Palm Beach, Barbuda
Barbuda has been left largely undeveloped, open to be enjoyed in
its pristine natural state. The island is renowned for its long
empty beaches where it is still possible to leave footprints in
virgin sand. The breathtaking pink sand beaches of the
south-western shore stretch as far as 10 miles (16km) without
interruption and are lapped by the gentle Caribbean waters, while
those on the island's eastern shore, facing the Atlantic, are
somewhat rougher, although still outstanding for beachcombing. Most
of the island is surrounded by a coral barrier reef that provides a
rich and colourful marine life and is excellent for snorkelling.
There are a number of small resorts on the island that offer
watersports facilities, golf and tennis. Nature lovers will find an
abundance of wildlife on the island. The wooded interior is home to
fallow deer, wild pig and over 170 species of bird while in the
island's north-western lagoon is the Bird Sanctuary. Here you will
find over 5,000 frigate birds, the most aerial of waterbirds,
possessing a massive five-foot (2m) wingspan. Sometimes known as
the 'man o' war bird', the frigate bird harasses less agile flyers
like pelicans, egrets, and cormorants until they drop their catch.
Barbuda can be reached easily from Antigua, either by air (a
20-minute flight, twice daily) or by boat (in three hours).
