Anguilla is known for its celebrity-attracting luxury resorts, 33 glittering sand beaches, and sail-flecked sea vistas. This is where boat racing isn’t just a hobby, but the national sport.

But it’s not just about fun in the sun and sand in this eastern Caribbean slice of paradise. Increasingly this 35 square mile island in the British West Indies, just north of St. Maarten, is getting attention from second home developers. The island, no doubt, appeals to both U.S. buyers seeking a relatively easy to reach getaway (it’s just a one hour flight from San Juan which has direct flights to numerous U.S. cities) and Caribbean lovers who find islands like St. Bart’s, long discovered and overrun with tourists.

Resort real estate development will kick into high gear over the next few years as three lavish, beachfront residential resorts from several world-renowned development groups and architects open their doors. Not surprisingly, getting your own slice of Anguilla isn’t cheap, though many of these new villas come with their own private infinity or plunge pools and all aim to provide owners with five-star resort services. Worth noting, a single night’s stay at the Moorish-style Cap Juluca resort can top $825. Paradise, indeed, has a price tag. Here’s a preview of the newest resort residences that will soon stake claim on Anguilla.

Temenos Anguilla

With a nod to the property’s Greek name, the Temenos’ beachfront, hillside residences evoke the serene island elegance of Santorini complete with crisp white buildings, sun-soaked courtyards, and sparkling private pools. Residents can take advantage of the Greg Norman-designed golf course, world-class tennis facility, and chic on-site restaurants, including one from New York chef David Bouley. Properties, slated for completion in 2008, include residences, villas, and estates, and range in price from $1.4 to $12.5 million.

The Residences at Rendezvous Bay

Peter Marino – whose stylish work includes the Armani residence in Milan and retail spaces for Chanel, and whom Architectural Digest named one of the top 30 architects – is designing all aspects of the Residences at Rendezvous Bay. This collection of beachfront estates, penthouses, and residences, opening in 2010, will feature private pools, stunning views, and indoor-outdoor living. Amenities include a spa and fitness center, private butlers, and waterfront cabanas. Properties range from $3 million to $20 million.

Viceroy Anguilla

Developed by the Kor Hotel Group and situated on 35 acres, Viceroy Anguilla will feature a bluff-top restaurant, lounge, and infinity pool in addition to 3,000 feet of white sand beach. The resort’s distinctive interiors, designed by the award-winning Kelly Wearstler, will boast a modern design incorporating organic elements that reflect the island surroundings. Slated for completion in 2008, the residences include 25 villas and townhomes each with a private infinity pool, 115 residences with heated plunge pools, as well as a limited number of penthouses. Properties range from $850,000 to $7 million.