Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean.
Anguilla is the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, located north of Saint Martin and east of the Virgin Islands. View Map
1.Unique Name Origin
Name Meaning: Anguilla's name is derived from the Italian word "anguilla," which means "eel." The island was named for its long, eel-like shape by early European explorers.
2.Famous for Its Beach Bars
Beach Bars: Anguilla is home to some of the best beach bars in the Caribbean. The Dune Preserve, owned by reggae artist Bankie Banx, is a famous spot known for its live music and laid-back atmosphere. It's even been ranked as one of the best beach bars in the world.
3. Rich Musical Heritage
Moonsplash Music Festival: Anguilla hosts the annual Moonsplash Music Festival, which is the longest-running independent music festival in the Eastern Caribbean. It was founded by Bankie Banx and attracts international artists and music lovers from around the globe.
4. Culinary Diversity
Gourmet Capital: Despite its small size, Anguilla has a vibrant culinary scene with over 100 restaurants, many of which are gourmet establishments. The island is often referred to as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean" because of its high concentration of fine dining options and talented chefs.
5. Hollywood Connection
Celebrity Haven: Anguilla is a favorite getaway for celebrities seeking privacy and luxury. Famous visitors have included Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Robert De Niro, and Leonardo DiCaprio. The island's secluded beaches and exclusive resorts make it an ideal retreat for the rich and famous.
These fun facts highlight the unique characteristics that make Anguilla a special and intriguing destination in the Caribbean.
Read Serious Facts belowEnjoy your stay!
“God Bless Anguilla”
Anguilla's land area covers 35 square miles (91 square kilometers). It is 16 (26 kilometers) long and three-and-one-half miles (6 kilometers) wide. The highest elevation is of 213 feet (65 meters) at Crocus Hill.
Eastern Caribbean dollar and the U.S. dollar
Left
Latitude: 18° 13' 23.77" N
Longitude: -63° 03' 23.88" W
The Valley
The tiny Anguilla Bank Anole (Anolis gingivinus) is a species of the anole lizard. Sweet Bees of more than 1700 species. Sombrero Ameiva Lizard. Hawksbill sea turtle. The masked booby sea bird with a 65-inch wingspan
Shoal Beach
Two miles long. Soft white sands. Great for watersports, walks, swimming, dolphin watching. Very popular with its resorts, restaurants and beachbars.
Meads
Located on the north shore with restaurants and hotels. Equally popular, less crowded. Waves appropriate for advanced surfing.
Savannah Bay
Wild, remote, natural and off the beaten path, easily accessible. Waves appropriate for advanced surfing.
Cove Bay
View of St. Martin. Sensational sunset. Very family, walking, swimming-friendly.
Allso great for kitesurfing and horseback-riding.
Sandy Ground Beach
Very urban and lively. Loads of amenities. Turns in a social hot spot in the evenings. Venue for Anguilla's Summer Festival
Anguilla became a British colony in 1650 and despite attempts by the French to colonize, it has remained a British colony ever since. In 1967, Britain encouraged that Anguilla forms a relationship with St Kitts and Nevis to create a new Caribbean nation. Anguillians didn't fancy that thinking they would be undermined by the bigger islands of St. Kitts and Nevis. The islands became a 'state in association' with the UK, and in 1980 they were granted the status of a British Dependent Territory.