Stingray City Antigua
Swim with gentle, wild stingrays in Antigua's clear turquoise waters. An unforgettable marine encounter with knowledgeable guides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday sun and crowds
Stingray City Antigua
Best Time
Beat the midday sun and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Swim with gentle, wild stingrays in Antigua's clear turquoise waters. An unforgettable marine encounter with knowledgeable guides.
"An unforgettable day out in Antigua, Stingray City Antigua will definitely exceed your expectations!"
Kiss a Stingray for Luck! :kissing_heart:
Legend has it, kissing a stingray brings 7 years of good luck!
Book Tours in Advance :ticket:
Popular tours like Adventure Antigua fill up fast, especially for cruise ship passengers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim and Interact with Southern Stingrays
Shallow sandbar in the North Sound
Get up close and personal with friendly, wild stingrays. Hold them, feed them, and even steal a kiss for good luck!
Guided Conservation Education
Onboard tour boat and at the sandbar
Learn about stingray behavior and conservation from knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about marine life.
Snorkeling in Pristine Waters
Around the sandbar
Explore the clear turquoise waters and discover other fascinating marine life beyond the stingrays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Stingray City
Overcome Your Fears for an Amazing Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kiss a Stingray for Luck! :kissing_heart:
Legend has it, kissing a stingray brings 7 years of good luck!
Book Tours in Advance :ticket:
Popular tours like Adventure Antigua fill up fast, especially for cruise ship passengers.
Listen to Your Guides :ear:
They offer crucial safety tips and make the experience enjoyable and educational.
Don't Be Afraid! :sparkles:
Stingrays are gentle; guides ensure you feel comfortable interacting with them.
Tips
from all over the internet
Kiss a Stingray for Luck! :kissing_heart:
Legend has it, kissing a stingray brings 7 years of good luck!
Book Tours in Advance :ticket:
Popular tours like Adventure Antigua fill up fast, especially for cruise ship passengers.
Listen to Your Guides :ear:
They offer crucial safety tips and make the experience enjoyable and educational.
Don't Be Afraid! :sparkles:
Stingrays are gentle; guides ensure you feel comfortable interacting with them.
Bring Your Camera :camera:
Capture incredible moments, but consider a waterproof case for your phone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stingray City Antigua is overwhelmingly praised for its unique and serene connection with nature. Visitors highlight the knowledgeable and passionate guides who prioritize conservation and safety, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for all. The pristine environment and authentic wildlife interaction set it apart from more commercialized attractions, making it a highly recommended adventure. +1
"If you're in Antigua and looking for an exciting yet serene way to connect with nature, Stingray City Antigua is a fantastic experience. Make reservations ahead of time to ensure a spot on the day you prefer!
The experience begins with a boat ride to a beautiful, spot surrounded by calm, turquoise waters. When you arrive, you'll be greeted by friendly, wild stingrays that swim up to you, eager to interact. The guides are top-notch—they're not only super knowledgeable about the rays and the environment, but they’re also passionate about conservation, which adds an extra layer of appreciation to the experience.
The stingrays here are remarkably gentle and seem to enjoy the interaction. You're allowed to touch them, and hold them for brief moments (which is surreal!). The water is waist-deep, making it accessible to people of all ages and comfort levels, and the rays swim right around you, so there’s no feeling of being overwhelmed.
What really makes Stingray City Antigua stand out is how pristine and unspoiled the environment feels. Unlike some of the more commercialized spots, this location is serene, and offers a truly authentic interaction with wildlife. The clarity of the water is amazing, and it feels like you're stepping into an untouched paradise.
In addition to the stingrays, the experience often includes opportunities to snorkel around the area, so you get to see other fascinating marine life. The boat crew is fantastic at creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere, and they make sure everyone is comfortable while ensuring safety is always a top priority.
If you're looking for an unforgettable day out in Antigua, Stingray City Antigua is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this adventure will definitely exceed your expectations!"
S L
"This is definitely must see experience. The staff are very knowledgeable and look after your safety properly. I would definitely recommend adding this to you list of places to visit"
Jeff Upson
"Visited Antigua last week and couldn't leave without experiencing this! Im not a strong swimmer so it was a bit scary at first but the men with Adventure Extreme Tours made it more comfortable. Great experience overall and I would definitely revisit!"
Kymberli C.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stingray City Antigua is typically accessed via boat tours departing from various points on the island, often near St. John's. Many tours include a short speedboat ride to a shallow sandbar. Popular operators like Adventure Antigua offer direct bookings.
While it's possible to arrange private boat charters, most visitors opt for organized tours that handle transportation to and from the sandbar. This ensures a guided and safe experience.
The boat ride to Stingray City is usually quite short, often around 15-30 minutes, depending on the departure point and tour operator.
