Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Anguilla offers a treasure trove of high-end experiences for the discerning traveller. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled luxury offerings, the island presents a diverse array of activities that promise an unforgettable holiday. This guide outlines the top 10 things to do in Anguilla, each promising a luxurious and memorable experience.
Related Best Beaches in Anguilla
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Anguilla offers a treasure trove of high-end experiences for the discerning traveller. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled luxury offerings, the island presents a diverse array of activities that promise an unforgettable holiday. This guide outlines the top 10 things to do in Anguilla, each promising a luxurious and memorable experience.
Discover The Island’s Stunning Beaches
Anguilla is renowned for its pristine, white-sand beaches, each offering a unique allure. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a water sports enthusiast, or simply a lover of natural beauty, the island’s beaches are sure to captivate your senses.
Rendezvous Bay
Rendezvous Bay is a paradise for beach lovers. Its tranquil, turquoise waters and impossibly fine white sands create a picture-perfect setting for relaxation. Lined with some of the island’s best resorts, including Frangipani Beach Resort, named among the best resorts in the Caribbean by T+L readers, this beach offers an exclusive and luxurious beach experience.
Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay enchants visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Recognized as one of Anguilla’s top destinations for snorkeling, Shoal Bay frequently attracts marine life enthusiasts who often spot stingrays, swarms of fish, and even the occasional sea turtle here.
Engage in Luxury Water Sports
With the azure Caribbean Sea as its playground, Anguilla is a haven for water sports. From kite surfing to sailing, the island offers an array of high-end water activities for adrenaline seekers and leisure lovers alike.
Kite Surfing with Anguilla Watersports
Break up a long afternoon on the beach with kite surfing lessons at Anguilla Watersports. The island’s balmy breezes make it the perfect place to try this exhilarating sport. With lessons and equipment rentals available for everyone, from first-timers to professionals, this is an excellent way to add an adventure twist to your luxury vacation.
Sailing with Tradition Sailing Charter
Set sail on a classic West Indian sloop with Tradition Sailing Charter. Recommended by both locals and visitors, this is an exceptional way to explore Anguilla’s coastline in style. Opt for a sunset cruise for a memorable experience, complete with delicious cocktails and Caribbean bites served onboard.
Embark on a Culinary Journey
Anguilla has earned a reputation as a culinary haven in the Caribbean. The island boasts a rich culinary scene, with excellent options ranging from local Caribbean fare to international cuisine.
Roadside Barbecue
Experience the local cuisine at one of the many roadside barbecue spots in Anguilla. The delicacies on offer include chicken and ribs, rice and peas, and Johnny cakes. As Shannon Kircher, a long-time Anguilla resident and marketing director of the award-winning, family-run Frangipani Beach Resort, says, “Locals, expats, tourists — everyone will be there. Inexpensive and amazing, it’s always a go-to.”
Fine Dining at Luxury Resorts
Indulge in a lavish dining experience at one of Anguilla’s luxury resorts. Whether you’re craving Italian, French, Mexican, or Caribbean cuisine, you’ll find a plethora of exquisite dining options. One must-try is Sharky’s, owned and operated by an Anguillan chef who serves elevated takes on island favorites from his own home.
Experience the Rich Cultural Heritage
Anguilla’s rich cultural heritage is a tapestry of historical and contemporary influences. From its Amerindian past to its British colonial heritage and vibrant local customs, the island offers a wealth of cultural experiences.
Visit The Heritage Collection Museum
Immerse yourself in the island’s captivating history at The Heritage Collection Museum. Here, you can explore the island’s evolution over the centuries through a rich array of artifacts, exhibits, and historical accounts. The museum is an excellent way to learn about the island’s indigenous history, colonial past, and contemporary culture.
Explore Historic Sites
Anguilla’s landscape is dotted with reminders of its past. Explore historic sites such as the Wallblake House, an 18th-century plantation house that offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Or visit the Old Factory, a historic building that once served as a general store and trading center adjacent to Anguilla’s cotton gin. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and heritage.
Related 10 Best Luxury Villa Rentals for Your Family Vacations
Revel in Anguilla’s Vibrant Music Scene
Anguilla’s music scene is a lively blend of local and international influences. From beach bars to clubs, live music is an integral part of the island’s nightlife.
Enjoy Live Music at Sandy Ground
Sandy Ground, one of the island’s most popular nightlife destinations, is the perfect place to enjoy live music. Venues such as Lit Lounge offer live performances and delicious cocktails, creating an electric atmosphere.
Visit Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve
For a unique musical experience, visit Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve on Rendezvous Bay. Hosting live music multiple nights per week, this venue was named the world’s best beach bar by CNN. Often, Bankie Banx himself takes to the mic, adding a personal touch to the performances.
Indulge in Luxury Spa Treatments
Anguilla is home to several luxury villas offering a wide range of high-end spa services and treatments. Indulge in a rejuvenating massage, a revitalizing facial, or a relaxing body treatment to enhance your vacation experience.
The Spa at Four Seasons Resort and Residences
The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla offers an oceanfront spa with an infinity pool and treatment rooms within earshot of the waves. Their services blend international techniques with local traditions, offering a unique spa experience.
Zemi Thai House Spa
For a unique spa experience, visit the Zemi Thai House Spa. Located within an authentic 300-year-old Thai house, this spa blends Southeast Asian treatment styles with local Taino traditions.
or plan in villa spa treatments with Haute Retreats vacation planners.
Visit Offshore Cays
One of the unique things to do in Anguilla is to visit the offshore cays. These tiny islands offer unspoiled beauty and tranquillity, making them a must-visit during your Anguilla vacation.
Scrub Island
Scrub Island is a beautiful, uninhabited island located off the eastern tip of Anguilla. Known for its rugged terrain, clear waters, and beautiful beaches, it’s the perfect place for a day trip.
Sandy Island
Sandy Island is a small cay located off the north coast of Anguilla. Known for its picturesque beach and excellent snorkeling opportunities, it’s a popular destination for day trips.
Golf at Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
For golf enthusiasts, visiting the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is a must. This recently revamped, Greg Norman-designed, 18-hole championship golf course offers a beautiful excursion, thanks to its oceanfront location and spectacular views.
Visit The Historic Sites
Anguilla’s rich history is reflected in its multitude of historic sites. Visit the Wallblake House, an 18th-century plantation house, for a peek into the island’s colonial past. Explore the Old Factory, now a historical site, which once served as a general store and trading center adjacent to Anguilla’s cotton gin.
Celebrate Anguilla’s Carnival
Experience the vibrant culture of Anguilla by joining in the summer carnival celebrations, known as Anguilla Summer Festival. Stretching from late July through early August, the festival includes boat rides, beach parties, parades, and concerts. Plan your trip to coincide with “August Monday” to experience the height of the festivities.
In conclusion, Anguilla offers a range of high-end experiences for luxury travellers. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and unparalleled luxury offerings, the island promises an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Anguilla is the perfect destination for a luxurious and memorable vacation.
