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Prickly Pear Cays: Anguilla's Unspoiled Paradise

Discover Anguilla's idyllic Prickly Pear Cays: pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and abundant wildlife await in this Caribbean paradise.

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Prickly Pear Cays, a pair of uninhabited islands a few miles from Anguilla, offer pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil escape. Perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Caribbean, these cays are a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

A brief summary to Prickley Pear Cays

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Local tips

  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as shade is limited on the beaches.
  • Snorkeling gear is often provided on boat trips, but you can bring your own for a guaranteed fit.
  • Consider booking a boat tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Bring cash for any purchases at the restaurants and bars on Prickly Pear East.
  • Be mindful of the local wildlife, especially nesting birds, and avoid disturbing their habitats.
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Getting There

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    The primary way to reach Prickly Pear Cays is by boat from Sandy Ground on Anguilla. Several local charter companies offer day trips, with prices typically ranging from $100 to $150 per person, including lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. The boat ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Some ferries also operate from St. Martin, with prices around $135 for adults.

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Discover more about Prickley Pear Cays

Prickly Pear Cays, located approximately six miles north of Road Bay, Anguilla, are a stunning pair of uninhabited islands divided by a narrow channel. These cays, Prickly Pear East and Prickly Pear West, are a protected marine area, offering visitors a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Prickly Pear East boasts a long, white sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the clear turquoise waters. The island is also home to two restaurants and bars, providing a casual spot to enjoy Caribbean cuisine and refreshing drinks. Snorkeling is a popular activity, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just offshore. Keep an eye out for colorful fish, starfish, and various coral formations. Prickly Pear West, longer and more rugged, is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. It features rocky coral reefs and is home to Anguilla's only colony of nesting Brown Pelicans, as well as Red-billed Tropicbirds, Brown Noddies, and Least Terns. Both cays are recognized as Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International, making them a paradise for birdwatchers. The Anguilla National Trust has also relocated Lesser Antillean Iguanas to Prickly Pear East in an effort to restore their population. Visitors can reach Prickly Pear Cays by boat from Sandy Ground, Anguilla, with several local charter companies offering scheduled and private trips. These trips often include snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks, ensuring a memorable day of exploration and relaxation.

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