Travel Tips
Know before you go!
PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS
Passports are required. All guests must ensure that their passports will be valid for a period of at least six months after the date they are scheduled to arrive in Antigua. Passengers whose passports have less than six months’ validity may not be allowed to enter the country. For information on obtaining or renewing a US passport, please visit the US Department of State. For information on UK passports, visit the HM Passport Office. Passports are the most expeditious and reliable form of identification when traveling domestically or internationally.
CREDIT CARDS
Visa, MasterCard, and Discover are accepted at the resort.
American Express (AMEX) credit cards are not accepted at the resort.
TELEPHONES
All guest rooms and suites are equipped with in-room telephones with direct dial capabilities. Or, simply connect to the resort’s Wi-Fi and call home using your favorite app, like Whatsapp or Signal.
APPROPRIATE ATTIRE
During the day, dress is beach casual around the resort. Please make sure bathing suits are dry and covered for dining during breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. In the evenings, dress is casually elegant. For dinner, collared shirts, tailored shorts or pants, and closed-toed shoes for men; and blouses, dresses, tailored shorts or pants, and shoes or sandals for women. T-shirts, ripped shorts, bathing suits, and flip-flops are not allowed for evening meals. At our Pineapple Grill, collared shirts and long pants are required for gentlemen, while elegantly casual resort attire is appropriate for ladies.
TIME ZONE
Antigua is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone.
CURRENCY
The official currency of Antigua is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is fixed to the US dollar.
Recent exchange rate:
US $1.00 = EC $2.70
* US currency, travelers checks, and major credit cards (excluding AMEX) are accepted.
GRATUITIES
We recommend that all guests prepare or allocate 10-15% for gratuities, depending on services provided. On average, that equates to 50 cents per bag for porters and bellhops, and taxi drivers 10-15% of the fare.
BANKING
ATMs are located in the capital city of St. John’s, in English Harbour, and at the VC Bird International Airport.
Local banks include: Antigua and Barbuda Development Bank, Antigua and Barbuda Investment Bank, Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua, First Caribbean International Bank Ltd, RBTT Bank Ltd, Royal Bank of Canada, and Swiss American National.
Banking hours:
Monday – Thursday: 8 AM – 1 PM; 3 PM – 5PM
Friday: 8 AM – 12 PM; 3 PM – 5 PM
MEDICAL FACILITIES
There are several general practitioners and specialists on the island as well as a hospital and a private clinic. If needed, recompression chambers are available by air ambulance at nearby Saba and in St. Thomas. Pharmaceutical services are also widely available.
GENERAL SHOPPING
For all your grocery, pharmacy, personal items, and provisioning needs, stop by Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy, the Caribbean’s largest and most extensive supermarket. Epicurean’s main store and pharmacy is conveniently located just outside the capital city of St. John’s. Visit: www.EpicureanAntigua.com
SHopping HOURS
Monday – Saturday
8 AM – 12 PM; 1 PM – 5 PM
PERSONAL SAFETY
Antigua is relatively crime free, but we recommend that all guests exercise normal precautions; i.e. don’t leave valuables unattended in rental cars or on the beach. Place your valuables and travel documents in your room safe. Keep your guest room doors and windows locked, especially at night and when you are not in the room.
ILLNESS & ALLERGENS
The resort is located in a tropical environment. Although the resort does employ a year-round pest control service, the resort, its owners, employees, agents, insurers, and suppliers shall absolutely not be liable for any claim, injury, or illness resulting from exposure to Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, or any other insect-borne virus or tropical illness whatsoever.
The resort’s food and beverage outlets use wholesome ingredients, which may include peanuts, tree nuts, seeds, shellfish, shrimp, seafood, soy, milk, wheat, and other potential allergens. Due to the large scale of the resort’s food and beverage operations, the resort cannot guarantee that food items will not come in contact with potential allergens, even if a particular food does not normally include such ingredients. Guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions should be advised accordingly and take precautions. The resort is not able to accommodate individually tailored meals for specific guests based on their individual dietary needs. The Resort and its owners, employees, agents, insurers, and suppliers shall absolutely not be liable for any claim, injury, or illness resulting from food allergies or specific dietary needs or requirements.
ELECTRICITY
The resort runs on standard 110V, the same as in the United States. The outlets take an American-style 2-prong plug.
DEPARTURE TAX & SERVICE CHARGES
The departure tax is included in the price of your airfare ticket. Service fees are included in your nightly rate. A resort fee of US $24 per room per night and a statutory tourism levy of US$5 per person, per night also apply to all bookings and are payable locally at the resort.
ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE DISABLED
Pineapple Beach Club Antigua offers a very unique, beachfront Caribbean experience that may not be completely suitable for all travelers. Fully modified disabled rooms, such as you may find in the United States, are not available. Ground floor rooms are available. However, some areas, services, restaurants, and facilities at the resort may not be accessible to disabled people or people with mobility issues.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING STAY AT PINEAPPLE BEACH CLUB ANTIGUA
In the event of a hurricane, what happens to my reservation?
