Second Chances Thrift Shop: Anguilla's Feel-Good Treasure Hunt
Bargain boutique where every dollar helps a rescued dog or cat find a home.
Why Go
Tucked beside the BIG Store on Long Path Road, this volunteer-run shop is Anguilla's worst-kept secret for beach reads, resort-worthy linens, and pre-loved island wardrobe pieces ΓÇö all funding the Anguilla Animal Rescue Foundation (AARF).
The Experience
Second Chances feels less like a thrift store and more like rifling through a well-traveled friend's closet. Racks are tidy, books are shelved by category, and there is always something quietly wonderful hiding in the housewares ΓÇö a Wedgwood teacup, a barely-worn Panama hat, a set of hurricane lanterns. Volunteers greet you by name if you visit twice, and the whole place hums with the low-key mission of getting street dogs and cats adopted. Turnover is fast because expats rotate off-island regularly, so no two visits look the same. Bring cash, take your time, and expect to leave with something you did not know you needed.
What to Try
Scan the book wall first (paperback beach reads are usually a dollar or two), then work the linens and kitchen shelves for villa-quality finds. The AARF-branded merch section ΓÇö tees, ball caps, bottle bags, bandanas ΓÇö makes an easy souvenir that doubles as a donation. If you are traveling with a rental villa, this is the spot to grab an extra beach towel, snorkel gear, or serving platter for a fraction of gift-shop prices.
Insider Tip
Hours are famously limited ΓÇö typically Tuesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon ΓÇö and they hinge on volunteer availability, so build your visit around them rather than the other way around. Arrive right at opening for the best pick of fresh donations, and if you are leaving the island, drop clean clothing, electronics with chargers, or small appliances at their door (or the donation box at Wallblake Catholic church) instead of hauling them home.
The Practical Stuff
Location: BIG Store Building, Long Path Road, The Valley ΓÇö turn left into the side lot for parking. Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m.ΓÇô12 p.m. (seasonal; confirm on their Facebook page @aarfthriftshop). Payment: cash preferred. Accessibility: ground-floor entry, compact aisles. Budget: expect most items under US$20. Every purchase funds AARF's shelter, spay/neuter clinics, and adoption program.
Pair It With
- ALAK Art Gallery — Round out a Valley morning of browsing by moving from pre-loved finds to original Anguillian art just up the road.
- 20 Knots — A short drive away ΓÇö perfect for a post-shopping lunch and rum punch once the shop closes at noon.
- Agave Villa — If you are staying nearby, stock the villa with thrifted beach towels, books, and kitchen extras before settling in.