ANGUILLA
Anguilla
For an idyllic island escape, Anguilla offers a mesmerising Caribbean paradise, with warm cerulean waters and pearly stretches of sand. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty, the island’s shores feature crescent-shaped bays, hidden coves, enchanting cays, and mystical caves, all inviting visitors to bask in their tranquil allure
WRITER: RACHEL CARR | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
Apicturesque gem in the Caribbean, Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory that captivates visitors with its exceptional and serene natural beauty.
Part of the Lesser Antilles, the island is known for its secluded beaches and stunning sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. As the northernmost jewel of the Leeward Islands, Anguilla has predominantly flat topography, punctuated by the striking Crocus Hill, its highest point offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands.
Renowned for its powdery white sand beaches that stretch endlessly along the horizon, Anguilla’s shores are kissed by crystal-clear turquoise waters that shimmer under the tropical sun.
Crafted from coral and limestone, the island’s coastline creates a unique ecosystem that nurtures a diverse array of flora and fauna, enhancing the island’s natural charm. Mangrove forests protect shorelines, and dry forests feature prickly pear cacti.
Embark on a guided bird tour to discover some of the territory’s 130 species, including raptors, herons, waders, and waterfowl, or explore its offshore cays that are a
crucial spot for attracting nesting seabirds. Organised by the Anguilla National Trust, each tour emphasises environmental preservation and responsible tourism. Experience aquatic adventures and escapades with water sports or secure a private charter to encounter the many coves and caves dotted across the island.
Night kayaking unveils a surreal, magical adventure, gliding through tranquil waters aglow with ethereal phosphorescence. An unobstructed canopy of twinkling constellations and silvery moonlight illuminates this nighttime wilderness.
During the languid days, immerse yourself in azure waters as you snorkel through the enchanting sea caves of Scrub Island, where marine life dances amongst the coral formations.
Alternatively, sail to the shores of Sandy Island, where you can indulge in a sumptuous lobster lunch against swaying palm trees and the gentle sound of waves, or board a glass-bottomed boat and become enthralled by the colourful creatures gracefully gliding and dancing beneath the surface.
Maybe escape to the uninhabited paradise of Dog Island, a sanctuary for myriad tropical birds that fill the air with their melodic calls, or consider taking a stroll along the scenic paths of Prickly Pear Cays, where you might catch a glimpse of the curious iguanas basking in the sunlight.
Meanwhile, at the heart of the island lies The Valley, Anguilla’s capital and a focal point of culture and community life.
This charming locale pulses with the island’s rich heritage and warm, welcoming hospitality, drawing visitors eager for both relaxation and adventure.
Originally, the Indigenous Arawak people called the island Malliouhana, meaning arrow-shaped sea serpent. It was later renamed Anguilla, meaning eel in Spanish – a reflection of its slender, serpentine shape.
Anguilla’s history is a fascinating tapestry woven from diverse cultural influences, from the original inhabitants to European settlers who brought enslaved Africans in the early 17th century, all of which contribute to its strong identity.
The island is known as the Caribbean’s culinary capital, evidenced by its roadside BBQs, casual beach eats, gourmet restaurants, and upscale dining, showcasing an impressive variety of dishes for a small territory.
Beyond beautiful beaches and delicious food, Anguilla boasts many historical landmarks and events, all enveloped in a laid-back atmosphere and luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway.
Industry Insights
Anguilla Tourist Board
The Anguilla Tourist Board’s Director of Tourism, Jameel Rochester, shares exciting updates and future initiatives to enhance visitor experiences on this stunning Caribbean island. Discover how Anguilla is evolving as a premier destination whilst preserving its unique charm and cultural heritage.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, what recent developments have occurred regarding both Anguilla and the tourist board since we last featured the island?
Jameel Rochester, Director of Tourism (JR): Over the past year, Anguilla has entered one of the most transformative periods in its recent history.
We have officially opened our new Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) terminal, significantly enhancing the arrival experience and positioning the island for increased airlift and long-term growth. This has been complemented by continued improvements to our sea access infrastructure, ensuring smoother and more efficient connectivity across the region.
A significant milestone has been the expansion of direct, convenient air access from key Northeast US markets.
