Daily Daydream: Caribbean's 'Hidden' Island

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

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Anguilla has everything you’d expect from a Caribbean island—white sand beaches, clear seas, luxury resorts, et cetera—but, surprisingly, none of the crowds. Take advantage of the lack of name recognition and enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and shopping in relative seclusion.

If you like undersea views, be sure to dive in at one of Anguilla’s many cays. Spots like Prickly Pear or Scilly Cay are perfect for snorkelers. If you’re seasick from swimming, sailing, and diving, be sure to go a few rounds on Temenos, the island’s 18-hole golf course, take a turtle nesting tour (April through November), or visit the fully restored Wallblake plantation house.

The island also has an amazing dining and nightlife scene, so save some energy for the end of the day.

Where is it? In the Caribbean, north of St. Maarten. Fly internationally to St. Maarten (check prices) and take a seven minute puddle-jumper to Anguilla, or a $15 ferry.

Where to Stay? At Meads Bay Beach Villas, luxury located on the mile-long unspoiled beach of the same name.

What Else Should I Know? Try to visit around May 30, Anguilla Day, which celebrates the island’s independence from the Royal St. Kitts Police Force. (The island is not completely independent; it is currently a British territory.)

Who’s it For? Beach lovers, tax dodgers.

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