Things To Do In Anguilla
Back in 2016, I took a trip “back home.” My dad’s side of the family is from a tiny island called Anguilla. Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the Eastern Caribbean, a 20-minute ferry ride north from Sint Maarten, immediately east of Puerto Rico.
This trip was more of a reflection for me because I hadn’t been back since I was 7-years-old. I was able to reconnect with relatives that I hadn’t seen in years and connect the dots to family stories. We stayed in Sandy Ground majority of the time, but spent time with everyone across the island. A lot of my cousins work at the resorts and we were able to go visit them. Some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches and blue water I had ever seen.
They accept US dollars, but the official currency is the East Caribbean Dollar which is pegged to the US dollar at US$1 = EC$2.68. Supermarket items are priced highly since the majority are imported. Restaurants can be quite pricey and accommodation costs can be steep if you are not staying with family.
Check out a few of the places I visited during my stay:
Zemi Beach House
Zemi Beach has 54 ocean-view rooms, nine villas and two divine infinity pool that sits on a relatively remote stretch of surreally stunning white-sand beach in Shoal Bay East. This is what the resort looks like at night. People use this resort for parties or you can hang out at the restaurant like I did and enjoy the night.
Veya Restaurant
This restaurant is located on the way to Sandy Ground, Veya is like a glamorous treehouse, with tables all around the edge. It’s cool and comfortable and peaceful, looking out at the greenery. My favorite part of dinner began with a bread plate with fantastic johnnycakes, hot and fresh, and a few slices of banana or pumpkin bread. Fun Fact: My cousin Asher has played his live band sessions here.
Dolphin Discovery Anguilla
Dolphin Discovery Anguilla park is located at the Blowing Point beach, located just in the southern coast of the island only twenty minutes away crossing by ferry from the St. Marteen port. Swimming with dolphins at the Dolphins Discovery park is pretty exciting because you can interact and contemplate their behavior in their natural habitat.
Sand Bar
Sandbar is located on the beach in Sandy Ground, one of the most charming fishing villages in the Caribbean and the "sea and sand" theme of the bar envelopes you as you enter. Lots of natural light, unobstructed views of Road Bay with its myriad boats at anchor - coupled with an abundance of trade breezes make this a cool and comfortable spot to enjoy drinks, & dinner. Dining and seating is available inside and also outside on a terrace perfect for watching the day & sun go down. Serving tasty tapas & cool cocktails Monday to Saturday. Live acoustic music on Thursdays at 7:00. Sandy Ground was my favorite “hang out” spot because we stayed with family and walked to the beach each morning.
Viceroy Resort
They have changed their name to the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla. My cousin Deon gave us a tour of this resort and the first thing I spotted were these wooden carved out chairs. The resort has 166 villas and resort accommodations, more than 80% of which overlook the breaking surf and blue horizons of two of Anguilla's 33 spectacular beaches. Relax in the seaside spa. Sample fresh cuisine with those you love, in a place where every sunset is theatrical. Immerse yourself in Anguilla's unique culture and stunning natural beauty as Four Seasons expertise takes the Caribbean to new levels of seaside luxury.
Blanchards Beach Shack
Blanchards Beach Shack is located on Meads Bay in Anguilla. They offer a delicious alternative in a casual, picture-perfect setting. I love going when the sun goes down. It’s the perfect sunset.
