How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Anguilla

When you think of the Caribbean, islands like St. Thomas and St. Barths are typically the first to come to mind. But for honeymooners in search of a quieter experience off the beaten path, Anguilla is an increasingly popular choice. Here, you'll find the same tranquil blue waters as some of the more heavily trafficked islands, but set in a more serene atmosphere. The island is rich with culture, famous for its food, and set against the romantic backdrop of turquoise waters—what's not to like? Ahead, discover everything you need to know about honeymooning in Anguilla, including how to get there, where to stay, and the restaurants you can't leave without trying.

Why You Should Honeymoon in Anguilla

"Anguilla is known for its 33 breathtaking powder white-sand beaches, pristine turquoise waters, and an unspoiled natural beauty that sets it apart from other Caribbean islands," says Silvia Melis, Four Seasons Anguilla's director of catering and conference services. Translation: Plan to spend your days held up under an umbrella at the beach or pool, because once you've seen these views, there's little else you'll want to do. And if you're up for a little more adventure, you'll find no shortage of water sports on the island—including snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, sunset boat rides, and more. Whatever your preference may be, you can expect friendly, immaculate service everywhere from poolside bars and massage therapists to business owners and catamaran captains. "The people are also what makes Anguilla so special," adds Melis. "Their warm, humble, and genuine hospitality can be found throughout the island, always willing to help with a sincere smile on their face."

Anguilla is also largely considered to be the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," offering a caliber of cuisine that's on par with the service. "[There are] over 100 restaurants on island," says Melis. "All are unique in their own way, but complemented with a touch of local flavor—uniquely Anguillan and authentically Caribbean." One of the most Anguillan dishes you can order is crayfish, which is fresh caught locally around the island. As a starter, you'll find that many restaurants offer Johnnycakes, a dense, buttery bread that dates back to 1800s when Anguilla was at the height of its salt production. From upscale dining locales like Salt at the Four Seasons Anguilla to casual, off-resort stopovers like Sharky's, there's no shortage of remarkable dining options on island.

How to Get to Anguilla

But of course, to enjoy the crystal clear oceans and hallmark cuisine of Anguilla, you have to get there first. There are two options for flying to the island, and it's truly entirely up to your personal preference (and tolerance for sea sickness). The first option is to fly into the Anguilla-Clayton J. Lloyd Airport, and the second option is to fly into a larger island like St. Maarten and catch a boat transfer to Anguilla. If sea sickness is a concern, you might want to opt for the first option—but keep in mind that, depending on where you're coming from, direct flights are limited and a layover is likely.

When to Visit Anguilla

When planning your flights and dates, it's important to note that Anguilla has a well-defined high and low season. "The high season in Anguilla typically runs from mid-December to mid-April," says Melis. "This period coincides with the winter months in North America and Europe, making it a popular time for visitors seeking to escape colder climates. If someone wants to enjoy reliable weather but with fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late April to early June and late October to early December are ideal. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and the island is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience."

Where to Stay on Your Anguilla Honeymoon

Compared to larger islands like St. Maarten, hotels are fewer and farther in-between on Anguilla, which is part of the island's quiet, romantic charm. Honeymooners can choose between larger resorts with everything you might need, or smaller, privately-owned villas for a little more privacy and more of a choose-your-own-adventure feel to your honeymoon.

Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla

No one does it better than the Four Seasons, and the resort's Anguilla property is no exception—the views, design, and care of the FS Anguilla team (who truly anticipate every need before you even complete the thought) are second to none. The property is often described as the most beautiful Four Seasons in the world, and it's an easy sentiment to believe. Not a single corner of the resort is lacking in ocean views, and each night you'll witness a spectacular display of color with each sunset. The service is also impeccable; you'll find no better locale for a romantic honeymoon. "The Four Seasons Resort Anguilla offers a variety of activities perfect for honeymooning couples," says Melis, "including private beach dinners, cooking classes, island adventures, water sports, and couples massages."

Particularly honeymoon-worthy is the resort's spa experience where, according to the spa's description, "your escape begins with a side-by-side, 80-minute couples massage in one of the nearby cabanas overlooking the moonlit ocean. The massage, tailored for ultimate relaxation, promises a side-by-side experience for couples seeking tranquility and connection. Following the rejuvenating treatment, guests will be escorted back to the private pool terrace. A candle-lit rose petal pathway awaits, complemented by chilled Champagne and delectable light fare curated by executive chef Manu Calderon."

