For a Caribbean getaway that trades mega all-inclusives and cruise ship crowds for boutique stays and near-empty swaths of sand, set your sights on Anguilla. Not only does the less-flocked-to island in the Lesser Antilles have miles of pristine beaches, but it also boasts a standout culinary scene, warm hospitality, and a clutch of chic five-star resorts.
Perched atop a bluff overlooking Meads Bay, Malliouhana is a locally operated luxury retreat that defines tropical glamour. As you’d hope for from a barefoot retreat that averages in the low 80s °F year-round, it’s a haven for indoor-outdoor living. Lush gardens frame the contemporary buildings and open-air spaces seamlessly integrate mood-boosting decor, Haitian art, and ocean breezes.
After the iconic entrance (which starts any trip on a photogenic note), the tumbling, two-tier oceanfront infinity pool takes center stage. The deck is dotted with sunshine-yellow loungers and umbrellas. There are plenty of stylish seating areas to play board games, toss back a tipple or two, and enjoy the vistas.
Want to pepper in more active pursuits? Hit the tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, tour the gardens to learn about native plants, or take the complimentary bicycles out for a spin. You’ll also find non-motorized water sports and snorkeling gear. Moke adventures around the island are another popular activity.
Travelers don’t have to leave the property for a taste of what makes Anguilla the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean. For a unique culinary experience, book the rum and chocolate tasting. Bar Soleil is a poolside spot for mixologist-made cocktails and light bites (try the succotash-style grilled corn on the cob). It’s also the place to be for golden sunset views and stargazing. Prefer a beach setting? Kick off your sandals and lean into vacation mode with a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand lunch, rum punch, and live music. Between the gourmet dishes, curated wine list, and refined yet breezy atmosphere, a memorable meal is all but guaranteed at Celeste.
The rooms and suites are a masterclass in modern tropical maximalism with playful touches galore. Groups can book Santosha, one of the four villas managed by Malihousana. The expansive beachfront estate is stocked with amenities (hello, butler service) and sleeps up to 21 guests in contemporary comfort and style.
Even with such swoon-worthy accommodations, the appeal of the sun, sand, and sea wins almost every time—with one major exception: The serene spa has six treatment cabins for rejuvenating massages and marine facials, plus a full-service salon and a fitness center, so it certainly warrants staying inside for a few hours. Then again; the spa infinity pool overlooking the waves is all the reason you need to step back into the sunshine.
Top Takeaways
Location: Anguilla
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Contemporary Caribbean glamour.
Food + Drink: Bar Soleil is perfect for a poolside lunch or cocktails overlooking the water. For a casual lunch right on the beach, amble over to Leon’s at Meads Bay to dig into conch fritters, sip rum punch, and tap your toes to live reggae. Celeste, the alfresco fine-dining restaurant, serves elevated fare and incredible wine.
Amenities: 3 restaurants/bars; white-sand beaches, two-tier infinity pool; award-winning spa; fitness center; tennis; pickleball; basketball; complimentary bicycles; kid’s club; babysitting services; concierge
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: It doesn’t get better than sipping a perfectly mixed cocktail and watching the sunset.
5 Nearby Attractions: Rendezvous Bay; Little Bay; Shoal Bay East; Big Spring Cave; Scrub Island
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Anguilla is a small island, so you’re within a short drive of everything. Love a breezy beachside eatery? Head to Sunshine Shack for grilled snapper, BBQ ribs, Garvey’s famous rum punch, and live music. Don’t miss the tuna poke bowl and lobster roll The Cap Shack.
Rooms: 63 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $749/night
Closest Airport: Anguilla-Clayton J. Lloyd Airport (AXA)
