Anguilla Guide

Know Before You Go...®

You’re in the right place to find all sorts of useful information about Anguilla. Use the Island Guide below to read an overview about the island! We understand you may not know much about Anguilla - that’s what we’re here for!

Why Anguilla?

  • Anguilla is the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean.
  • The island is made up of 33 stunning, secluded white sand beaches.
  • Anguilla is known for its turquoise blue waters and crystal clear lagoons.
  • The local currency in Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar.

Anguilla Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
83° F
74° F
February
83° F
75° F
March
83° F
75° F
April
84° F
76° F
May
86° F
78° F
June
88° F
80° F
July
88° F
80° F
August
88° F
80° F
September
88° F
80° F
October
87° F
80° F
November
85° F
78° F
December
83° F
76° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.4 inches
February
1.7 inches
March
1.7 inches
April
2.6 inches
May
3.8 inches
June
2.5 inches
July
3.0 inches
August
3.9 inches
September
5.2 inches
October
4.3 inches
November
5.1 inches
December
3.4 inches

Overview

If your heart is set on getting away from it all and experiencing a true island escape, Anguilla, with its friendly people and natural attractions, is a perfect choice. Its low lying, arid terrain doesn’t leave much in the way of exploration but your consolation prize is the beaches - twelve miles of them - all powder white-sand, beautiful and more often than not, deserted. Anguilla is simply a beach lover’s paradise! For the most part, people who visit Anguilla are seeking rest and relaxation…sunbathing, walking on the beaches, swimming and reading are the favorite pastimes.

Anguilla (rhymes with “vanilla”) is located roughly 150 miles east of Puerto Rico and just a mere five miles north of St. Maarten. The small little island measures sixteen miles long and three miles wide. Gentle breezes bathe the island continuously resulting in an average temperature of around 80F.

A British dependent territory since 1650 and the most northerly of the Leeward Islands and Lesser Antilles, Anguilla remains greatly untouched by commercial development; the hotels are all discreet low-rise designs complementing both the rocky coral and sandy coastlines.

The interior of the island is mostly evergreen bushland (shrubs) with a sporadic bougainvillea, hibiscus or other blooming plant reminding you of the island’s tropical influence. Salt ponds provide bird watching enthusiasts with a glimpse of a variety of species calling Anguilla home including the snowy egret and the great blue heron.

Additional attractions on Anguilla range from their national sport of boat racing and sailing to the local art galleries. If you rent a car for a day to tour the island you’ll meet many of the local artists, each perfecting their art and proud to share their talents with you. Anguilla is also noted for its gourmet restaurants, luxury resorts and charming locally owned apartments, inns and guesthouses. If diving is what you’re after, Anguilla offers a superb reef system and offshore wrecks to explore. Snorkeling is sensational off Scilly Cay, a two-minute boat trip from Island Harbour on the northeast end of Anguilla.

Shopping (to speak of), nightlife and gambling you won’t find on Anguilla but if you need a fix in these areas, don’t fret - a trip to St. Maarten is just a 30-minute ferry ride. If you’re real ambitious with money to spare, you can hop a small plane to French St. Bart’s and enjoy a day of exquisite shopping and world renown French cuisine.

History

Located in the eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is a small island nation with a rich and interesting history. Its name, which means “eel” in Spanish, was given by early European explorers due to the island’s long, narrow shape resembling an eel.

The first inhabitants of Anguilla were the Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples, who arrived around 1300 BC. They lived a peaceful life, fishing and farming, until the arrival of European colonizers in the late 15th century.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus landed on the island during his second voyage to the New World and claimed it for Spain. However, due to the island’s lack of resources, it was not of much interest to the Spanish and was left almost untouched for the next 300 years.

In the early 18th century, Anguilla became a popular hideout for pirates, who used it as a base to raid passing ships. The island’s location, away from major trade routes, made it an ideal spot for these infamous pirates such as Blackbeard and Captain Kidd.

In 1650, the British colonized Anguilla and the island became a British overseas territory. However, the French also had their eyes on the island and made several attempts to take control of it, resulting in a series of battles between the two nations.

In the 19th century, Anguilla’s economy began to thrive with the cultivation of sugar cane, cotton, and indigo. The island’s population grew, mainly consisting of enslaved Africans who were brought to work on the plantations.

In the mid-20th century, Anguilla, along with several other Caribbean islands, became part of the West Indies Federation, a British attempt at creating a self-governing unit in the Caribbean. However, the federation was short-lived and Anguilla, along with several other islands, broke away in 1967.

In 1980, Anguilla gained full separation from St. Kitts and Nevis and became a British dependent territory with its own government. Since then, the island has experienced significant economic growth, with tourism being the main industry.

Today, Anguilla is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. Its history, with influences from various cultures, can be seen in its diverse cuisine, music, and art. Despite being a small island, Anguilla’s unique past has shaped it into the vibrant and welcoming nation it is today.

Prickly Pear Cays

Great snorkeling and beautiful conch found on Prickly Pear Cays

Prickly Pear Cays is two small, uninhabited islands located just 6 miles north of Road Bay, Anguilla. They are divided by a narrow channel into Prickly Pear east and Prickly Pear west. Both offer 360 degrees of powdery sand and turquoise water. It's popular among swimmers and snorkelers looking for a less crowded experience.

