The Eastern End of Anguilla is a far less visited part of the island and the perfect place to start your socially distanced vacation. The pristine beaches are never crowded, and with great accommodations, delicious restaurants, and plenty of things to do it is an ideal winter retreat. The East End will give you more space to breathe and take in the beauty of Anguilla. It is a wonderful jumping off point for travellers looking to get back to nature and explore untouched walks along the shore.
Among the villages and districts that make up the eastern part of Anguilla, begin your explorations with these four: Island Harbour, Shoal Bay, Sandy Hill, and East End Village. There is plenty for you to discover on your own during your next trip but here are some tips and recommendations to get you started on your ultimate vacation!
While you’re on vacation the last thing most people don’t want to think cooking a meal or the clean-up that comes with it. You do not have to worry because there are multiple restaurants located in the East End to satisfy any craving or budget. In the morning, try out Le Bon Pain, known among locals for having the best pastries on the island. Are you craving a gourmet pizza? Try out Artisan Pizza Napoletana located in Island Harbour. For a more laidback island meal, check out Palm Gove Bar & Grill, Elodias Beach Bar, Gwen’s, or Madeariman. Or try Falcon Nest, located in the fishing village, for the freshest and best seafood deals on the island. Too many choices!
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Caribbean Perly-Eyed Thrasher. Photo courtesy of Dakota Birder
This untouched area of Anguilla conjures a magical, deserted island feel with all the amenities. It is a great place for hiking, wandering perfect sand beaches, or checking into a Thai-style retreat for an indulgent spa day. The Point located at Shoal Bay East beach, offers crystal-clear water, and a white-sand beach, the perfect place to take in the sea, sun, sand, and warmth. Or visit Captain’s Bay, one of the easternmost beaches in Anguilla. It is harder to get to because of its rocky terrain but if you are adventurous, the views, privacy, and serenity of the beach are make it an exceptional day trip.
Do not miss an excursion to Scrub Island from the east end. Because of the nesting seabirds, including Laughing Gulls, Royal, Roseate and Eastern Terns, Scrub has been identified as an important birding site by BirdLife Intertnational. Resident landbirds include the Caribbean elaenia and perly-eyed thrashers. Green and leatherback known to nest there and whales are commonly seen west of Scrub, along the southern coastline.
Anguilla’s east end offers so much more, but here is one not to be missed - the local fishing village located in Island Harbour. It is a charming and quaint village, full of authentic and fresh restaurants and friendly locals!
These are only a few suggestions on how to spend your vacation in the East End of Anguilla, with plenty more for you to explore. From the pristine beaches, wild coastlines, and untouched natural beauty, the East End is perfect for a socially distanced vacation. Discover this often-unexplored area and see how it differs from the more developed West End.
