Anegada: The Drowned Island Paradise
Discover Anegada: A unique Caribbean escape with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant wildlife in the British Virgin Islands.
Anegada, meaning 'drowned land' in Spanish, stands apart from the other British Virgin Islands with its flat, coral and limestone landscape. Rising only 28 feet above sea level at its highest point, this unique island offers miles of pristine white-sand beaches and is surrounded by the 18-mile-long Horseshoe Reef, the Caribbean's largest barrier coral reef. Unlike the volcanic, mountainous terrains of Tortola and Virgin Gorda, Anegada's serene, low-lying profile creates a sense of peaceful seclusion. The island's history is rich, with evidence of Arawak settlements and a past as a pirate haunt, marked by numerous shipwrecks claimed by the treacherous Horseshoe Reef. Today, Anegada is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting diverse wildlife, including flamingos in its salt ponds and the endangered Anegada Rock Iguana. Visitors can explore the island's natural beauty by visiting the conch mounds, remnants of Arawak settlements, snorkeling or diving in the vibrant Horseshoe Reef, or relaxing on the secluded beaches of the north shore, such as Loblolly Bay and Cow Wreck Beach. The Settlement, the island's only town, offers a glimpse into the local culture and provides essential services for travelers. Anegada is also renowned as the lobster capital of the BVI, with the annual Anegada Lobster Festival being a major culinary event.
Local tips
- Rent a jeep or scooter to explore the island's beaches and attractions at your own pace.
- Bring cash, as many establishments do not accept credit cards.
- Visit the Flamingo Pond Lookout for a chance to see the reintroduced Caribbean flamingos.
- Try the local lobster, a culinary specialty of Anegada, at one of the island's restaurants.
- Pack reef-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs while snorkeling or diving.
A brief summary to Anegada
- VG
Getting There
-
Ferry
The most common way to reach Anegada is by ferry from Tortola or Virgin Gorda. From Road Town, Tortola, Smith's Ferry operates a service to Setting Point, Anegada, three times a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday). The one-way fare is approximately $35 for adults. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, sometimes with a quick stop in Virgin Gorda. Alternatively, a ferry from Virgin Gorda to Anegada also costs around $35 and takes approximately 1 hour. Ensure you have cash for the ferry and your visit to Anegada, as ATMs are unavailable on the island.
-
Air Charter
For a quicker but more expensive option, consider a private air charter from Tortola (Beef Island Airport) or nearby islands. Several local air charter operators offer flights to Anegada's Auguste George Airport (NGD). Prices vary depending on the operator and origin, but expect to pay a premium for the convenience. Upon arrival at the airport, taxis are available for transport to your final destination on the island.
