Two beaches, two beach bars, a golf club, a resort and a restaurant – all located in Anguilla – have been voted among the best in the Caribbean.
The attractions all feature in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice 2025 awards, an annual set of lists that highlight the top travel destinations based on votes from the public.
Rating number six in the list of winners in the ‘Best Caribbean Beach‘ category, published online on 8 January, is Meads Bay Beach in West End.
“Meads Bay Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand along Anguilla’s northwest shore, touted for its unspoiled beauty and calm waters during the summer,” the website reads.
“It’s peaceful and serene, and it boasts plenty of nearby restaurants and bars.”
Just behind in the eighth spot is Shoal Bay Beach, which the website dubs as “one of the most beautiful beaches on Anguilla – if not in the entire Caribbean”.
“Shoal Bay Beach attracts beachgoers for its crystal-clear turquoise water and powder white sand,” it continues.
“It’s one of the busiest beaches on the island and a popular spot for snorkelling and water sports.”
While Anguilla’s beaches received high praise, it is the island’s beach bars that seem to have really impressed USA Today’s readers.
Elvis’ Beach Bar in Sandy Ground and Sunshine Shack on Rendezvous Bay ranked a respective second and third in the ‘Best Caribbean Beach Bar‘ category.
The website describes Elvis’ Beach Bar as being popular with locals and tourists who flock there for afternoon cocktails and late-night partying.
“Those who’ve danced up an appetite can sink their teeth into fish tacos or jumbo wings, which are said to be some of the best on the island,” it says.
Meanwhile it describes Sunshine Shack as being known for its rum punch, coconut-infused cocktails, and barbecue fresh from the grill and served with a side of Garvey’s Awesome Sauce.
“The atmosphere at SunShine Shack is decidedly casual, with plastic chairs right in the sand,” it continues.
In the ‘Best Caribbean Golf Course‘ category, Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club on Rendezvous Bay won sixth place.
“Tee up at Aurora International Golf Club, the only golf course on the island of Anguilla, which boasts stunning views of the Caribbean and neighbouring St Martin,” the website says.
“This 18-hole, par-72 course was designed by Greg Norman and spans more than 7,000 yards.”
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel on Maundays Bay ranked in the seventh spot in the ‘Best Caribbean Resort‘ category.
“Whether you spend your stay lounging in the infinity pool or scuba diving just past property limits, the Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel is certain to leave you with lasting memories of the Anguilla coast’s beauty,” the website says.
“The spa and beach are two popular destinations during daylight hours, and night owls should be sure to take part in ‘Dining Under the Stars’ – a romantic beachside dinner experience, including full views of the cosmos.”
Last but not least, Blanchards Restaurant and Beach Shack on Meads Bay was rated number seven in the ‘Best Restaurant in the Caribbean‘ category.
The website describes a meal at the restaurant as the perfect way to break up a long day at Meads Bay Beach.
“The sit-down restaurant offers hearty menu items like red Thai curry mussels and crispy braised pork shank,” it continues
“For a more casual experience, the Beach Shack is right next door to Blanchards Restaurant, and it serves up quick bites like shrimp tacos and blackened mahi sandwiches.”
