We’re sure this is going to cause a heated debate, but according to Travel + Leisure magazine, Anguilla is the best island in the Caribbean. Top-notch resorts and hotels, world-class dining, stunning beaches, and traditional Caribbean hospitality are just a few of the reasons the magazine’s readers voted the island number one for the third year in a row.
There’s no doubt that Anguilla is beautiful, so could T+L be on to something? Our favorite jetsetters love island-hopping the Caribbean chain, and we do too. If you’ve been looking for a new tropical getaway to add to your escape list, check out a few of our useful tips so you can decide for yourself whether Anguilla is worthy of the crown. Something tells us you won’t be disappointed.
01
When To Go
Anguilla is an island that is notorious for their endless summers. There’s never really a bad time to visit the destination, but if you want to avoid the crowds and inflated prices, skip peak season in December through April and opt for going between May and August instead. Not only will there be fewer crowds, but you’ll find great package deals and avoid the brunt of hurricane season.
02
How to Get There
The main airport in Anguilla is Clayton J. Lloyd International (AXA). There are no direct flights to the island so you’ll most likely have to connect through another island like Puerto Rico. While visas aren’t required for most countries (check rules for your individual passport), your passport will still need to be valid for six months beyond your arrival date, and you’ll need proof of an onward or return ticket. Depending on your departure destination and time of year, flights can be as low as $400 roundtrip and go up into nearly $1000 for economy.
03
Where to Stay
Resorts reign supreme on the island and properties like Malliouhana certainly set the standard, but they aren’t cheap and can cost nearly $1000/per night. If you’re traveling with a group or simply looking for a more budget-friendly option, check out Airbnb. You can rent entire guesthouses for as little as $165/per night, and if you still crave a little luxe, Airbnb has glamorous villas for rent for as little as $695/per night, which is affordable when split amongst friends.
04
Island Hopping
Anguilla is certainly paradise, so it’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to leave, but if there is one “must” on a trip to the island, it’s hopping over to neighboring islands. Ferries to nearby hotspots like St. Barths and St. Maarten leave regularly and can have you in another country in about an hour. The ferries range in price by company, but in general you can expect to pay from between $20 to $90 USD (plus Anguilla departure taxes), so do your research and be prepared. If you’re not interested in day-tripping it to another country, you can still escape Anguilla’s mainland and head six miles northwest to Prickly Pear Cays for mouth-watering lobster lunches, shipwreck diving, snorkeling, and more amazing beaches.
