Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, and most EU countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

What currency is used?

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) – pegged at 2.70 XCD = 1 USD. US dollars are widely accepted.

What language is spoken?

English is the official language.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, tap water is generally safe, but many visitors prefer bottled water.

Do I need any vaccines?

No mandatory vaccines, but hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended.

How do I get from the airport to Falmouth?

V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) is about 25 km away. Taxi fare is roughly $30–35.

What is the electrical voltage?

230V, 60Hz. Plugs are type A and B (like US). Most hotels have adapters.

Are there ATMs in Falmouth?

Yes, several ATMs accept international cards. Best to carry some cash for small purchases.

What’s the tipping etiquette?

10–15% in restaurants; hotel staff and taxi drivers appreciate small tips.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, major carriers have roaming. Local SIM cards are cheap and available at the airport.

Is the island safe from hurricanes?

Hurricane season runs June–November. Monitor weather reports; resorts have safety plans.

What is the time zone?

Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – UTC-4; no daylight saving.

Falmouth

CitySaint Paul, Antigua and Barbuda

Falmouth is a CITY in Saint Paul, Antigua and Barbuda.

Falmouth is a tranquil harbour town on Antigua's southern coast, offering a perfect blend of Caribbean charm and maritime history. Its deep natural harbour is a magnet for sailing enthusiasts, with marinas filled with gleaming yachts and the historic Nelson's Dockyard just a short walk away. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with colourfully restored Georgian buildings, now housing boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront cafés. Swim or kayak in the calm, crystalline waters of Falmouth Bay, or hike up to the ruins of Fort Charlotte for panoramic views over English Harbour. The pace here is unhurried, with friendly locals greeting visitors with genuine warmth. Sunset evenings are best spent sipping a rum punch at a dockside bar, watching the masts sway against a pastel sky. Falmouth may be small, but it pulses with nautical energy and old-world elegance, making it an ideal base for exploring Antigua's beaches, rainforest trails, and sugar plantation estates.

Best time to visit Falmouth

The best time is December to April, during the dry season – sunny days, low humidity, and cooling trade winds. This is peak tourist season, so book early. May to November is the wet and hurricane season, but you'll find lower prices and fewer crowds. The Sailing Week in late April brings vibrant energy to the harbour.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot, humid 27–33°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

End of wet season

Know before you go

Getting there

ANU

V.C. Bird International Airport

International

25 km away

Getting around

"Taxis are the most convenient option for short trips; negotiate fare before riding – typical ride to St. John's is about $25. Minibuses run on fixed routes between Falmouth, English Harbour, and St. John's ($1 per ride). Car rental is available from agencies in town; drive on the left. Bicycles can be rented for local exploration. Walking is pleasant within Falmouth and to nearby attractions."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, cafés, and marinas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5 (Caribbean Cellular, FLOW)

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Very safe overall, but standard precautions apply at night.

Night safety

7/10

Very safe overall, but standard precautions apply at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Falmouth is safe and welcoming, with a low crime rate. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas; lock valuables in your hotel safe and avoid displaying expensive items. Nightlife is lively but stick to well-lit areas. Police patrol tourist zones. No major scams, but always agree on taxi fares upfront. The main safety risk is sun exposure and strong currents at some beaches – swim only where lifeguards are present."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Fire

999

Entry and health

Health information

"No mandatory vaccinations for Antigua, but hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available. High-quality medical care is limited; serious cases may require evacuation to the US or UK. Pharmacies are well-stocked in St. John's; in Falmouth, stock up on essentials. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly advised. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present; use repellent and sleep under nets if in rural areas."

Culture

Local customs

"Antiguans are laid-back and polite. Greet with a smile and a 'Good morning/afternoon'. Dress modestly when not on the beach – cover shoulders and knees in towns and churches. Tipping is appreciated: 10–15% in restaurants. Remove hats when entering a church. Bargaining is not common in shops but can be done at markets. Drinking alcohol in public is frowned upon."

English (official)Antiguan CreoleEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12-18 | a mid-range restaurant meal costs $12-18 per person

Hotels

$75-150 | budget hotels $75/night, mid-range $100-150

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1, taxi to St. John's ~$25

Cost notes

Prices in USD. High season (Dec-Apr) is more expensive.

Timezone

America/Antigua
Local time 11:54

More facts

Population

619

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Faamat, Falmouth, Falmut, falmawt, falmawth, falmawtھ, farumasu, phalama'utha, phyalama'utha, Фалмут, فالماؤتھ, فالماوت, فالماوث, फालमाउथ, ফ্যালমাউথ, ਫਾਲਮਾਊਥ, ፋልmuዝ, ፋልሙዝ, ファルマス

Capital CityMajor Hub