Antigua vs Barbados vs St Lucia: Which Island is Best for Your Caribbean Holiday?
A Complete Guide to Choosing Between Antigua, Barbados & St Lucia for Your Caribbean Holiday
Introduction
When planning a Caribbean holiday, three islands often top the list: Antigua, Barbados, and St Lucia. Each one offers breathtaking beaches, warm hospitality, and luxury resorts—but they’re not the same.
So, which island should you choose for your next trip? The answer depends on your travel style. Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon, a lively all-inclusive escape, or a relaxed family holiday, this guide will help you decide between Antigua vs Barbados vs St Lucia.
π Related reading: Caribbean Holidays: The Complete Guide
Quick Comparison: Antigua, Barbados & St Luciaο»Ώ
Antigua – 365 Beaches of Bliss
Antigua is often called the beach capital of the Caribbean—with 365 beaches, there’s literally one for every day of the year.
Why Choose Antigua?
- Calm, shallow bays ideal for children.
- Excellent sailing and water sports.
- Family-friendly resorts like St James’s Club & Villas.
- Romantic boutique hotels and luxury hideaways.
Activities in Antigua
- Snorkelling in sheltered bays.
- Catamaran cruises around the island.
- Exploring Nelson’s Dockyard (UNESCO site).
- Sunset at Shirley Heights.
π Best for: Families, beach hoppers, relaxed travellers.
π See also: Best Caribbean Islands for Families
Barbados – Culture, Nightlife & All-Round Appeal
Barbados is one of the most versatile islands in the Caribbean. It offers something for everyone—from luxury travellers to families looking for a lively yet safe destination.
Why Choose Barbados?
- Nightlife & dining: The St Lawrence Gap and Oistins Fish Fry.
- Luxury resorts: Sandy Lane, Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Sandals Barbados.
- Culture & history: Bridgetown (UNESCO World Heritage site).
- All-round appeal: Families, couples, groups of friends.
Activities in Barbados
- Swim with turtles on a catamaran cruise.
- Visit Mount Gay Rum Distillery.
- Explore Harrison’s Cave.
- Beach hop along the Platinum Coast.
π Best for: Those wanting a mix of culture, nightlife, luxury, and family fun.
π Explore: All-Inclusive Caribbean Holidays: Are They Worth It?
St Lucia – The Island of Romance & Adventure
St Lucia is the Caribbean’s most romantic island, and one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. Known for its dramatic Piton mountains and lush rainforest, it offers a blend of luxury and adventure.
Why Choose St Lucia?
- Luxury honeymoons: Resorts like Jade Mountain and Sandals Grande.
- Adventure: Hike Gros Piton, zipline through the rainforest, visit volcanic springs.
- Romance: Private villas, infinity pools, and stunning views.
Activities in St Lucia
- Relax in Sulphur Springs hot mud baths.
- Take a helicopter tour for views of the Pitons.
- Sunset cruises along the coast.
- Explore lush botanical gardens.
π Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and adventurous travellers.
π Inspiration: Best Caribbean Islands for Couples & Honeymoons
Antigua vs Barbados vs St Lucia: Cost Comparison
Holiday costs vary depending on travel style and season, but here’s a guide for 2025 (per person, 7 nights):
- Antigua: from £1,800 (all-inclusive mid-range) to £3,500+ (luxury).
- Barbados: from £1,700 (all-inclusive) to £4,000+ (luxury).
- St Lucia: from £2,200 (all-inclusive) to £5,000+ (luxury honeymoons).
π Related reading: How Much Does a Caribbean Holiday Cost?
Which Island Should You Choose?
- Choose Antigua if… you love beaches, want calm waters for children, or prefer a quieter, more relaxed vibe.
- Choose Barbados if… you want a lively island with nightlife, dining, and a mix of luxury & family options.
- Choose St Lucia if… you’re planning a romantic honeymoon or want to combine luxury with adventure.
π For flexibility, some travellers combine islands with a Tailor-Made Caribbean Holiday.
Best Time to Visit Antigua, Barbados & St Lucia
All three islands are warm and sunny year-round, but the best time to visit the Caribbean is:
- Dec–Apr: Dry season, best weather, highest prices.
- May–Jun & Sep–Oct: Shoulder season, fewer crowds, better value.
- Jul–Nov: Warm, lush, with tropical showers.
π Full guide: Best Time to Visit the Caribbean
Why Book with ItsSo Travel?
With so many choices, deciding between Antigua, Barbados, and St Lucia can feel overwhelming. At ItsSo Travel, we:
- Have visited these islands ourselves—so we can recommend from first-hand experience.
- Match you with the right island and resort based on your travel style.
- Offer financial protection with ABTA, ATOL & our Trust Account.
- Provide peace of mind—support before, during & after your trip.
Conclusion
So, Antigua vs Barbados vs St Lucia—which island wins?
The truth is, they’re all winners. Antigua is perfect for beach lovers and families, Barbados offers vibrant nightlife and culture, and St Lucia is the ultimate choice for romance and adventure.
The best island for your Caribbean holiday depends on you.
π Ready to find out which Caribbean island is right for you? Contact ItsSo Travel today or pop into our Torquay shops—we’ll craft the holiday that’s perfect for your style and budget.
π Back to: Caribbean Holidays: The Complete Guide
