Scrub Island: Anguilla's Private Island Escape

There are beaches in Anguilla that are famous for their postcard perfection, Shoal Bay East with its powdered sugar sand, Meads Bay with its culinary credentials. And then there is Scrub Island, which offers something entirely different: a private island escape just off Anguilla's eastern coast. This small, uninhabited island is a haven for those seeking solitude, pristine beaches, and the kind of untouched beauty that is increasingly rare in the Caribbean. For those planning a Caribbean holiday, Scrub Island offers the ultimate offshore retreat.

Quick Facts

Beach Name	Scrub Island
Location	Offshore, East End & Northeast Coast
Length	Small island (approximately 1 mile across)
Best For	Seclusion, swimming, snorkelling, photography, nature lovers
Swimming	Excellent, with calm, clear water
Snorkelling	Excellent, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life
Crowds	Very Low — a private island escape
Access	By private boat or charter from the East End
Facilities	None — bring your own supplies

The Scrub Island Experience

Scrub Island is a small, uninhabited island located just off Anguilla's eastern coast. The island is surrounded by turquoise water and fringed with white-sand beaches, and the only sounds are the gentle lap of the waves and the call of the seabirds. It is the kind of place that makes you forget about everything else, where the only decision you need to make is which beach to explore first.

Points of Interest Nearby

Shoal Bay East is Anguilla's most famous beach, with its two-mile crescent of powdered sugar sand, legendary beach bars, and excellent snorkelling. It is approximately 10 minutes by car from the East End departure point.

Dining Options

There are no restaurants on Scrub Island. The island is uninhabited and undeveloped, and visitors should bring their own food and water for the day.

Where to Stay

There is no accommodation on Scrub Island. The East End area offers a range of villa rentals.

Access & Practical Information

How to Get There: Scrub Island is accessible by private boat or charter from the East End. The boat ride takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is Scrub Island located?
A: Scrub Island is located just off Anguilla's eastern coast, approximately 15 to 20 minutes by boat from the East End departure points.

Q: How do I get to Scrub Island?
A: Scrub Island is accessible by private boat or charter from the East End. The boat ride takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Q: Is Scrub Island good for swimming?
A: Yes. Scrub Island has calm, clear water with a gently sloping sandy seabed, making it excellent for swimming.

Q: Can you snorkel at Scrub Island?
A: Yes, the snorkelling at Scrub Island is excellent. The island is surrounded by coral reefs that are home to a vibrant ecosystem of tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays.

Q: Are there restaurants on Scrub Island?
A: No. Scrub Island is uninhabited and undeveloped, with no restaurants, bars, or facilities.

Q: Where can I stay near Scrub Island?
A: There is no accommodation on Scrub Island. The East End area offers a range of villa rentals.

Q: Is Scrub Island crowded?
A: No. Scrub Island is one of the least crowded destinations on Anguilla.

Q: What is the best time to visit Scrub Island?
A: The dry season from November through April offers the most reliable weather.