Things To Do
in The Valley
The Valley is Anguilla's quiet, sun-washed capital perched along the island's central coast. Its pastel storefronts, colonial-era buildings, and easygoing rhythms invite leisurely strolls and spontaneous chats with locals. Within a short drive, you'll reach white-sand beaches, rugged coves, and some of the Caribbean's best seafood shacks.
The Valley serves as the island's hub for markets, museums, and friendly Anguillan hospitality, making it an ideal base for a relaxed Caribbean escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at The Valley, Anguilla and check into your beachfront accommodation. Take a moment to settle in and soak up the stunning ocean views from your balcony. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in fresh tropical fruit and traditional Caribbean fare.
Explore the nearby beaches, specifically the iconic Shoal Bay East, known for its powdery sands and crystal-clear waters. Engage in various water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding, immersing yourself in the vibrant marine life. Alternatively, you can simply relax under the sun with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying freshly caught seafood prepared with local spices. As the sun sets, listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean and watch as the sky transforms into a palette of colors. End your night with a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet.
Start your day with a visit to the Arawak Archaeological Site, where you can explore the remnants of ancient Caribbean culture. Learn about the history of the island through informative displays and guided tours. Afterward, head to a local bakery for a traditional breakfast pastry.
Visit the Anguillian Heritage Museum to dive deeper into the island’s history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits reflecting the rich culture of Anguilla. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a popular establishment known for its local dishes. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the local craft shops to pick up unique souvenirs made by local artisans.
Attend a cultural event or local music performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music. Savor a delicious dinner featuring local specialties at a renowned restaurant, complemented with a glass of island rum. Wind down your evening with a nightcap while enjoying the soothing sounds of the nearby ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within The Valley) | 8-15 |
| 🏖️Beach chair rental | 10-20 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or craft | 5-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and a relaxed, safe atmosphere
- Compact town center with easy navigation
- Excellent seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger Caribbean destinations
- High prices for a small island economy
- Fewer large-scale attractions or theme parks
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in The Valley
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic courthouse with pastel façades and bustling market backdrop perfect for architectural and street photography.
Ivory church with bright grounds; ideal for daytime portraits and tranquil exteriors.
Wide sandy shore and turquoise shallows offering expansive horizon shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Long white sand and shallow water with dramatic evening light; great for wide-angle seascapes.
Food in The Valley
The Valley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Conch meat simmered in a fragrant curry with spices and coconut milk; commonly found at local eateries and beach shacks.
Must-Try!
Grilled or butter-poached lobster served with rice, vegetables, and garlicky sauce; prized at waterfront restaurants.
Golden fried or baked cornbread often served with stews or as a snack with saltfish.
Golden fritters made from minced fish, herbs, and spices; popular as a snack or light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly gathering for fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to sample local flavors and chat with vendors.
Casual weekend stalls offering grilled fish, conch fritters, and other beachside bites with sea breeze ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a smile are appreciated. Address people politely and avoid loud, confrontational behavior in public.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; swimwear is generally inappropriate off beaches and public streets.
Safety
Tipping in The Valley
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 10-15% in restaurants if service is satisfactory; rounding up at casual spots is common but not obligatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants; carry some US dollars or East Caribbean dollars for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with plentiful sunshine and warm days; humidity is high and afternoon showers are possible but brief. Great for snorkeling and beach time, but plan for occasional rain gear.
Pleasantly warm days with cooler evenings; seas are often calmer, making water activities comfortable. Fewer crowds and excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
The Valley at Night
Hiking in The Valley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail offering sea views and gentle terrain; suitable for a short hike with opportunities for photos at sunset.
Airports
How to reach The Valley by plane.
On-island airport serving Anguilla; taxis and car rentals are readily available for easy access to The Valley.
Major hub on nearby St. Martin; transfer options by short flight or ferry to Anguilla, then a taxi to your accommodation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Afro-Caribbean with a welcoming, family-focused culture; English is the official language with Caribbean dialects in daily speech.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity around Anguilla's sheltered waters, with opportunities for lessons and sunset sails.
A widely followed sport, with local matches and community grounds.
Coastal fishing is common and can be combined with beach time or boat trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Valley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for vegetable curries, lentil stews, and fresh salads. If dining out, ask about stock or broth (fish/seafood stock is common) and request plant-based preparations when possible.