Anguilla: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Anguilla is a special place in the Caribbean Sea. It's a British overseas territory with a lot to offer. It's not just about the amazing beaches. You'll find dazzling Amerindian rock art and a mix of food from different cultures here. Plus, there are beautiful sands on the mainland and small, peaceful cays off its shores. So, what makes Anguilla a top spot in the Caribbean?

Key Takeaways

• Anguilla boasts more than 30 beaches, totaling over a dozen miles of pristine sandy shoreline
• The island offers top-notch snorkeling, diving, and surfing opportunities at world-class spots
• Anguilla's culinary scene is a highlight, featuring beachfront dining and local flavors
• Visitors can explore the island's history and culture at sites like Wallblake House and through Anguilla National Trust tours
• Outdoor adventures, luxury experiences, and a laidback island vibe make Anguilla a well-rounded Caribbean destination

Explore Anguilla's Pristine Beaches

Anguilla has over 30 stunning beaches which stretch over 12 miles. One of the top beaches is

Shoal Bay East

. It's recognized worldwide for its white sands and crystal-clear water. Spend a sunny day here, and you might find yourself staying longer thanks to the nearby fun spots.

Heading west,

Meads Bay

offers a great beach experience. You can find it between the Malliouhana resort and the Four Seasons. It has a lovely mix of eateries and bars. Check out Jacala for delicious steak tartare and amazing calamari risotto.

In the island's southern part, near St. Maarten,

Rendezvous Bay

stretches far with soft, white sand. It's great for relaxing swims and beautiful walks. Afterwards, enjoy a drink at the SunShine Shack beach bar.

Embark on Water Adventures

Anguilla has a lot to offer when it comes to water fun. It's perfect for those who love the sea. You can go snorkeling, diving, sailing, and surfing. These activities will make your trip memorable.

Snorkeling and Diving

Anguilla is a top place for snorkeling. You'll find great spots like Little Bay and Barnes Bay. The underwater world is amazing. It's a diving paradise, with wreck dives like the Oysterdeep Wreck. You can also visit Dog Island to see tarpon and sharks.

Sailing Charters

Sailing is part of life in Anguilla. You can book a sailing charter, either private or public. Feel the wind and smell the salt as you sail. If you want to learn how to sail, the Anguilla Sailing Association can help.

Surfing and Stand-up Paddleboarding

Anguilla isn't known for big surf, but it still has good spots. Savannah Bay and Meads Bay have waves to catch. If you prefer something calm, try stand-up paddleboarding in the beautiful bays. The clear, blue waters are perfect for it.

Indulge in Anguillian Cuisine

Anguilla is known for its amazing food scene, especially near the beach. You can enjoy tasty meals with a view of the beautiful ocean. This means you can eat and relax right by the water.

Beachfront Dining

Cooked meals taste even better with a view of the Caribbean Sea. At Anguilla's beachfront restaurants, you'll get to enjoy the local food while seeing stunning ocean scenes. It's a unique dining experience right next to the calming waves.

Local Flavors at Tasty's

If you want to try real Anguillian food, go to Tasty's. Chef Dale Carty runs this place, offering dishes like Johnnycakes. He started out washing dishes but later trained in France with top chefs.

Discover Anguilla's History and Culture

Wallblake House is painted in a lovely marshmallow pink and goes all the way back to 1787. It is said to be the oldest structure on the island. This house tells the story of sugar and cotton plantation tries in Anguilla's past.

Today, Wallblake House stands as a rare example of plantation life in the Caribbean. The whole building complex is available for guided tours. Visitors can see the various parts like the 18th-century cistern, where people used to work, and the bakehouse.

Anguilla National Trust Tours

The Anguilla National Trust leads walking tours through Lower Valley, a historic part of The Valley. These tours show visitors hidden gems and stories. The trust also arranges hikes in Anguilla's untouched areas and heritage tours that highlight the island's Arawak and colonial past.