Through our strategic partnership with BermudAir, Anguilla has welcomed new and expanded services from cities such as Boston, Newark, Baltimore, and Washington DC, strengthening our presence in one of our most important source markets and making the destination more accessible than ever for both leisure and business travellers. Equally important has been the continued strengthening of regional connectivity through our local and regional air carriers.
Anguilla Air Services (AAS) has expanded its regional route network to include services to St.
Kitts, complementing the regional connectivity that Trans Anguilla Airways (TAA) has reliably served for over 15 years.
The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) and the Government of Anguilla remain committed to supporting local airline gateway expansion, recognising the critical role these carriers play in improving intraCaribbean access, resilience, and seamless onward connections for visitors.
At the same time, the ATB has been focused on strengthening the overall tourism product. We continue to see sustained investment and innovation across luxury accommodations, worldclass gastronomy, wellness and health tourism, sports tourism initiatives, and the preservation and elevation of our cultural and heritage offerings.
Together, these developments reflect a deliberate strategy to not only grow arrivals but to enhance the quality, sustainability, and authenticity of the Anguilla experience whilst remaining true to the island’s core values and identity.
OT: What specific factors contributed to Anguilla being named the number one island in the Caribbean, the top island for cuisine, and the safest regional destination?
JR: Anguilla’s accolades stem from a combination of authenticity, consistency, and intentional stewardship.
• Unmatched hospitality – Our people are at the heart of our tourism product; the warmth, professionalism, and genuine care Anguillians extend to visitors set us apart globally.
• World-class cuisine – With more than 100 restaurants, from beachside grills to award-winning fine dining, Anguilla offers culinary excellence rooted in local flavours and international innovation.
• Safety and stability – Anguilla remains one of the safest and most peaceful islands in the region, supported by strong governance, community cohesion, and responsible development.
• Pristine natural environment
– Our beaches, marine life, and low-density development ensure a serene and exclusive visitor experience.
These factors collectively deliver the level of excellence that Travel + Leisure magazine and other global publications consistently recognise.
OT: What initiatives or strategies are being implemented to highlight the 3Ps: people, product, and purpose?
JR: We have fully integrated the people, product, and purpose (3P) framework into our 2026 – 2030 strategy:
• People – We are expanding training programmes, industry certification, and destination experience standards; celebrating cultural ambassadors through our recently launched campaigns like
Faces Behind the Experiences; and increasing community tourism initiatives.
• Product – We are enhancing beach infrastructure, upgrading the port and airport experience, expanding our luxury and boutique accommodation offerings, and supporting development of wellness, sports tourism, and cultural tourism assets.
• Purpose – Sustainability, heritage preservation, and community benefits remain core to our mission. We ensure that tourism growth aligns with national development priorities and delivers lasting value to Anguillians.
OT: Can you elaborate on the upcoming roadshows and training sessions? What topics
will be covered, and who will be participating?
JR: Our upcoming ATB Virtual USA Travel Trade Roadshow will take place across the US, Canada, the UK, and select European markets. The sessions will feature:
• Destination training for travel advisors
• Updates on new airlift, experiences, and accommodation products
• Cultural immersion modules
• Sales and partnership opportunities
• Meetings with airline partners, tour operators, and media stakeholders
Participants will include the ATB’s overseas representatives, local tourism partners, hotel executives, and cultural representatives. These sessions aim to strengthen brand awareness, increase conversions, and foster stronger trade relationships.
OT: How is Anguilla using its digital presence to engage potential travellers, and would you consider it a successful revenue stream?
JR: Our digital strategy is built on
storytelling, emotional connection, and analytics-driven marketing. We leverage:
• High-impact social media campaigns
• Destination video content
• Retargeting and conversion focused digital advertising
• Strategic partnerships with influencers and media platforms
• A revamped Anguilla tourism website designed for inspiration and bookings
Digital engagement has become one of our strongest revenue drivers. We are now converting more lookers to bookers, increasing average length of stay, and strengthening brand affinity amongst younger and firsttime travellers.
OT: What features can we expect from the new marina, and how will it benefit the local community and tourism industry?