Yes, many cruise lines offer excursions to Stingray City Antigua as a popular shore activity. Booking through the cruise line is a convenient option for passengers.
Tours typically depart from marinas and docks around St. John's, Antigua. Some operators may offer pick-up services from hotels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for Stingray City Antigua tours can vary depending on the operator and what's included. Prices typically range from $60 to $100 USD per person. It's best to check directly with tour providers for current pricing.
Yes, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or if you're arriving on a cruise ship, as tours can sell out quickly.
Most tours include the boat ride, interaction time with the stingrays, safety briefings, and often snorkeling gear. Some may also include refreshments like rum punch.
While adults can stand in the water, children who are not strong swimmers are provided with life jackets. The experience is generally suitable for most ages, but it's always good to confirm with your tour operator.
Visitors are usually required to sign a waiver before participating in the Stingray City experience, acknowledging the risks involved in interacting with wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Listen carefully to your guides for instructions on how to approach and interact with the stingrays. They are gentle creatures and will often swim right up to you. You can feed them and even hold them with guidance.
Yes, the water is typically waist-deep on the sandbar, making it accessible for non-swimmers. Life jackets are also available for added security.
Yes, guides will assist you in safely holding a stingray for a brief moment, which is a unique and memorable part of the experience.
Wear comfortable swimwear, a rash guard for sun protection, and water shoes or sandals. Bring a towel and sunscreen.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic photo opportunity. Consider a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the magic underwater.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Stingray City itself is a natural habitat, many tours include refreshments like water and rum punch after the interaction. Some longer excursions might include snacks or lunch.
Stingray City is located offshore. You'll find a wide variety of dining options in St. John's and other tourist areas on Antigua after your tour concludes.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photos involve swimming with, holding, and feeding the stingrays. The clear turquoise water and the gentle giants create stunning underwater and surface shots.
A waterproof camera or a GoPro is ideal for capturing underwater moments. If using a smartphone, a reliable waterproof case is essential.
Some tour operators may offer professional photography services as an add-on. Inquire with your chosen tour provider when booking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many tours offer a fun boat ride to the sandbar, which is an adventure in itself for kids. The opportunity to touch and feed these gentle creatures is often a highlight of their vacation, creating lasting memories. It's a unique chance for children to learn about marine life in a hands-on, engaging way.
🌊 Adventure Seekers
+1The sheer novelty of swimming with and holding wild stingrays is an adrenaline rush for many. The guides' expertise ensures that even the most adventurous can push their boundaries safely, making it a truly exhilarating experience. Don't miss the chance to kiss a stingray for good luck – a quirky challenge for any adventurer!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your waterproof camera or GoPro to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. The guides are often happy to assist with photo opportunities, helping you get the perfect shot of you holding or feeding a stingray. The vibrant blues of the water and the textures of the stingrays make for truly captivating images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Stingrays
The experience is designed to be educational, with guides sharing insights into the stingrays' diet, behavior, and the importance of their conservation. They often demonstrate how to feed the rays small pieces of squid, a favorite treat. The guides also explain how to hold a stingray safely, ensuring both the visitor and the animal are comfortable. This hands-on learning aspect makes Stingray City more than just a tourist attraction; it's an opportunity to connect with marine life responsibly.
It's important to remember that while stingrays are generally docile, they are wild creatures. The guides at Stingray City Antigua are highly experienced in managing these interactions to ensure safety for everyone. They stress that sudden movements or aggressive behavior can startle the rays, so maintaining a calm and gentle approach is key to a positive experience.
Choosing Your Stingray City Tour
+1For cruise ship passengers, booking through the cruise line is a convenient option, as these tours are often timed to fit port schedules. However, independent operators may offer more personalized experiences or unique itineraries. It's worth researching different companies to find one that best suits your preferences, whether you're looking for a quick visit or a more extended adventure.
When selecting a tour, consider factors like the duration of the boat ride, the time spent at Stingray City, and any additional activities included, such as snorkeling or visits to other islands. Reading reviews and checking the operator's reputation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing.
Photography Tips for Stingray City
When you're in the water, try to get down to the stingrays' level for more engaging photos. Guides can help you position yourself for the best shots, and some may even offer to take photos for you. Don't be afraid to get a little wet to capture those unique underwater moments. Remember to keep your movements slow and steady to avoid startling the stingrays.
Beyond the stingrays, the crystal-clear turquoise waters and the beautiful Antiguan coastline provide a picturesque backdrop. Consider taking wide-angle shots to capture the entire scene, or focus on the details of the stingrays' textures and patterns. Patience is key; wait for the perfect moment when a stingray is interacting with you or swimming gracefully through the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit