Dive into Anguilla's vibrant scene of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife with our guide that highlights the best spots to indulge your interests after the sun sets.
Shopping
Shopping in Anguilla offers a blend of local charm and luxury, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. While you won't find sprawling malls or high-end shopping districts like you might in larger Caribbean destinations, the island offers its own unique shopping experiences.
Local Crafts and Souvenirs:
Artisans on the island produce a range of crafts, from traditional woven baskets to intricate jewelry. Many shops offer locally made products, including wood carvings, ceramics, and Anguillan sea salt. If you're looking for souvenirs, consider picking up some locally produced rum or jams made from local fruits.
Fashion and Boutiques:
There are several boutiques that offer a range of clothing, from beachwear to more formal attire. While you won't find big international luxury brands, there are shops with high-quality, fashionable items, often with a Caribbean flair.
Art Galleries:
Anguilla has a thriving art scene, and you'll find several galleries featuring works by local artists. Art often reflects the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage, and a painting or sculpture could be a unique and meaningful souvenir.
Food and Drink:
Local markets offer a range of food items, from freshly caught seafood to tropical fruits. While Anguilla doesn't have large supermarkets, there are grocery stores where you can find both local and imported goods.
Duty-Free:
Like many Caribbean destinations, Anguilla offers duty-free shopping on a range of items, including alcohol and tobacco, to visitors who are departing the island.
Shopping Hours:
Most shops in Anguilla open around 9 or 10 a.m. and close around 5 or 6 p.m. Some stores may close for a few hours in the afternoon, and many are closed on Sundays.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Anguilla offers a more laid-back, intimate approach to entertainment and nightlife compared to some of the more bustling Caribbean destinations. While you won't find large nightclubs or flashy entertainment complexes, the island has its unique charm when the sun goes down.
Bars and Beach Clubs:
Beach bars are a popular choice for both locals and tourists. They offer the ideal setting for sipping cocktails while enjoying ocean views. Many beach bars host live music, particularly on weekends, featuring local bands or musicians playing a mix of Caribbean tunes, reggae, and international hits.
Restaurants:
Many restaurants turn into social hubs in the evening. Dining in Anguilla is often an event in itself, with some establishments offering live music or dance performances along with your meal. Seafood is a highlight, and you'll find a variety of styles from traditional Caribbean to international cuisine
Resorts and Hotels:
High-end resorts may offer their entertainment in the form of themed dinners, dance nights, or even fire-dancing shows. While these can be more polished and less "local" than other options, they're usually very high quality.
Quiet Spots:
If a quiet evening is more your style, consider a moonlit walk on one of Anguilla's beautiful beaches. The island's low light pollution makes for excellent stargazing opportunities.
Limited Late-Night Options:
It's worth noting that Anguilla isn't known for late-night partying. Most places wind down by midnight or soon after, although there are a few spots where you can find a livelier scene that goes into the early hours.