Summary of Anguilla Travel
If you long to get away for a secluded, yet luxurious Caribbean beach vacation, Anguilla is the island for you. Celebrities flock here due to the island’s tradition of protecting privacy, its upscale resorts, and a selection of more than 70 restaurants. Reef and wreck diving are popular diversions; however, you’re more likely to spend your evenings savoring gourmet meals than dancing until dawn.
Anguilla Basic Travel Information
- Location: In the British West Indies, between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic, east of Puerto Rico and just a short ferry trip from St. Martin/St. Maarten.
- Size: 16 mi/25 km long, 4 mi/6 km wide.
- Capital: The Valley
- Language: English
- Religions: Roman Catholic, Protestant
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar; U.S. dollar widely accepted.
- Weather: Semi-arid year-round; trade winds moderate tropical temperatures.
- Airport: Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport.
Anguilla Attractions
Visitors don’t come to Anguilla to merely “see the sights” — the stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and exquisite restaurants are the main attractions. However, you may want to explore the historic Olde Valley district in Anguilla’s capital, visit The Heritage Collection, the best history museum on the island, go bird-watching at Anguilla’s thriving salt ponds, and enjoy a variety of water sports like fishing, sailing, and diving the local reefs and wrecks.
Anguilla Beaches
Tiny Anguilla boasts 33 beaches, all free and open to the public. The island’s Atlantic-facing north coast has wilder waves and more remote beaches. Popular spots like Sandy Ground, Shoal Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Meads Bay feature waterfront restaurants, bars, and resorts, making them perfect for relaxation. Secluded Little Bay can only be accessed by boat, while Sandy Island and Scilly Cay offer beach bars and free launch service from the mainland.
Anguilla Hotels and Resorts
Luxury resorts — typically featuring world-class restaurants — are prevalent in Anguilla. Notable mentions include Cap Juluca, a Moorish-inspired oasis on the Caribbean shoreline; Malliouhana, which offers an excellent spa and a gourmet French restaurant; and the CuisinArt hotel, known for its wellness program. Additionally, Anguilla has moderately priced hotels, inns, and villas, even in such bustling hotspots as Sandy Ground.
Anguilla Restaurants
With over 70 restaurants, Anguilla is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re craving pizza, Creole, Asian fusion, or elegant French cuisine, you’ll find it easily. The Koal Keel in Olde Valley is an island dining favorite; Pimms at Cap Juluca promises a memorable culinary experience. For a genuine Caribbean beach barbecue, take the free launch to Scilly Cay and indulge in grilled lobster and rum punch.
Anguilla Culture and History
The Arawaks first settled Anguilla, leaving their mark with petroglyphs at Big Spring Cave. The island experienced a long history of British and French control for 150 years. English settlers established a plantation economy, which has shaped the predominantly Black population today. A forced marriage with St. Kitts and Nevis sparked the Anguilla Revolution in 1967, leading to the island’s current status as a separate British territory. Today, boat races and cricket matches are the most celebrated local passions.
Anguilla Events and Festivals
No matter when you visit Anguilla, you’ll likely encounter a boat race — the national sport. Events like the Anguilla Cultural Festival and Summer Festival offer fantastic opportunities to interact with locals and discover their customs. The Moonsplash Music Festival in March showcases both local and international talent, as does the annual Tranquility Jazz Festival. The Anguillan Revolution is remembered on May 30, Anguilla Day.
Anguilla Nightlife
While nightlife is not Anguilla’s strongpoint, you’ll still find vibrant beach bars in Shoal Bay, and Sandy Ground features two of the island’s most exciting clubs: Johnnos Beach Stop and the Pumphouse. Local reggae legend Bankie Banx frequently performs at his venue, the Dune Preserve. Additionally, the island’s only true disco, the Red Dragon, and the late-night destination Rafe’s offer late-night entertainment.
