Anguilla is a part of the Leeward Islands which are the northern part of the Lesser Antilles islands.  They are all a part of the British West Indies which is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean Sea. Anguilla is approximately 14 miles long, 3 miles wide, and 35 square miles.  You can see some of its neighboring islands from its beaches.  These islands separate the northern Atlantic Ocean from the Caribbean Sea to the south.  As you can see, Anguilla has memberships in several categories.  The United States is northwest of these islands and South America is to the southwest.   The Valley is its capital and one of Anguilla’s fourteen districts.

What is Anguilla known for?

Anguilla is known for having the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.  It also houses coral reefs and there is a lot of sailing.  It also known for its many open-air cafes and beach bars.  Some of them have been the backdrop of movies.  We know our movies. 

Is Anguilla safe in 2025? 

Anguilla is considered to be the safest out of all of its neighboring islands.   The locals have issues with crime, but usually, the tourists are safe.   Just as anywhere, you must be careful since you are not as familiar with the area as the locals.  There are incidents where teenage gang members have territorial fights, but this is not aimed at the tourists.

What’s the weather like?

Awesome.   Anguilla is ranked as having the best climate of all of the islands.    Anguilla is hot all year and the temp range is from 73 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit or 23 to 30 degrees Celsius. The breeze from the sea helps to bring the temp down during the hot periods. 

Anguilla has experienced its share of tropical storms, hurricanes and waterspouts.   The waterspouts are tornados over the sea and they do not touch the land and are pretty interesting to watch.  The hurricanes have caused great damage in the past to structures on the island.  Anguilla was badly damaged by Hurricane Irma in 1995, but later built concrete versus wooden structures and this has helped significantly.  Don’t be discouraged, the hurricanes are infrequent, but just so you know, hurricane season is from June to November, so plan accordingly.  Tourists are still encouraged to visit during this time since there is a remote chance that you will experience one, so it is up to you.

 What is the best time to visit Anguilla?

Anguilla’s official tourist season is during the winter from December to April.  It has great temps and it is dry.  There is also more action with festivals and other activities so it can get packed, so get your lodging and airfare reservations early .   Also keep in mind that, if there is a hurricane, if you visit from May to August, you will miss the worst period of the hurricane season.   Since the fall and summer seasons are less busy, you can get better prices.  It’s up to you.

Which travel agencies are best for planning a trip to Anguilla?

Here are five highly rated travel agencies for Anguilla, selected based on popularity, cost-effectiveness, and customer reputation:

1. Vincent Vacations  – Known for personalized service and good package deals.

2. Tully Luxury Travel  – Specializes in bespoke luxury vacations to Anguilla and other Caribbean destinations.

3. Liberty Travel – Offers budget-friendly travel planning with a strong local network.

4. Carimar Travel Services – Great for luxury accommodations and tailored experiences.

5. Traveloni – A U.S.-based agency with strong reviews for Caribbean destination planning, including Anguilla.

Each offers a mix of curated experiences and helpful support, whether you’re booking your entire trip or just local tours.

What's the best places to live Anguilla?

Anguilla is not called a resort town, yet it has several resorts.  There are many upscale hotels in the area. 

 Zemi Thai Beach House

it is on Shoal Bay on the east end of the island.  It houses the Stone Restaurant which serves the seafood directly from the sea.  It also has a spa.  Prices range from $421 to $440. 

Quintessence Hotel

It is a nine room ultra luxury establishment with incredible views of the sea.  Prices start at $750 a night. 

Frangipani Beach Resort

It is on Meads Bay Beach.  Prices range from $415 to $506 a night. 

Four Seasons Resort and Residence

Used to be the Viceroy Hotel and is located between Meads Bay and Barnes beaches.  Prices average $825 per night. 

Looking for more options or better deals? Explore our interactive hotel map below to find your perfect stay in Anguilla.

What to do in Anguilla?