Fountain Anguilla Villa Resort, Shoal Bay

While the Four Seasons is considered the crème de la crème on Anguilla, it's also one of the most expensive resorts on island. Fortunately, it's still possible to have a lovely honeymoon on Anguilla at a lower price point with locales like the Fountain Anguilla Villa Resort. Positioned on the white sands of Shoal Bay Beach—which features calm, serene waters for most of the year—it's an idyllic location for honeymooners in search of rest and relaxation. With room types ranging from studios to two-bedroom villas and penthouses, there's an offering for every couple.

Things to Do

Sunset Catamaran

The calm waters of Meads Bay make Anguilla a hot spot for boating, and there's nothing quite as romantic as a sunset catamaran ride. Most luxury properties offer an in-house service for on-site pickup and dropoff (the ultimate convenience). You can also charter your own ride via trusted providers like Calypso Charters—captain and rum punch, included.

Hit the Beach

The island of Anguilla offers a diverse landscape of beaches, so there's something for everyone. For calm, flat-water for snorkeling, paddle-boarding, or swimming with children, head to the tranquil waters of Meads Bay. For a metronomic lull of constant rolling waves (and more of an adult environment), stake out your spot anywhere along the Atlantic Ocean side of the island. If you're staying at a luxury property, you'll have plenty of private beach space to choose from with all of the equipment you'll need, including chair-side food and beverage delivery.

Venture to Prickly Pear

For the adventurous at heart, couples can journey to nearby Prickly Pear Cays, which sits just six miles off the coast of mainland Anguilla. Accessible by boat, you'll find that Prickly Pear offers a quite respite for couples looking to spend some quality time alone. Far less commercial than the main island, Prickly Pear offers some of the best snorkeling in Anguilla, a few quaint local eateries, and coast-side hiking. And because Prickly Pear is so sparsely populated, you'll also find an abundance of wildlife—including sea turtles, lizards, and dolphins.

Where to Eat

Salt

Located at the Four Seasons, Salt is one of the most upscale restaurants on the island. Featuring an open-air concept perched just above the water, it's one of the most beautiful places on the island to enjoy authentic Anguillan cuisine. While the menu has a seafood focus (it's a Carribean island, after all), the restaurant pays homage to Anguilla's roots as a key salt exporter. Famously, Salt offers free tableside salt service to every diner, every night: A server will swing by your table, mix up some Anguillan salt with fresh herbs from the day using a mortar and pestle, and serve it to guests with rich butter and fresh Johnnycakes. It's a treat that's not to be missed.

Sharky's

If you're craving a casual bar atmosphere among all the decadence of Anguilla, Sharky's is the place. Offering an array of satisfying late-night bites (think: conch fritters and almond amaretto cake), it's one of the most locally-beloved spots on the island. Fair warning: After about 8 p.m., come prepared to dance!

Picante

Picante is your only option for exceptional Mexican cuisine on the island. If you're looking for a little bit of variety throughout your trip, this is a favorite among locals for margaritas, chilli-queso corn, burritos, seafood enchiladas, and more.

Sunset Lounge

For a quick cocktail or appetizer with unmatched sunset views, the Sunset Lounge at the Four Seasons is open to anyone with a reservation. Situated directly above the ocean and next to the property's stunning infinity pool, it's the perfect way to experience the luxury hotel even if you aren't staying there. At sunset, the colors reflect over and over across the sky, pool, and ocean, making for the perfect photo opp (and an even better memory).

The Cost of an Anguilla Honeymoon

There's no wrong way to do Anguilla, and fortunately there are hotel options at a number of price points. Budget hotels—which are still in close proximity to the beach and offer an overall delightful, romantic atmosphere—can go for anywhere from $300 to $600 per night. Higher end resorts that offer a premium experience, exceptional service, and endless amenities can run you anywhere from $700 to $3,000 per night, depending on the type of room (or villa) you select and the time of year you visit. Other than your accommodations, it's important to budget for food and beverage, as well. Like most Caribbean islands, the somewhat remote locale means the cost of food and beverage is elevated to cover import costs. The island is also not the most walkable—so unless you're willing to take taxis to off-resort dining options, you're beholden to the restaurants (and prices) at the resort you choose. In general, it's wise to budget about $30 per person for breakfast, $50 per person for lunch, and $100 per person for dinner if you each plan to enjoy a cocktail or two.