Anguilla & Saint Martin

These two islands are next to each other, with inexpensive flights doing into Saint Martin daily, and a quick boat ride to Anguilla. Personally, I found Anguilla to have lovelier beaches, hotels, and a relaxed atmosphere, while Saint Martin had more shops & restaurants. So I would suggest staying in the latter for relaxation.

Saint Martin

Saint Martin is part of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean Sea. It comprises 2 separate countries, divided between its northern French side, called Saint-Martin, and its southern Dutch side, Sint Maarten. Things to do:

• St. Maarten Museum
• Diving and snorkeling
• Sailing
• Windsurfing
• Shopping
• St. Maarten nightlife

Stay: Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Sol é Luna Inn, Belmond La Samanna

Anguilla

Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory, comprising of a small main island and several offshore islets. Its beaches range from long sandy stretches like Rendezvous Bay, overlooking neighboring Saint Martin island, to secluded coves reached by boat, such as at Little Bay. Protected areas include Big Spring Cave, known for its prehistoric petroglyphs, and East End Pond, a wildlife conservation site. Be sure to:

• Lounge at any one of the island’s numerous, pristine white beaches
• Scuba diving or snorkeling, a good way to view the island’s surrounding coral reefs, which are teeming with sea life
• Horseback riding on the beach

Stay: There are a lot of smaller independent inns which are adorable, and there was a time when big resorts were not allowed. But here they come: St. Regis, Four Seasons, Cap Juluca, Viceroy