Veya Restaurant

Voted top restaurant by the Caribbean Journal 2023

Opened in 2007 by a young couple from Carlisle, Pa., this charming restaurant in Sandy Ground offers an adventurous menu and an exquisite dining experience. Beautiful décor & ambiance featuring flavors from around the world. Select wines & cocktails. Dinner only. Closed Sunday.

Shoal Bay East

Anguilla's Shoal Bay East is a beach lover's paradise

Anguilla is simply a beach lover's paradise and of the 33 magnificent beaches, Shoal Bay is our top pick. The 2-mile strand of perfect white sand has been named the world's best beach by many of the top tourist magazines, which means a good portion of the beach is lined with villas, small resorts and umbrellas. There are several great open-air restaurants bumping with live music and rum punch.

Transportation on Anguilla

Getting to Anguilla and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

All visitors must present a passport upon entering Anguilla along with a return or onward ticket, all documents needed for next destination, and sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. The passport must not expire for at least 6 months after entering the country even if you do not intend to stay that long. There should be at least 1 blank page in the passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required for a maximum stay of 3 months. 

All Americans traveling by air outside the US are required to present a passport to re-enter the US.

Airlines Flying Here

There are now international flights into Anguilla. You can also reach Anguilla by flying in from Puerto Rico or St. Maarten, or take the 20 minute water taxi from St. Maarten.

International

  • Air Canada
  • Air France
  • American Airlines
  • Delta
  • JetBlue
  • United Airlines

Regional:

  • Anguilla Air Services
  • Cape Air
  • Seaborne
  • Tradewinds

Airport

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (formerly Anguilla Wallblake Airport)

Departure Tax

There is a departure tax to be paid in CASH to the Government of Anguilla upon island departure, effective 2021.
• Guests 12 years and up: $28.00/person
• Children 5 - 11 years: $18.00/person
• Children 2 - 4 years: $8.00/person
• Babies 0 - 1 year: $

Driving

On the left. Average speed is about 30 mph. A valid license from resident country required to obtain a temporary Anguillian drivers license for US $25.00 that is issued on the spot by car rental agencies and valid for up to 3 months.

Local Transportation

2021

1. Taxis: Taxis are the most common form of transportation in Anguilla and can be found at designated taxi stands or can be called through a hotel or restaurant. Taxis are metered and rates are regulated by the government.

2. Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the island at their own pace. There are several car rental companies on the island, and a valid driver’s license from your home country is required.

3. Scooter Rentals: Scooter rentals are also available on the island, offering a fun and convenient way to get around. However, it is important to follow all traffic rules and wear a helmet for safety.

4. Bicycle Rentals: Bicycles can also be rented on the island, providing a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore the island.

5. Public Bus: The public bus system in Anguilla is limited, but it is an affordable option for getting around the island. Buses run on fixed routes and schedules.

6. Water Taxis: Water taxis are a popular mode of transportation for island hopping or getting to neighboring islands like St. Maarten. They can be arranged through hotels or at designated docks.

7. Private Boats: Private boat charters are available for those looking for a more luxurious and personalized mode of transportation. They can be booked through hotels or private companies.

8. Walking: Anguilla is a small island, and many areas are easily walkable, especially in the main tourist areas. Walking is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty and charm.

Know Before You Go...® - Anguilla Travel Tips

Before making their way to Anguilla , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Anguilla even more relaxing.

Capital: The Valley
Population: 18,090
Size: 35 square miles, 16 miles long, 3 miles wide, about one-half the size of Washington, DC
Electric Current: 110/120
Time: zone:-4 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC) or XCD - U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The current exchange rate is US$1 = EC$2.70. No need to exchange money to EC before traveling. Major credit cards, although not always American Express, are widely accepted. Some small vendors charge a percentage to use credit cards so it is worth asking. Bring cash for taxis, gasoline, roadside stands, tips and out-island travel. ATM machines are available, but use the bank locations, not free-standing machines.
Tipping and Taxes: TIPPING: It is entirely up to you and how you feel their service is, but here is a general guide for Anguilla:
  • Housekeeper: $15 to $25/day
  • Taxi/Water Taxi: 10% of the total cab fare, plus $2/piece of luggage
  • Maintenance staff, if required: $10/day or visit
  • Beach attendants, $10 to $15/day
  • Restaurants: Service charge is 15 - 25% of the cost of the meal, depending on service. Check your bill closely as it may already be included. The service charge is actually split among the entire staff (waitstaff, kitchen and cleaners). If you want to reward YOUR server, you can always leave a tip on top. Also, many times the bill will be in US Dollars so you will want to confirm.
TAXES:
  • 12.5% sales tax
  • 10% accommodation tax
Dress Code: Barefoot elegance, with beachwear during the day, but coverups are needed in public areas. By night, dressy shorts and blouses, or sundresses for the women. For the men, smart attire such as nice shorts and a collared shirts. There are no nude beaches, and going topless is not permitted.
Topography: Low-lying and undulating island of coral and limestone, with 33 white-sand beaches.
Telephone: Area code (264), plus the local 7 digit number.

Anguilla Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Anguilla villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! Both parties must be present on Anguilla for at least 48 hours before the license application can be started. There is a mandatory fee of $280.86USD, and birth certificates, passports and divorce papers/death certificate (if applicable) are required. The license application is available from the Judicial Department (open 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 pm weekdays) and must be completed and processed.

See our favorite Anguilla villas for weddings.

See our favorite Anguilla villas for honeymoons.