JR: Planned to open in the coming years, the new marina will represent the latest concept in modern boating and marine facilities and is designed to elevate Anguilla’s appeal within the global yachting and marine tourism sector whilst delivering meaningful benefits to the local community. The new marina will feature:
• Expanded berthing capacity for luxury yachts and mid-size vessels
• State-of-the-art marina infrastructure aligned with international standards
• Duty-free retail, dining, and marine service amenities
• Improved passenger processing and arrival experience
• Enhanced marine security, customs, and port-of-entry facilities
• Dedicated spaces for local operators, charters, and waterbased activities
This framing adds aspiration, positions the marina competitively, and reinforces its role as a strategic
tourism asset rather than just infrastructure.
OT: How is the island planning to continue its tourism growth whilst preserving its culture and environment?
JR: Our approach is rooted in sustainable growth:
• Strict development controls to maintain low density and protect natural landscapes
• Blue and green economy initiatives
• Marine conservation and beach management programmes
• Investments in cultural heritage –festivals, crafts, music, and culinary preservation
• Mandatory environmental and cultural considerations in new tourism projects
• Anguilla’s identity – quiet luxury, authenticity, and natural beauty –remains at the forefront of every decision we make.
OT: Are there any partnerships with other Caribbean islands to enhance regional tourism efforts?
JR: Yes. Anguilla works closely with:
• The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) on airlift, marketing, and sustainability initiatives
• The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) tourism programmes on capacity-building and community tourism
• Regional aviation partners to strengthen multi-island connectivity
• Neighbouring islands for collaborative marketing and twinisland vacation packages
These partnerships enable shared learning, increased visibility, and greater regional competitiveness.
OT: What improvements will the new airport terminal bring for travellers? How will the latest links to the US East Coast via BermudAir enhance connectivity?
JR: The new AXA terminal delivers:
• Increased passenger capacity
• Faster processing times
• Modern security and immigration systems
• Expanded retail and dining options
• A significantly upgraded arrival and departure experience
The introduction of BermudAir’s service connecting Anguilla to Boston, Newark, Baltimore, and Washington DC, via Bermuda marks a major milestone. This reinforces that Anguilla already enjoys direct international access, including a nonstop service on American Airlines out of Miami, for travellers who may not be aware of it.
These new routes further improve East Coast access by shortening travel time, diversifying gateways, enhancing schedule flexibility, and positioning Anguilla more competitively across key North American markets.
OT: Finally, what makes 2026 the perfect year to experience the beauty of Anguilla?
JR: 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year to experience
Anguilla at its most vibrant, authentic, and joyful. The island’s calendar is filled with experiences that celebrate our culture, music, and way of life, offering visitors meaningful opportunities to connect with the heart of the island beyond the beach.
From the electrifying energy of Anguilla Summer Festival (Carnival) – with its parades, music, food, and community spirit – to globally celebrated events such as Moonsplash Music Festival and Welches Fest, 2026 will showcase Anguilla’s rich cultural expression and creative talent in unforgettable ways.
These signature events are complemented by an expanded programme of village festivals, culinary showcases, heritage celebrations, and live music experiences that bring visitors closer to our people and traditions.
Coupled with improved air access, upgraded infrastructure, and refreshed destination campaigns, 2026 offers the perfect balance of relaxation and celebration.
It is a year where travellers can enjoy Anguilla’s world-class beaches and luxury offerings by day, and immerse themselves in culture, rhythm, and community by night – making it an ideal moment to discover, or rediscover, the true spirit of Anguilla.
Tel: +1 (264) 497-2759
info@anguilla-tourism.com
https://www.anguilla-tourism.com
In Focus
ANGUILLA’S CARNIVALS AND FESTIVALS
One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Anguilla Summer Festival and its J’ouvert celebration, full of pageantry and parades, boat races, and fetes –this longstanding tradition is truly unique.
THOUSANDS OF REVELLERS flood the streets from The Valley to Sandy Ground, sashaying to soca sounds – a fusion of calypso music with elements of soul, funk, and reggae – in a vibrant pre-dawn parade. Dance crews from villages across the island don elaborate costumes, competing for the top prize at Parade of the Troupes.
Elsewhere, at Eyes Wide Shut – a spectacular beach fete in Meads Bay – limin’ (gathering with friends) rolls on from one in the morning until sunrise.
Meanwhile, for reggae and culture enthusiasts, Moonsplash Music Festival was created in 1991 by Bankie Banx as Anguilla’s independent music celebration.
Banx is a significant figure on the Caribbean music scene, often referred to as the Anguillan Bob Dylan mixed with Bob Marley, known for a unique blend of reggae, folk, jazz, and rock.
