Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the Eastern Caribbean, embodies the quintessence of island paradise with its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and world-class dining. This charming island is known for its laid-back vibe and scenic beauty, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Here are 17 of the best things to do in Anguilla that will ensure an unforgettable travel experience.
### 1. **Relax on Shoal Bay East**
Widely regarded as one of the world’s best beaches, Shoal Bay East offers miles of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
### 2. **Explore Sandy Island**
A short boat ride from the main island, Sandy Island is a small cay where you can enjoy excellent snorkeling, sunbathing, and indulge in fresh seafood at the quaint beach bar.
### 3. **Visit The Heritage Collection Museum**
Learn about Anguilla’s history and culture at this museum founded by Colville Petty OBE. The collection includes Arawak artifacts, maps from the colonial era, and photographs documenting Anguilla’s past.
### 4. **Dine at Blanchards Beach Shack**
For a casual yet delicious dining experience by the sea, head to Blanchards Beach Shack. Enjoy Caribbean flavors with dishes like grilled mahi-mahi or jerk chicken tacos.
### 5. **Take a Sunset Cruise**
Experience a breathtaking Caribbean sunset aboard a catamaran cruise around Anguilla’s waters. It’s also a great way to see some of the island’s secluded beaches and coves.
### 6. **Snorkel at Little Bay**
Accessible only by boat or via a rope down a cliff edge, Little Bay is an intimate beach spot known for its vibrant marine life and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
### 7. **Stroll Through the Valley**
The capital of Anguilla offers visitors a glimpse into local life with its colorful architecture, small shops, and friendly cafes where you can sample local coffee blends.
### 8. **Visit Wallblake House**
Explore Wallblake House in The Valley — it is one of Anguilla’s oldest surviving plantation houses and now serves as both a religious center and historical site.
### 9. **Enjoy Live Music at Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve Bar & Grill**
Bankie Banx’s legendary beach bar made mostly from driftwood is famous for its live music sessions featuring reggae beats that perfectly complement the ocean backdrop.
### 10. **Swim with Dolphins at Dolphin Discovery**
For an unforgettable experience with marine animals, Dolphin Discovery offers several programs where you can swim alongside these intelligent creatures.
### 11. **Play Golf at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa*
Designed by Greg Norman on Rendezvous Bay facing St Maarten’s mountains across the sea; this lush course pairs challenging play with breathtaking vistas – perfect for golf enthusiasts!
### 12. **Paddleboarding at Meads Bay**
Paddleboarding on Mead’s crystal clear waters provides not only exercise but also serenity while floating over serene blue seas under sunny skies – truly therapeutic!
### 13**Sample Local Cuisine***
From roadside BBQs serving succulent ribs chicken accompanied by johnny cakes coconut bakes larger restaurants offering gourmet options like crayfish lobster curry every meal promises delight your taste buds!
14**Art Galleries Visit***
Check out various local art galleries showcasing works primarily from Caribbean artists These works often reflect vibrant colours island life itself offering unique souvenirs artwork collectors alike
15**Hike Katouche Cave***
Adventurous souls can explore Katouche Cave (also known Ayers Cave), which hosts plethora pre-Columbian petroglyphs amid lush tropical vegetation – perfect eco-tourists historians alike!
16**Day Trip Prickly Pear Cays***
These uninhabited islands lying northwestern part offer pristine conditions diving fishing just relaxing pure nature Contact tour operators arrange day trips here
17**Nightlife Sandy Ground Village***
After sunset turns lively various bars clubs come alive music dancing last well into night Whether choose quiet corner sip cocktails more active dance floor there something everyone here
Whether it’s lounging pristine beaches exploring rich history partaking exciting activities Anguillan truly offers numerous ways make vacation memorable From natural beauty cuisine culture there no shortage wonderful experiences be had this enchanting Caribbean gem!