How to Spend a Day in Anguilla
By St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty · September 11, 2023 · Updated November 10, 2026
anguilla
To commence, individuals should decide on their preferred mode of transport to arrive onto the infamous Anguilla shores. To identify the best mode of transfer, St. Martin Sotheby’s Realty has discussed all methods available, select HERE to read more. For this story, emphasis will be made on taking the ferry from Marigot, St. Martin.
Departing on the earliest ferry at 9:30 am from Marigot Port, SXM, will lead to an arrival of approximately 10 am. This timing allows for visitors to make the most of their day on the island while also having enough time to return back to St. Martin at a reasonable hour. Upon arrival, after customs and immigration, one should consider renting a car in order to travel around Anguilla at their own leisure. Points of note, there are a few car rental stations by the Blowing Point Port and accessing a car is relatively simple. An inexpensive daily license is required and is not difficult to attain. Lastly, observe that cars drive on the left side and could prove challenging for some individuals so best to drive with caution.
Once a car is acquired, head for a late breakfast in Village Bakehouse which serves all of the classic bakery treats along with delicate fruit pastries, filling sandwiches and the ultimate espressos to start off the day. The bakery invites with its perfumed smell of freshly baked baguettes. Sit back, unwind and watch locals and tourists alike visit this location and grab their coffee fix and necessary buttery croissants. Thanks to its location, Village Bakehouse is close to Mead’s Bay which is the next destination on this itinerary. So grab the car and head to this captivating beach on the west end side of the island.
Drive down to Mead’s Bay which greets with its silky sand and turquoise waters. Sunscreen, towels, and bikinis are necessary for making the most out of this beach. Lay on the sand, book a lounge chair, and relax in this serene haven. The beach stretches for 1.5 miles (2.4 Kilometers) and the never-ending ocean seamlessly blends into the horizon. The Four Seasons Resort and the Malliouhana Auberge Resortbookend the beach creating a cove for all visitors. For more adventurous visitors wishing to take part in watersports, there is an array of kayaks, wind boards, and stand-up paddles available for use. Paddling along the stretch of the beach and looking at the miniature caves, sets up the perfect day for any individual.
After a day of unwinding and swimming, indulge in the mouthwatering delights of Blanchards Beach Shack, where a delectable lunch awaits to complete the perfect beachside getaway. Whether cravings lead to something light such as refreshing kale, or oozing goats cheese salads or something more substantial like a “big bowl” with delicious mahi mahi and tangy jerk sauce to top it all off; Lunches here will hit the spot after a heavenly morning on the beach. Why not complement the dish with a rejuvenating lemonade, a cooling beer, or perhaps a signature cocktail? Any food requirements will be accommodated here making for a perfect beach shack meal to fulfill any appetites. Once lunch is over and stomachs are full, head into the car and drive towards the most famous beach on the island famously known as Shoal Bay.
As the afternoon unfolds and anticipation increases, in the distance one can see the most beautiful beach in the world. Shoal Bay East is known as the most incredible beach on the planet, let alone one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. The water is an aquamarine, iridescent shade, perfectly accompanied by a blush pale pink sand that masquerades as pure white. Regardless of Shoal Bay’s popularity, it is never crowded no matter what season of the year. The shallow waters stretch out into the abyss, allowing vacationers to choose from walking along the water to venturing into a swim. Similar to Mead’s Bay, there are several options for water sports. Visualize the ease of standing on a paddle board and gracefully floating across the calm 2 mile (3.2 kilometers) waters where ultimate serenity is achieved.
Before departure from the most spectacular beach in the world, why not opt for a refreshing drink in one of the many beach shacks available. Among the variety of bars that may cater to any preference are the Tropical Sunset Restaurant and Madeariman to name but a few. The day will come to a close with a casual drink or a quick bite before leaving Shoal Bay East. Once individuals are “lounged out” after a day of exploring the paradise that is Anguilla, it is time to return back home on the ferry. The last ferry departs from Blowing Point, AXA at 17:15, which ultimately completes the day with arrivals in St. Martin around 17:45. Bidding farewell to this beautiful island will certainly be difficult but after a day well spent, one would be left in a euphoric state.
In the tranquil embrace of Anguilla's exclusive white sand beaches and laid-back lifestyle, a day trip to this enchanting island from St. Martin offers the best of both Caribbean worlds. From the picturesque shores of Mead's Bay to the ethereal beauty of Shoal Bay East, visitors can bask in the idyllic surroundings, indulge in mouthwatering beach shack delights, and partake in water sports adventures. As the day ends, savor a refreshing drink at one of the charming beach bars before saying goodbye to Anguilla, with the last ferry departing at 17:15, leaving behind memories of the unforgettable day in paradise.
Contact us today to begin planning your next trip to Anguilla, St. Maarten, or St. Martin.