Visitors flock to the warm beaches of Anguilla during the winter months. Some join us to celebrate the holidays beachside with their families, while others are excited to leave the frigid winters in New York, Chicago, Vancouver and the like. While winters in the Caribbean never fail to dazzle, summers certainly have their perks. For those that aren’t necessarily set on their winter warm-up in the Caribbean, I could make a serious argument that May and June are prime months for planning a getaway to Anguilla (in fact, I’ve mentioned this to friends and family alike on a number of occasions). Here are 7 reasons to get you thinking about your summer getaway:
Low season prices are in effect.
1. It’s no secret that an Anguillan getaway can be a bit of an investment during the winter months, but rates drop considerably across the island during low season. Sure, our one-bedroom suite may not play into your romantic getaway budget during the holidays, but you can enjoy the same luxury at half the price if you book for the summer.
The weather still rocks.
2. I know what you’re thinking. There’s a reason people go to the Caribbean in the winter — the weather is at its peak! Well, yes, the weather is great during December, but it’s just as great during May or June. Expect weather in the high 70s – high 80s for most of the year, low season included.
You can get into your favorite restaurants.
3. There’s a fair likelihood that your favorite restaurants on the island are other visitors’ favorite restaurants, too. The reality is that many people make their restaurant reservations in advance; months in advance in some cases. If you’re looking to make a reservation at Blanchard’s, Straw Hat or Barrel Stay (amongst many others in demand) over the holidays, you’ll probably want to make those reservations early. If you’re looking to get into those same restaurants during the summer, you’ll have a much easier time getting a reservation and fewer visitors to share your space with.
You’ll have your own stretch of beach.
4. Low season brings fewer visitors which means there’s a strong likelihood you’ll have a large stretch of beach all to yourself. In reality, this happens even during high season in many spots (it’s one of the perks of Anguilla being a rather undiscovered gem), but low season is impressively relaxing and personal. Sure there are spots that you can go if you’re looking for a lively crowd, but if you want some quiet beach time during the day, you’ll be able to find a place to enjoy your very own patch of white sandy beach.
You’ll get a rental car.
5. I realize this doesn’t sound like a bonus, but it really is. There are a number of rental car vendors on the island, but there isn’t always sufficient stock to supply all of the tourists that visit during the bustling winter months. Some people opt for taxis over rental cars of course, but that can be an expensive prospect. During the summer months, you’re almost guaranteed to find a rental car for your stay. Remember: Drive left. (A post on why you should rent a car is forthcoming.)
Enjoy some local flair.
6. If you’re looking for a serious local experience, Anguilla’s annual Carnival celebration is not to be missed. The entire celebration spans nearly two weeks, beginning at the end of July and heading into August, but the most noteworthy is arguably August Monday. The first Monday of August (the 5th this year) marks one of the most famous beach parties in the Caribbean. Locals are out en masse to celebrate Anguillan culture with local fare, local music and a whole lot of dancing.
If you’re not up for a Carnival experience, the summer months will still give you a glimpse into local living. When beach bars and restaurants aren’t loaded up with visitors, you’ll get a better chance to chat with locals and expats about Anguillan living (plus gain some insights into their favorite to-dos).
Family vacations make sense.
7. Last, but not least: family vacations make sense during the summer. If you’re looking for a family getaway instead of a romantic rendezvous, summer becomes the most ideal time to book. With the kids out of school and the new year crunch time dissipating at work, taking a week for family time becomes a bit more doable. Plus, with rates being 50%+ lower than high season rates, the two or three-bedroom suite makes your getaway more comfortable and more affordable.
Do I have you convinced? What’s your favorite time to join us in the Caribbean?