Prickly Pear Cays: Anguilla's Uninhabited Paradise

Prickly Pear Cays, located approximately six miles north of Road Bay, Anguilla, are a pair of small, uninhabited islands divided by a narrow channel. These cays, Prickly Pear East and Prickly Pear West, offer visitors a quintessential Caribbean escape with untouched natural beauty. Prickly Pear East boasts a long, white sand beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. The clear, shallow waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs close to shore. Marine life is abundant, with colorful fish, starfish, and diverse coral formations easily visible. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species like Brown Pelicans, Red-billed Tropicbirds, and Laughing Gulls nesting on the cays. Prickly Pear West is more rocky, with low limestone cliffs and scrub vegetation. It's home to Anguilla's only nesting colony of Brown Pelicans. While access is more difficult, the island offers a unique opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy a meal at Prickly Pear Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood, grilled meats, and refreshing cocktails. The restaurant has been a favorite since the 1980s, offering a true Caribbean getaway. Keep an eye out for the friendly bananaquits, which may even eat sugar from your hand. For the adventurous, snorkeling around the caves on the island's west side provides an exciting experience.