We’ve been to both. They are very different. I do think the waters around Maui are not as calm as those around Anguilla. Also, the water is warmer around Anguilla.
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Anguilla probably has calmer waters and less crowded, built up beaches. (And good French food!) You could probably snorkel from the beach in many locations, so it’d be easy to do what you love and get some variety. If you wanted to go to Saba, that’d mix it up a bit.
My sense is that the submerged volcano in Maui may have the most spectacular snorkeling, but as it is a boat ride away, you’re unlikely to experience it more than once. Your from the beach options may depend on where you stay.
These are both wonderful destinations, but quite different. As an East coaster, Anguilla is a very simple spot for me to get to. Maui is trickier. For you, that’s not a decision. Costs can also vary quite a bit depending on how you like to stay. For us, that often factors in.
I’d definitely check on how accessible the beaches (and their services) are where you want to snorkel if you aren’t staying in a hotel there.
I’d also give thought to the beach culture you prefer as these destinations vary greatly in that regard.
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Full disclosure, we’ll be using timeshare points to stay on either island.
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When are you planning to go? You may not want to go to the Caribbean during hurricane season! When we were in Maui we stayed in Kahana. Beautiful. But it was August and we were glad our condo had air conditioning. Not all do.
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We’re looking at probably May or June – have made several trips to the Carib in the summer, and haven’t seen any really nasty weather. (maybe luckily?)
I thought hurricane season starts in July in the Caribbean, though I’m certainly no expert.
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I’d look at the locations for each, especially given your interests – just to be sure you’ll have easy access to the beaches where you want to snorkel and/or that they have the amenities you want.
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I have never been to Hawaii and have always wanted to go. I think you have gotten lots of feedback about it already.
I came here to post that I have been to Anguilla 9 times and it is my favorite island in the Caribean. In fact, I believe 8 out of the 9 times I have been were in summer…June or July…not truly yet hurricane season. Had great weather every time. At most a brief shower. Anguilla is not for everyone and I don’t know what you like in a vacation and believe this is a very different choice from Hawaii. In my view, what Anguilla has (that I love) are amazing beaches, pure white sugary sand with barely anyone on them, particularly in the off season (which is same weather as in season but people tend to want to go to get away from winter). The prices are way cheaper in summer too. If you don’t want crowds and wall to wall people on a beach, this is your place, with crystal clear aqua water and yes, snorkeling…certain places better than others on the island.
It is a very small flat island. If you are into sight seeing, this is not your place. If you are into a “scene,” it is not your place. If you are into cruise ships, gambling, shopping, it is not your place. What Anguilla has besides amazing uncrowded beaches, are fabulous resort hotels, no high rises, and gourmet dining. Have always rented a car for the week and deciding on just 7 dinner places was a hard choice because there are many terrific restaurants. That is the evening’s entertainment. There’s not a lot of other types of entertainment. Many of the hotels are stunning. My favorite is Cap Juluca, but have stayed at two others. If you love to just get away, relax, have a romantic time, enjoy the beach and the snorkeling and related things to that, and wonderful places to stay and great dining, this is for you. Otherwise, it is not. I’d love to go back. Obviously, once I found it, I chose to go back many times.
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Additionally, the Florida Keys offer lots of great locations for snorkeling.
https://tropicalsnorkeling.com/best-keys-snorkeling/
Hawaii has not yet recovered from the massive fires.
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A great description of Anguilla. The food scene is awesome ant there are some cool local options - braised goat is really good, and there is a place where you can boat out and have grilled lobster.
We stayed in a cliff side villa at Malliouhana and had private access to a small beach below. Nice.
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If you decide to go to Maui:
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Most rental car agreements do not allow you to drive on the barely 2-lane road past Hana (ie, to drive all the way around). Don’t assume that cell phone service back there past Hana will be available if you get stuck and need emergency assistance.
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Lahaina is pretty much totally burned to the ground, so there won’t be any sight seeing in Lahaina.
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The rest of the west side of Maui is open to tourists, though, and there are some great beaches and restaurants on the west side.
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So it turns out that both Anguilla and Kihei were booked for the dates we were requesting. So we are going to St. Martin/Sint Maarten. While there we’ll do a day trip (or two?) to Anguilla, which is 9 miles away.
While the snorkeling isn’t supposed to be quite as great on St. Martin, there do appear to be some promising spots. The food is supposed to be the best in the Caribbean (or among the best), so I am excited about that.
Thanks to all who pitched in – we are keeping Maui for another year. But it is firmly on the list.
ETA: we’re surely gonna watch the planes come in. Apparently they fly like 50 feet above the beach on approach. lol
And – if anyone has advice on how best to spend a day on Anguilla, or places to see on St. Martin, that would be appreciated too.
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St. Martin is a nice place. Yes, the airport approiach from the beach is crazy. Experience both sides is you get a chance. Try to find out the cruise ship schedules and avoid those area at all costs. Finally, lots of great French restaurants there. Have fun.
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Like in this video?
lol, nice. Hello, Norma Jean.
I’ll bring an old football helmet.
St Martin is small, so it’s not far to anywhere else. But traffic can be slow!
Most beaches offer services, so you can pretty much show up and pay for a chair and umbrellas, which you will probably want as it’s hot!
Great food in Grand Case (and remote, service-less Happy Bay is nearby.) Ive never done Pinel Island but it looks great for your interests and could tie into dinner at Baie Orientale.
Love the restaurant La Cigale - definitely a special meal. It’d be on the way back from the ferry if you catch it from Marigot.
I think you’ll have a great time!
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which side of the island (kauai) did you stay? Fo you recommend that or elsewhere??
Google this as it depends on time of year and interests. The North Shore is visually as spectacular as can be but is not great for swimming in winter. Fine in summer.
South shore has many more amenities and better winter swimming as well as access to the Canyon for hiking.
Thanks! It will be summer (June). Any other tips/pointers?
I recommend staying in Poipu area. Swimmable beach and close to good hikes. Restaurants etc. Allerton Botanical Gardens are a must to visit.
The island is so tiny you can do day trips to the north side easily.
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