Venturing east, the drive to Shoal Bay introduces you to one of Anguilla’s most iconic beaches. This two-mile stretch of silky white sand is a pristine spot where you’ll find a mix of visitors and locals soaking up the sun. On your way, you’ll pass wild almond trees and fields dotted with tamarind and frangipani, the latter filling the air with a sweet, subtle fragrance. The calm, clear waters make Shoal Bay ideal for snorkelling; brightly-coloured parrotfish, sergeant majors, and angelfish drift among the coral just offshore. The beach is lined with small beach bars where owners warmly greet visitors, serving local delights like freshly caught lobster and ceviche with a twist of lime. Live music often accompanies the gentle lap of waves, creating a truly Anguillan atmosphere of ease and enjoyment. Head west towards nature-rich Sandy Ground, a unique spot known for its salt ponds, where wild flamingos wade gracefully alongside herons and egrets. The salt ponds, once used for salt harvesting, create a vibrant setting with their deep pink hues contrasting against the island’s azure skies. Sandy Ground village itself is lively, especially as you approach the harbour, where wooden fishing boats bob along the docks. Here, you can enjoy local seafood or simply mingle with locals who share stories of life on this idyllic island. Anguillans are famously warm and welcoming, often sharing tips on the best places to watch the sunset or enjoy a roadside coconut. Sandy Ground is also a hub for nightlife on the island, with a handful of bars and restaurants playing reggae tunes as the sun dips below the horizon.

Take a short drive north to Little Bay, a secluded beach paradise accessible by boat or, for the adventurous, a short but steep hike down. The emerald waters here are perfect for a quiet swim or a bit of snorkelling. Standing on the cliffs above Little Bay, you’ll often see pelicans diving gracefully for fish, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Anguilla’s iconic sea turtles paddling by. The cliffside offers breathtaking views of the shimmering Caribbean Sea stretching out to meet the sky. Nearby, Crocus Hill, Anguilla’s highest point, offers panoramic views of the island. This area has a more rugged landscape, dotted with cactus and scraggly shrubs and often cooled by breezy trade winds. Small goats roam the fields here, adding a touch of rustic charm. Crocus Bay itself is a lovely spot for picnicking or enjoying a quiet afternoon, with its calm waters ideal for kayaking or gentle paddle-boarding. A scenic drive northeast will bring you to Island Harbour, a fishing village brimming with character. You’ll drive past fields of waving guinea grass and low-lying scrub dotted with bright red flamboyant trees, particularly vibrant in summer. The small, pretty homes in this area give way to the coastline, where fishermen prepare their boats each morning, casting nets to catch snapper, grouper, and more. Island Harbour is also known for the Festival Del Mar, a celebration of the island’s fishing culture and maritime heritage held each spring. The festival draws locals and visitors for a weekend of traditional boat racing, grilled seafood, and lively music. Even outside of festival time, Island Harbour’s charm and the smiles of its people are reasons enough to visit.