Anguilla

Overview

Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the northern part of the Lesser Antilles, made up of one main island and a handful of smaller, uninhabited islets. Unlike its volcanic neighbors, Anguilla is a flat, limestone island with no mountains or rainforest, but it more than makes up for it with an exceptional collection of beaches. Tourism is the island's main source of income, and as a result Anguilla remains one of the calmest, least crowded destinations in the Caribbean, where understated luxury and simple island life sit comfortably side by side.

The capital, The Valley, has a small-town feel and colonial-era buildings that give a sense of everyday island life, while nearby Wallblake House is one of the island's surviving 18th-century plantation homes. Shoal Bay East and Rendezvous Bay rank among the finest beaches in the Caribbean, with fine white sand and turquoise water. The limestone cliffs and caves around Little Bay can be explored by kayak or boat, offering a good look at the island's rugged coastline.

With healthy coral reefs and clear water, Anguilla is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, and its coastal waters are home to sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. The uninhabited islets of Prickly Pear and Sandy Island make for excellent day trips, often reachable only by boat, with secluded beaches to enjoy. Local cuisine leans heavily on fresh seafood, with spiny lobster a particular favorite, and the island is also known for its relaxed beach bar culture and flavorful barbecue traditions.