Anguilla: Hidden Charms Off the Caribbean’s Beaten Path

The Crayfish

Let's start by getting something straight: On Anguilla, you don't call this supersized crustacean a lobster; you act like a local and casually refer to it as a crayfish. And while you can find plenty of traditional lobster on menus across the island, it's this local crayfish—technically a Caribbean spiny lobster—and its sweet, tender meat that's a true island treat.

The Beaches

It's hard to choose a favorite among the dozen or so of Anguilla's 33 white-powder sand beaches I visited. Since every beach is public, visitors can explore them all while appreciating the subtle distinctions between the shades of aquamarine and azure in each of the island's 22 bays. On multiple occasions, Travel Channel has recognized Anguilla's Shoal Bay as the best beach in the Caribbean and even the world.

The Art Scene

Anguilla's pleasures are simple: Most revolve around the beach, the water, and relaxation. Casinos and designer boutiques just aren't part of the equation. But if you're looking for a little island-inspired shopping, you can find small art galleries sprinkled around the island, showcasing everything from driftwood art to locally crafted jewelry.

The Local History

On an island this small, everyone has a story. Chat with locals and you'll get colorful tales of the island and its history. For instance, ask about the conch-shell-studded walls that line Scilly Cay—the small islet and daytime beach bar—and you'll hear the tale of local conch fishermen who would deposit their leftover shells in exchange for a cold afternoon beer. Talk about a thriving local economy.

The Beachfront Dining

Never has beachfront dining seemed both so appealing and so practical. Many of the island's best beaches have ocean-side cafes and restaurants, some upscale, others a little more than glorified shacks. All offer restrooms, breezy shade, local seafood, and cold drinks. Many spots also offer live music by local musicians in the evenings. Sample the scene at da'Vida (with a more formal restaurant as well as a laid-back beach bar), Smokey's at the Cove, or any of the dozens of other beachside spots.

The Hotels

You won't find high-rise hotels on Anguilla, but there are still plenty of options to suit a variety of budgets. From rustic and affordable ocean-side bungalows to super-swanky upscale digs, the one thing you're sure to get at almost any property is a great beach. Checking around, I found beachside hotel rates as low as $136 per night in the slower summer season and about $200 during the busy winter months. Visitors looking to spend less should check out non-ocean-front apartment-rental options, which can cost as little as $100 per night.

When you're doing the hotel math, keep in mind the value-boosting perks at the more upscale properties. Many rooms at the Viceroy, for example, have kitchenettes and common spaces, and families will find plenty of value in the resort's free kids' club that runs every day between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (evening activities for kids are available for a fee).

The Nightlife

Visitors and locals alike know that on Anguilla, evenings are best spent dancing in (or at least very near) the sand. Beach bars like the Dune Preserve, Smokey's at the Cove, and Elvis' Beach Bar mix live local music and Caribbean cocktails in just the right measures to get everyone dancing. If staying up late isn't part of your vacation plan, you can dance the day away on Sundays out on Scilly Cay or at one of the beachside cafes and restaurants along Shoal Bay.

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