Curator’s statement
Anguilla is defined by its natural beauty and laid-back authenticity. The beaches are stunning—soft white sand and water so clear it hardly feels real—yet they remain uncrowded and unspoiled. Days drift between independent beach bars and excellent local restaurants, where everything feels relaxed, welcoming, and unpretentious. It’s a place that captures the essence of the Caribbean without the crowds or commercialization.
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Things to do in Anguilla
Shoal Bay East: barefoot luxury, without the crowds
Stroll Shoal Bay East: Spend a relaxed morning or afternoon walking along Shoal Bay East, one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of sand. Along the way, stop into casual beach bars for a rum punch—each one slightly different, and all part of the experience.
Spend the day at Sunshine Shack: Settle in for a fun, laid-back beach day at Sunshine Shack on Rendezvous Bay, where grilled lobster, ribs, and cold drinks are served right to your lounger. It’s the kind of place where you can linger for hours—swimming, playing cornhole, and listening to atmospheric reggae music.
Be outside for sunset every evening: Sunset in Anguilla is something to plan around. Whether you’re on the beach, at a casual bar, or sitting down for dinner, the shifting light and colors are not to be missed.
Explore the island’s beaches: Anguilla is known for its variety of beaches, each with its own character. Spend time moving between them to experience how different each one feels—from lively stretches to quieter, more secluded coves.
Discover local restaurants beyond the resorts: Anguilla has a strong independent dining scene, and it’s worth venturing beyond resort restaurants. From casual roadside spots to more refined local favorites, the food is consistently high quality and deeply connected to the island.
Swim in the clearest water you’ll find anywhere: The water in Anguilla is remarkably clear and calm, making it ideal for long, easy swims. Whether you’re wading in from the beach or floating just offshore, it’s one of the simplest—and most memorable—parts of being there.
Take a sunset sail on Traditions: Head out on Tradition Sailing Charters for a sunset sail along the coast, where the island looks especially beautiful from the water. With a small group, a relaxed pace, and a drink in hand, it’s a memorable way to experience Anguilla at the end of the day.
Places to eat & drink in Anguilla
Effortless, toes-in-the-sand dining along Meads Bay Beach
Ben’s Pit Stop: A roadside spot on the east end of the island serving unfussy but excellent French food. It’s relaxed and consistently delicious—one of those places you return to for its simplicity and quality.
Straw Hat: A great choice for lunch right on Meads Bay, with fresh, well-prepared dishes and an unbeatable beachfront setting. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a long, relaxed midday meal.
Four Seasons Resort: Head here in the early evening for drinks and light bites in a beautiful, contemporary setting. The views are stunning, offering a slightly more elevated contrast to the island’s more casual beach bars.
Village Bakehouse: A perfect stop for breakfast or to pick up provisions for the day. The banana bread, pastries, and fresh loaves make it easy to put together simple sandwiches to take to the beach.
Artisan Pizza: Easily the best pizza on the island, and well worth returning to more than once. While takeout is an option, it’s best enjoyed on-site, where the setting is charming and atmospheric.
Gwen’s Reggae Grill: Best experienced on a Sunday, when live reggae music and barbecue create a lively atmosphere right on the beach. It’s casual, fun, and a true reflection of the island’s local energy.
Elodia’s: An ideal lunch stop during a day on Shoal Bay East, known for its fresh, satisfying salads and relaxed beachfront setting. It’s a welcome balance after a morning in the sun.
Jacala: A go-to when you’re in the mood for something more refined without losing the relaxed feel of Anguilla. The food is consistently excellent, making it one of the island’s standout dining experiences.
Need to know
Getting to Anguilla typically involves flying into St. Martin and taking a short ferry or boat transfer to the island, though there are a limited number of direct flights from the U.S. The extra step is well worth it—and part of what helps preserve Anguilla’s quieter, less commercial feel.
It’s a good idea to make restaurant reservations, even if just earlier in the day, especially during peak season. The island’s best spots are relatively small and can fill up quickly.
Anguilla is best suited for travelers who appreciate a slower pace. There isn’t a long list of activities—and that’s exactly the point. The draw is the beaches, the water, and the simplicity of spending your days outdoors.
Renting a car is essential for getting around and exploring the island’s different beaches and restaurants at your own pace. It gives you the flexibility to experience more than just where you’re staying.
And finally, a fair warning: Anguilla has a way of setting a new standard. The combination of natural beauty, ease, and understated authenticity tends to stay with you—and can make other tropical destinations feel a bit less compelling by comparison.
Travel Advisor
Anne Bettesworth
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Anguilla page.