12 Best Beaches in Anguilla – Experience Caribbean Paradise

Anguilla is a paradise untainted by time, where turquoise waters kiss the powdery white sands, palm trees sway in the gentle breeze, and the sun paints a different masterpiece in the sky each day.

This island gem in the British West Indies is a haven for beach lovers, boasting some of the Caribbean’s finest beaches. In this guide, we’ll discover the 12 best beaches in Anguilla.

From world-renowned stretches of pristine coastline to secluded coves waiting to be discovered, each beach tells its own tale of tropical allure. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a water sports enthusiast, or someone seeking the solace of a serene retreat, Anguilla’s beaches have something for everyone.

To further enhance your beach escapade, we’ll also guide you to beachfront accommodations ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

Ready? Let’s set sail to the enchanting beaches of Anguilla...

12 Must-Visit Beaches in Anguilla

1. Shoal Bay – The Crown Jewel

Picture a beach so stunning that it’s regularly voted among the world’s best. Imagine powder-soft white sand and luminous turquoise waters so clear that you can see your toes as you wade into the inviting Caribbean Sea. This is Shoal Bay, Anguilla’s crown jewel and a beach-lovers paradise.

Shoal Bay offers a serene, laid-back vibe that is hard to resist. Here, you can do as little or as much as you like.

Fancy a lazy day basking in the sun? There’s plenty of unspoiled beach for you to claim as your own.

Feeling a bit more active? The underwater world off Shoal Bay is teeming with vibrant marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.

But the appeal of Shoal Bay extends beyond its natural beauty. It also boasts a range of beach bars and restaurants that serve up delicious local cuisine and refreshing tropical cocktails. Imagine ending your beach day with a mouthwatering lobster dinner and a sundowner as you watch the sky change colors at sunset.

2. Rendezvous Bay – The Ultimate Caribbean Experience

Next on our list is Rendezvous Bay, a beach that offers the ultimate Caribbean experience. It’s an expanse of sugar-white sand that stretches for nearly two miles, kissed by gentle waves of the bluest sea you can imagine. But it’s not just the scenic beauty of Rendezvous Bay that will take your breath away.

This beach offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, while the long, wide beach is great for leisurely strolls. Along the beach, you’ll find a scattering of beach bars and restaurants where you can sample Anguillian hospitality and cuisine.

As the day fades, Rendezvous Bay puts on one of the best sunset shows in Anguilla. As you watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple, you’ll realize there are few places as enchanting as Rendezvous Bay.

3. Meads Bay – The Perfect Combination

If you’re seeking a perfect combination of tranquillity and luxury, Meads Bay is the beach for you. Renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, this crescent-shaped beach is an enticing beauty that radiates under the Caribbean sun.

Its serene ambiance is enhanced by the azure sea that gently caresses its shoreline. The water is calm and shallow, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. If you’re a fan of water sports, you can also enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking.

What sets Meads Bay apart is its selection of high-end resorts, villas, and world-class restaurants, all seamlessly blended into the natural environment. They offer exceptional services, ensuring that every visitor experiences the best of Anguillian hospitality. From alfresco dining to spa services right by the beach, Meads Bay guarantees an unforgettable luxury beach experience.

4. Sandy Ground – The Liveliest Beach

If your idea of a great beach experience involves lively entertainment and bustling nightlife, then Sandy Ground is your best bet. Known as the entertainment capital of Anguilla, this beach is where you’ll find the island’s most vibrant nightlife.

By day, Sandy Ground is a boater’s paradise, with its sheltered bay providing the perfect anchorage for yachts. The beach itself is a delightful stretch of soft, golden sand that is perfect for sunbathing or beach games. Casual eateries and beach bars line the shore, offering a variety of food and drink options.

As the sun sets, the beach transforms into the island’s party central. Live music emanates from the beach bars, and the atmosphere is filled with energy. From impromptu dance-offs to friendly chat with locals, Sandy Ground promises a unique beach party experience that will leave you buzzing with excitement.

5. Maundays Bay – The Most Picturesque

For the most picturesque beach in Anguilla, look no further than Maundays Bay. With its jaw-dropping beauty, this beach seems to have leapt straight out of a postcard. It’s a spectacular stretch of powdery white sand curving around a stunningly clear turquoise bay.

The water at Maundays Bay is calm and shallow, ideal for swimming or wading. The beach offers an unspoiled setting perfect for relaxation. You can simply lie back on the soft sand and let the gentle rhythm of the waves lull you into a blissful daydream.