Hosted annually over three days at Dune Preserve in Rendezvous Bay, it showcases a diverse line-up of local
and international talent, with Gregory Isaacs, Chronixx, and Burning Spear all previously rocking the Moonsplash stage.
For a completely different vibe, Festival Del Mar is a vibrant celebration that pays homage to all things nautical, nestled in the picturesque charm of Island Harbour’s historic fishing village.
Over the course of two remarkable days, this festival unites locals and visitors alike, inviting them to revel in live music that echoes through the air, exhilarating swimming competitions that draw cheers from the crowd, and thrilling boat races that beautifully showcase the island’s rich maritime heritage.
More than entertainment, Festival Del Mar offers a profound cultural experience, allowing attendees to delve deeply into Anguilla’s proud seafaring traditions.
Participants can savour a medley of local flavours and immerse themselves in the island’s unique customs, all whilst connecting with the community’s warm, welcoming spirit.
ESCAPE TO PARADISE AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES ANGUILLA
Leave the stress of everyday life behind and discover the ultimate Caribbean retreat. Nestled along Anguilla’s pristine shoreline, our Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Resort offers an unforgettable escape for families, friends, and couples alike.
Wake up to sweeping ocean views from most of our spacious accommodations and indulge in days designed around you. Whether that means exhilarating water sports, serene poolside lounging, or savouring world-class dining, your dream vacation starts here.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR EATING YOUR WAY AROUND THE ISLAND…
Gourmands flock to the Anguilla Culinary Experience (ACE), a five-day food and wine festival celebrating the island’s epicurean roots with high-end dinners, restaurant specials, and BBQ eats prepared by local and international chefs.
FOR THE ULTIMATE HAUTE CUISINE…
Located on a clifftop at Malliouhana Resort, one of Anguilla’s premier properties, Celeste by Kerth Gumbs offers panoramic views of Meads Bay – one of the island’s prettiest beaches – enabling guests to enjoy a romantic, spectacular sunset with a refreshing handcrafted cocktail and an award-winning wine selection.
With elegant décor and a focus on seafood with a global perspective, the menu also features authentic Caribbean flavours.
Do:
FOR FEELING LIKE CARIBBEAN ROYALTY…
Experience the island’s charm in a colourful Moke – a small, open-air means of transport popular on the island. These vintage vehicles are available in
vibrant colours like genip and mango and feature a removable top for enjoying sunsets.
Begin the adventure at Shoal Bay, then drive beneath the Caribbean sun to the stunning natural rock formation, the Anguilla Arch. Don’t forget to stop at the Old Salt Factory and Pumphouse for unique seasoning blends from local artisans, a cherished part of Anguilla’s history.
FOR EXPERIENCING EXCITEMENT…
Boat racing in Anguilla is a beloved tradition that blends the island’s history with music, dancing, and competition. Regarded as a national sport, it played a key role in trading goods in the early 1900s and is integral to Anguilla’s culture.
The racing season starts in April, culminating in major events on Easter Monday and Anguilla Day. The highlight is the August Monday Boat Race during the Anguilla Summer Festival, where boats race around the island in heats. The season concludes with the Champion of Champions Race, featuring the top competitors.
Sleep:
FOR A SUMPTUOUS STAY…
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla epitomises 5-star luxury. Whether staying in a beachfront villa, stylish suite, townhome, or a residence, this accommodation offers unrivalled comfort and breathtaking views of this tropical haven.
The penthouse provides an ocean vista, a private plunge pool, and a full gourmet kitchen, perfect for entertaining, though there is a plethora of other dining options on-site.
FOR A BEACH GETAWAY…
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, is located in Maundays Village Beach and offers a luxurious experience with an outdoor pool, a spa, and a wellness centre. The resort features Greco-Moorish architecture, a private beach, restaurant, and a tennis court, and the championship Greg Norman-designed golf course is just minutes away.
and relax or enjoy daily
and
(264)498-2355 | bellabluanguilla.com | info@bellabluanguilla.com
Perfect for a weekend getaway or a workful week
A modern smart suite to live life a little luxuriously!
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sunrises at Bella Blu. Located in the middle of the highly acclaimed Meads Bay, Bella Blu is a beautiful boutique condominium resort that features beachfront one and two bedroom fully-equipped units, all with modern amenities, elegant furnishings, full size kitchen, in-unit laundry and private balconies overlooking the sea.
