, kid clubs, and natural wonders keep children entertained while parents relax in paradise.
Top Family Attractions
Dickenson Bay Beach
Family-friendly beach with calm waters, water sports, and nearby restaurants.
Free access; rentals for kayaks EC$27/hour. Perfect for building sandcastles and swimming.
Nelson's Dockyard (English Harbour)
UNESCO site with historic ships, museums, and sailing adventures for kids.
Entry EC$27 adults, free for kids; family tours include pirate stories and boat rides.
Frigate Bird Sanctuary (Barbuda)
Boat tour to see thousands of birds; exciting for bird-loving kids.
Tour EC$108/family; combine with pink beach visit for full-day outing.
Devil's Bridge
Natural rock arch with blowholes and ocean views; thrilling but safe viewing areas.
Free entry; picnic spots nearby for family lunches.
Snorkeling at Stingray City
Snorkeling at Stingray City
Shallow waters with friendly stingrays; guided tours for beginners including kids.
EC$135/person; life jackets provided for safety.
Catamaran Sailing Tours
Family catamaran trips with snorkeling, lunch, and open decks for kids to explore.
EC$270/adult, EC$135/kids; all-inclusive with non-alcoholic drinks.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Antigua And Barbuda on Viator. From beach catamaran sails to island explorations, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Dickenson Bay): All-inclusive like Sandals Grande Antigua offer family suites for EC$540-1080/night with kids clubs and pools.
- Beachfront Villas (English Harbour): Private villas with pools and nannies available; EC$270-540/night for space and privacy.
- Pet & Family Hotels (St. John's): Properties like Heritage Hotel provide connecting rooms and cribs for EC$270-405/night.
- Apartments & Condos: Self-catering units near beaches with kitchens; EC$135-270/night ideal for longer family stays.
- Barbuda Eco-Lodges: Simple family bungalows with beach access; EC$108-216/night including meals.
- Luxury Family Resorts: Curtain Bluff with kids programs, water sports, and family dining; EC$675+/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
St. John's with Kids
Markets, cathedral tours, cricket grounds, and beachside playgrounds.
Public library story hours and ice cream shops add fun to city exploration.
English Harbour with Kids
Nelson's Dockyard boat rides, Shirley Heights sunset views, and pirate history walks.
Family sailing lessons and beachcombing keep active kids engaged.
Barbuda with Kids
Pink sand beaches, cave explorations, and bird watching tours.
Lobster barbecues and shallow lagoon swims for gentle family adventures.
West Coast Beaches
Dickenson Bay water parks, banana boat rides, and resort kids clubs.
Easy access to snorkeling and calm waters for young swimmers.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Minibuses: Kids under 5 free; family day passes EC$27 for unlimited rides. Stroller space limited on some routes.
- Taxis: Family vans available; EC$27-54 for airport to resort. Child seats optional but recommended.
- Car Rentals: Rent with child seats EC$27/day; drive on left with easy island roads.
- Stroller-Friendly: Beaches and resorts accessible; cobblestones in historic areas may challenge strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer child portions of fish, burgers for EC$13.50-27. High chairs widely available.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach shacks and hotels with play areas; try local roti and fresh seafood.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Rasta Pasta Market stock baby food and diapers; fresh markets for fruits.
- Snacks & Treats: Coconut water, johnny cakes, and sorbet from vendors keep kids happy.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In resorts, airports, and malls with facilities for nursing.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts provide certified sitters EC$54/hour; book via kids clubs.
- Medical Care: Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has pediatric services; travel insurance advised.
♿ Accessibility in Antigua And Barbuda
Accessible Travel
Antigua And Barbuda is improving accessibility with resort upgrades and beach paths. Many all-inclusives offer wheelchair-friendly features, though historic sites may have limitations.
Transportation Accessibility
- Airport: V.C. Bird International provides wheelchair assistance, ramps, and accessible taxis.
- Taxis & Shuttles: Wheelchair-accessible vans available from resorts; book in advance for EC$54+.
- Ferries: Barbuda ferries have limited access; ramps for wheelchairs on main deck.
- Car Rentals: Automatic vehicles with hand controls EC$108/day; resorts offer transfers.
Accessible Attractions
- Beaches & Resorts: Wheelchair paths at Dickenson Bay; many resorts have pool lifts and accessible rooms.
- Historic Sites: Nelson's Dockyard offers partial access with ramps; guided tours for mobility aids.
- Boat Tours: Catamarans with boarding ramps for snorkeling; life vests for all abilities.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (Dec-Apr) for sunny beaches and calm seas; avoid hurricane season (Jun-Nov).
Shoulder months (May, Nov) offer fewer crowds and lower rates.
Budget Tips
Family packages at resorts include meals; beach picnics save on dining.
Public beaches free; combo tours for attractions like Dockyard and sailing.
Language
English official; Creole dialects common. Tourist areas English-fluent.
Locals welcoming to families; simple greetings appreciated.
Packing Essentials
Sunscreen, hats, reef-safe swim gear, and insect repellent year-round.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, waste bags, tick prevention, and vet papers.
Useful Apps
Antigua Bus app for transport, Google Maps offline, and pet care locators.
Resort apps for bookings and activity schedules.
Health & Safety
Island very safe; drink bottled water. Clinics for minor issues.
Emergency: dial 911; travel insurance covers family and pet needs.