Anguilla travel guide
Anguilla Tourism | Anguilla Guide
You're Going to Love Anguilla
Its inviting beaches will put a spell on you, its mouthwatering delicacies will conquer you, and its history will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. Welcome to Anguilla.
What to do in Anguilla
1. Relax on White Sand Beaches
Anguilla has a total of 33 beaches, each one more spectacular and heavenly than the last, with miles of white sand and crystal-clear water. Some of the most popular ones are Meads Bay Beach and Shoal Bay East.
2. Eat Local Delicacies at Sandy Island
Sandy Island is, as its name indicates, a smaller sand island that can be reached by ferry from the main island. Its seafood restaurant Veya serves local delicacies that will keep visitors coming back for more, such as the Anguilla Crayfish and the Caribbean Lobster.
3. Snorkel at Prickly Pear Cays
Prickly Pear Cays is another island located a bit further north from Sandy Island and is the perfect spot to go snorkeling or diving to discover local marine life, such as turtles, garden eels and sting rays. Beach umbrellas and chairs can be rented, and don't forget to try the local restaurant for some delicious food.
4. Learn About Anguillan History at the Heritage Museum
Curated by a local historian and filled with artifacts, this is the only museum on the island and a must see for those who are interested in learning about the history of the island. Visitors can also walk along the Heritage Trail, which goes through the Wallblake House and Warden's Place, both plantation houses from the 18th century.
5. Go Sailing on a Catamaran
One can't visit the Caribbean without getting into the water, and what better way to do that than by sailing on a catamaran. It's a great way to visit some of the smaller Anguilla islands or neighboring countries.
When to visit Anguilla
Anguilla has a hurricane season, which goes from June to November, and the best months to visit are outside of that season from December to May.
How to Get to Anguilla
Entry requirements
Citizens of over 60 countries, including EU countries, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, can enter Anguilla without a visa for up to 3 months. Anyone with a valid UK visa is also able to enter under the same conditions, while citizens of any other countries will need to apply for a visa prior to arrival.
Plane
Anguilla's only airport has nonstop flights to and from San Juan in Puerto Rico with Cape Air and St. Maarten next door.
Boat
Frequent and regular ferries are available from Marigot on the French side of St. Martin to Blowing Point in Anguilla. The trip takes about 30min, and ferries run every 45min between about 7:00 am and 7:00 pm.
Popular airports in Anguilla
Popular airlines serving Anguilla
Where to stay in Anguilla
Fancy and mid-range hotels and villas are readily available on the island, with more economical accommodation available in the form of guesthouses.
Where to stay in popular areas of Anguilla
How to Get Around Anguilla
Public Transportation
Due to Anguilla's small size, there is not a train or bus system servicing the island. Taxis are the only option for moving around locally. Taxi fares are fixed depending on the zone and there are 10 zones covering the full island.
Car
Those looking at renting a car will need to have a local driving permit in order to drive. This permit can be issued by rental car companies for periods of up to 3 months. Cars run on the left hand side of the road.
Boat
Local ferries are available for travel between Sandy Bay on the main island and Sandy Ground and Prickly Pear Cays. The latter is operated by ferry company Calypso Charters and runs twice a day from either side of the route.
The Cost of Living in Anguilla
Eating a cheap meal out in Anguilla costs around 35 XCD (13 USD) per person, while a mid range meal will cost around 125 XCD (47 USD). Credit cards are accepted in most major hotels and establishements but it is essential to keep some cash for smaller purchases. Money can be exchanged into the local currency at the airport.