Anguilla has once again been named the ‘Best Island in the Caribbean‘ by Travel + Leisure magazine, securing the top spot for the fifth time.
The results of the 2025 edition of its prestigious World’s Best Awards were published on 8 July, with the island being voted number one among 25 top regional locations.
Each year, Travel + Leisure invites its readers – made up of passionate travellers and experienced globetrotters – to vote for their favourite destinations, hotels and travel experiences.
Anguilla not only headed this year’s list but was also recognised as an official WBA Hall of Fame honouree, meaning it has been voted onto the list for the past ten consecutive years.
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The island received a reader score of 89.21 – while in second and third place were Dominica and St Lucia with 88.89 and 87.57, respectively.
In the summary accompanying the announcement, one Travel + Leisure reader wrote: “Anguilla is tiny but so beautiful and memorable.”
Another said: “The locals are friendly, the vibe is very relaxed, and getting around the island to visit the many different beaches is easy.”
In a press release from the Anguilla Tourist Board on 8 July, Anguilla’s tourism minister Cardigan Connor, said the island is honoured by the recognition.
“On behalf of all Anguillians and our dedicated partners in the tourism industry, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted for us,” he said.
The minister thanked the magazine’s editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford and her team for curating the global assessment and staging the ‘World’s Best’ survey.
He went on to recognise the joint efforts of the public and private sectors and the contributions of the former tourism minister Haydn Hughes and his team
“All of whom contributed to pave the way for this achievement,” he said, adding: “because when Anguilla succeeds, it is a success we all share.”
Tourism director Jameel Rochester also thanked the Travel + Leisure community for their ongoing support and appreciation.
“This recognition reflects the heart and spirit of Anguilla – our people, whose warmth, hospitality, and commitment to excellence create unforgettable experiences for every visitor,” he said.
Tourist arrivals to Anguilla continued to hit record highs in the first quarter of this year.
A total of 23,086 visitors arrived on the island during February and 22,625 in March – an 18.3% and 2% increase compared to the same months last year.
