A trip to Anguilla is not complete without hearing the talented local musicians. Anguilla’s dynamic music scene offers a wide selection of vibin’ venues where you can listen closely to some of its incredible performers. Anguilla’s bustling Sandy Ground is specifically the scene for memorable nights of dancing, music and fun by the sea. Music in Anguilla encompasses a wide offering of reggae, calypso, soca and country traditions. Sandy Ground is a popular local spot due to its beautiful, sheltered beach and its shoreline of lively bars and restaurants that cater to all. In Sandy Ground, you can listen to catchy tunes while sipping on a delicious drink in the beautiful bay.  

To make sure you don’t miss out on Anguilla’s incredible music, here are some notable live music venues to check out the next time you’re visiting: 

Lit Lounge - Anguilla-Beaches.com

Lit Lounge

For the party seekers of Anguilla, you won’t have any trouble finding The Lit Lounge. Just listen for the loudest party sounds on the beach. The Lit Lounge is a lofty bar perched on Sandy Ground’s beachfront with a scenic view of the bay. It also offers some fantastic food and beverages prepared by award-winning chefs. It recently partnered with an Asian fusion restaurant, providing a mix of Caribbean and Asian-style plates on the menu. The Lit Lounge plays tunes from pop, reggae, and more on an ever-changing playlist to entertain its guests. 

Johnno's Place - TripAdvisor.com

Johnno's Beach Stop

One of the first beachfront establishments in Anguilla’s Sandy Ground, Johnno’s Beach Stop has been a local favourite for years. Johnno’s opened in the mid-80s, and decades later, it is still providing Sandy Ground with the original Anguilla beach bar experience. You can expect a laid-back and open-aired experience at Johnno's. It offers plenty of tasty meals, including its famous snapper. Johnno’s is a go-to venue for its live performances and smooth jazz music. it is a venue you don’t want to miss, especially on Sunday afternoons. Johnno’s features many local musicians, including Sproka, a multi-talented Anguillian musician, and most are all too happy to take requests! While visiting Johnno’s, know that you are witnessing an authentic piece of Anguilla’s Sandy Ground history! 

Elvis' Beach Bar - TripAdvisor.ca

Elvis' Beach Bar

As the sun sets over Sandy Ground, Elvis’ Beach Bar is the perfect place to enjoy music under the stars and an island cocktail. Order a meal of local ingredients fused with traditional Caribbean and Mexican flavours. Not only do visitors stop by for the incredible menu, but the bar also caters to all ages with beach games to play. Elvis’ Beach Bar also hosts live music on specific days of the week, spotlighting some of the island’s local favourites. Anguillian natives and travellers alike love Elvis’ Beach Bar, as the man for whom the bar is named is known for his great positive energy and exceptional hospitality. Voted best beach bar in the Caribbean by the readers of USA Today in 2022! 

Dune Preserve - Caribbean Journal

Dune Preserve

Who better to hear live reggae from than Anguilla’s local legend, Bankie Banx! He is not only a famous musician but also happens to be the owner of the iconic Dune Preserve beach bar. The Dune Preserve is a unique wooden beach bar on Rendezvous Bay. It features Bankie’s signature creation - the boat bar made from his old wooden boat - which has taken on new life as one of the best seats in the house. The Dune Preserve serves fresh drinks and hosts live music with a view overlooking the clear blue water.  

Often you will have the chance to meet the local legend, himself either visiting or performing. The Dune Preserve lights up at night and can be enjoyed long after the sun goes down. So, when planning your trip to Anguilla, visit The Dune Preserve for an afternoon of sitting by the boat bar or an evening of entertaining Anguillian reggae performances on Bankie’s magnificent stage. 

Anguilla's local legend, Bankie Banx

Moonsplash Music Festival

Moonsplash Music Festival is Anguilla’s largest and most anticipated annual music festival. Attendees are in for a blast as it features the one and only Bankie Banx as the host and the Dune Preserve as the venue! It features many of Anguilla’s top musicians as well as International artists. Previous feature talent has even included the likes of John Mayer and Jimmy Buffet! If you want to experience the hustle and bustle of Anguilla’s most anticipated musical event, you should plan your stay around attending the Moonsplash Music Festival which usually takes place every year during the March full moon.  

Anguillian music truly enhances your island experience by adding an enjoyable soundtrack to your next Caribbean vacation. The dynamic and lively music scene in Sandy Ground, Anguilla, is sure to leave you hungry for more!   

While in Anguilla, follow the Anguilla Tourist Board’s Facebook page for updates on local activities, and for schedules for bar and restaurant openings, entertainment and events.