Prickly Pear Cays: Anguilla's Unspoiled Paradise

Prickly Pear Cays are two small, uninhabited islands located approximately six miles north of Road Bay, Anguilla. These cays, divided by a narrow channel, offer visitors a quintessential Caribbean experience with their powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Prickly Pear East features a long stretch of beach on its northern coast, while Prickly Pear West is a rocky isle popular with nesting birds. Prickly Pear East is the primary destination for visitors, boasting two restaurants and bars that provide a laid-back, castaway island ambiance. The main beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. A small pond located behind the main beach attracts various shorebirds, adding to the island's natural appeal. Prickly Pear West, less accessible, offers a different kind of beauty with its low limestone cliffs and scrub vegetation. This cay is home to Anguilla's only colony of regionally important nesting Brown Pelicans, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The waters surrounding both cays are protected as part of Anguilla's Marine Park system, supporting endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles that nest on the beaches. Historically, Prickly Pear has been a cherished local spot, with the Prickly Pear Restaurant & Bar welcoming visitors since the 1980s. Originally known as Agatha's, the restaurant has grown into a popular destination, attracting visitors from surrounding islands with its delicious Caribbean cuisine and stunning views. Today, Prickly Pear continues to offer a unique blend of untouched natural beauty and terrific dining, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Anguilla.