If you’re dreaming of powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and hidden island escapes, then Anguilla is calling your name. This tiny Caribbean paradise isn’t just about its 33 stunning beaches—it’s also surrounded by offshore cays and tiny islets that are perfect for an island-hopping adventure.

Whether you’re looking for secluded beach bars, world-class snorkeling, or a luxurious private island experience, this guide will help you discover the best islands and cays to visit near Anguilla.

How to Island Hop in Anguilla

Unlike some destinations where island hopping involves ferries and long boat rides, Anguilla’s offshore cays are just a short speedboat ride away—making it easy to visit multiple spots in one day.

Ways to Get Around:

✔️ Boat Charters – Private charters give you the most flexibility to hop between islands at your own pace.

✔️ Water Taxis – Budget-friendly and available to popular cays like Sandy Island.

✔️ Resort Excursions – Many luxury resorts offer guided day trips to private islands.

Best Islands & Cays to Visit Near Anguilla

1. Sandy Island – The Quintessential Beach Bar Experience

If you’ve ever dreamed of being stranded on a tiny island—with cocktails, then Sandy Island is your place. Just a 10-minute boat ride from Anguilla, this speck of sand in the middle of the sea is home to:

✔️ A legendary beach bar and restaurant serving fresh lobster & rum punch.

✔️ Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

✔️ Live island music on weekends for the ultimate Caribbean vibe.

2. Scilly Cay – A Private Island with the Best Rum Punch

This tiny family-owned island off the coast of Island Harbour is all about good food and tropical drinks. To get there, just wave from the dock in Island Harbour, and a boat will come pick you up!

✔️ Famous for grilled lobster, crayfish, and chicken.

✔️ Home to some of the strongest rum punch in the Caribbean—you’ve been warned!

✔️ A laid-back, no-frills paradise where you’ll feel like a VIP.

3. Prickly Pear Cays – Snorkeling & Seclusion

For those who love quiet beaches and underwater adventures, Prickly Pear Cays are a must-visit. These uninhabited twin islands boast:

✔️ Some of the best snorkeling in Anguilla, with coral reefs and tropical fish.

✔️ A beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.

✔️ Soft, white sand and zero crowds—your own private paradise.

4. Dog Island – A Remote Nature Escape

Looking for something off the beaten path? Dog Island is a wild, uninhabited cay known for:

✔️ A bird sanctuary with thousands of nesting seabirds.

✔️ Remote, untouched beaches with no signs of civilization.

✔️ Pristine snorkeling spots with excellent marine life.

🚨 Pro Tip: There are no facilities here, so bring everything you need for a self-sufficient beach day.

5. Scrub Island – A True Hidden Gem

Scrub Island is one of Anguilla’s most mysterious and rugged islands, with hidden beaches, caves, and even an abandoned airstrip. It’s a great spot for:

✔️ Adventure seekers who love to explore untouched islands.

✔️ Wild beaches with amazing views.

✔️ A shipwreck just offshore—great for snorkeling and diving.

Best Time to Go Island Hopping in Anguilla

✔️ December – April (High Season) – Perfect weather, clear waters, and a buzzing island scene.

✔️ May – August – Fewer crowds and warm ocean temperatures, but occasional rain showers.

✔️ September – November – Low season with great deals, but some restaurants and resorts may close.

🚨 Hurricane season runs from June to November, so always check the forecast before planning boat trips.

Essential Tips for Island Hopping in Anguilla

✔️ Bring cash – Many of the cays only accept cash for food and drinks.

✔️ Wear reef-safe sunscreen – The marine life will thank you!

✔️ Pack a dry bag – Keep your phone and valuables safe on boat rides.

✔️ Book boat tours in advance – Popular charters fill up quickly in high season.

✔️ Go early – Arriving before noon means you’ll get the best beach spots.

Why Anguilla is the Ultimate Island-Hopping Destination

Anguilla isn’t just about its stunning main island—it’s also a gateway to some of the most beautiful, untouched cays in the Caribbean. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on Sandy Island, snorkeling with tropical fish at Prickly Pear, or exploring the wild beauty of Scrub Island, every cay offers something unique.

So grab your swimsuit, hop on a boat, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Anguilla’s offshore islands!

📌 Save this guide for your next trip and start planning your Anguilla island-hopping adventure!