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Prickly Pear Cays: Anguilla's Unspoiled Paradise

Discover Anguilla's hidden gem: Prickly Pear Cays, where pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and Caribbean charm await your escape.

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Escape to Prickly Pear Cays, a pair of uninhabited islands just north of Anguilla, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for a day trip filled with relaxation, snorkeling, and Caribbean charm, these cays promise an unforgettable castaway experience.

A brief summary to Prickley Pear Cays

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Local tips

  • Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and swim with tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters.
  • Don't miss the chance to sample the local cuisine at the beachside restaurants, especially the grilled lobster and fresh seafood.
  • Visit the 'Sugarbird' feeding station near Prickly Pear Restaurant to hand-feed bananaquits and yellow warblers.
  • Consider booking a boat charter in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a towel to protect yourself from the sun and fully enjoy your beach day.
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Getting There

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    Prickly Pear Cays are accessible only by boat. The most common departure point is Sandy Ground on Anguilla. Several charter companies and tour operators offer day trips to the cays. From Sandy Ground, boats typically depart in the morning and return in the afternoon. The boat ride takes approximately 25-45 minutes, depending on the vessel. Typical round-trip fare is around $40 per person, which may include a drink credit. Some tours from St. Maarten include a stop at Prickly Pear, with prices ranging from $135-$160 per adult. These prices usually include lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

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Discover more about Prickley Pear Cays

Prickly Pear Cays, located approximately six miles north of Anguilla, are a duo of small, uninhabited islands divided by a narrow channel. These idyllic cays, comprising Prickly Pear East and Prickly Pear West, offer visitors a quintessential Caribbean escape with their azure waters, sun-kissed skies, and powdery white shorelines. Prickly Pear East is known for its expansive beach on the northern and eastern sides, complemented by rocky outcroppings to the west. A small pond behind the main beach attracts various shorebirds, adding to the island's natural allure. Here, you can bask in the sun, snorkel in the clear waters, and savor delicious Caribbean cuisine at the beachside restaurants. Prickly Pear West, in contrast, is a rocky isle favored by nesting birds. It features low limestone cliffs and scrub vegetation, providing a habitat for Anguilla's only colony of regionally important nesting Brown Pelicans. While less accessible, it offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the untouched beauty of the cays. The waters surrounding Prickly Pear Cays are protected as part of Anguilla's Marine Park system. Endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles nest on the beaches of Prickly Pear East, and the vibrant reefs teem with marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and nature enthusiasts. With their laid-back vibe and castaway island ambiance, Prickly Pear Cays offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoying a fresh lobster lunch, a visit to Prickly Pear Cays promises an unforgettable experience.

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