Anguilla Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Anguilla is a serene Caribbean paradise, known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed luxury. With 33 unique beaches, from lively Shoal Bay to tranquil Meads Bay, the island is a haven for relaxation and adventure. Anguilla boasts vibrant culture, exceptional cuisine featuring fresh seafood, and warm hospitality. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, or exploring nearby cays by boat. Its luxurious villas and laid-back charm make it perfect for peaceful retreats or lively getaways. Offering natural beauty, cultural richness, and exclusivity, Anguilla is an idyllic destination for an unforgettable Caribbean escape.
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
|
° F
|
February |
83° F
|
° F
|
March |
83° F
|
° F
|
April |
84° F
|
° F
|
May |
86° F
|
° F
|
June |
88° F
|
° F
|
July |
88° F
|
° F
|
August |
88° F
|
° F
|
September |
88° F
|
° F
|
October |
87° F
|
° F
|
November |
85° F
|
° F
|
December |
83° F
|
° 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
|
History
Anguilla, a small gem in the Caribbean, boasts a rich and fascinating history. Originally inhabited by the Arawak people, evidence of their culture remains in ancient petroglyphs and pottery found on the island. The name ‘Anguilla,’ meaning ‘eel’ in Spanish, was likely inspired by the island’s elongated shape. European settlers arrived in the 1600s, with the British establishing control in 1650, shaping much of Anguilla’s colonial legacy.
Throughout its history, Anguilla has been marked by resilience. In the 18th and 19th centuries, its inhabitants faced challenges like isolation, hurricanes, and economic struggles due to limited agricultural resources. However, the Anguillians’ tenacity became legendary during the Anguilla Revolution of 1967. The islanders declared independence from a short-lived federation with St. Kitts and Nevis, rebelling against imposed governance. By 1980, their efforts were rewarded when Anguilla was officially recognized as a separate British Overseas Territory.
Today, Anguilla is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island draws visitors from around the world. Its history of resilience and independence is a testament to the strength and spirit of its people, making Anguilla a unique blend of heritage and paradise.
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.
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.
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
- Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa: Not required for most nationalities for stays up to 3 months.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Anguilla.
- Travel Authorization: As of November 2024, all travelers to Anguilla are required to obtain pre-travel authorization. Persons without travel authorization may be refused entry to Anguilla. All visitors must complete an individual application (including children).
Departure Tax
A departure tax of US$28 is charged at the airport; US$28 at the ferry port on the French side; US$36 at the ferry port on the Dutch side.
Driving
- License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to three months.
- Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the police station.
- Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
- Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads and clear signage.
- Speed Limits: Typically 30 mph (48 km/h) island-wide.
- Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, speed bumps, pedestrians, and animals – especially goats.
Local Transportation
Anguilla offers several transport options for exploring the island. Taxis are the most common way to get around, with fixed fares to popular destinations like beaches and restaurants. Rental cars provide more flexibility, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace, with the island’s small size and well-maintained roads making navigation easy. Cycling is also popular, offering an eco-friendly way to experience Anguilla’s scenic beauty. While there are a few local buses connecting key areas, taxis and rental cars are generally more practical for most visitors.
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: |
15,000 (estimated) |
Size: |
35 square miles |
Electric Current: |
110/120 |
Official Language: |
English is the official language of Anguilla. |
Currency: |
- The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). However, the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted across the island.
- ATMs: Available in major towns and tourist areas.
- Credit and Debit Cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
- Contactless Payments: Increasingly common in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
|
Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving 10-15% of the bill is customary in restaurants and for guides.
- VAT (Value Added Tax): 5% is typically included in displayed prices for goods and services.
|
Dress Code: |
Anguilla has a relaxed dress code. Lightweight, casual clothing is suitable for the warm climate. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach but should be covered when away from the shore. |
Topography: |
Anguilla features flat terrain with white-sand beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs. The island is known for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. |
Telephone: |
* Country Code: +1-264
* Area Code: 264
* Mobile Networks: Widely available.
* Wi-Fi: Accessible in most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces. |
Anguilla Weddings and Honeymoons
In Anguilla, the process of getting married is straightforward. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office. Required documents include:
- Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
- Birth certificates for both parties.
- Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
- Proof of residence in Anguilla (if applicable).
- Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).
The marriage license costs approximately US$20. For weddings outside of the registry office, additional fees for the officiant apply, ranging from US$65 to US$200. It’s recommended to apply for the license at least 30 days before the intended wedding date.
See our favorite Anguilla villas for weddings.
See our favorite Anguilla villas for honeymoons.