Antigua and Barbuda Antigua Antiguans claim to have a different beach for every day of the year and their island's many beautiful soft, sandy beaches and coves certainly constitute its main attraction. The most popular resorts have hotels located either on beaches or close by, many of them taking their names from the beaches. However, for the more energetic, there is plenty to see and do away from the beaches. An excursion to Great Bird Island can be made from Dickenson Bay .
Many hotels offer excursions in glass-bottomed boats for a leisurely view of the reef.
Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is one of the safest landlocked harbours in the world. It was used by Admirals Nelson, Rodney and Hood as a safe base for the British Navy during the Napoleonic wars. It is now the Governor General's summer residence and is periodically open to visitors. Dow's Hill Interpretation Centre provides visitors with a good overview of the island's history including information on the early Amerindians and the impact of slavery on Antigua's culture and economy. Shirley Heights and Fort James are two examples of the efforts made by the British to fortify the colony during the 18th century.