Anegada lies 15 miles north of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, and is home to a small community of around 250 people, with one town called The Settlement. Though it is quite far away, Anegada can easily be visited on a day trip, even if you are coming from St. Thomas!
While the other islands, like Tortola, are very mountainous, Anegada is completely flat; with its highest point sitting only 28 feet above sea level. It’s name derived from the Spanish term; drowned island or "tierra anegada," and the island is approximately 20 square miles. A popular way to explore the flat lands is with either a scooter, dirt bike or a Moke!
Anegada island is famed for its magnificent, powdery sand beaches and the Horseshoe Reef, which is the longest coral reef in the Caribbean (at 18 miles long). This reef is also known for being a graveyard of shipwrecks from boats that have sailed the waters since the 16th century. The most popular unspoiled, sandy beaches are Loblolly Bay and Cow Wreck Beach.
Among the vibrant ecosystems on the island, you can find the Anegada Rock Iguana and the regal, pink flamingos at the local salt ponds. There is a myriad of exotic flora and fauna both underwater and inland that you don't want to miss, so be sure to bring your binoculars and swimming clothes.
Chillout Charters has snorkel gear on board for all the sea adventures we can take you on. You will definitely want to stop by "Coral Island" - a mountain of conch shells / conch collection site that was started by the Arawak Indians hundreds of years ago. Whilst snorkeling here and around the Anegada reefs, you can be sure to see turtles, bonefish, stingrays, lobster traps, and plenty more!
Some of the top hot spots to definitely check out are; Setting Point, Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada Beach Club, Big Bamboo, Flash of Beauty Beach and Cow Wreck Beach Bar.
Your visit here to this whimsical island will be like none other in the BVI, it really is a hidden gem.
