Anguilla is the serene, sun-washed jewel of the British West Indies – the kind of island that grabs hold of your heart cos of its chill island vibes, soft white sand and the some of the bluest waters you would have ever seen! In a world crowded with large cruise ships and bustling beach resorts, Anguilla still feels intimate and unspoiled, offering travelers a mellow but unforgettable Caribbean escape. I have been twice and it still remains to be my favorite Caribbean island so far. 

How to get there and getting around ?

How many days ?

Where to stay ?

For a small island, Anguilla has an impressive collection of luxury hotels from iconic beachfront resorts to boutique hideaways that feel deeply personal. Whether you want full-service glamour or barefoot elegance, here are a few I always recommend:

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla 

Sleek, modern luxury perched between two of the island’s best beaches, with three stunning pools and some of the most beautiful private villas in the Caribbean. Four Seasons Anguilla have some of the best luxury villas on the island, perfect for a family or friends group. We stayed here on our recent visit and loved it, more in my blog post here. 

Belmond Cap Juluca 

Iconic white-washed domes lining Maundays Bay, effortlessly romantic and timelessly elegant. The property occupies all of Maundays Bay, giving it a very secluded feel.

Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club 

A sprawling resort experience on Rendezvous Bay with a championship golf course, expansive grounds, and great family appeal. We stayed here in 2017 when it used to be Cuisinart, but it has hence been rebranded and is now better than ever. 

Zemi Beach House 

Boutique beachfront charm on Shoal Bay with a serene spa and a more intimate, design-forward feel. We stayed here in 2017 and absolutely loved it, more in my blog post here. 

Malliouhana 

The grande dame of Anguilla, set dramatically above the sea with panoramic views and a refined, old-school Caribbean soul.

Best Beaches :

With 33 beaches wrapped around this tiny island, Anguilla is widely considered to have some of the best beaches in the Caribbean and some of the best in the world. The beauty? Every single beach is public and yet its still sooo empty. You can rent chairs, settle in for a long lunch, and spend the entire afternoon anywhere you choose. Explore them slowly by car or better yet, see the coastline from the water on a boat tour.

These are my seven must-visits on the island in no particular order : 

Shoal Bay East

Frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches (and my personal favorite not only in Anguilla but in my fave beaches in the world) , Shoal Bay East is a long, dazzling stretch of powder-white sand and electric turquoise water that truly stops you in your tracks — the kind of beach you compare every future beach to. 

Rendezvous Bay

A wide, sweeping shoreline with views of St. Martin in the distance and some of the calmest water on the island since its on the Caribbean side.

Maundays Bay

Perfectly crescent-shaped with calm, glassy water and iconic white domes lining the shore, this one feels polished and postcard-ready.

Little Bay

A dramatic cliff-lined cove only accessible by boat, kayak, or a short hike down – secluded, stunning, and perfect for snorkeling.

Cove Bay

Laid-back and serene, with gentle waves and plenty of space to stretch out and unplug. We did a beach horseride here with Seaside Stables Anguilla and it was so magical. 

Barnes Bay

Quiet and understated, Barnes Bay is ideal for a peaceful swim away from the crowds.

Meads Bay

Another world’s best beauty, Meads Bay blends soft sand, stunning sunsets, and some of the island’s best beachfront dining.

Favorite eats :

Anguilla is often called the culinary capital of the Caribbean  and for good reason. For such a small island, the dining scene is wildly impressive, blending barefoot beach shacks with refined oceanfront restaurants. Fresh seafood, bold Caribbean flavors, and sunset cocktails are basically a daily ritual here. A few faves I recommend : 

Travel Tips & Vibes

• Safety: Anguilla is routinely ranked among the Caribbean’s safest islands, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
• Island pace: Nights roll on island time here – slow, easy, and with breezy beach bars humming well after sun-set.
• Dress code: Beachwear stays on the sand; skirts and light dresses make perfect town outfits.
• Best time to go : Nov – April is the best time to visit!

Why Anguilla Belongs on Your Bucket List

There’s a reason travelers return again and again – Anguilla has not lost its soul. In a region where many islands have grown busy and built-up, Anguilla remains effortlessly refined yet deeply authentic. It isn’t a flashy Caribbean playground and each of its 33 powder-white beaches feel like your own private escape. And once you experience it, you’ll understand exactly why Anguilla isn’t just a trip – it’s a place you come back to. Its exactly why we went back and certainly know we will be back soon enough.

Thanks for stopping by! xoxo

Jyo