With its sugary fine sands and exquisite azure waters, Half Moon Bay Beach is one of Saint Philip Parish’s most idyllic destinations. Dig your toes into the soft sands and look out across a bay framed by forested headlands. Swim in the beautifully clear water or grab your mask and snorkel and explore the vivid reefs beneath the surface.
Stretching a little less than 1 mile (1.5 kilometres) along a broad semi-circle, Half Moon Bay Beach is a great place for a walk. Enjoy gorgeous views of the point that shelters the bay to the south. Tropical vegetation cascades down to the edge of the beach. Weave between the palm trees on the southern end of the beach and find a shady spot to take a break. Look northeast across the pretty blue waters to see Smith Island offshore from Exchange Bay.
Lay out your towel on the soft sands, which have a slightly pink hue. The sound of rustling palm leaves and gentle waves will serenade you as you bask in the sunshine. If you feel like cooling off, splash in the shallows or swim into the bay. Be careful of reefs in the deeper waters. Put on your snorkel and mask to get a better look at the reef system and its collection of colourful corals. You might see schools of tiny tropical fish darting between the coral gardens. If the sea breeze is blowing, enjoy the waves that roll into shore and go bodysurfing.
Get a meal or snack at the beachside bar on the northern section of the beach. Cool drinks and light meals are available, which you can take out to enjoy on the sand.
Half Moon Bay Beach is just over a 5-minute drive from Freetown in the heart of the peninsula on Antigua’s southeastern coast. Bring your own snorkel gear if you intend to explore the waters. Alternatively, stay in one of the hotels or villas directly fronting the beach and use the equipment available for rent.