Click here for Elite Island Resorts’ hurricane policy.
Do I need a passport to travel to Antigua?
We strongly recommend that all members of your party travel with a passport with a validity date of at least six months past the date of your departure from the island. You may not be allowed entry into Antigua if your passport is not valid for at least 6 months after the day you are scheduled to arrive. A passport will be required for all US and Canadian citizens to travel to the Caribbean. For information on obtaining or renewing a passport please click here.
How far away are you from the airport?
We are approximately 30 minutes from the airport.
Can my room be upgraded?
Upgrade inquiries can be made at reception of the hotel upon arrival and are based on availability. There is an extra fee per night for room upgrades, payable locally.
What is the housekeeping schedule for guest rooms and villas?
Kindly note that housekeeping services are provided to guest rooms every other day during your stay. This aligns with our sustainability goals of reducing water, electricity, and detergent usage on our precious island.
Is internet access available?
Wi-Fi access is available throughout the resort and is included in your daily resort fee.
Is there an ATM at the resort?
No. The closest ATM is located in English Harbour, approximately 30 minutes by car. The ATM only accepts Visa cards.
What is the capacity of each room category?
Two persons in all rooms. Gardenview and beachfront have limited rooms with two beds all others are king bed.
What are the different room categories?
You can find a complete listing of our accommodations with images by clicking here.
What types of beds do you have in the rooms?
A comfortably appointed floor plan with combined living and sleeping area accommodates up to two guests, with king or double beds.
Do you have rooms for disabled people?
Fully modified disabled rooms, such as you may find in the United States, are not available. Ground floor rooms are available. However, some areas, services, restaurants and facilities at the resort may not be accessible to disabled people or people with mobility issues.
Are non-smoking rooms available?
Are smoking rooms available? All rooms are non-smoking. Smoking is only permitted on balconies or patio and some public areas
Are there telephones in the rooms?
All guest rooms have direct-dial telephones with worldwide service. Complete telephone and fax services are available at the resort.
Do the rooms have ceiling fans?
Yes, all rooms have ceiling fans.
What is the voltage in Antigua?
The voltage is 110v as in the US. Guestrooms are equipped with North American outlets.
Is use of the in-room safe included?
Yes, it is. The safe key and lock will be handed to you upon check-in.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes – tap water, purified locally, is safe to drink. Bottled water is also available however it is not included.
Do I have to make reservations at the restaurants?
Dinner reservations are only required at certain restaurants and are accepted no earlier than 24 hours in advance at Guest Services Desk. Menus are posted both at Guest Services and in the Lobby the eve prior.
What is the dress code at the restaurants?
Topaz Restaurant
Dress Code Requirements: Open Air – Simply Casual
Breakfast and Lunch – Swimsuits are to be covered and dry and footwear required. Men must wear shirt or tank top. (Gents no Hat or caps)
Dinner – T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and slacks are welcome. Footwear required.
(No swimwear, Gents no sleeveless shirts, hats or caps)
Chef Pietro’s
Dress Code Requirements: Open Air – Evening Casual
Dinner – Long pant, Jeans or tailored shorts, T-shirts, shirts with or without a collar, open or closed shoes for men. Skirts, shorts, pants, capris, blouses, and dresses with or with sleeves for women.
(No hats or caps, flip-flops, ripped or torn styled clothing is allowed)
Pineapple Grill
Dress Code Requirements: Fully Air Conditioned – Elegantly Casual
Dinner – Long pants or Jeans, dress shirts with or without a collar and closed-toed shoes for men.
Skirts, pants, capris, blouses, and dresses with or with sleeves for women.
(No hats or caps, flip-flops, shorts, t-shirts, ripped or torn styled clothing is allowed)
Do you cater to vegetarians and vegans?
We offer a wide variety of menu and dining choices, which include some vegetable and vegetarian dishes. However, our vegetable and vegetarian dishes may include ingredients that are not vegan, as we do not cater specifically to a vegan diet. Due to the all-inclusive nature of the resort, we are not able to arrange private meetings with the Chef, or create individualized menus or meal plans for our guests. Thank you for your understanding.
I have a restricted diet due to allergies, dietary restriction, or special dietary preference. How will this affect my stay?
We frequently receive questions regarding special dietary needs, restrictions or preferences. In an all-inclusive setting, we are not able to accommodate individually tailored meals for specific guests. We do offer a wide variety of meal choices, which includes salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, and vegetarian options. However, we are not able to cater to specific individual needs such as vegan, gluten free, allergen free, religious observance, or similar custom made dishes.
Are all meals buffet?
Topaz serves buffet breakfasts, lunches and themed buffet dinners.
Chef Pietro’s serves á la carte Italian specialties.
Pineapple Grill serves á la carte grill options.
