Antigua is a small island — roughly 14 miles wide and 11 miles long — so no destination is truly far. But since there is no public transport from the airport, you are paying for a taxi or transfer regardless. Here is what to budget in 2026.
Government-set taxi fares
Antigua taxi fares from the airport are regulated by the government and posted at the taxi dispatch area. Rates are per taxi (not per person) for up to 4 passengers, with a surcharge for additional passengers. Fares in 2026:
- St. Johns: $15-$20 USD (15 min drive)
- Dickenson Bay / Runaway Bay: $15-$18 USD (15 min)
- Jolly Harbour: $30-$38 USD (25-30 min)
- Valley Church / Ffryes Beach: $28-$35 USD (25 min)
- English Harbour / Nelsons Dockyard: $35-$45 USD (40 min)
- Half Moon Bay: $35-$45 USD (35 min)
- Curtain Bluff: $30-$40 USD (30 min)
- Jumby Bay ferry dock: $12-$15 USD (5 min)
Pre-booked private transfers
Private transfer rates are generally in the same range or slightly above taxi fares:
- North coast (St. Johns area): $20-$35 USD
- West coast (Jolly Harbour area): $35-$50 USD
- South coast (English Harbour): $40-$60 USD
- Larger vehicle (minivan): add $15-$25 to the above
Resort transfers
Many resorts include airport transfers in their packages. This is common at all-inclusive properties like Sandals, Galley Bay, and Curtain Bluff. If your resort offers this, it is effectively free (built into your room rate). Always confirm before arrival, as some resorts only include transfers for certain room categories or package types.
Rental car costs
If renting at the airport: $60-$120 USD per day depending on vehicle type and season. You also need a temporary Antiguan driving license ($50 USD). For a one-way airport-to-resort trip, renting does not make financial sense — it only pays off if you plan to drive throughout your stay.
Currency
Both US dollars and Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC$) are accepted everywhere. The exchange rate is fixed at approximately 2.7 EC$ to 1 USD. Taxis quote fares in USD by default. ATMs at the airport dispense EC$, and some also offer USD.
Tipping
Tipping taxi drivers 10-15% is customary. For a $30 ride, a $4-$5 tip is appropriate. Pre-booked transfer drivers should be tipped similarly.
Bottom line
Budget $15-$45 USD for the airport-to-accommodation transfer, depending on where you are staying. The north coast is cheapest, the south coast is most expensive. If your resort includes transfers, take advantage of it. Otherwise, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is the way to go — the difference between them is more about convenience than cost.