With 33 beaches to choose from, Anguilla is the ideal spot for a beach break. From the powdery sands of Shoal Bay East, to the tranquil waters of Meads Bay, the beaches here are just what you imagine when you think of the ideal Caribbean getaway.
Despite being a relatively small island, Anguilla has an impressive variety of beaches too, from secluded coves and perfect snorkelling spots, to busier beaches with bars and restaurants overlooking the water. Here’s our guide to the beaches in Anguilla to help you decide where to go on your next trip.
The Best Beaches in Anguilla
Shoal Bay East
Shoal Bay East is one of Anguilla’s most well-known beaches, with powder-soft white sand and turquoise waters that look straight out of a postcard. An excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling, or just sunbathing and going for a paddle, you can make this spot exactly what you want to. There are sunloungers to rent, as well as beach bars and restaurants should you fancy something to eat or drink.
Meads Bay
Meads Bay is the perfect all-rounder beach and is located on the West End of the island. There are plenty of high-end resorts and restaurants near here, so it’s well worth making a stop here either for a full day, or as part of a wider outing. Some of the best dining spots include Blanchards Restaurant and Beach Shack, Jacala Beach Restaurant and Straw Hat – favoured by locals and tourists alike. Whether sunbathing, snorkelling or swimming, you’re guaranteed a great day out here.
Rendezvous Bay
Rendezvous is another beach in Anguilla, with a long stretch of white sand and views towards St Martin. Calm Caribbean waters here make it perfect for families or those that want a relaxing swim. Be sure to visit at sunset where you can get a cocktail from the nearby Sunshine Shack and enjoy one of the most scenic experiences on the island.
Maundays Bay
Maundays Bay is sometimes thought of as a more luxurious beach. It continuously ranks highly for the top beaches in Anguilla and for good reason. Home to myriad upscale resorts, it’s in a particularly beautiful setting, ideal for soaking up the atmosphere and beauty of the Caribbean. From sunset strolls in the sand, to snorkelling the calm waters, it’s a must-visit spot to add to your itinerary.
Little Bay
Little Bay is one of Anguilla’s most secluded beaches, with a small, hidden cove ideal for snorkelling. Its exclusivity is what makes Little Bay so coveted. Only reachable by boat, you can charter your own or book someone to take you. From here, you can spend your day swimming, sunbathing and just enjoying how calm and remote it feels.
Crocus Bay
Crocus Bay is often cited as one of Anguilla’s most pristine spots, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the island without the crowds found at some of its more popular beaches. Tucked beneath the island’s highest point, this sheltered stretch of soft white sand is backed by clear, calm waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Spend a leisurely day here dipping in and out of the Caribbean Sea, exploring the colourful marine life beneath the surface or simply stretching out on the shore with a good book. For a little more adventure, you can also hire a boat to take you across to Little Bay too.
Sandy Ground
Sandy Ground is one of Anguilla’s liveliest spots, combining the laid-back island charm Anguilla is known for, with a buzzing waterfront atmosphere. Once a simple fishing village, it’s now a favourite for its collection of restaurants, beach bars and spots overlooking the water. Head down for fresh seafood, rum punch and a front-row seat to some spectacular sunsets, where you can watch the yachts that have moored up and just soak up the atmosphere and great vibes.
Best Beaches in Anguilla for Different Travellers
When it comes to the best beaches in Anguilla, each offers something for different travellers.
- Best for swimming: Meads Bay, Shoal Bay East
- Best for snorkelling: Shoal Bay East, Little Bay, Crocus Bay
- Best for couples: Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay
- Best for families: Meads Bay, Shoal Bay East
- Best for luxury: Maundays Bay, Meads Bay
- Best for sunsets: Rendezvous Bay
- Best for a quieter beach day: Barnes Bay, Long Bay
- Best for beach bars: Sandy Ground, Rendezvous Bay
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to snorkel, swim, watch the sunset or simply stretch out on powder-soft sand, the beaches of Anguilla make it easy to find your own slice of paradise. No matter if you find your perfect spot on day one and choose not to explore anywhere else, or if you use this guide to adventure round all the different beaches in Anguilla, you’re guaranteed to love something about each place you come across. Find out more about Anguilla here.
