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Top 5 Beaches in Anguilla & 1 Hidden Gem + Interactive Map
- Truvhana
- Jul 18
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 16
In honour of Anguilla being voted the Best Island in the Caribbean by Travel + Leisure, I thought it was the perfect time to highlight what makes this small but stunning island so unforgettable: its beaches. Known for its laid-back charm, luxury stays, and seriously photogenic coastline, Anguilla is a favourite among travellers seeking barefoot elegance without the crowds. The island may be just 16 miles long, but it packs in over 30 pristine beaches, each with its own personality; some lively and social, others quiet and secluded.
As someone from the Caribbean, beaches have always been more than just a backdrop; they’re a way of life. I’ve fallen in love with the rhythm of the waves meeting the shore, the quiet peace they bring, and the effortless beauty they hold. Whether I’m seeking stillness or inspiration, the beach is where I feel most at home. Whether you're in it for the calm turquoise waters, beach bars with reggae beats, or that first early morning walk along powdery white sand, Anguilla has a stretch of shoreline that speaks to every kind of traveller. From the iconic Shoal Bay East to the party venue Sandy Ground, here are the beaches that made me fall in love with Anguilla, one wave at a time. By the way, these are in no particular order, just the beaches that left the biggest impression on me during my time in Anguilla.
Shoal Bay EastÂ
If you’re a beach lover who dreams in shades of blue, Shoal Bay East will have you mesmerised and barefoot in bliss. It's the kind of beach that belongs on a magazine cover, but better, because you get to feel it. The sand is soft and white like sifted flour, and the water? A spectrum of turquoise that changes with the light.
But Shoal Bay isn’t just a pretty face. You’ll find beach bars, live music, and plenty of loungers to relax for the day. This beach strikes a gorgeous balance between natural beauty and lively charm. It’s the kind of place where a quick dip turns into an all-day affair, and where sunset always arrives too soon.
Meads BayÂ
There’s something about Meads Bay that makes you slow down. Maybe it’s the silky waves, the perfectly spaced palm trees, or the quiet elegance that lingers in the air. During my Anguilla escape, I stayed at Tranquility Beach, a boutique hotel that offered relaxed luxury and made me feel effortlessly at home.
The waters are calm and ideal for long swims, and a host of nearby restaurants serve up dishes flavourful and as stunning as the views. Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo beach day, unwinding with a cocktail in hand, or simply basking in the sun, Meads Bay delivers that peaceful reminder that you’re right where you’re meant to be.. It’s polished, it’s peaceful, and it’s perfect for couples, solo travellers, or anyone who wants to treat themselves.
Rendezvous BayÂ
Rendezvous Bay feels like one big exhale. With its long stretch of soft sand and laid-back atmosphere, this beach invites you to kick off your shoes, let the sun kiss your skin, and just vibe. The views of St. Martin in the distance remind you that paradise doesn’t end at the shoreline; it just flows from one island to the next.
This bay is one of the best for a long beach stroll, and the waters are gentle enough for a stress-free swim. There’s a calmness to it that you feel deep in your bones. Add to that a rum punch and live reggae drifting from the famous Dune Preserve, owned by Bankie Banx, and you’ve got a beach day straight out of a Caribbean dream. If you’re looking for serenity with a side of soul, Rendezvous Bay is it.
Crocus BayÂ
Crocus Bay is a peaceful retreat tucked beneath one of Anguilla’s steepest points, adding a dramatic perspective to its already captivating scenery. It’s the kind of beach that draws you in for a peaceful swim, a gentle paddle, or an unhurried walk along the shore.
One of the most memorable aspects of Crocus Bay is its connection to Little Bay, a secluded cove accessible only by boat or by descending a rope down the cliffside. It’s a short but rewarding journey for those seeking a sense of discovery and stillness. This beach is ideal for travellers who appreciate nature’s quiet charm, with just enough adventure to keep things interesting. As the sun begins to set and the cliffs are bathed in golden light, Crocus Bay reveals a softer, more contemplative side of Anguilla.
Sandy Ground Beach
If Anguilla had a heartbeat, you’d feel it pulsing through Sandy Ground Beach. During the day, this harbour front beach is calm and welcoming, perfect for a seaside lunch or catching the fishing boats as they roll in. But when it’s time for a celebration, Sandy Ground transforms into the ultimate beach party setting.
August Monday, one of Anguilla’s biggest summer events, transforms Sandy Ground into a full-on celebration of Caribbean culture. Imagine the sounds of reggae and soca filling the air from DJs and live bands, while food vendors offer beloved island dishes full of flavour. It’s the kind of event that starts early and carries on well into the night, and you won’t want to miss a moment of it. Whether you’re here for the music, the atmosphere, or just to lime with locals, Sandy Ground during August Monday is a must do!
Bonus Beach- Elsie Bay
Tucked away from the usual beach trails, Elsie Bay offers a quiet kind of magic. It’s not featured in every guidebook, and that’s part of its charm. What sets it apart is its delicate blush-pink sand, a subtle but striking detail that feels wonderfully rare in the Caribbean. Paired with its secluded setting, the beach invites stillness and reflection.
This is the kind of place made for quiet moments, a peaceful solo escape, an intimate picnic, or simply a pause to breathe deeply. When I visited, there were no crowds or background music, just the rhythmic pull of the waves and the soft soundtrack of nature. If you’re looking for an experience that feels personal and untouched, Elsie Bay is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most memorable places are the ones that whisper rather than shout.
Before you leave, take a piece of Anguilla home!
If you’re anything like me, sometimes a beautiful beach memory deserves more than just a photo. If you’d like a keepsake that captures the magic of Anguilla’s shores, check out Anguilla Sands & Salts.
They craft custom-made souvenirs using sand collected by request from various beaches across the island. From delicate keychains to mini bottles and display pieces, each item is a beautiful, minimalist reminder of your time in paradise. The best part? Their process is designed to have minimal impact on the beaches, so you can take a piece of Anguilla home without harming the natural beauty that makes it so special.
So, whether you're chasing adventure, craving calm, or just need a place where time slows down and the sea speaks your love language, Anguilla has a beach for that.