Pelican Snack Grill offers light snacks by the pool throughout the day.
The Outhouse offers Famous BBQ ribs, jerk chicken, & ice cold beer with stunning ocean views.
What type of nightly entertainment is offered?
Steel bands, DJs, Karaoke, local performers, guest participation contests and much more!
How far is it to the nearest shopping area?
English Harbour is just 30 minutes away from the resort.
Is there a gift shop at the resort?
Yes, it is open daily. Operating hours are posted at the Trading Post. The gift shop offers snack items, beverages and other sundries at an additional charge.
Are there any nice restaurants located near the resort?
There is a great selection of restaurants in and around English Harbour approximately 30 minutes from the resort.
Are beach towels provided?
Yes, beach towels can be retrieved at Activities Desk anytime between 8 am – 4 pm
Is snorkeling available off property?
The snorkeling gear at the resort is included and you can snorkel free of charge. We have snorkeling trips daily, available at a fee.
Is golf included in the package? How far away are the golf courses?
Golf is not included. There are two golf courses on the island of Antigua. Cedar Valley is approximately 35 minutes away. Jolly Harbour is about 45 minutes.
How many tennis courts are available and what type of surface?
There are two hard-surfaced tennis courts available for play from 7 am to 6 pm. Reservations are required.
Do you provide a shuttle into town?
Daily shuttles to the capital city St. John’s are available for a small fee. Shuttles are also available on Sundays for visits to Shirley Heights, also for a small fee.
Can I rent a car? Can I use a US driver’s license?
Car rentals are available from the resort and daily rates vary. You will need to purchase a temporary local driving permit to drive in Antigua.
Do you have valet or self parking?
We have a parking lot available for self parking at the front gate.
Can I book tours & excursions from your resort?
Yes, we have a Tour Desk at the resort where you can book any excursion in Antigua. The desk is open seven days a week.
Are there ferries or excursions to other islands?
There are excursions and boat tours to neighboring islands such as Barbuda and Montserrat.
Do you arrange transportation to nearby churches on Sundays?
The Guest Services staff will be happy to arrange this for you.
Where can I find groceries and general shopping needs in Antigua?
For all your grocery, pharmacy, personal items, and provisioning needs in Antigua, stop by Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy, the Caribbean’s largest and most extensive supermarket. Epicurean’s main store and pharmacy is conveniently located just outside the capital city of St. John’s, and they also have a location in Jolly Harbour. Visit www.EpicureanAntigua.com for more info.
What do I need to know concerning illness & food allergies liability?
The Resort is located in a tropical environment. Although the Resort does employ a year round pest control service, the Resort, its owners, employees, agents, insurers, and suppliers shall absolutely not be liable for any claim, injury or illness resulting from exposure to Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, or any other insect-borne virus or tropical illness whatsoever. The Resort’s food and beverage outlets use wholesome ingredients, which may include peanuts, tree nuts, seeds, shellfish, shrimp, seafood, soy, milk, wheat, and other potential allergens. Due to the large scale of the Resort’s food and beverage operations, the Resort cannot guarantee that food items will not come in contact with potential allergens even if a particular food does not normally include such ingredients. Guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions should be advised accordingly and take precautions. The Resort is not able to accommodate individually tailored meals for specific guests based on their individual dietary needs. The Resort and its owners, employees, agents, insurers, and suppliers shall absolutely not be liable for any claim, injury or illness resulting from food allergies or specific dietary needs or requirements.
Do you have refrigerators in the rooms?
Fridges are available in ALL rooms. These can be stocked at a fee.
What is required at check-in?
At check-in, guests are required to present valid government-issued identification (passport, driver’s license, ID card) along with a valid major credit card. This helps us confirm your arrival, and helps protect our guests by assisting with our fraud prevention measures. At check-in, a US$350 pre-authorization will be processed on your card to cover any incidental purchases or similar expenses. Incidental purchases may include things like tours, excursions and gift shop purchases. We understand that not all guests incur additional charges during their stay, but this process all assists the resort with fraud prevention. The pre-authorization is released at check-out, The Pineapple Beach Club assuming you have not charged any purchases to your room.
Does the resort provide a laundry service for guests?
Yes, laundry bags are provided in all guest rooms, this service is at an additional charge.
How can I book airport transfers?
Upon your arrival at the VC Bird International Airport in Antigua, you will exit Customs and you will see a long line of governmentally approved taxis waiting to take you to the resort. Likewise, at the end of your stay with us, there are taxis assigned to the resort who will gladly transport you back to the airport for your departure. If you require anything else, please contact a Reservations Specialist at Elite Island Resorts at 800.858.4618 for further options.
Does the hotel charge a Resort Fee?
Yes, a Resort Fee of US$24 per room, per night applies to all bookings. The resort fee is payable locally at the resort and includes wi-fi. A statutory tourism levy of US$5 per person, per night also applies to all bookings.