Anguilla is strongly represented in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, with two beach bars, two resorts, a golf course and the island itself all earning nominations.
Every year, several experts select standout favourites from across the travel and lifestyle categories. The magazine’s editors then narrow this list before opening the final vote to the public.
The Caribbean categories are now live and voters have a four-week window to participate and help shape the final outcome.
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On its website, USA Today said: “We want to know what’s on your mind. Make your opinion count by helping us choose the 10 best across several travel and lifestyle categories.
“A panel of experts makes nominations in awards covering food and drink, shopping, sports and outdoors, travel destinations, lodging, attractions – the list goes on.
“It’s up to you to help crown the winners by casting your votes.”
Anguilla has two nominations in the ‘Best Caribbean Beach Bar’ category – Elvis’ Beach Bar in Sandy Ground and SunShine Shack on Rendezvous Bay.
On the website, it describes Elvis’ as a place where locals and tourists flock and is particularly popular 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 adds.
Meanwhile, the website says SunShine Shack is known for its rum punch, coconut-infused cocktails, and barbecue fresh from the grill, 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 adds.
Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club features in the ‘Best Caribbean Golf Course’ category, with USA Today describing it as boasting stunning views of the Caribbean and neighbouring St Martin.
“This 18-hole, par-72 course was designed by Greg Norman and spans more than 7,000 yards,” it adds.
The resort is also nominated in the ‘Best Caribbean Resort’ category alongside Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel on Maundays Bay.
The website describes Aurora as offering a water park, lazy river, pickleball, two beaches, an 18-hole golf course, and six restaurants.
“Perhaps the best part is the turquoise ocean views from the majority of the property,” it adds.
Speaking of Cap Juluca, it says: “Whether you spend your stay lounging in the infinity pool or scuba diving just past property limits, Cap Juluca is certain to leave you with lasting memories of the Anguilla coast’s beauty.
“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.”
Finally Anguilla itself has been nominated in the ‘Best Caribbean Island to Visit’ category.
“Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, Anguilla is only about 16 miles long, but it’s rich with African and British influences that appear in its many festivals as well as on the table at many of its waterfront restaurants.
“The beaches offer soft, powdery, white sands that are a perfect contrast to the calm aqua waters perfect for exploring,” the website says.
Anguilla fared well in the 2025 awards, with two beaches, two beach bars, a golf club, a resort and a restaurant all placing in the top 10.
Vote now in the 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 here. One vote can be made in each category per calendar day and voting ends on 29 December. The winners will be announced on 7 January.
