Shoal Bay Anguilla is located on the northeastern tip of the island, and called Shoal Bay Beach because of the shoals and reefs that lie just offshore for nearly its entire length. This is a considerable distance, as this is one of the longest beaches on the island at almost two miles in length. And, it means you will find some fabulous snorkeling here because the shoals protect the water from choppy seas. It also makes it a good place for children on family vacations. This beach is also called Shoal Bay East to differentiate it from Shoal Bay West, found next to Maunday's Bay on the far southwestern tip of the island.

Shoal Bay Beach has often appeared in various lists of the ten best beaches in the world. Whether you agree or not, it is arguably the best on the island. And it is, indeed, a spectacular stretch of white sand popular with locals, overseas tourists, and visitors from the neighboring island of St. Martin. Fishing boats and other small vessels are allowed to come right into the beach here, so you can enjoy cruises here from any spot on the island.

Although the nearly two-mile stretch of beach is unbroken, there is a point that protrudes from the shoreline near the eastern end of the beach. On the other side of that point is the area that boasts the best snorkeling as the reefs come quite close to shore; a few are not even submerged at high tide. One of the nearby resorts, The Arawak Beach Inn, has its own little offshore island called Scilly Cay. Similar to Scrub Island off Sandy Ground Beach, it has an idyllic beach and a laid back barbecue and seafood beach restaurant—and nothing else.

Anguilla Map

The longest, western stretch of Shoal Bay Anguilla has many beach bars and popular seafood restaurants. If you stick around long enough for sunset cocktails, you will probably find a place with live music. If you’ve just come for a day excursion, this is where you will find a number of local people who roam the beach helping with bringing you sun beds, sun umbrellas, cocktails, and generally take care of you for the day. You’ll also have easy access to dining options.

Shoal Bay Villas is a complex of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments that provide one of the less expensive beach hotels here. It is set right on the beach, and the facility offers the basic beach amenities, including complimentary sun beds, beach umbrellas, snorkeling gear, and there is a swimming pool. However, Shoal Bay Villas has no other facilities. There is no bar or restaurant, gift shop, or any other facilities. What you do get here are comfortable, spacious and bright furnished apartments set in a spectacular Shoal Bay Beach location.

In addition to Shoal Bay Villas there are a few other lodgings that are reasonably priced. Otherwise, Shoal Bay Anguilla is noted for its over-the-top luxurious villas and luxury hotels. Located here is the prestigious Ku Hotel, which has more of a resort hotel feel to it. There is a restaurant serving three meals a day, a delicatessen so you can order a beach picnic, spa services, a small fitness center, swimming pool, boutique and gift shop, and concierge services.