Named the best island in the Caribbean three years in a row by Travel + Leisure magazine, Anguilla remains one of the best Caribbean Islands to vacation. Some Caribbean islands have become more tourist trap than a tranquil vacation spot, yet Anguilla remains more authentic. With an embargo on cruise ships, no high-rise buildings, or Casinos, Anguilla has a local authenticity that is tough to find on other Caribbean Islands. Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean and one of the safest Caribbean islands, pack your bathing suit and reef-safe sunblock and jet off to Anguilla.
You can’t visit Anguilla without doing these 4 things
1. Sandy Island
Quite possibly the most unique “island” you will ever come across, sandy island is a natural wonder. A tiny sand bar, Sandy Island is just a 5-minute boat ride from the main island. From a distance, it doesn’t look like much. Once you arrive, however, you will find a top-notch beach bar and restaurant with local seafood, fresh cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Visit for the views, peace, and tranquility, stay for the fresh food and exceptional cocktails.
2. Visit Rendezvous bay
Depending on who you ask, Rendezvous bay is reason enough to visit Anguilla and therefore makes it one of the best Caribbean Islands to vacation. The 2-mile long stretch of beach is tranquil with its calm waters and low-key vibe; Rendezvous bay is the perfect retreat for families who want to escape.
3. Beaches
What makes Anguilla one of the best Caribbean islands to vacation are its beautiful beaches! With 33 unspoiled (and uncrowded) public beaches, Anguilla is the perfect place to kick back and relax. Anguilla’s tranquil water, powdery sand also makes it one of the best family Caribbean islands. Waters are typically calm enough that even beginning or young swimmers will feel comfortable in the ocean.
4. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Crystal clear, calm waters make Anguilla the perfect place to snorkel and scuba dive. Borrow some snorkeling equipment from your hotel or plan a diving charter with the Scuba Shack. Pick one of the many diving spots along the island, Shoal Bay, Crocus Bay, or Sandy Island, and dive alongside some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.
Where to Stay
From Romantic Luxury and family-friendly luxury to quaint more accessible hotels, Anguilla has it all.
Luxury Hotels
Looking for a luxury stay for your vacation in the Caribbean Islands? The Four Seasons Anguilla, Belmond Cap Jaluca, or the Malliouhana will not disappoint. If you are looking for a luxury retreat, Anguilla is one of the best Caribbean islands to vacation.
Budget Conscious
Luxurious hotels are not always a top priority or, frankly, always accessible. Stay at Turtles Nest Beach Resort, Anguilla Great House Beach Resort, or Frangipani Beach Resort on Meads Bay. Family-friendly, peaceful, and budget-conscious, sign us up!
Dining
Anguilla is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean for a reason. There are amazing restaurants that are family-friendly and won’t break the bank and upscale restaurants.
Check out Blanchards beach shack on Meads Bay Beach for a wallet and family-friendly meal. Or visit Blanchards, its higher-end counterpart, for its creative cuisine and upscale atmosphere. For a romantic dinner, visit the restaurant in a “treehouse” Veya, which offers exceptional cuisine with a soft jazz background. After dinner, head downstairs to Meze at Veya to lounge in open-air Moroccan-style tents and share tapas.
Have you been to Anguilla? Do you have a different favorite Caribbean island that you love? Let us know in the comments or @eat_195!
Check out our Top 10 Best Caribbean Islands for Families for more Caribbean vacation ideas.