What to see in Anguilla: 9 must-sees

Stop at Meads Bay, the longest stretch of white-sand beach in Anguilla, with 2 kilometers of shoreline in the West End. Walk barefoot across the fine sand as local fishermen haul in their nets with the day's catch, a daily scene beside the anchored boats. Swim in its turquoise, crystal-clear waters or snorkel near the shore. In the late afternoon, stay to watch the sun set over the Atlantic from the sand.

Walk along the shore of Sandy Ground, where white sand blends with mangroves and the 18th-century lighthouse still marks Anguilla's coast. Watch the fishermen work in front of the beach and remember that this island once served as a refuge for pirates. Snorkel in the clear water, feel the fine sand beneath your feet, and take a quiet swim before returning to shore to watch the afternoon fade over the sea.

Cross the North Sound by boat to Prickly Pear Cays, two uninhabited islets off Anguilla where white sand borders transparent waters. Swim among shallow corals in search of sea turtles, common in these protected waters, and walk a shoreline free of buildings and crowds. Seasonal beach bars serve fish and lobster to visitors arriving on excursions from Sandy Ground. Bring sunscreen and water shoes: the reef offers good snorkeling just a few meters from shore, especially on calm-sea days between May and August.

Head down to Rendezvous Bay, in Anguilla's West End, and walk its 2 kilometers of white sand as the turquoise water laps at your ankles. Snorkel near the shore, where the seabed is clearly visible, and pick out the silhouette of St. Martin across the channel. As evening falls, sit down at one of the seaside restaurants and order a dinner of freshly caught seafood, with the sound of the waves in the background.

Tour the museum devoted to Anguilla's history, where artifacts, photographs, and documents tell 3,000 years of history. Admire the collection of indigenous art and the colonial documents, and discover how Anguilla kept its identity. Walk through the museum where artifacts, exhibits, and history create a journey through time. Explore unique collections, learn about local culture, and broaden your knowledge.

Get a glimpse of The Valley, the capital of Anguilla, where the 18th-century Lighthouse, the Mosque, and the Arts Center coexist. Step into the Central Market among fruit and fish stalls, pause at the Historical Tomb, and take in the laid-back pace of one of the smallest capitals in the Caribbean. Its streets blend colonial buildings, family-run shops, and the daily routine of Anguillians, far from the bustle of other Caribbean capitals.