Alongside the endless opportunities for relaxation, Anguilla is all about adventure too. It's a superb choice for scuba-diving, surrounded by coral reefs and technicolour undersea worlds. Whether it's your first time in a wetsuit, keen to learn the ropes, or you're a highly experienced diver globetrotting around the world's best sites, Anguilla is up there with the best of them. You can also enjoy surfing, kite surfing and kayaking, whilst boating is so deeply embedded in Anguilla's culture, it's the national sport. Do as the locals do and set sail on the gentle tropical waters, perhaps stopping for a private picnic or jumping in for a snorkel to remember.
At the super-chic and nautically-inspired
Malliouhana, set on the gorgeous Mead's Bay, you can choose from a whole host of aquatic activities - from kite surfing and waterskiing, to 'Lucid Paddleboarding' by moonlight and the incredibly popular 'Catch n Cook' experience. During the latter, you will join a friendly local expert for an afternoon of sea fishing, before feasting on a chef-prepared seafood dinner using your hard-earned catch of the day!
While the Anguillan coast is legendary, the island also promises plenty to explore away from the shore. Scenic nature hikes will show you the island's hidden gems, wonderful wildlife (particularly birds!) and diverse scenery, with routes traversing mangrove forests, coastal valleys and even old sugar plantations. If you stay at the fabulous
Four Seasons Resort Anguilla, they can arrange an array of alfresco adventures to help you get the most from your time on the island - whether cycling, horse-riding or rock climbing.
First inhabited in 2,000 BC by a South American fishing tribe, Anguilla (then known as Malliouhana) also boasts a fascinating history and rich heritage. Evidence of the tribe's spirituality was discovered in the remains of their ceremonial caves, enlightening us to their worship of the deity named Juluca, who brought luck to all those who ventured from the shores out to sea. The first Europeans arrived towards the end of the 15th century, and today, Anguilla mains a British overseas territory. Uncover this diverse history by exploring some of the island's most storied sites. Begin at the Big Spring Heritage Site with its 1,000-year-old petroglyphs, before discovering the Old Valley Well, the Ebenezer Methodist Church, the Warden's House (Koal Keel), the Old Court House, Sandy Ground, Road Pond, and Wallblake's Plantation House.
As a seafaring nation, with a thriving boat-building industry, it is no surprise that boat racing is the national pastime and passion in Anguilla, with events taking place throughout the year and especially on public holidays. The biggest Boat Racing competition is held on Anguilla Day, May 30, the island's National Day, when handcrafted, brilliantly painted boats take off from Sandy Ground! Our concierge team can arrange sailing trip around the island with the wonderful Tradition Sailing. Head to enchanting offshore cays, stopping to snorkel and refuel with local cuisine, or head out at sunset for pure romance and amazing views.
With its laid-back island vibe, glorious beaches and air of exclusivity, there's nowhere quite like Anguilla for a romantic retreat or dream honeymoon. Sip Champagne whilst overlooking perfect white sands, cycle together along the captivating coastline, or escape to a teeny, private bay only accessible by boat, where you can sip local rum punch, sample freshly caught lobster or simply flop on the sands and relax. Private boat trips can be easily arranged for a sunset cruise (or even popping the big question?!), whilst our luxury hotels also offer plenty for couples to pass the time. Set on magical Maundays Bay,
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel is blissful for lovers. Choose a private pool suite, complete with your own secluded, freshwater swimming pool, before experiencing complete harmony with a couple's ritual at the luxurious spa, or getting closer over a private candlelit dinner on the beach.