Scrub Island, Shoal Bay Travel Guide

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Discover Scrub Island: Anguilla's hidden paradise with pristine beaches, thrilling adventures, and captivating history. A unique Caribbean escape awaits!

Scrub Island, a small, privately-owned island off the eastern coast of Anguilla, offers a unique Caribbean escape. Accessible only by boat, it's a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, boasting pristine beaches, rugged trails, and hidden caves teeming with marine life. Explore the island's diverse terrain, discover remnants of its past, and immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty.

A brief summary to Scrub Island

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Scrub Island.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Caribbean sun.
Pack a swimsuit, towel, and snorkeling gear to enjoy the island's beaches and underwater wonders.
Consider bringing insect repellent, especially if you plan to hike or explore the island's interior.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Shoal Bay Beach

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Captain's Bay

Little Bay

Black Garden Bay

Explore Scrub Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Scrub Island, mapped for you.

Getting There

Boat

The only way to reach Scrub Island is by boat. Several tour operators in Anguilla offer day trips to Scrub Island, departing from ports like Island Harbour. A round-trip boat transfer typically costs around $40-$60 USD per person. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat for a more personalized experience, with prices varying depending on the size of the boat and duration of the charter.

Discover more about Scrub Island

Scrub Island, a British Overseas Territory, is located off the northeast coast of Anguilla. This 8 km² (3.1 sq mi) island presents a captivating blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Unlike many bustling Caribbean destinations, Scrub Island remains largely untouched, offering a serene escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure.The island's landscape is diverse, featuring pristine white-sand beaches, rocky cliffs, and lush hillsides. Explore the coastline and discover hidden caves, some accessible by boat or dinghy, offering unique snorkeling and diving experiences. The calm, protected waters surrounding the island teem with vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles.Scrub Island's history is as intriguing as its natural beauty. While uninhabited, the island holds remnants of past settlements, including the ruins of an old hotel and an abandoned airstrip. One of the island's most famous landmarks is the wreckage of a crashed plane, rumored to have belonged to a drug smuggler. The island also played a role in Anguilla's history, potentially serving as a hideout for pirates or as a strategic lookout point.Today, Scrub Island is a protected area, part of the East End Pond Marine Park, ensuring the preservation of its marine and coastal ecosystems. It's an Important Bird Area, home to nesting seabirds like laughing gulls, royal terns, and roseate terns. Hiking trails wind through the island's interior, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including the Anguilla Bank ameiva and various bird species.