To the point
Located in the northern Caribbean, the island of Anguilla is known for its 33 idyllic beaches and off-the-beaten-path relaxing atmosphere. Here is our guide.
East of Puerto Rico and north of St. Maarten, the island of Anguilla is surrounded by 33 beaches, some of which are often considered by travel magazines as the most beautiful in the world.
This destination is still off the beaten track. It has therefore retained a particularly charming character.
Tourism is still an important source of income for the island, with many attractions and outdoor activities for visitors. In addition, its culinary scene and rich festival calendar make Anguilla an attractive island.
Influenced by indigenous peoples, European settlers and African slaves, the island has a culture and traditions worth discovering.
How to reach the island ?
Anguilla is accessible from three main gateways: Miami, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten.
Weekly direct flights from Toronto and Montreal to SXM St. Maarten made their debut earlier this winter.
From St. Maarten, the destination is accessible via the Blowing Point ferry terminal, which bridges the short gap between the two islands, separated by only 14 km.
Save in Anguilla with points
Whether it’s for flights, accommodations, car rentals or anything else, points are a great way to lower the bill for a trip to Anguilla. Simply redeem the points for an account credit. Here are some examples of reward programs to use:
- NBC Rewards: Through their À la carte Travel Agency or by paying for the expense yourself with your points (each 10,000 to 12,000 NBC points gives $100 credit)
- American Express Membership Rewards points: Pay for the expense yourself with your points (every 10,000 Membership Rewards points earns $100 in credit)
- Scene+: Pay for the expense yourself with your points (every 10,000 Scene+ points gives $100 credit)
If payments are made in a foreign currency, do it twice! Take a credit card that :
- Avoids paying the 2.5% conversion fee
- Allows you to use points to reduce the total cost of your trip
Like the following two credit cards:
Best activities
There are many activities to enjoy in Anguilla, from water excursions to beach tours and spa treatments in luxury hotels.
Discover the most beautiful beaches of the island
Among Anguilla’s 33 white-sand wonders, one beach in particular is turning heads, attracting significant international attention. The idyllic Shoal Bay has been voted the #1 beach in the Caribbean by USATODAY readers for 2023. It is a 3 km long strip of pink and white sand where you will find the best views, in addition to many restaurants, bars and hotels adjacent to it from which to watch the sunset.
Other beaches on the island worth visiting include Meads Bay, Rendezvous Bay, or Little Bay for a day of swimming and relaxing.
Going diving
The waters surrounding Anguilla offer a rich diversity of marine life. Many dive sites are accessible from the coast, and visitors can discover coral reefs, shipwrecks and tropical fish.
Experience sailing
Anguilla is surrounded by many small islands, offering an excellent opportunity for sailing. Visitors can rent a sailboat or take a boat trip to discover the nearby islands.
Explore history and culture
Its capital, The Valley, is a small, charming and peaceful town that offers a relaxed atmosphere and a glimpse of local life in Anguilla. Most of the buildings are in the British colonial style, with red tile roofs and white walls.
Among the historical sites to discover in the island: the salt factory of Sandy Ground and the museum of Anguilla. You will also enjoy participating in cultural festivals such as the Festival of the Sea and the Anguilla Carnival.
Playing golf
Anguilla has the only 18-hole golf course in the Eastern Caribbean, the CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa, which offers a world-class golf experience in a picturesque setting.
Other activities on the island include kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and fishing.
Where to stay?
Anguilla offers a variety of quality accommodations at different price points, ranging from five-star to charming Airbnb properties. Here are some suggestions:
Quintessence Hotel is a charming establishment full of sculptures and works of art by famous artists from all over the region. Quinn was recently launched: elegant new suites in a separate building adjacent to the original hotel and aimed at offering the Quintessence experience at a more affordable price.
Zemi Beach House was just ranked #1 “Best Destination Wedding Resort (2023)” by USA TODAY.
This is an impressive accomplishment considering that on the island there are luxurious pillars that include the Four Seasons, the Belmond Cap Juluca and the Malliouhana.
Both accommodations can be booked from one or more of the following platforms: Expedia for TD, Hotels.com and Booking.com. Depending on the method of reservation, you can get discounts for being a member or collect stamps to get a free night.
Discover the local gastronomy
Anguilla offers a delicious Creole cuisine that blends European, African and Caribbean influences.
The Anguilla Culinary Festival is back this year. The second edition of Anguilla Culinary Experience will take place from May 3 to 6, 2023 bringing together chefs from the island and around the world. The new Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club will host the opening party of the event.
You’ll love sampling local dishes such as goat stew, grilled fish and johnny cake.
Here are some good addresses to remember:
Sandbar on the lively beach of Sandy Ground, with live music and great views of Anguilla’s national sport, boat racing.
Tasty’s POV for the incredible panoramic views it offers from its position overlooking Sandy Ground. Specialties include grilled lobster, crawfish or chicken accompanied by excellent cocktails.
Ocean Echo, a favorite for dining with your feet in the sand, was completely renovated before the 22/23 winter season with the addition of an extra deck to view Meads Bay from the table. The menu emphasizes local specialties such as mahi-mahi, crayfish and conch.
Mill House Café Bar & Bistro is a café with a charming, rustic location, considered a favorite breakfast spot for locals and visitors alike.
Located in Sandy Ground Beach, Vincy on the beach offers classic Caribbean seafood and comfort food, including burgers with a special secret sauce.
Channeling the energy of vacation every day, Savi Beach Club is a must if you want to enjoy a beach-style restaurant connected directly to beautiful Meads Bay Beach.
Getting around the island
In Anguilla, driving is on the left. The main artery of Anguilla runs through the center of the island. You can drive from one end of the island to the other without stopping in about forty-five minutes.
Rent a car
To rent a car, you must have a valid driver’s license. You will also need to purchase a temporary Anguillan driver’s license valid for three months. This one, at a cost of US$25, is provided by local car rental companies.
Cabs
You should easily find cabs. In fact, many visitors use a local cab driver for all their transportation needs during their stay on the island. Cab fares are fixed.
Off road
Mountain bikes and road bikes are two popular options for getting around Anguilla, as they allow access to places off the beaten path. The island is composed mostly of coral and limestone, and its topography is generally flat. Traveling by bicycle is therefore rather easy and pleasant.
Practical information
Size of the island: 91 square kilometers
Capital city : The Valley
Population: about 15,000
Official language: English
Currency: East Caribbean dollar
Bottom Line
Anguilla deserves its reputation as a “hidden gem”. We love it for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, but also for its delicious cuisine and great hospitality.
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