Despite its small size, Anguilla is not just a pretty face—this British island is the perfect launchpad for epic day trips that will have you wishing you visited years ago.
From hidden coves to picturesque neighboring islands, we have gathered 11 exciting day trips and excursions for your Anguilla getaway.
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Unforgettable Day Trips To Make From Anguilla:
Snorkeling and More at Sandy Island
Sandy Island – Photo by Hugh Whyte on UnsplashFor a true island experience, make your way to Sandy Island, a small cay in Anguilla, located off Sandy Ground Beach.
It may be the most breathtaking location you have ever been to!
This tiny, uninhabited islet is surrounded by shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.
It’s close enough to the mainland yet far enough away to evoke the classic Robinson Crusoe vibe.
The bar on the island is fully equipped with refreshing beers and spirits from around the world, and the restaurant opens every day to serve hot grilled meats and fresh seafood.
Bring plenty of sunscreen and a good book—once you set foot on Sandy Island, you won’t want to leave!
Seclusion and Peace at Dog Island
In the mood for adventure?
Hire a boat to Dog Island, a remote and rugged island off the west coast of Anguilla.
It is Anguilla’s furthermost outlying cay scattered with untouched beaches and prized diving spots.
On the way, you’ll pass Sandy Island and Prickly Pear Cays.
Before coming, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the island’s hidden coves and secret beaches.
Who knows what treasures you might stumble upon!
Seabirds and Cliffs at Scrub Island
More seaside adventures await at Scrub Island, a rugged and remote island just off the north coast of Anguilla.
With its majestic cliffs and hidden coves, this uninhabited island is excellent for hiking, exploring, and immersing yourself in nature.
BirdLife International has designated Scrub Island as an Important Bird Area, due to its seabird breeding sites.
Look out for the laughing gulls and other seabirds!
It’s best to take along a sturdy pair of shoes with traction and lots of water—you’ll need it for the hike to the island’s summit, where you’ll be stunned seeing panoramic views of the surrounding Caribbean sea.
Sun and Sand at Prickly Pear Cays
Ready for some more island hopping? A private and exclusive tour is a great idea!
Jump on a boat and make your way to Prickly Pear Cays located six miles north of Anguilla.
With their turquoise waters and white beaches, these twin islands are the perfect spot for snorkeling and sunbathing!
Colorful coral reefs and friendly sea turtles will make your visit even more special.
Bring binoculars if you can because it is rather common to spot nesting birds on the rugged coastline.
Tip: The Prickly Pear Cays Bar and Restaurant serve up exciting lobster preparations, crayfish, barbecue ribs, and salads. Plus, you can also rent equipment for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sea bobbing here.
Idyllic Escape to Saba
Saba – Wikimedia Are you ready to go off the beaten path?
Take a day excursion to Saba, a little volcanic paradise located just a short boat ride from Anguilla.
Saba, with its beautiful wilderness, towering cliffs, and quaint villages, is a truly hidden gem that must be discovered.
Whether you’re into outdoor experiences or wish to connect with nature, Saba delivers the goods.
Don’t miss the opportunity to trek to the summit of Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The views from the summit are magnificent!
Saba is also a year-round scuba diving destination where schools of colorful tropical fish and healthy coral await.
A Visit To Nearby Saint Martin
Let’s kick things off with a time-and-tested classic: a day trip to the neighboring island of Saint Martin. There are tons of fun things to do here.
Hop on a ferry and explore the French and Dutch sides of this vibrant destination at Marigot and Philipsburg respectively.
It’s best to rent a car to traverse those world-famous beaches on the east and west coasts!
Tip: Don’t forget your passport! Also while here be sure to indulge in some French patisserie, after all, Saint Martin is called the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean” for a reason.
Discover Pinel Island
Pinel Island – Wikimedia From Saint Martin, catch a ferry boat or rent a kayak to nearby Pinel Island.
Stop on the way to Little Key Island to catch your breath and take in the scenery.
Once at Pinel Island, try tandem paddle boarding with a friend or someone special!
The island is part of a nature reserve so you can hike to the hill summits for some sweeping views of Saint Barts, Anguilla, and Saint Martin.
The main beach is peppered with bars and cafes where you can tuck into grilled lobster and chilled beverages.
A Picnic at Popular Shoal Bay
If you want a break from all those boat trips, plan a day picnic at Anguilla’s very own Shoal Bay, a 2-mile sandy beach that is consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Rent a paddleboard or kayak from any of the outfitters and explore the crystal-clear waters of Shoal Bay at your own pace.
When you’re ready for a bite to eat, head into any of the waterside bars for a chilled cocktail or a scrummy seafood lunch.
Serene Moments at Meads Bay
Located on the western side of Anguilla, Meads Bay has earned its place in the world’s top 50 beaches.With blue waters and soft cool sand, this beach is ideal for a day of rest and introspection.
When the day comes to a close, get ready for a spectacle of colors in the sky as the sun begins its descent.
Visitors to Meads Bay swear by its seclusion and say it’s much less busy than Shoal Bay!
Consider packing a picnic and spending the day relaxing under a swaying palm tree.
Snag a selfie with the iconic Frangipani tree—it’s a stunning photo spot!
Living the High Life at St. Barts
Head over to the French island of Saint Barts, the playground of the rich and famous.
A day of luxury and indulgence awaits if you’re willing to spend top dollar!
Once here, rent an open-top jeep and explore the island’s scenic coastal roads at your own pace.
Be sure to stop by Nikki Beach for some celebrity spotting and champagne popping.
Gustavia is your spot for retail therapy and you can take home Chanel, Dior, or Roberto Cavalli.
Jump off a Cliff at Little Bay
Another remote gem on Anguilla’s west coast is Little Bay, surrounded by exquisitely layered limestone and all hues of corals and grays.
Little Bay is also the go-to spot for cliff-jumping shenanigans.
Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before, a good rule of thumb is to start small and work your way up to the bigger jumps!
Water shoes with traction are a must as well since these rocks can get quite slippery!
A popular pastime at Little Bay is snorkeling since the waters are so crystal clear and placid.
Watch out for the starfish, sea turtles, and sting rays doing their rounds in the turquoise sea!