Drive along Old Road, the street, to get to Old Road, the town, on the coastline of Saint Mary parish. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Old Road was a sugar estate, largely staffed by slaves. Operations continued even after the nationwide emancipation in 1834. Look for vestiges of the sugar industry as you explore inland areas.
Today, Old Road offers services for residents and visitors to nearby beaches. The town borders Morris Bay, a part of the larger Cades Bay. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Morris Bay Beach, a local favorite. You might see locals climb into palm trees to harvest coconuts or bring their cows to wade in the ocean.
Just east of Old Road, Carlisle Bay Beach has a broad crescent of sand perfect for daytime sunbathing, swimming and sandcastle building. Stay into the evening or make a special trip here for gorgeous sunsets. While the beach is public, a portion of it lies in front of Carlisle Bay, an all-inclusive luxury resort.
As you look inland, you’ll see the Shekerley Mountains, a volcanic range. Hike up the tallest spot on Antigua, Boggy Peak, which was known as Mount Obama from 2009 to 2016. Look for mango, papaya and bamboo trees as you climb on a rainforest trail.
Interestingly, Antigua’s most notable scenic drive is not along the ocean. From Old Road, follow the rugged Fig Tree Drive into the rainforest past banana and mango trees Along the way, Claremont Farms is a great place to learn about the island’s agriculture, including sugar cane, black pineapples and noni. You’ll find fresh fruit, jams, juices and art at roadside stalls. Book thrilling rides at Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tours partway up the climb. Wallings Nature Reserve at the top of the mountains sometimes offers tours check online for availability.
Drive to Old Road in about 35 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport or Saint John’s or 25 minutes from Falmouth.
