I put up a post about Cap Juluca or Point Grace. Here's what I'm wondering though. When we were reading trip reports, a lot of people mentioned that they had lunch at Hemingways at the Sands. Given that The Sands has beach drink service and that the restaurant is reasonable for lunch and we're able to go off-resort for dinner, we're thinking maybe it would make sense to stay at the Sands (we're not in the room all that much anyway) and then splurge on drinks/meals. It's much less expensive and, it sounds like with the large stretch of beach, we could "get away" if it's loud with kids. Is this a reasonable expectation? Would you recommend the Sands?
Thanks!

the sands is definetly not on the same level as cap j or point grace but is perfectly nice. the beach goes on forever and you will not need to go far to "get away". the provo restaurants are plentiful and are some of best in carib, but can get pricey so this could be an excellent plan.
i do not think the sands sends a waiter onto the beach, but the outdoor bar is only a few steps from the beach. also the sands has condo units, so you could if you choose buy a few groceries for snacks or breakfast/lunch stuff.

I have stayed at all three resorts and they are different.

CJ on Anguilla is a must, at least once in your lifetime. It is a full service resort, on a beautiful, small beach. Our room was very pretty, we rented a tv, the bathroom was large, clean and fully stocked. We had a small refridge in the room. The pool is tucked behind George's and is not very pretty. We enjoyed many dinners around the island and mostly stayed on the CJ beach all day. Anguilla is a very friendly island with gorgeous beaches. We enjoyed the breakfast on our balcony each morning. Housekeeping was great. Beach service was extremely good. Water, sorbet and fruit was served during the day.

We have been to T & C 13 times. Once to Point Grace. PG is a small, romantic resort. The restaurant, Grace's Cottage is one of my favorites. Great food, service and atmosphere. The pool is very pretty and we enjoyed the complimentary appitizers and drinks each night between 5 and 6. It was a fun time to socialize, otherwise everyone kept to themselves. PG is on a gorgeous stretch of Grace Bay Beach. The beach chairs are spread out and the service on the beach was ok, a little wave to the attendant and he would run over. Water was served each day and fruit and sorbet somedays on the beach and everyday by the pool. I loved the units with their full kitchens and washer and dryers. We stocked up at the IGA with drinks and food/snacks and went out to dinner each night. We used taxi's and we walked along the beach or road to many restaurants. PG is quiet at night with no one around to talk to, more like a residential resort.

We have been to The Sands 12 times. It is perfect with children and we have also been there without. The price allows us to go several times a year. I am sure that you compared all three resorts. The Sands is also a condo resort with full kitchens and washer and dryers. I love that. We go to the IGA and stock up. Hemingways is more of a casual, fun, bar/restaurant. You can be as social as you want. We love to sit at the bar for dinner. Good service at good prices. The Sands is next door to PG on a beautiful stretch of Grace Bay. ( all of Grace Bay is beautiful) The service at The Sands is more do it yourself. (Check out Trip Advisor's forum. It is very active with great people) The Sands has beach service for food or drinks. You can also bring your own from your condo. Housekeeping is ok. You may or may not be restocked with shampoo, etc. As long as you know this and do not expect more, you will not be disappointed. The Sands is also updated a refurbishing their units, some are showing signs of wear and tear.

We love T & C becuase of the water and Grace Bay. We love to run and/or walk for hours. Both resorts are within walking distance of a great off the beach snorkling reef. The diving is fantastic, as well as the fishing. There are many water related excursions.

I hope this helps and good luck!

Thank you so much! You've been a huge help! It sounds like we've made a good decision for now. I definitely want to head to Cap Juluca at some poitn. It looks unbelievable!

One more question: I know the Sands is family-friendly. It's just my husband and I staying there. Will the noise-level be disruptive or is it fairly quiet?

I do not think that you will be disturbed by children at The Sands. I am not sure from your post when you will be going, however, there are alot of private little alcoves by the pool, and the beach is so big that you could drag your chair away, if you needed to. I don't think that you will, though. When are you going?

Thank you. That's good news. We're headed there in April.