Elodia's Beach Cafe
Rum punch, mahi mahi, and toes-in-the-sand simplicity at Shoal Bay East's quiet end
Why Go
Tucked among sea grapes near The Point, Elodia's is the kind of open-air, wood-floor beach shack where a two-hour lunch turns into an afternoon of snorkeling, dozing on a rented lounger, and ordering just one more of that award-winning rum punch.
The Experience
Walk east along Shoal Bay's powder-soft sand until the crowds thin and the palms lean in ΓÇö that's where Elodia's appears, all picnic tables and unhurried island rhythm. Sisters Kathrin and Fayola run the show with the kind of warmth that makes first-timers feel like regulars by dessert. There's no dress code, no reservation drama, and no pretense ΓÇö just grilled seafood coming out of the kitchen, reggae drifting over the deck, and the turquoise water a barefoot walk away. It's classic Anguilla beach culture, the version locals actually go to.
What to Try
The mahi mahi sandwich (around $15) is the runaway favorite ΓÇö a thick, fresh-caught fillet on a soft bun with sweet potato fries, slaw, and tartar. Pair it with the house rum punch, a TripAdvisor Award of Excellence winner blending three rums, tropical juice, and a float of Amaretto. Save room for the BBQ ribs plate if you're staying for the long haul.
Insider Tip
Chairs and umbrellas rent for $10, but they go fast in high season ΓÇö arrive by 11am to claim a front-row spot, or call ahead (264-497-1257) to reserve. Buying lunch also gets you free parking (otherwise it's $5), and the reef just offshore is one of the best easy-access snorkel spots on the island ΓÇö rent gear right at the bar and you're in the water in five minutes.
The Practical Stuff
Open daily 10amΓÇô5pm (lunch only, no dinner service). Located on the eastern end of Shoal Bay East, near The Point. Cash or card accepted. Budget-friendly ΓÇö most mains $12ΓÇô$20. Phone: 264-584-3363 or 264-497-1257. Casual beach attire; kid-friendly; wheelchair access is limited due to sand approach.
Pair It With
- Shoal Bay East snorkeling — The reef just off Elodia's stretch is calm, shallow, and full of parrotfish ΓÇö walk in from your lounger and you're swimming with them in minutes.
- 4 Bedroom Condo ΓÇô Fountain Anguilla on Shoal Bay — Stay steps from the sand so you can roll out of bed, grab breakfast, and be at Elodia's for a mid-morning rum punch without ever getting in a car.
- 20 Knots — A comfortable Shoal Bay stay that puts you within easy walking distance of Elodia's for lazy lunches and sunset drinks.