Anegada

Anegada is a low, flat coral island in the northern Caribbean and part of the British Virgin Islands. It stands out in the archipelago because it is built of limestone and coral rather than volcanic rock.

The island’s main draws are its reef and beaches - a large surrounding reef system that offers snorkeling and diving, and long sandy bays that attract beachgoers and anglers. Salt flats and shallow lagoons also support birdlife including flamingos.

Historically the island’s reefs caused many shipwrecks and the surrounding waters have long been navigationally hazardous. The human settlement on Anegada is small and oriented to fishing, tourism and services for visiting yachts and day-trippers.

Geographically Anegada sits at the northern end of the British Virgin Islands chain in the Caribbean, separated from the higher volcanic islands of the group by reef and shallow channels. Access is by ferry or small aircraft from other islands in the British Virgin Islands and nearby territories.

• Geology: The island is low-lying and formed from coral and limestone rather than volcanic rock, so it is very flat with extensive tidal flats and reef-protected lagoons.
• Navigation hazards: Strong reef currents and shallow coral heads make navigation hazardous on approach; local pilots and marked channels are used by ferries and charter boats.

What to See #

• Horseshoe Reef: A broad coral and limestone reef system that surrounds much of the island and includes the hazardous Horseshoe Reef, one of the Caribbean's largest reef structures and a frequent site for snorkeling and diving.
• Beaches: A chain of sandy bays and beaches known for shallow turquoise water and coral flats; popular spots include Loblolly Bay and Cow Wreck Beach for swimming and sunbathing.
• The Settlement (main village): The main settlement on the island, a small village that provides the island's few shops, guesthouses and transport connections by ferry and small aircraft.