We can hardly believe our trip to Anguilla is over. We had an incredible three nights on the tiny Caribbean island and can see why it’s a favourite vacation spot of celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Sandra Bullock, Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman and Ellen Degeneres. Besides having gorgeous sandy beaches, it’s got a low-key atmosphere, friendly people and the food is amazing! Whether you’re here for a romantic week for two, a girlfriend getaway or family vacation, there is a hotel here for you. We choose 3 of our favourites for every type of traveller.
Who: Luxury Seeker
Where: Viceroy Anguilla
Why: High on style and service, this sophisticated beach resort is a favourite of celebrities for a good reason. Build on a rocky point between the stunning Meads Bay and Barnes Bay, you can’t catch a bad view any time of the day. With 166 types of accommodations to choose from, like oceanfront villas to beachfront suites, every room exudes the sexy style of tastemaker Kelly Wearstler.
In the day the number of activities you can participate in is endless. But if getting bronzed is all you want, it’s perfect for that too. There are three tennis courts, a huge fitness centre, rock-climbing wall and even a basketball court. Fitness is a huge part of the experience at the Viceroy Anguilla, so at least you can feel good knowing you can work off the previous night’s indulgences. After all of that working out, definitely be sure to book time in the luxurious two-story spa. We suggest The World Traveler ($299 for 90 minutes), a leg and facial treatment designed to help you recover from the stresses of travelling. You can also opt for a mini treatment poolside off their Spa Tapas menu. All are under 30 minutes and less than $40. From Moroccan Oil hair and scalp treatments to foot massages, you don’t even have to leave your chaise to get pampered.
When the sun starts to set, you’ll want to grab a seat at the Sunset Lounge, a premium spot for some champagne and sushi. For dinner there are a few options including traditional Italian cuisine at Cobà, where the ocean view is just to die for. Post-dinner the happening place is back in the lounge where you’ll want to grab a cozy couch, and settle in for mojitos and great music spun by the DJ.
Who: Low-Key Lounger
Where: Frangipani Beach Resort
Why: Perfectly located on the gorgeous shores of Meads Bay, this 19-room boutique resort offers guests a tranquil experience. There is more than enough beachfront to enjoy and the beachside infinity pool is a great place to cool off. From simple one-bedrooms to 3rd floor penthouses, there are a variety of room styles to choose from. We suggest booking an ocean view room complete with private balcony or porch, so you can fully enjoy the resort’s prime location.
Another highlight of the resort is their onsite restaurant Straw Hat. On a beachside deck with perfect ocean views, you can enjoy all three meals a day here. Definitely pop in for a pre-dinner cocktail. We enjoyed their tangy tea punch (a spicy version of rum punch).
Who: Restless Romantics
Where: Cap Juluca
Why: With every single room beachfront, including the ultra-luxurious one-bedroom villas complete with a private pool, it’s no surprise this award-winning resort has been named a favourite honeymoon resort on more than one occasion. In addition to the stunning accommodations, onsite you’ll discover an endless array of activities to participate in, many of which are complimentary, including day and night tennis, yoga classes, non-motorized sports and the golf aqua driving range. Other amenities included in your stay: free WiFi throughout the resort, daily afternoon tea, continental breakfast served on your balcony and Fiji water served on the beach.
After building an appetite being active all day — or from lounging on the sandy white beach — there are plenty of dining options. Cocktail hour can start at Flights, Cap Juluca’s wine bar, then you can make your way to the fine dining destination Pimms, where European and Caribbean flavours dominate the menu. We highly suggest trying a local catch, like the red snapper or mahi mahi. Post-dinner there’s always Maundays Club where you’ll find live entertainment and cocktail table service.