For discriminating travelers, Anguilla's beaches are unsurpassed

Even in the Caribbean, where beaches rule, Anguilla's beaches are known for being the best of the best. Soft, brilliant-white sands stretch out against clear blue waters. While there are other things to do on the island, spending time in the sand and surf is the number-one reason to come here.

In spite of Anguilla's small size, it boasts more than 30 spectacular beaches. All beaches are open to the public, though some of them can only be accessed by walking through hotels. The most popular beaches can get crowded, but you'll find the majority to be havens of tranquility. Bars and restaurants skirt some of them, so beach-goers can stroll right from lounge chair to dining chair.

The west side is where you'll find the island's best beaches, lined by the most expensive resorts. Still, you really can't go wrong anywhere on Anguilla. Whether you're looking for swimming, windsurfing, a quiet retreat, or a wild shore to explore, you can find a suitable beach on any part of the island.

With peaceful waves, many beaches are good for swimming. However, strong currents and dangerous undertows make a few areas too treacherous for a dip in the water. This is especially true near Anguilla's northernmost tip, though rough spots are scattered here and there around the island. But they're still excellent places for picnicking, hiking, or watching the boats go by.

For a fun diversion, some beaches offer water sports. Large hotels often provide equipment to their guests, so if you're staying at one you may be able to get all you need and head right out to the water. Parasailing, water-skiing, paddle-boating, and more await you. Coral reefs teeming with marine life make for magnificent snorkeling and scuba diving. Several old shipwrecks also can be investigated by certified divers. If you're not quite that adventurous, you can still see underwater wonders on a glass bottom boat tour.

Anguilla's visitors will also discover some interesting natural phenomena on its beaches. Coral sculptures, washed ashore by the waves, almost look as if they were artfully placed by hand. More secluded beaches give several turtle species perfect spots for their annual trip ashore to nest. Looking for your own romance, Snuggle up on Shoal Bay East and watch the sunset turn the sand pink.

Anguilla's beaches offer so many possibilities, finding a superb spot is easy. In fact, the hardest part will be choosing which one to visit first. To learn more about each of the beaches individually, use the links below. You'll be taken to detailed pages about each of these fine Anguillan beaches.

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