Prickley Pear Cays, Long Bay Village Travel Guide

5 (8)

Discover Anguilla's idyllic escape: pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and laid-back vibes await at the uninhabited Prickly Pear Cays.

Escape to Prickly Pear Cays, a pair of uninhabited islands just north of Anguilla, offering pristine beaches, vibrant snorkeling, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. With crystal-clear waters and a single beach bar and restaurant, it's the perfect day trip for relaxation and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Prickley Pear Cays

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prickley Pear Cays.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as shade can be limited on the beach.
Snorkeling gear is often provided on boat trips, but consider bringing your own for a better fit.
Try the local BBQ chicken or fresh seafood at Prickly Pear Restaurant.
Walk the length of the beach to explore the island's unique flora and fauna.
Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

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Prickly Pear Catamaran Trip from St Maarten Including Lunch

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Getting There

Boat

Prickly Pear Cays are only accessible by boat from Anguilla. Most boat trips depart from Sandy Ground. Several charter companies, such as Calypso Charters and Tradition Sailing, offer day trips to the cays. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Expect to pay around $50-$100 per person for a round-trip boat charter, depending on the type of boat and included amenities. Some tours from St. Maarten are also available, costing around $135 for adults.

Discover more about Prickley Pear Cays

Prickly Pear Cays, located approximately six miles north of Anguilla, are a true Caribbean escape. These two small, uninhabited islands, Prickly Pear East and Prickly Pear West, offer visitors a blissful combination of relaxation, natural beauty, and authentic island charm.Prickly Pear East boasts a long, pearly white sand beach on its northern coast, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The island is also home to a vibrant coral reef, teeming with colorful fish and marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. For those seeking a taste of local flavor, the Prickly Pear Bar & Restaurant offers delicious Caribbean cuisine and refreshing cocktails. Enjoy fresh seafood, BBQ chicken, or ribs in a casual, open-air setting.Prickly Pear West, in contrast, is a rocky islet that serves as a sanctuary for nesting birds, including Anguilla's only colony of regionally important Brown Pelicans. While landing is more difficult, it offers a unique opportunity for birdwatching and appreciating the island's natural side.The waters surrounding Prickly Pear Cays are part of Anguilla's Marine Park system, ensuring the protection of the delicate ecosystem. Endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles nest on the beaches, and the reefs are home to a diverse array of marine species.