You’re probably thinking it’s a typo, that I really meant to say Antigua. Because, Anguilla? Well, what could that be? I’ll tell you. Anguilla is a 16-mile island with views of St. Maarten in a not so distant place. This piece of British territory is a diamond in the rough—a haven full of beaches, friendly locals, great food and drink and beautiful sights all around. It has been my vacation spot for two years now, and I am finally getting my feet under the ground. What’s so special? I’m here to tell you.
Food.
There are too many restaurants to try in just one visit, so you’ll definitely have to come back a few more times to get them all! Blanchards is an American owned restaurant with flavorful chicken and seafood for dinner, and the most amazing street tacos for lunch. While it can be a bit expensive (as the rest of the island is), it’s worth every penny. The StrawHat restaurant is another gem—boasting freshly caught fish to traditional Anguillian rice, peas and plantains. The staff is incredibly kind and thoughtful, so they will make your experience great. Veya is a different kind of restaurant, because, quite simply, it’s a tree house! This tree house is American owned as well, and has a bit smaller selection, but is tasty nonetheless. Make sure to try their risotto dish—it doesn’t disappoint. Finally, some of my other top choices include The Sunshine Shack, Dolce Vita, DaVida, Trattoria Tramonto, Mangos and Picante.
Drinks.
Though I am only 20 years old, the legal drinking age on the island is 18. This means I was able to enjoy trying new things I hadn’t before. This certainly doesn’t make me an expert on the subject, but according to my family, there are some pretty good drinks on the island. My favorite frozen drink was definitely from Blanchards lunchtime Beach Shack. According to my older brother, The Sunshine Shack is the best on the whole island. My sister enjoyed her drink from Veya. I guess you’ll have to try them all and let me know what you think!
Beaches.
Anguilla boasts 33 beaches. That’s right. 33 whole beaches, full of white sand, coral reefs and breathtaking views. My family chooses to stay in Mead’s Bay, so quite naturally, it has become my favorite beach. It is normally pretty empty, making it a fun experience, especially compared to a crowded beach like the Jersey Shore. While there aren’t many areas for snorkeling, it is a great beach to relax and ride some waves. Little Bay is another favorite “secret” spot. You can only get to this, well, little, bay by boat. The beach is approximately 20 feet long—pretty darn small. It has some of the best snorkeling on the island, and we even had the opportunity to swim with a reef shark here! My final two favorite beaches include shoal bay (with the whitest sand I’ve ever seen) and crocus bay (it’s a perfect mix of food and beach).
Activities.
For a small island, there is much to do here. If you’re interested in being outdoors like me, you can sit outside on any beach and order drinks, eat food and take it all in. My hotel is unique in the fact that it offers beach water sports including snorkeling, tubing, beach hopping trips, sailing and more. My favorite part of my trip to Anguilla included taking a sunset cruise on a local wooden sailboat—The Tradition. I would highly recommend this trip! It includes delicious appetizers and great company. NatureBoy is just one infamous fisherman on the island, who can help you catch that barracuda you saw swimming past you earlier in the day. Bankie Banx, a local artist, has created his Dune Preserve from the ruins of a previous hurricane, and plays music weekly. It is quite an island experience that I would recommend you must see. It changes your life, really. And finally, the locals know the best hidden activities around the island, so make sure you go and ask them.
Places to stay.
I’m biased, I must admit. Both times I’ve been to Anguilla, I’ve stayed at the same place. But, it has been a more than perfect experience. The FrangiPani Beach Resort on Mead’s Bay has been lovely. It resembles a giant house, and the staff is incredible. You can get your food delivered to your beach chair every single day. I have heard wonderful reviews of Cap Juluca, The Viceroy, Cuisinart, Zemi and more. Some visitors are more interested in private villas off the beach, while others want hotels on the beach. It is completely up to you and your style for what your interests are. For me, food is important. My family loves food—so having the StrawHat restaurant in walking distance is quite perfect.
As you can tell, Anguilla may be a tiny island, but it has anything but a tiny impact. It is beautiful and friendly, and will definitely be a vacation you will remember. Anguilla is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, and it is something I am both excited to brag to you about, and hoping you’ll keep as our little secret.