It’s all about the beaches! You can swim, snorkel, kayak, and stand-up paddle on most of the beaches. Meads Bay is very popular for these types of activities. You can also lounge, eat and drink in the many open-air bars, cafes, and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive island-hopping experience, you can also join a Full-Day Catamaran Sail to Prickly Pear Cays from nearby St. Maarten. This 7.5-hour sailing tour includes a stop at Prickly Pear Island and even a swim stop off an Anguillan beach on the way back. [Reserve now & pay later – from $135 per person.]

Here are other fun things to do:

The Anguilla National Trust

It offers walking tours cost for $50 per person and can take you anywhere on the island. Since 90 percent of the island is private, locals can take you on the less beaten tourist paths. 

Water tour

companies like Gotcha Garfield Sea Tours will take you to the areas that you can’t get to on land.  These trips last anywhere from 2 hours to half a day.  These tours allow you to swim and snorkel in areas like Little Bay.  Average prices are $95 to $265 per ride.

For a more personalized experience on the water, consider booking the Anguilla Full-Day Private Speedboat Excursion. This 7-hour tour lets you speed through crystal waters, snorkel with tropical fish, or relax on a remote beach—all with a private guide. [Free cancellation & flexible booking available.]

Get the spa treatment

At places like the hammam (steam room), hang out in their tropical gardens afterwards, and then come out feeling like a million bucks.   Prices range from $85 to $490.

Go horseback riding on the beach  

Sea Side Stables can pair you with the perfect horse which gives you another way to enjoy the area.    Prices range from $80 per person (3 person minimum)  for an hour ride;  full moon ride for $150 per person.  Pony rides are also available for $20 for 15 minutes, $50 for 30 minutes. 

If you’re staying nearby in St. Maarten, don’t miss the Underwater Sculpture Park Snorkel Adventure at Little Bay. This 1.5-hour guided tour takes you to a breathtaking new eco-attraction featuring over 300 reef sculptures. Gear, flotation devices, and refreshments are included.

How do you get around in Anguilla?

Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Anguilla. While the island is small, it’s spread out, and traveling on foot can be exhausting and time-consuming. Interestingly, many taxi drivers also double as some of the best local tour guides. You can find taxis at Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA), the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal, or arrange a pickup in advance.

Anguilla’s currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), with a fixed exchange rate of $1 USD = 2.70 XCD. Taxi fares are metered, and a typical one-way ride costs around EC$20, which is roughly $7.40 USD.

Car rentals are also available, starting at about EC$54 (approximately $20 USD) per day. To drive in Anguilla, you’ll need a temporary driving permit, which costs $27 USD and is valid for three months. Just present your valid driver’s license to obtain one. Keep in mind that roads can be rough and poorly marked, and driving is on the left side, British-style—another reason why many travelers opt for taxis instead.

The island’s ferry

It can take you on a 25-minute ride to St. Martin-St. Maarten for one day.   Boats leave from Anguilla's Blowing Point dock three times a day.  You will pay approximately EC$54 or $20 USD going one way. The last boat leaves St. Martin’s dock at 7 pm to return to Anguilla.  In addition to the base fare, you will also be accessed a departure tax of EC$53.60 or $20 US Dollars as well as an extra security fee.  This adds up so be prepared.  

Is Anguilla good for nightlife?

Anguilla’s night life takes place in its many open air bars and cafes and beach bars.  It is a down-to-earth and casual type of atmosphere.  So you can eat, drink and view the beautiful sea at the same time.  Honorable mentions include the Dune Preserve in The Valley, Johnno’s Place on Sandy Ground Beach, and Gwen’s Reggae Bar & Grill on Schoals Bay Beach.  The bars close anywhere from 7 pm to 11 pm. 

How expensive is Anguilla?

Anguilla is considered to be the second most expensive of its neighboring islands.  Hotel prices can range from $285 to $900 compared to Santo Domingo which averages $43 per night.   Airfare and other prices follow the same suit.  You can buy a good meal for breakfast, lunch and dinner from $5 to $50 per person depending on the restaurant.

In conclusion, even though it is a bit pricey, if you can afford it, Anguilla is a great place to relax and just chill in 2025.  It has incredible views of the Caribbean, beautiful beaches with white sand, good temps, good food, good people and good feelings.    It’s all good!  We say go for it!