How do I get to Anguilla?

Usually via Sint Maarten (SXM): 25-minute public ferry from Marigot or direct shared boat/charter from the airport; regional flights serve AXA from Antigua, San Juan and Miami.

Shoal Bay East for classic powder sand, Meads Bay for resorts and sunsets, Rendezvous Bay for calm water, Little Bay (boat/ladder access) for snorkelling.

What currency is used?

The East Caribbean dollar (EC$), but US dollars are accepted everywhere and most prices are quoted in USD.

Is Anguilla family-friendly?

Yes — calm, reef-protected beaches and villa living suit families, though it skews quiet and upscale rather than resort-entertainment.

When do restaurants close?

Many independents shut late August through October for hurricane season and staff holidays — check ahead if travelling then.

What's the food scene like?

Exceptional for the island's size: beach barbecue shacks (crayfish, johnnycakes) to fine dining; the Sunday session at The Dune Preserve is legendary.

Anguilla

countryNorth America

Anguilla is a COUNTRY in North America.

A flat, 26 km sliver of coral and limestone at the top of the Leeward Islands, Anguilla stakes its claim with 33 dazzling white-sand beaches lapped by impossibly blue water — Shoal Bay East and Meads Bay among the Caribbean's finest. Famously low-key and resolutely upscale, the British territory pairs barefoot beach shacks and live-reggae Sunday sessions at Bankie Banx's with world-class villas, boat racing (the national sport) and grilled crayfish.

Best time to visit Anguilla

December to April for dry 25-29°C perfection (villa rates peak). May-June and November are excellent value; many restaurants close September-October during hurricane season's peak.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 28-31°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Quietest month

Know before you go

Getting there

AXA

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport

Regional

3 km away

SXM

Princess Juliana International Airport (Sint Maarten)

International

20 km away

Getting around

"Rental cars with a local visitor permit (issued with rental, drive on the left) are the way; taxis use fixed zone rates. Ferries link Blowing Point to Marigot (St-Martin) and shared charters to SXM airport."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

60 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Free in hotels, villas and most beach bars

Local SIM

Flow or Digicel visitor SIM from ~$20

Calling code

+1-264

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; dark, goat-crossed roads at night are the main caution.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; dark, goat-crossed roads at night are the main caution.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

9/10

"One of the Caribbean's safest islands — violent crime is rare. Standard precautions for beach valuables; unlit rural roads and roaming goats make night driving the main hazard."

Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance)

911

Entry and health

Visa requirements

"Visa-free for US, UK, EU, Canadian and many other passports (typically up to 90 days) with onward ticket. Most visitors arrive by ferry or shared boat from St-Martin/Sint Maarten, or by regional flights to AXA."

Health information

"No required vaccinations; dengue possible — use repellent. A small hospital in The Valley handles basics; serious cases evacuate to Puerto Rico or the US, so insurance with evacuation cover is important."

Culture

Local customs

"Greetings come first — 'good morning' before business. Dress is smart-casual; beachwear stays on the beach. Sunday beach parties with live music are institution; tipping 10-15% expected, service sometimes included."

English

Costs and practicals

Currency

East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) · EC$

Cost level

Luxury

Meals

$15-25 | beach-shack plates $15-25; fine dining $60+

Hotels

$350-800 | five-star resorts and villas dominate

Local transport

$25 | short taxi hops ~$10-25; rental ~$45-60/day

Cost notes

A premium, villa-led destination; ferries from St-Martin keep arrival costs modest.

Timezone

America/Anguilla -04:00 (GMT-4)

More facts

Population

15,700

Area

91 km²

Government

British Overseas Territory — Governor, Premier and an elected House of Assembly

ISO code

AI, AIA

Type

country

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: AXA

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