Unwind
strolls with exotic pure white sand beneath your toes
swim in the crystal clear blue water of Meads Bay, or enjoy the on-site swimming pool. World class restaurant options provide indulgent breakfast, lunch and dinner choices all within walking distance of your own haven of tranquillity at Bella Blu.
Landmark Attractions
Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay, one of the Caribbean’s premier beaches, features two miles of pristine coastline where relaxation meets adventure. With gentle waves and vibrant coral reefs, the clear waters are ideal for diving, snorkelling, and kayaking, and as a bonus, green sea turtles can often be seen in Shoal Bay East. The peaceful atmosphere invites relaxation, whilst the upper beach offers spirited live music and a variety of restaurants, perfect for social gatherings.
Stoney Bay Marine Park
Stoney Bay, one of the island’s seven marine parks, is a popular diving site where divers can explore the shipwreck and its treasures, including coralcovered cannons and encrusted anchors. In 1772, a ship carrying Franciscan missionaries and valuable cargo sank off Anguilla’s coast, creating an underwater museum that supports thriving reefs and marine life.
Fountain Cavern and Big Spring
Near Shoal Bay, Fountain Cavern National Park houses the Caribbean’s most significant pre-Columbian ceremonial site. This archaeological treasure contains a 14-foot carved stalagmite of Jocahu, the supreme deity of the Indigenous Taino people, dating back over 1,000 years. Whereas Big Spring, in Island Harbour, hosts one of only two known petroglyph (rock carving) sites in Anguilla – the other being Fountain Cavern – featuring over 100 petroglyphs dating from AD 600-1200. Most depict three indentations that may symbolise the faces of local Amerindians.
Getting There and Around
TRAVELLING TO ANGUILLA is convenient as it is easily accessible through flights from North America, Latin America, and Europe, as well as ferries from nearby islands.
Visitors can fly direct into AXA – Anguilla’s only airport – with BermudAir or American Airlines.
From Puerto Rico’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), catch a direct flight to Anguilla in just one hour with Charter Air Direct, or opt for a private air charter.
Alternatively, fly into St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is serviced by most major international airlines. From there, a quick flight to Anguilla is available via local airlines AAS and TAA, through private air charters as well as scheduled flights.
Additionally, the AAS and TAA’s regional route network has services from Antigua, St. Barths and several other Caribbean islands, including St. Kitts, making it easier than ever to embark on an adventure to this tropical paradise.
For ferry services, the public ferry operates eight times daily between St. Martin and Anguilla. Several private companies also offer comfortable, professional ferry services between the two islands.
As a small territory, Anguilla is easy to traverse; indeed, it is possible to drive from one side to the other in 45 minutes. Renting a car and taking taxis are popular choices, with the former being extremely cost-effective and the latter doubling up as an informal tour guide, providing insights and recommendations.
For a more adventurous experience, bicycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) offer access to off-the-beatenpath locations and allow you to enjoy Anguilla’s natural beauty. Whilst cycling can be exhilarating, hills and the heat can be a hindrance, so be prepared.
However, in smaller towns and beach resorts, walking can be pleasant for short distances.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Anguilla is home to the Anguilla Hummingbird, a rare subspecies of the Purple-throated Carib. This small creature is a dazzling sight in the wild and a crucial ecological pollinator, sustaining the island’s delicate ecosystem.
• Anguilla’s magnificent limestone formations, sculpted by the relentless forces of tidal and oceanic activity over millions of years, harbour a treasure trove of fossils that illuminate the intricate connections between lunar cycles and Earth’s geological and climatic history.
• Moko Jumbies, mesmerising stilt dancers of the Caribbean, grace festivals with their enchanting performances. The figures symbolise spiritual guardianship, bridging the earthly realm with the divine, dazzling audiences with acrobatic feats, and embodying resilience and joyful spirit.
• English, which is a widely spoken language on the island, is Anguilla’s official language. However, there is also an Indigenous language of Leeward Caribbean English Creole.
• The island’s official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD); however, US dollars are widely accepted.
• Anguilla’s flag features a Union Jack and a coat of arms with three leaping golden dolphins, symbolising endurance, unity, and strength.
