Did you know that Meads Bay’s 1.6 km (1 mile) stretch of powdery white sand is consistently ranked among the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean? This pristine paradise on Anguilla’s western shore isn’t just a beach lover’s dream—it’s a vibrant hub of activities, world-class dining, and luxurious accommodations that make it the crown jewel of this small Caribbean nation.
Getting to Meads Bay & Planning Your Journey
Reaching this slice of paradise requires a bit of planning, but the journey is well worth it. Most travelers fly into St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport, then take a 20-minute ferry or a short 7-minute flight to Anguilla. From Anguilla’s port or airport, Meads Bay is approximately a 15-minute drive.
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Once on the island, renting a car is highly recommended as taxis can be expensive for multiple trips. The island’s small size makes navigation easy, and driving is on the left side of the road. Most major resorts on Meads Bay also offer airport/ferry transfers if you prefer not to drive.
Best Time to Visit Meads Bay
Peak Season (December-April)
Perfect weather with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F), minimal rainfall, and calm seas ideal for swimming. Expect higher prices and more visitors, especially during the holiday weeks.
Shoulder Season (May-June, November)
Excellent value with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reduced rates at many resorts. May brings the Anguilla Culinary Experience festival, a treat for food enthusiasts.
Low Season (July-October)
Hottest months with potential for rain and hurricanes, particularly September-October. Many restaurants close in September, but you’ll find the best deals and most secluded beach experiences.
Weather Advisory: Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk in September and October. If visiting during these months, consider travel insurance and monitor weather forecasts.
Where to Stay on Meads Bay
Meads Bay offers some of Anguilla’s finest accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to boutique hotels and villa rentals. Here are the top options along this magnificent stretch of beach:
Luxury Resorts
- Four Seasons Resort – Sprawling luxury property with multiple pools and restaurants
- Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection – Iconic cliffside resort with stunning views
- Tranquility Beach Anguilla – Modern luxury condos with direct beach access
Boutique Hotels
- Frangipani Beach Resort – Family-owned boutique hotel with personalized service
- Carimar Beach Club – Spacious villa-style accommodations at moderate prices
- Turtle’s Nest Beach Resort – Beachfront condos with full kitchens
Villa Rentals
- The Beach House – Ultra-luxury villa favored by celebrities
- Meads Bay Beach Villas – Multi-bedroom villas for families or groups
- Nathan’s Cove – Intimate beachfront rental for couples
Find Your Perfect Meads Bay Accommodation
From luxury resorts to private villas, book your dream stay on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.
Dining & Local Cuisine on Meads Bay
Meads Bay has earned a reputation as a culinary hotspot, with some of Anguilla’s finest restaurants located directly on the beach. From fine dining to casual beach shacks, the options are diverse and delicious:
Fine Dining
- Jacala – French-inspired cuisine and impeccable service in an intimate setting
- Straw Hat – Elegant yet casual dining with panoramic ocean views
- Blanchards Restaurant – Legendary fine dining establishment featured in the book “A Trip to the Beach”
Casual Dining
- Blanchards Beach Shack – Colorful beach shack serving fresh salads, sandwiches, and grilled specialties
- Ocean Echo – Family-owned restaurant known for the best rum punch on the island
- Leon’s at Malliouhana – Beachside dining with Caribbean-inspired menu
Local Specialties
- Anguillian Crayfish – Similar to lobster but smaller and sweeter
- Johnny Cakes – Traditional fried bread served with most meals
- Rum Punch – Each restaurant has their own special recipe
Dining Tip: Reservations are essential during peak season (December-April), especially for fine dining establishments. Many restaurants close during the low season (September-October), so call ahead to confirm hours.
Top Things to Do in Meads Bay
Beyond lounging on its picture-perfect beach, Meads Bay offers a variety of activities for travelers of all interests. Here are the best things to do during your stay:
Water Activities
- Snorkeling – Explore the coral formations at either end of the bay
- Paddleboarding – Calm morning waters are perfect for SUP
- Sunset Sailing – Book a catamaran cruise for spectacular sunset views
Beach & Relaxation
- Beach Walking – The full 1.6 km (1 mile) stretch makes for a perfect morning stroll
- Beach Yoga – Several resorts offer sunrise yoga sessions
- Spa Treatments – Indulge at Four Seasons or Malliouhana’s world-class spas
Nearby Excursions
- Little Bay – Take a boat to this secluded cove for cliff jumping
- Sandy Ground – Experience Anguilla’s nightlife and beach bars
- Anguilla’s Arch – Visit the natural limestone formation on the west end
Experience the Best of Meads Bay
Book guided tours, water activities, and island excursions to make the most of your Anguilla vacation.
Day Trips from Meads Bay
While Meads Bay offers plenty to keep you occupied, Anguilla’s small size makes it easy to explore other areas of the island. Here are some worthwhile day trips:
Shoal Bay East
Often ranked as one of the world’s best beaches, Shoal Bay East offers excellent snorkeling and a variety of beach bars. The drive from Meads Bay takes approximately 20 minutes.
Island Harbour
Experience authentic Anguillian fishing village life at Island Harbour. Watch colorful fishing boats return with the day’s catch and enjoy ultra-fresh seafood at local restaurants like Hibernia and Elite.
Prickly Pear Cays
Take a boat excursion to these uninhabited islets for a true desert island experience. Enjoy pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling, and a beach barbecue lunch at the seasonal restaurant.
Travel Tip: Many visitors combine their Anguilla trip with a visit to neighboring St. Maarten/St. Martin. Regular ferries connect the islands, making it easy to enjoy a day of duty-free shopping and French cuisine before returning to Anguilla’s tranquility.
Explore Beyond Anguilla
Combine your Anguilla vacation with a Caribbean cruise to experience multiple islands in one trip.
Practical Travel Tips for Meads Bay
Currency & Payments
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted everywhere. Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, though smaller vendors may prefer cash. ATMs are available but not plentiful.
Safety & Etiquette
Anguilla is one of the safest Caribbean islands with very low crime rates. Beaches are public up to the high-water mark. Modest attire is appreciated when away from beaches. Anguillians are friendly but appreciate respectful behavior.
Beach Safety
While Meads Bay is generally calm, winter months (December-January) can bring larger waves and stronger currents. No lifeguards are present, so exercise caution. Apply reef-safe sunscreen frequently—the Caribbean sun is stronger than you might expect.
Important: Anguilla has strict entry requirements that may include pre-approval, testing, or vaccination verification depending on current policies. Check the official Anguilla Tourist Board website for the most up-to-date entry protocols before your trip.
Experience Paradise at Meads Bay
Meads Bay represents the very best of what makes Anguilla special—pristine beaches, world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to truly unwind. Whether you’re swimming in its crystal-clear waters, dining with your toes in the sand, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues, Meads Bay offers the authentic Caribbean experience that travelers dream about.
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The above is subject to change.
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