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Sandy Island: Anguilla's idyllic offshore escape

Escape to a tiny Caribbean paradise: pristine beaches, snorkeling, and fresh seafood await on Anguilla's stunning Sandy Island.

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Sandy Island is a small, picturesque cay located a short boat ride from Sandy Ground, Anguilla, offering a quintessential Caribbean experience with its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and a popular beach bar and restaurant. It's the perfect spot for a secluded getaway, offering relaxation, snorkeling, and fresh seafood.

A brief summary to Sandy Island

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Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island.
  • Try the grilled lobster or crayfish at the restaurant for a taste of fresh Caribbean seafood.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as boat trips may be affected by rough seas.
  • Book your boat shuttle in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a spot.
  • Enjoy the live entertainment on Sundays for a lively island experience.
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Getting There

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    The only way to reach Sandy Island is by boat from Sandy Ground on Anguilla. Head to the Sandy Ground wharf, where you'll find boats offering regular shuttle service to the island. The boat ride takes approximately 10-20 minutes. The most common shuttle is called "Happiness". The round-trip fare is typically $40 per person. Some boat services may charge $10 per person. These boats usually depart every hour, starting around 11 am. Private charters are also available for a more exclusive experience, with prices starting around $1200. Once you arrive at Sandy Ground, look for the Sandy Island sign near the parking lot to find the boat departure point. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Sandy Island

Sandy Island, a tiny jewel just off the coast of Sandy Ground in Anguilla, is the perfect escape for those seeking a true Caribbean paradise. This small cay, measuring approximately 250x75 meters, boasts dazzling white sands fringed by palm trees and is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Accessible only by boat, Sandy Island offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it a popular destination for a day trip. The island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, offering exceptional visibility for snorkelers of all levels. Expect to see colorful corals, tropical fish like parrotfish and angelfish, and graceful sea turtles. The island is also home to a well-known beach bar and restaurant that has become a favorite among tourists and even celebrities. Here, you can savor freshly grilled seafood, including lobster and crayfish, along with refreshing cocktails, all while enjoying the stunning ocean views. The restaurant is known for its culinary excellence, offering dishes that capture the essence of the Caribbean Sea. Sandy Island has a rich history, opening in 1984 as a simple shack with a grill and cooler. The island has been reshaped and rebuilt multiple times due to hurricanes, including significant damage from Hurricane Luis in 1995 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. Despite these challenges, Sandy Island has consistently been restored, maintaining its charm and appeal. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of the Caribbean, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of relaxation, natural beauty, and culinary delights.

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