Antigua Beaches: Runaway Beach

Runaway Beach

If you're looking for a chance to get away from it all, you should consider visiting Runaway Beach.

Runaway Beach is sugary white expanse on Antigua's western coast. There is a rocky extension of land, known as Corbinson Point, at the north end of Runaway Beach, and on its inland side lies a salt pond, where egrets nest. The waters here are tranquil and calm and there are few hotels scattered along the beach.

Although Antigua has some beaches that are more secluded than Runaway Beach the mix of natural beauty, personality and other attributes offered by this location could be just what you are seeking.

You may find that beaches throughout Antigua are most often quiet beaches, but Runaway Beach stands out as a pleasant exception to this rule. Of course, this spot isn't one many would call metropolitan it's not those planning on stopping at this beach during their vacations will enjoy escaping the buzz of city life without sacrificing the chance to meet new people.

The beaches of Antigua are known for their natural beauty, making them a popular destination for travelers. Although travelers often frequent these beaches, some are less popular than others. Each beach has its own personality, and you'll find that Runaway Beach may have the perfect personality for you.

Location

You'll find this beach on Antigua's northwestern coast; it is located near the Antigua Village, 1.1 miles away. Runaway Beach is close to St. Johns, so walking the town is a definite option.

Nearby Hotels

Whether or not you have the beach pretty much to yourself will vary depending on the time of day, particularly in the high season. You can generally expect to see hotel guests staying close by. There are a moderate number of hotels located nearby. So if you want to stay in this neighborhood you'll find multiple options.

The following table includes a list of nearby hotels.

Nearest Hotels to Runaway Beach
Hotel NameDistanceNo. of
Rooms
Antigua Village 1.1 mi. 71
Sandals Antigua Caribbean Village & Spa 1.2 mi. 79
Rex Resorts Halcyon Cove 1.4 mi. 193
Blue Waters Hotel 2.3 mi. 77
Royal Antiguan 2.5 mi. 264
Hawksbill Beach Resort 3.6 mi. 111
Antigua Beachcomber Hotel 4.6 mi. 23

Amenities and Ambience

Lounging on the beach or swimming in the gentle waters are the main attractions at Runaway Beach.

The crowd at the beach will vary according to several things, like the time of year and day of the week. Some of Antigua's beaches may rarely be crowded, while others are often crowded especially when tourism season is as its peak. When planning a beach outing a key factor to consider might be, at least for some vacationers, the crowds you'll meet. While some beach goers prefer a crowded beach with lots of activity, many would prefer to just relax in a quiet area.

Like so many places in Antigua this beach has a distinctive personality which will be particularly attractive to some visitors. The special qualities of this beach are rather different from what you'll experience at the other beaches in Antigua. Runaway Beach is a peaceful area usually populated by honeymooners and famillies, so there's a good mix of people. For bigger crowds, visitors can walk to neighboring Dickinson's Bay.

Attractions

Beachgoers will have easy access to several visit-worthy natural attractions, including Megaliths of Greencastle Hill, which is located 5.8 miles to the southeast of Runaway Beach.

If you want more information on the history of Antigua there are opportunities nearby. For instance, St. Johns Cathedral is located 2.0 miles to the southeast of Runaway Beach.

If you're looking for plenty of activities for your vacation, this beach isn't far from any of the items in the following table.

Attractions Near Runaway Beach
Attraction NameDistanceDirectionType
Moravian Church 1.7 mi. SE Church
Museum 1.9 mi. SE Museum
St. Johns Cathedral 2.0 mi. SE Historical Site
Museum 2.1 mi. SE Museum
Andes 2.6 mi. SW Historical Site
Megaliths of Greencastle Hill 5.8 mi. SE Natural Attraction
Bird Island 8.7 mi. NE Recreational Island/Cay
Cades Reef 9.1 mi. S Natural Attraction
Fort George 9.4 mi. SE Historical Site
Shirley Heights Lookout 12.2 mi. SE Historical Site

Food

If you start feeling hungry while on the beach, not to worry, you'll have your pick of nearby fine dining.

Restaurant options are listed in the following table.

Restaurants Near Runaway Beach
Restaurant NameCuisine TypeMeals ServedDistanceDirection
Coconut Grove Seafood breakfast, lunch, dinner 0.7 mi. N
Cafe Napoleon Coffeehouse breakfast & lunch 2.2 mi. SE
Redcliffe Tavern International breakfast, lunch, dinner 2.2 mi. SE
Big Banana Holding Company Limited Pizza lunch & dinner 2.2 mi. SE
Chez Pascal Restaurant French dinner 2.8 mi. SW
Le Bistro French dinner 3.8 mi. NE
Al Porto Italian breakfast, lunch, dinner 6.2 mi. S
HQ Restaurant and Bar Seafood lunch & dinner 11.4 mi. SE

Every location has its own cuisine, and Antigua is no different. One of the nicest places to experience the local specialties is directly on the beach. Check with your hotel to see if they will pack a picnic lunch for you, or you can find picnic supplies en route to the beach.

Other Beaches

Those looking for a great beach can choose from more than Runaway Beach when they visit Antigua. Travelers who like this beach might also enjoy Half Moon Bay; it's found 13.6 miles to the east. Beachgoers looking for a spot that offers both gentle and rough surf, a park, and a family-friendly atmosphere need look no further than Half Moon Bay. This well-known beach destination is ideal for water lovers, families with children, and travelers seeking the best of Antiguan beaches.

If you're looking for a more active beach scene, Dickenson Bay may be just what you're looking for. It is located 1 mile to the north.

Another beach to consider is Five Islands Peninsula, located 3.4 miles from Runaway Beach. Travelers with specific interests will find what they're looking for at Five Islands Peninsula. The beaches here are fabulous for snorkeling, and there's even a secluded nude beach. Even if you don't snorkel or sunbathe au naturel, you can still enjoy the tranquil waters and fine sandy beaches.

You'll find a great deal of variety in Antigua, even if you've planned a vacation far from Runaway Beach.


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