HelloMondo / Anguilla
Planning a trip to Anguilla? Discover the stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious resorts of this tropical paradise! Explore now.
We suggest to plan a 4 days trip to Anguilla
Aerial view of the western part of Anguilla behind the national flag. The Blowing Point ferry terminal is visible in the lower right. Photo: © Roy Googin
Located in the Caribbean, Anguilla is a stunning British overseas territory known for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, this tropical paradise offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the island’s rich history and culture, indulge in delicious Caribbean cuisine, or simply soak up the sun on one of its many luxurious beaches.
Visit the famous Shoal Bay beach, renowned for its powdery sand and calm waters. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear!
Immerse yourself in Anguilla’s vibrant music scene by attending a live performance at one of the local beachfront bars or restaurants.
Compare best tickets and activities offered by:
| Capital | The Valley |
| Time in Anguilla (United Kingdom) | GMT -4 |
| Language spoken | English |
| Population | 15,000 (2021, World Bank) |
| Religion | Christianity (90%) Other religions (10%) |
| Currency | Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) |
| Airports | Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport |
Anguilla is a breathtaking destination in the Caribbean that remains relatively undiscovered. With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, Anguilla offers a truly authentic Caribbean experience. Its rich history and warm hospitality make it a must-visit for travelers seeking a unique and relaxing getaway.
Anguilla is located in the eastern Caribbean, to the north of the Leeward Islands. It is part of the Lesser Antilles and is situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Anguilla is famous for its stunning beaches, including Shoal Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Meads Bay. The island is also known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing in the crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind and soak up the sun on the pristine white sand beaches.
The island of Anguilla, characterized by its stunning coral reefs and serene white sand beaches, has a history dating back to the Arawak people, who migrated from South America. These indigenous tribes, notably the Ciboney and later the Taino, settled on the island and left behind petroglyphs and artifacts that reveal a lot about their ways of life and their deep connection to the sea.
Anguilla’s course was forever changed in the early days of European exploration. Christopher Columbus, though never landing on Anguilla, named it “Anguilla” in 1492, after the Spanish word for “eel”, due to its elongated shape. However, it was the English who first tried to settle on the island in 1650, attracted by its potential as a source of salt.
Despite initial attempts by the indigenous and later European settlers to resist, by the late 17th century, Anguilla was firmly under British control. The English introduced sugar plantations, which required a vast workforce. This led to the importation of enslaved Africans to work on these plantations. For almost two centuries, the island’s economy thrived on this dark chapter, with slaves enduring harsh conditions and subjugation.
With the abolition of slavery in 1834, Anguilla entered a period of economic hardship. The plantations became unsustainable without a slave workforce, leading to their gradual decline. Former slaves became small-scale farmers or fishermen, but economic opportunities remained limited. The late 19th century saw some improvement with the growth of the shipbuilding industry, providing a much-needed boost to the island’s economy.
The early to mid-20th century was marked by emigration. Many Anguillans sought opportunities abroad, especially in the neighboring islands and the UK. In 1967, Anguilla expressed its strong desire to secede from the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla association, leading to a brief revolution. Ultimately, in 1980, Anguilla became a separate British Overseas Territory, granting them greater autonomy.
In recent decades, Anguilla has transformed into a premier luxury tourist destination. Its pristine beaches, coupled with its vibrant local culture, have attracted visitors from all over the world. Today, while its history remains an essential part of its identity, Anguilla looks to the future with optimism, building on its strengths as a unique Caribbean gem.
When visiting Anguilla (United Kingdom), there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy:
Anguilla (United Kingdom) hosts various events throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant culture and traditions. Some of the notable events include:
The best time to visit Anguilla (United Kingdom) is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the island experiences pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). The skies are generally clear, and rainfall is minimal, ensuring optimal conditions for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. However, it’s worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and popular attractions may be more crowded.
Alternatively, the shoulder seasons of May to June and November can also be a great time to visit. The weather is still enjoyable, and the crowds are smaller, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience. However, there is a slightly higher chance of rain during these months.
The summer months of July to October are considered the off-peak season due to the higher chance of tropical storms and hurricanes. While this may deter some visitors, it’s worth considering for budget travelers or those looking for a quieter experience. Despite the potential for rain, Anguilla still offers plenty of indoor activities and opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Anguilla (United Kingdom) is definitely worth visiting for those seeking a luxurious beach getaway in a pristine tropical setting. The island offers stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The local culture and hospitality of Anguilla are truly remarkable, with friendly locals who are always willing to share their stories and traditions. The island also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisines.
However, it’s important to note that Anguilla is a small island with limited attractions and activities compared to larger, more developed destinations. While there are plenty of water sports, beach lounging, and cultural experiences to enjoy, those looking for a bustling nightlife or extensive shopping options may find Anguilla lacking in these areas.
Overall, Anguilla offers a unique and intimate Caribbean experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. It may not be the ideal destination for every traveler, but for those looking to unwind and soak up the sun on some of the world’s most stunning beaches, Anguilla is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.