Looking for a peaceful Caribbean getaway with your children? You’ll be surprised how many magical things you can do in Anguilla with kids. This quiet island blends soft beaches, kid-friendly activities, and local culture into an unforgettable family escape. From splash zones and calm waters to mini-museums and coastal walks, this guide will show you exactly what to do in Anguilla with kids to make every moment count.
🏖️ Beaches for Sandcastles and Splashing
Shoal Bay East: Safe Shores for All Ages
One of the most popular beaches in Anguilla, Shoal Bay East is also one of the most family-friendly. The water here is shallow and calm, and the wide sandy shore offers endless space for sandcastle building. There are no steep drops, so kids can play safely while parents relax under a beach umbrella. It’s also easy to grab a refreshing fruit smoothie from a nearby stand.
Rendezvous Bay: Calm Waters and Great Views
Another top spot when you’re thinking about what to do in Anguilla with kids, Rendezvous Bay offers calm, crystalline waters where even toddlers can paddle safely. The gentle waves are perfect for beginner paddleboarding or floating with a parent. Don’t forget your camera—this beach has spectacular sunset views that kids and adults alike will remember forever.
🏛️ Kid-Friendly Cultural Stops
Heritage Collection Museum: History in Bite-Sized Pieces
Don’t be fooled by its small size—this museum offers an accessible and engaging look at Anguilla’s past. Children can see photos, tools, and artifacts, while grown-ups can chat with the passionate curator. The exhibits are spaced just right for short attention spans, and the casual layout means families can explore at their own pace.
Wallblake House: A Walk Through the Past
This beautifully preserved plantation home offers a glimpse into Anguilla’s 18th-century life. Tours are short and lively, making them a good option even for younger kids. Many parents find this a gentle way to introduce the idea of colonial history without it feeling heavy or overwhelming.
🌿 Walks & Nature Trails: Easy Explorations
Crocus Bay Cliff Trail
If your kids enjoy mini adventures, this trail delivers mild excitement with a big reward—a quiet beach cove at the end. You can walk the short trail as a family, watching seabirds and spotting shells along the path. It’s best to go in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
East End Pond Conservation Site
This trail is flat and shaded in many parts, with plenty of signage for kids who love learning about animals. The area is a protected wildlife habitat, so binoculars are a great addition for spotting herons, lizards, or even crabs scuttling along.
🍽️ Where to Eat with Kids in Anguilla
Blanchards Beach Shack
With picnic tables right on the sand, this open-air restaurant is ideal for parents who want a peaceful meal while their kids play nearby. Burgers, wraps, and smoothies dominate the menu—and there’s a small kids’ section too.
Tasty’s
Families rave about Tasty’s for good reason. The chef is warm and accommodating, the flavors are bold but not too spicy, and there’s always something on the menu for picky eaters. Bonus: kids often get coloring pages to stay entertained at the table.
You can explore other kid-friendly Caribbean food ideas and travel dining tips in this family guide by Condé Nast Traveler.
🎡 Play Spaces & Adventure Zones
Aurora Anguilla Resort Activities Park
Even if you’re not staying there, this resort welcomes visitors with passes to its on-site recreation park. There’s a splash pad, mini-golf course, climbing wall, and shaded playground area. The activities are well-maintained and grouped by age so toddlers don’t get overwhelmed.
Four Seasons Anguilla – Kids For All Seasons
This resort runs a supervised kids’ club filled with crafts, treasure hunts, and nature walks. It’s a great way for kids to make friends while you unwind. During holidays, they even offer cooking lessons or mocktail-making classes! The Four Seasons global family travel program details can be found on their official site.
🚤 Boat Tours & Ocean Adventures
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
Want your kids to experience the magic of ocean life without snorkeling? A glass-bottom boat ride allows them to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and sometimes even sea turtles—all without getting wet.
Sandy Island Excursion
Catch a small boat ride to this nearby cay where you can spend a half-day splashing, eating BBQ, and relaxing. The trip is short enough to avoid restlessness, and the food hut serves grilled chicken that’s usually a hit with kids.
🎨 Creative & Interactive Fun
Cheddie’s Carving Studio
Let your children observe real sculptors at work using driftwood and stone. There’s no pressure to buy, and kids can ask questions freely. Sometimes Cheddie even offers small pieces to kids who show interest in crafting!
Mermaid Lessons
A few resorts offer short sessions where kids (usually ages 5 and up) wear fins and tails in the pool and learn “mermaid” swimming. It’s imaginative, safe, and makes for epic vacation photos.
🗓️ Sample Itinerary (3 Days)
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shoal Bay beach fun | Heritage Museum visit | Dinner at Blanchards |
| 2 | Glass-bottom boat ride | Mini-golf & splash pad | Family cookout or resort meal |
| 3 | Trail hike & beach | Mermaid swim lesson or crafts | Ice cream & souvenir shopping |
❓ FAQ
Q: Are there activities for kids under 5?
Yes! Beaches like Rendezvous Bay are ideal for toddlers. Plus, most resorts have kiddie pools and shaded play areas.
Q: Can we access resort parks without staying overnight?
Some, like Aurora Anguilla, offer day passes. Always call ahead to confirm availability.
Q: Is it easy to eat out with kids in Anguilla?
Absolutely. Most restaurants are casual, with child-friendly menus and helpful staff.
Q: Are there any dangerous animals or plants on trails?
No. Anguilla’s wildlife is harmless. Basic sunscreen and bug spray are all you need for nature walks.
Q: Can kids snorkel or join water activities?
Yes, many water excursions offer child-size gear or gentle shallow snorkeling for beginners.
