Street Scams in St. John's, Antigua
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in St. John's — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Willemstad, San José, and Havana.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in St. John's
How it works
On Dickenson Bay, one of Antigua's most popular north coast beaches, vendors claim ownership of sections of the public beach and charge $20–$40 per day for sun loungers and umbrellas. Some become confrontational when tourists attempt to use their own beach gear in "their" section.
How it works
The Heritage Quay duty-free shopping zone in St. John's caters heavily to cruise passengers, and a handful of vendors sell counterfeit designer goods — watches, sunglasses, handbags — under the guise of legitimate luxury items. Some "gold" jewelry is gold-plated brass sold at solid-gold prices.
How it works
The scenic Fig Tree Drive through Antigua's rainforest has roadside vendors selling local produce, hot sauce, and handmade items. Some vendors step into the road to flag down rental cars, then surround the vehicle and use persistent pressure to force purchases, making it difficult to drive away.
See all scams in St. John's
10 total warnings across all categories