Anguilla

An British Overseas Territory situated in the Leeward Islands, Anguilla lies roughly 8 kilometres north of Saint Martin and 290 kilometres southeast of Puerto Rico. The capital is The Valley. English is the official language, and the Eastern Caribbean dollar serves as the currency. The island covers about 91 square kilometres and supports a population of around 18,000, with a cultural identity shaped by African heritage, British administration, and a long tradition of boat-building and seafaring.

Many nationalities — including citizens of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and European Union member states — may enter Anguilla without a visa for short stays. All visitors require a valid passport and are typically required to show proof of onward travel and accommodation. Entry conditions can change; travellers should consult Anguilla's official government portal before departure.

Shoal Bay East is widely regarded as the island's most celebrated beach, stretching nearly three kilometres of fine white sand. The heritage site at Sandy Ground preserves the island's historic salt pond and former export trade infrastructure. Little Bay, accessible mainly by boat or a short cliff scramble, offers sheltered snorkelling. The Wallblake House, an eighteenth-century plantation great house in The Valley, stands as one of the oldest surviving structures in the Eastern Caribbean. Offshore, Prickly Pear Cays provide calm waters popular with day-trippers.

Anguilla has a tropical climate moderated by northeast trade winds, keeping conditions relatively stable year-round. Temperatures typically range from around 24 °C in winter to 31 °C in summer. The dry season runs from December through April, generally considered the most comfortable period for visiting. A wetter season from July to October coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season. Light, breathable clothing suits most of the year, though a rain layer is advisable from midsummer onward.

• Anguilla successfully expelled British-installed Saint Kitts administration in 1967.
• The island has no rivers; rainwater collection is essential.
• Anguilla's boat-racing tradition dates back several centuries.
• Roughly 33 beaches exist on an island under 26 km long.
• The name likely derives from the Italian word for eel.

• gov.ai — official Government of Anguilla portal
• ivisitanguilla.com — Anguilla Tourist Board
• weather.gov — National Hurricane Center tracking for the Caribbean region
• eccb-centralbank.org — Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, currency information