What to Do in Anguilla: A Guide to the Most Beautiful Places in Anguilla

Anguilla is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet, and for very good reason. I’ve taken and expanded upon a recent press release from my friends over at Jesson & Co. to help you discover an absolute gem in the Caribbean. Here are some of the most beautiful places in Anguilla for you to visit on your next trip.

Anguilla, the Caribbean’s “hidden gem” destination, is beloved by travellers for its offering of true peace and quiet, luxurious resorts, delicious cuisine, and exciting excursions. Of course, with 33 white sand beaches, unspoiled nature, and some seriously jaw-dropping properties, it is perhaps not surprising that the destination has been popping up more and more on the feeds and “For You” pages of social media.

You won’t have to look hard to find photo-worthy vistas in Anguilla, but with our little guide, you may not have to look at all.

A Brief Introduction to Anguilla

Anguilla is a small island territory in the eastern Caribbean, located north of Saint Martin and east of Puerto Rico. It is part of the British Overseas Territories, and its capital and largest town is The Valley. The island has a total land area of just 91 square kilometres and a population of around 15,000 people.

As a cyclist, it’s been a dream destination of mine for ages, and I’ve actually written about cycling in Anguilla or those who are interested. It also ranks number one on my list of beautiful places in the Caribbean to visit!

The official language of Anguilla is English, and the island has a unique culture that is influenced by its African, European, and indigenous Carib heritage. It’s known as a very friendly place overall, and for those interested, the island has a lively music scene (largely reggae, soca, and calypso.)

Let’s Start With Some of the Most Photogenic Spots in Anguilla

Anguilla has to be up there for one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I mean, who doesn’t love turquoise water and white, sandy beaches, right? Here are a few spots to consider on your visit.

Sandy Ground

While Anguilla may be known and loved for its overall quiet atmosphere, Sandy Ground is where the action is.

This beach is buzzing with energy: sailboats come and go, grills sizzle with fresh seafood, and live music from the many beachside restaurants fills the air. Despite the relative bustle, the beach is exactly what you’d expect from Anguilla, with sugar-fine white sand and an incredible view of the endless blue of the Caribbean horizon.

There’s so much to add to your feed in Sandy Ground: foodies can photograph a delectable serving of Anguillian barbecue, the locals are always happy to pose for a quick snap, and the sunset is in a league of its own.

Anguilla's Arch

Gracing the cover of many a tourism pamphlet, this undeniably scenic spot in Anguilla’s West End village is easily accessible by both bike and car. A natural limestone arch juts from the green shoreline as the vivid cerulean waters lap at its foundations below.

Set to undergo a beautification project in 2023, visitors can look forward to informational signage and a new guardrail, among other improvements. While there are amazing ocean view vistas almost everywhere in Anguilla, the Arch adds an eye-catching geographic element sure to please any photographer. The contrast of the sea both below and behind you provides an incredible background.

Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel

Maundays Bay. Photo Credit: The Anguilla Tourism Board

Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, is a dazzling property, an ocean-facing collection of Moorish-style villas hugging the white-sand crescent of the picturesque (and public!) Maundays Bay.

If you’re staying at the property itself, the opportunities for intrepid photography are straightforward: simply head to the stargazing balcony of your villa (or any of the magnificently appointed common areas) and start snapping. Views from their event pavilion are amazing!

If you’re staying anywhere else, it’s still absolutely worth it to make time for an afternoon lounging on Maundays. The quality of the beach is otherworldly, and the outcroppings on either side of the crescent are ideal locations for getting that perfect blue backdrop. Appreciators of architecture will have a field day taking pics with the resort at their back.

Shoal Bay East

You’ll need a waterproof device for this one, of course, but the results are well worth the extra preparation. The reefs below the placid waves of Shoal Bay East are some of the finest in Anguilla, with clear conditions and calm currents making navigation and photography a cinch.

A vibrant underwater world awaits you here: large schools of Blue Tang dart amongst Parrotfish, Butterflyfish, and the occasional Hawksbill Sea Turtle! The colourful corals here are an attraction in their own right but be careful not to disturb them: this is, after all, a living ecosystem.

This is another accessible spot to do some winning wildlife photography as you can bring your own gear and depart right from the shore. It also certainly doesn’t hurt that Shoal Bay itself is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean!

Little Bay

A small, secluded secret carefully guarded by “those in the know”, Little Bay is a postcard-perfect cove that is only accessible by boat or the adventurous hiker.

Book an inexpensive charter and head over for an afternoon and you’ll quickly discover why there’s no better place in Anguilla for a private beach photoshoot. White sands aside, the waters of Little Bay are also teeming with tropical fish, offering something for camera-toting snorkellers as well.

Perhaps the most dynamic shot you can take here is in mid-air: swim out to the large rock and take the plunge - as Lebron James famously did during his 2018 Anguilla vacation.

What Are Some Other Places Worth Visiting on This Beautiful Caribbean Island?

The Valley: This is the obvious choice to add here because you’ll want to spend some time wandering around Anguilla’s capital. It's a charming town with colourful buildings and a lively market that a lot of visitors enjoy. Consider a visit to the courthouse and library, and keep your eyes open for unique art galleries and shops.
Prickly Pear Cay: Another nearby island that's great for snorkelling and beachcombing. You can take a boat tour to explore the island and enjoy a barbecue lunch on the beach if you’re up for it!
Heritage Collection Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Anguilla, with exhibits on the island's indigenous people, colonial past, and modern-day culture. It’s a good place to start because you’ll have context for the rest of your visit.
Meads Bay Beach: Another gorgeous beach, Meads Bay is known for its long stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Crocus Bay: This picturesque bay is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. It's a spot that attracts folks prioritizing activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle-boarding.
Barnes Bay: This quiet beach is known for its calm waters and soft sand, and it's a very pleasant spot for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Island Harbour: This small fishing village is located on the eastern side of the island and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. You can can watch the fishing boats come and go, or appreciate the colourful houses and atmosphere by exploring a little.

Where Should You Stay in Anguilla?

I’ve created a map for you below to take a look!

Anguilla Awaits

Beyond its beaches, there’s outdoor activities aplenty, delicious food like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and plantains, a warm and relaxed environment, and some seriously friendly folks. It’s hard to be upset on one of the most beautiful islands on the planet.