Discover the Beauty and Exclusivity of Anguilla: Your Tropical Escape
Tranquility reigns supreme on the Caribbean island of Anguilla, where unspoilt beaches lie between discreet resorts and the crystal-clear sea. Small and covered in scrubby vegetation, the main island is surrounded by a collection of low islets and coral cays.
This British Overseas Territory boasts over 30 amazing beaches that many rate as the best in the world, and most certainly in the Caribbean. Each is special in its own way, from Shoal Bay East with its mile of soft sand, to the serene Little Harbor and the seclusion of Captain’s Bay, which is only reachable by a narrow gravel track.
Some of the most popular beaches include Cove Bay, which offers waterside horseback rides and weekend barbecues with live bands; and Maundays Bay, home to some of Anguilla’s premier resort hotels. The beaches, together with a set of stylish villas, resort hotels, and delicious cuisine served up in a large number of top-class restaurants, have made Anguilla a favourite hideaway for celebrities, particularly movie stars, as witnessed by the private jets often parked on the airport runway.
Anguilla is the perfect retreat for an indulgent, exclusive getaway for the discerning traveller dedicated to the simple pleasures of basking in the sun, taking sunset strolls, sailing on the azure waters, and snorkelling in the world-class coral reefs. It is also a popular venue for weddings and honeymoons.
Overview
Anguilla is known for its sparkling white sand and crystal-clear water, and aquatic pastimes such as sailing, windsurfing and kayaking are popular among visitors.
Renowned as the wreck-diving capital of the Caribbean, there are a number of shipwrecks in the azure waters around the island for divers to explore. The wrecks provide a showcase for a variety of coral and marine animals such as angelfish, barracuda, sharks and turtles.
The waters around the island are calm without strong currents, with the surrounding reefs featuring both hard and soft coral. The setting provides a spectacular array of gorgeous colour for snorkelers, and is the perfect location for beginner scuba divers. Sport fishing is also serious business on Anguilla. A number of charter companies offer whole or half-day fishing expeditions for prizes that include dorado, sailfish, marlin, barracuda, and grouper.
On land, there are plenty of things to see and do in Anguilla. The island is well supplied with walking trails and birdwatchers will find more than 100 species of bird life. The island’s salt ponds attract dozens of varieties, from herons to sandpipers.
Climate in Anguilla
The island experiences average temperatures of around 80°F (27°C), with trade winds providing a constant warm breeze. There are no high mountains to block the sun’s rays and the territory does not have the type of vegetation that attracts rain clouds, making it a sunny paradise. The average rainfall per year measures 35 inches (889mm), much of it arriving in short bursts. Hurricane season runs from June to November.
Health Notes when travelling to Anguilla
Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for all travellers as well as polio and tetanus vaccinations. Mains water on Anguilla is chlorinated, but bottled water is available and recommended for visitors. All food on the island is safe to eat. Patients will find one small hospital, one private day-hospital, four functioning public clinics and several private clinics on the island. Those who need major surgery may need to be transferred to neighbouring islands or the USA mainland. Adequate medical insurance is strongly advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Anguilla
Visits to Anguilla are trouble-free. The crime rate is low, but it’s wise to take sensible precautions with valuables. Hurricanes usually affect the island between June and November.
Customs in Anguilla
Skimpy clothes are frowned on and beaches don’t permit nudity.
Duty Free in Anguilla
Travellers can bring 200 cigarettes or 225g of tobacco, and 1 quart of wine or spirits into Anguilla without paying duty.
Doing Business in Anguilla
Business revolves around tourism and, as Anguilla is a zero-tax jurisdiction, financial services. Light suits or buttoned up shirts are sufficient for meetings because of the balmy climate; office hours are Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.
Communication in Anguilla
The international dialling code for Anguilla is +1 264. Travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones and reliable WiFi is available across the island.
Tipping in Anguilla
A service charge of 10% is generally added to restaurant and hotel bills in Anguilla, and any tipping over and above this is discretionary.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors require all documents needed for next destination, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport will be required.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
A valid passport, USA birth certificate, voter’s registration or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is required. There are no visa requirements for US citizens if they have an onward or return ticket, confirmation of accommodation, and can produce evidence of their ability to maintain themselves. Passports and other identification documents must be valid on arrival.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the date visitors expect to leave Anguilla. A visa is not required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. Passport must be valid for six months from the date UK visitors arrive.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a maximum stay of three months. A valid passport is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals require a valid passport and a visa for Anguilla, unless holding a valid visa for the United Kingdom, the USA, or Canada for a maximum of three months.
Tourist Offices
Anguilla Tourist Board, The Valley: http://www.ivisitanguilla.com
Foreign Embassies in Anguilla
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for Anguilla): +1 246 227 4000.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for Anguilla): +1 246 429 3550.
- British Embassy
British Government House, The Valley, Anguilla: +264 497 2621.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for Anguilla): +1 868 822 5450.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