The beach is home to Cap Juluca, a Belmond hotel, which enhances the luxurious feel of this location. Here, you can enjoy a perfect beachfront lunch or indulge in a sunset cocktail while taking in the mesmerizing views. Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a nature lover, Maundays Bay promises to leave you awestruck with its breathtaking beauty.

6. Little Bay – A Hidden Treasure

If you crave adventure and exclusivity, Little Bay is the beach to visit. Nestled amidst towering cliffs, this secluded beach is a hidden treasure in Anguilla. Accessing Little Bay is an adventure in itself – either by boat or for the more adventurous, a climb down a rope on the cliffs.

The first thing you’ll notice is the jaw-dropping beauty of the surroundings. The pristine turquoise waters encircled by impressive cliffs create a unique ambiance of seclusion and tranquility. The beach itself is a small stretch of sand, making it feel like your private piece of paradise.

Snorkeling here is a surreal experience. The clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. If you’re lucky, you might even spot sea turtles and stingrays. Remember, Little Bay isn’t just a beach; it’s a memory you’ll carry for a lifetime.

7. Cove Bay – An Underrated Charm

Stepping onto the sands of Cove Bay feels like uncovering an underrated gem. Often overlooked by tourists, this beach is an idyllic location for those looking to escape the crowds.

The beach offers a long stretch of pristine white sands, kissed by gentle, lapping waves. The cool, clear waters of Cove Bay make it a great spot for swimming. The view from the beach, of St. Maarten’s mountains looming in the distance, is a delightful sight.

A notable feature of Cove Bay is Smokey’s, a popular beachfront restaurant known for its delicious local cuisine. So, after a relaxing swim, treat yourself to a delightful Anguillian meal while listening to live music.

8. Barnes Bay Beach – Your Private Paradise

If privacy is what you seek, then Barnes Bay Beach is just the right spot for you. This secluded beach on the western coast of Anguilla offers an intimate retreat from bustling tourist areas.

The beach’s soft, powder-white sand and clear turquoise waters will leave you mesmerized. Swimming here is a tranquil affair, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to unwind and relax in complete serenity.

Just adjacent to the beach are high-end villas and resorts, making Barnes Bay an upscale escape. If you want to experience luxury and privacy, then Barnes Bay Beach is the place to be.

9. Crocus Bay Beach – Where Tranquility Meets Elegance

Crocus Bay Beach is a hidden gem that exudes an unmatched sense of tranquility. Its clean, sandy shores and clear blue waters are breathtaking. It’s the perfect location for those who want to avoid the crowds and indulge in peace.

The sea here is ideal for swimming and snorkeling due to its calm waves. And with the beach facing the west, the sunset views are nothing short of spectacular, offering the perfect end to a relaxing day.

Nearby, you’ll find fine dining establishments and elegant villas. In essence, Crocus Bay Beach is where tranquility meets elegance.

10. Island Harbour Beach – A Glimpse into the Authentic Anguillan Life

For a glimpse into authentic Anguillan life, head over to Island Harbour Beach. Nestled on the island’s eastern side, this beach is known for its active fishing scene and vibrant community vibe.

The beach is unique with its combination of smooth sands and pebbly areas. It’s delightful to watch the local fishermen hauling in their daily catches here, as the children play on the beachfront.

There’s an array of local restaurants around the area where you can savor fresh seafood. Island Harbour Beach is indeed a cultural treat!

11. Captain’s Bay Beach – Anguilla’s Hidden Treasure

The secluded Captain’s Bay Beach is a hidden treasure that promises an adventurous experience. Located on the northeastern tip of Anguilla, the beach is somewhat difficult to access, but the journey is worth the reward.

The rugged terrain leading to the beach gives way to stunning, untouched beauty – an uncrowded sandy stretch framed by towering cliffs. The waves can be quite strong, making it a paradise for surfers.

However, it’s important to be cautious when swimming, as there are no lifeguards. With its untamed beauty and isolated setting, Captain’s Bay Beach promises a uniquely thrilling beach experience.

12. Junk’s Hole Beach – The Pristine East End

Last, but certainly not least, Junk’s Hole Beach in the pristine East End of Anguilla offers a secluded, relaxing spot to unwind. The beach is distinguished by its warm, shallow waters and powdery white sand, making it perfect for long, leisurely dips and beach walks.

The beach’s remote location lends it an off-the-beaten-path feel that’s perfect for travelers seeking solitude. There’s also a famous beach bar nearby, known for its divine rum punches and delicious barbecue.

FAQs About Best Beaches in Anguilla