Let’s be honest. Traveling with kids is rarely a breeze. It’s part magic, part meltdown, and part wondering if the beach was really worth that third suitcase full of snacks and sunscreen. But I’ll tell you this, an Anguilla summer? It just hits differently. It’s the kind of place where things slow down, kids find space to play without bumping elbows with strangers, and you finally get to breathe. For real.
I’m not here to romanticize every moment. I’m here to tell you what works, what doesn’t, and how to make your trip feel like a break for everyone, not just a change of scenery. So if you’re planning a family vacation to Anguilla and you want something more than hotel reviews and restaurant lists, you’re in the right place.
Let’s talk about how to do this right.
Why Anguilla Works For Families
Anguilla isn’t a party island. It’s not packed with high-rises or screaming crowds. It doesn’t feel commercial. Instead, it’s calm, warm, and real. People say good morning like they mean it. Kids are welcome pretty much everywhere. There’s space to breathe, walk, wander. And when your toddler is on their fourth meltdown of the day, trust me, that matters.
The beaches are clean and open. The water’s calm. There’s good food that isn’t trying too hard. And even better, in the summer, things are quieter and more affordable. You get the same turquoise water without the price tag or the crowd.
Is Summer Even A Good Time To Visit?
Short answer. Yes. Longer answer. Summer is technically the off-season, but that just means fewer people and better rates. Early summer usually brings steady sun and soft breezes. There might be a rain shower or two, but they don’t last long. The island doesn’t shut down, but it does relax. You’ll find better deals on villas and guesthouses. You’ll find locals with more time to chat. You’ll find beaches that feel almost private.
If you’re worried about hurricanes, aim for June or early July. It’s warm, yes, but manageable with the ocean right there and plenty of shade. And if you catch a rainy afternoon, it’s just an excuse to slow down and take a nap.
Where To Stay Without Losing Your Sanity
Here’s the thing about finding a place to stay on a family trip: comfort matters just as much as location. You want space, convenience, and somewhere that doesn’t make you feel like you have to whisper after 8 pm.
La Vue Boutique Inn is one of those hidden gems that makes your entire trip smoother. It’s perched up just high enough to give you those postcard-worthy sea views, but still close to everything. Like seriously, you’re ten minutes from the good beaches. The rooms are spacious, clean, and feel like a home base instead of a tight hotel room where you’re stepping over flip-flops and backpacks all week. There’s a kitchen setup, which is a game-changer for early breakfast or picky eaters who just want toast and fruit before heading out.
The staff? Super helpful without being overbearing. They’ll remember your name, your kids’ names, and probably your coffee order by the second day. And there’s a relaxed vibe about the place that makes it feel like you’ve arrived at someone’s family home with way better views.
So instead of stressing over whether you should book a resort or a rental, just land at La Vue Inn and let the trip unfold from there.
Packing Smart For Island Life
It’s not about packing light. It’s about packing right.
Bring rash guards. They’ll save your kids from the sun and save you from dealing with sunburn complaints. Reusable water bottles are a must. The heat will sneak up on you if you’re not hydrated. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, and bring more than you think you’ll need. It’s not cheap on the island.
Water shoes come in handy, especially at beaches with rocky patches. A basic first-aid kit is smart to have. And if your kid’s the type who gets antsy at restaurants, toss in some small games or coloring books. The food is fresh here, which means it takes time. You’ll want something to keep them busy while you wait.
Also, bring a small beach bag that can double as your day pack. You won’t want to lug around anything bulky.
What About The Food? You Ask.
Anguilla doesn’t have fast food chains, and that’s a blessing. But it does mean you need a game plan when hangry kids hit.
Ken’s BBQ in The Valley is a go-to. It’s fast, flavorful, and no one cares if your kid eats with their hands. Get the ribs. Get the Johnny cakes. You won’t regret it.
Blanchards Beach Shack on Meads Bay is a family favorite for a reason. Casual food, beach chairs, kids running around barefoot. There’s shade, music, and enough space for everyone to breathe. You’ll eat well and feel relaxed doing it.
Artisan Pizza in Island Harbour is perfect for a low-key dinner. Wood-fired, friendly staff, and pizza that even picky eaters get excited about. You can eat there or take it to go and have a sunset dinner on your porch at La Vue.
And when the sweet cravings hit, Tropical Treats is where you’ll want to be. The coconut ice cream is addictive. The fruit smoothies hit just right after a hot beach day.
The Beaches Your Kids Will Actually Enjoy!
Not all beaches in the world are kid-friendly, no matter how pretty they look in photos. Or so they say. But in Anguilla, ALL beaches are kid-friendly! Here a few you can go to without stressing.
Shoal Bay East is the crown jewel. It’s got everything. Soft sand, calm water, places to eat, and space to stretch out. You can easily spend a full day there and not hear a single complaint.
Rendezvous Bay is another great choice, especially in the mornings. It’s long, the water’s gentle, and there’s usually plenty of space to spread out without stepping on someone’s towel.
Crocus Bay is good if you want a more local feel. It’s easy to get to, has shade, and you can grab a quick bite nearby at DaVida’s Beach Club. If you’re up for a short adventure, you can kayak over to Little Bay. The water’s incredibly calm there, perfect for kids who are strong swimmers or just starting out with snorkeling.
Sandy Ground is a vibe all its own. Boats bobbing in the water, the occasional beach bar playing music, and a laid-back energy that makes it easy to slow down. It’s not a swim-all-day kind of beach, but it’s great for a stroll or grabbing food with a view.
Getting Around Without Losing Your Patience
You’ll want a car. Trust me on this. Taxis are expensive, and waiting around with kids is nobody’s idea of fun. Driving is easy once you get used to staying on the left side of the road. The island is small, so you won’t be driving for hours. Most places are 20 minutes away, max.
Navigation apps work most of the time, but when in doubt, locals are your best source. Just ask. People here are kind and helpful.
When It Rains
Rain doesn’t usually last long, but when it does, it helps to have a few ideas in your back pocket.
The Heritage Collection Museum is small but packed with stories. It’s a quiet way to get a little context on the island you’re exploring. Color Me Happy is a hands-on art studio where kids can paint and craft while you sip coffee and take a breath.
Or maybe just let it be a lazy day. Watch a movie, play cards, sit out on the porch at La Vue with the rain falling in the background. Not every moment needs to be filled. Sometimes the best ones come when you slow all the way down.
A Few Unexpected Moments
Glass-bottom boat rides. Watching sea life glide under you while your kids press their noses to the glass. It’s simple, peaceful, and something they’ll talk about for weeks.
Horseback rides along Cove Bay. Especially close to sunset, the light is unreal. It feels like something out of a movie, and it’s surprisingly calm even for first-time riders.
Sunday trips to Scilly Cay. It’s a tiny island just offshore. You take a little boat over, eat grilled seafood, sip something tropical, and listen to live music while your kids build castles in the sand. It’s easy and unforgettable.
And Finally, A Gentle Reminder
You’re not just here to make memories for your kids. You’re here to make space for yourself too.
Take a walk alone in the morning. Sit outside with a drink after bedtime. Book that massage. Let yourself enjoy the quiet moments in between all the kid-focused ones.
Anguilla makes room for that kind of peace. So take it.
Your kids might remember the boat ride or the beach day, but you’ll remember that one evening where the breeze was soft, the sky turned gold, and nobody needed anything from you for just a little while.
That’s what an Anguilla summer can give you.
And you deserve it.
