Anguilla, a tropical paradise in the heart of the Caribbean where adventure, exploration, and relaxation come together to create the perfect destination for families. With its powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm-hearted locals, Anguilla is a place where every member of the family can make cherished memories. From building sandcastles on pristine shores to snorkeling with colorful fish, exploring hidden coves, and discovering the island’s rich culture, Anguilla offers a world of opportunities for fun and learning. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, a safe environment, or a chance to bond under starry skies, Anguilla welcomes you to an unforgettable adventure where every moment becomes a part of your family’s unique story.
Toddlers & Young Children (Ages 0 - 5)
Beach Days: Anguilla’s pristine beaches are perfect for young children. Building sandcastles, playing with beach toys, and gentle splashing in the shallow waters are sure to keep them entertained. As far out as you walk, it’s just soft sand with no rocks or coral. Here are some great beaches we recommend for toddlers:
Sandy Ground Beach: Sandy Ground Beach, located in the village of Sandy Ground, is a great spot for young children. It has calm, shallow waters, and there’s a small playground on the beach where kids can have fun.
Rendezvous Bay Beach: Rendezvous Bay is another family-friendly beach with calm waters. You can take your little ones for a swim or a leisurely walk along the shoreline. It’s also a good place for building sandcastles.
Iguana Feeding at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park: Kids will be fascinated by the friendly Iguanas at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. You can buy some grapes and watch as the Iguanas eat right out of your hand.
Dolphin Discovery Anguilla: For a more interactive experience, take your little ones to Dolphin Discovery Anguilla. Even very young children can enjoy watching and learning about these incredible marine mammals.
Playground & Toddler waterpark at Aurora Hotel: Aurora Hotel have created an environment where family vacations are a delight for both children and parents. Their dedicated playground and toddler waterpark offer a safe and entertaining space for your little ones to enjoy and explore.
Playgrounds in The Valley: The Valley, Anguilla’s capital, has several playgrounds where kids can enjoy swings, slides, and other play equipment. These include the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School Playground and the nearby Sandy Ground Playground
Anguillita Lagoon Playground: Located near Little Harbour, the Anguillita Lagoon Playground is another excellent option for young children. It has a range of play equipment.
Exploring Sandy Ground Beach: Sandy Ground Beach has a playground for kids, making it a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying the swings and slides
Crocus Bay Playground: Crocus Bay Beach, which also has a playground with swings and slides, is located near the village of Crocus Hill.
Kids (Ages 6-12):
Mermaid School in Sandy Ground Beach: A kids’ mermaid day experience is not only an exciting adventure but also a fantastic way for children to improve their swimming skills, gain confidence in the water, and nurture their creativity. It’s a memorable and enchanting day that allows kids to live out their underwater dreams and create lasting memories.
Horseback Riding at Seaside Stables: Located near Rendezvous Bay, Seaside Stables offers guided horseback riding tours suitable for children. Kids can enjoy a gentle ride along the beach and trails.
Art Classes at Cheddie’s Carving Studio: Cheddie’s Carving Studio in The Valley often offers art classes for kids. Here, they can create their own artwork inspired by Anguilla’s culture.
Le Bistro at Santorini (Kids’ Cooking Classes): This restaurant in Meads Bay occasionally hosts kids’ cooking classes, where children can learn to prepare simple local dishes.
Farm Visit to Proctor’s at Crocus Hill: Proctor’s at Crocus Hill is a family-run farm that offers educational tours. Kids can meet and feed various animals, including goats, sheep, and chickens.
Pre-teens (Ages 10-15):
Watersports at the Cove is a great spot for older kids to enjoy various watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. There are rental shops along the beach. It is also home to Axa Aqua Park where teens can enjoy inflatable obstacle courses in the middle of the ocean. A favourite for pre-teens and teens.
Junior Marine Biologist Programs: Enroll your kids in marine biology programs where they can learn about the local sea life and participate in snorkeling excursions. Several operators on the island offer such programs.
Horseback Riding at Seaside Stables: Located near Rendezvous Bay, Seaside Stables offers guided horseback riding tours suitable for older kids. It’s a great way to explore the island’s interior.
Teenagers (Ages 15 +):
Windsurfing and Kiteboarding at Meads Bay: Meads Bay is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Older teens can take lessons or rent equipment to enjoy these exhilarating water sports.
Paddleboarding Adventures: Teens can explore the coastline of Anguilla by stand-up paddleboarding. Several rental shops along the beaches offer paddleboard rentals. There is also the option for teens to do the Liquid Glow night kayaking. Transparent kayaks are geared with powerful underwater LED lights that provide a spectacular underwater view at night, attracting fishes to your kayak while you follow the tour guide to many underwater attractions.
Biking and Mountain Biking: Older teens can rent bikes and explore the island’s roads and trails. For a more adventurous experience, consider mountain biking along designated trails.
Scuba Diving: For certified divers, Anguilla offers a chance to explore underwater caves, wrecks, and vibrant coral reefs. There are several dive operators on the island like Shoal Bay and Scuba Shack scuba.
Live Music at Dune Preserve: The Dune Preserve in Rendezvous Bay is a famous beach bar and music venue where teens can enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere.
Fitness Activities: Some resorts have fitness centers with various classes, like yoga or pilates, which older teens can participate in to stay active during their vacation.
All ages
Snorkeling at Shoal Bay East: Shoal Bay East is one of Anguilla’s most beautiful and family-friendly beaches, with calm waters and an easily accessible coral reef for snorkeling. There are also snorkeling rental shops in the area.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Book a glass-bottom boat tour with operators like “Gotcha! Garfield’s Sea Tours” or “Funtime Charters.” These tours often depart from Sandy Ground and allow kids to view marine life without getting wet.
Biking on Sandy Ground Road: Rent bikes and explore Sandy Ground Road, which runs along the coast and provides scenic views of the ocean and various beaches. Biking is a great way to see the island’s beauty up close.
Historical Sites – Heritage Collection Museum: Located in East End, the Heritage Collection Museum provides insights into Anguilla’s history and culture, making it an educational visit for kids.
Island Explorations with Anguilla National Trust: Check with the Anguilla National Trust for family-friendly guided hikes and nature walks, which can take kids to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Boat Trip to Prickly Pear Cay: Many boat operators offer trips to Prickly Pear Cay, a nearby cay with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.
Anguilla stands out as an exceptional destination for families due to a combination of factors. The island’s pristine, family-friendly beaches, welcoming locals, and a low crime rate provide a safe and comforting environment. Its diverse range of accommodations and activities caters to all age groups, offering something for every family member. Children can engage in educational experiences, from discovering marine life to learning about local culture, while the serene evenings and clear skies create opportunities for bonding and relaxation. The island’s well-established tourism industry ensures access to quality services and accommodations. Anguilla’s harmonious blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and tranquil beauty makes it a memorable and enjoyable destination for families of all sizes and backgrounds.