Anguilla: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Uncover the diverse array of experiences that make Anguilla a true Caribbean gem. You'll find pristine beaches and exhilarating water adventures. The island boasts a vibrant culinary scene and rich history and culture. It's a picturesque island that's perfect for a visit.

Immerse yourself in the local island vibe. Explore the offshore cays and islets. Don't forget to indulge in the luxury experiences Anguilla has to offer.

Discover the best of Anguilla to create lifelong memories. Whether it's sun-soaked relaxation, thrilling outdoor adventures, or experiencing authentic island life, Anguilla has it. This island destination promises unforgettable experiences at every step.

Explore Offshore Cays and Islets

Prickly Pear Cays

The Prickly Pear Cays are two small islands near Road Bay. They are just a short six-mile trip north. These islands are great for snorkeling and paddleboarding.

The Prickly Pear restaurant is perfect for a chill meal. They serve freshly caught lobster and crayfish. You can also feed sugar to the unique bananaquit birds by hand.

Sandy Island

Sandy Island is a tiny cay you can visit by shuttle boat. The boat leaves from Sandy Ground's pier. This spot is very peaceful and calm.

In the morning, visitors love snorkeling in the warm waters. After that, they enjoy crayfish tails and "drunken" coconut shrimp at the island's solo restaurant.

Outdoor Adventures in Anguilla

Anguilla is full of outdoor adventures waiting for you to discover its natural beauty. You can choose from horseback riding by the sea, eco-tours, or watching birds. These activities let you get up close with the island's natural scenery and wildlife.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Head to Seaside Stables at Cove Bay's southwest coast for an amazing beach ride. It doesn't matter if you've never ridden a horse before. You'll ride one of their calm, trained horses along the shore. Feel the sea breeze and the horse's movement as you enjoy this unique experience.

Eco-Tours and Birdwatching

Nature Explorers offers eco-tours to see Anguilla's birds in their natural habitat.

You'll visit ponds and nesting spots for least terns, hummingbirds, and finches. This is your chance to see the beautiful green-throated carib hummingbird up close.

Embrace the Island Vibe

Sandy Ground's beach is a hotspot on the island's northwest coast. It's filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs that get lively on weekends. Here, you can dance with the locals on the soft, latte-colored sands.

You should visit the legendary Elvis Beach Bar. It’s in an old wooden boat and known for the best Mexican food on the island.

Beach Shacks and Live Music

Beach shacks and casual spots with live music add to Anguilla's relaxed feel. The SunShine Shack at Rendezvous Bay is a favorite. It has a reggae vibe, colorful umbrellas, and friendly owner Garvey.

Garvey serves up tasty fried snapper and juicy barbecued pork ribs here.

Luxury Experiences in Anguilla

Anguilla has the beautiful Anguilla International Golf Club. Designed by Greg Norman, it's one of the best in the Caribbean. The club features an 18-hole course and a nine-hole course for beginners. Both offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and Saint Martin's hills.

Golfing at Anguilla International Golf Club

Anguilla boasts many luxurious resorts and spas for a perfect island escape. Malliouhana, linked with Auberge Resorts Collection, glows with its signature yellow pool umbrellas and elegant mosaic floors. It also has secret spots that add to its charm. The Zemi Thai House Spa at Zemi Beach House is quite unique. It's located in a centuries-old Thai house and offers relaxing spa treatments.

Upscale Resorts and Spas

Conclusion

Anguilla is a hidden gem in the Caribbean. It offers a lot more than beautiful beaches. You can enjoy thrilling water adventures, see captivating cultural spots, and have luxury experiences. This perfect island has something for every kind of traveler.

Looking for a quiet escape, exciting adventure, or a taste of real Caribbean culture? Anguilla is perfect for your next trip. Dive into the island's lively food scene. Or, visit its historical and scenic wonders. You can also relax on its famous white sandy beaches.

Anguilla is known for its clean surroundings, welcoming people, and various fun things to do. It's a place that will win your heart and stay on your mind for years. Explore this hidden gem and make unforgettable memories that you'll treasure forever.