Anguilla Beaches

Above: The beach at Cap Juluca

Regardless of your children’s ages and swimming abilities, you’ll discover that one of Anguilla’s best assets is its beaches. Miles of shining sand pave the perimeter of this island, which is often cited as one of the top beach destinations in the Caribbean (with good reason). The atmosphere at the various beaches varies from playful to placid. Regardless of which beach you select, the mood is friendly and low-pressure.

A few beach vendors are found on the island’s busiest stretch of sand, Shoal Bay, but even here the sales are very low-key and you’ll be able to enjoy undisturbed sunbathing all afternoon. Shoal Bay is a true classic, one of the best in the Caribbean. Nearly chalk white sand stretches for two miles. Shoal Bay has the most typical “beach” atmosphere in Anguilla, with casual eateries sprinkled along the sand. Beach chairs and umbrellas are rented by the day for a few dollars. This beach is a terrific choice for a family day of fun in the sun. Young swimmers generally find the water calm, and snorkeling is excellent on the northeast end of the beach.

Other good beach choices include Sandy Ground, stretching alongside the community of Sandy Ground (a favorite with boaters, windsurfers and water-skiers, so not the best choice for those with young swimmers), Rendezvous Bay (great for beachwalking), Maundays Bay, the beach at Cap Juluca (good for beachwalking).

A good adventure is to take a boat out to one of the many cays and islets surrounding Anguilla. Check with boat operators for a day trip to Prickly Pear Cays or Sandy Island, both known for their snorkeling, or for a unique experience load up everyone for a day trip to one of the uninhabited islands: Anguillita Island, Sombrero Island, or Dog Island. A boat can drop you for a full day’s excursion, most departing from Sandy Ground. Bring along a picnic lunch and feel like Swiss Family Robinson.

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