Island Harbour, Anguilla: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Island Harbour is home to Anguilla’s last remaining authentic fishing village, where colorful wooden boats still bring in the daily catch using techniques passed down through generations? This charming corner of Anguilla offers a glimpse into the island’s traditional way of life that has largely disappeared from other Caribbean destinations.

Getting to Island Harbour

Island Harbour is located on the northeastern tip of Anguilla, approximately 15 minutes by car from the island’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport. Most visitors arrive in Anguilla either by flying into St. Maarten and taking a ferry, or by flying directly to Anguilla from select destinations.

By Air

The most common route to Anguilla is flying into Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, then taking a short ferry ride or small plane to Anguilla. Direct flights to Anguilla are limited but available from select Caribbean hubs. Once you’ve decided on your travel dates, check for the best flight options to make your journey smooth.

By Ferry

If arriving via St. Maarten, you’ll need to take a ferry to Anguilla. Public ferries run from Marigot Bay in French St. Martin to Blowing Point in Anguilla approximately every 30 minutes. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes. From Blowing Point, Island Harbour is about a 20-minute drive.

Alternatively, private boat charters can take you directly from the St. Maarten airport to Anguilla, saving you the taxi ride to the ferry terminal. These services cost more but offer convenience, especially for groups or those with lots of luggage.

Planning Your Journey to Island Harbour

Island Harbour offers a more authentic Anguillan experience compared to some of the island’s more developed areas. This fishing village provides a perfect balance of local culture, beautiful beaches, and enough amenities to keep visitors comfortable without feeling overly touristy.

What Makes Island Harbour Special

Unlike some of Anguilla’s more developed areas, Island Harbour maintains its traditional charm as a working fishing village. Each morning, you can watch fishermen bring in their catch on colorful wooden boats, many of which are built using techniques passed down through generations. This authentic atmosphere is increasingly rare in the Caribbean, making Island Harbour a special destination for travelers seeking genuine cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit Island Harbour

Island Harbour, like the rest of Anguilla, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, certain times of year offer better weather and different experiences.

High Season (December to April)

The winter months bring perfect weather with temperatures averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C), low humidity, and minimal rainfall. This is the ideal time for beach activities and water sports, though prices are at their highest and reservations should be made well in advance. The fishing village is particularly lively during this period, with more boats going out daily.

Shoulder Season (May to June, November)

These months offer an excellent balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. May and June still have relatively dry conditions, while November marks the end of the hurricane season with increasingly stable weather patterns.

Low Season (July to October)

Summer and early fall bring hotter temperatures, higher humidity, and an increased chance of rain. This period coincides with hurricane season, though direct hits are relatively rare. The advantage is significantly lower prices and a more laid-back atmosphere. Many locals fish during these months when the waters are calmer on certain days.

Getting Around Island Harbour

Island Harbour itself is small enough to explore on foot, but you’ll likely want transportation to visit other parts of Anguilla during your stay.

Rental Cars

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Anguilla at your own pace. The island is small (just 16 miles long), making it easy to navigate. To drive in Anguilla, you’ll need to purchase a temporary Anguillan driver’s license (approximately $25) along with your rental. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available throughout Anguilla, though they can be expensive for extensive travel. Many taxi drivers also serve as tour guides, offering valuable local knowledge. If you find a driver you like, ask for their card to arrange future pickups.

Bicycles and Scooters

For the adventurous traveler, bicycles and scooters are available for rent. These options are great for exploring Island Harbour and nearby areas, though the island’s occasionally hilly terrain and hot sun should be considered.

Where to Stay in Island Harbour

Island Harbour offers a range of accommodations that tend to be more authentic and less resort-like than those in other parts of Anguilla. Here you’ll find charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, and private villas that provide a more intimate experience of island life.

Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses

Several small, locally-owned properties offer comfortable accommodations with authentic Anguillan hospitality. These establishments often provide a more personal experience, with hosts happy to share local knowledge and recommendations. Many are within walking distance of the beach and local restaurants.

Luxury Villas

For those seeking more privacy and space, luxury villas are available in and around Island Harbour. These properties often come with private pools, beach access, and sometimes staff services like private chefs. Villas are ideal for families or groups traveling together.

Nearby Resorts

While Island Harbour itself doesn’t have large resorts, several upscale properties are located within a short drive. These offer full amenities including spas, multiple restaurants, and water sports facilities, while still allowing easy access to experience Island Harbour’s authentic charm.

Top Attractions in Island Harbour, Anguilla

Island Harbour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities. Here are the must-see attractions and activities in this charming fishing village.

Island Harbour Beach

The main beach at Island Harbour is a beautiful stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming. Unlike some of Anguilla’s more famous beaches, Island Harbour Beach offers a more authentic experience where you can watch fishermen bring in their catch and prepare their boats. The beach is rarely crowded, providing a peaceful setting to relax and soak up the Caribbean sun.

Scilly Cay

This tiny island sits just offshore from Island Harbour and is one of Anguilla’s most beloved attractions. Accessible only by boat (a free two-minute water taxi ride from the Island Harbour pier), Scilly Cay is home to a renowned open-air restaurant serving fresh lobster, crayfish, and their famous rum punch. Visitors can enjoy a meal, swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the cay, or simply relax on the small beach. The restaurant is typically open Wednesday through Sunday from around 11am to 4pm.

Big Spring Heritage Site

Located near Island Harbour, Big Spring is an important archaeological site featuring Amerindian petroglyphs dating back over 1,000 years. This natural cave and freshwater spring contains rock carvings made by the Arawak people, offering a fascinating glimpse into Anguilla’s pre-Columbian history. The site is protected as a national park and can be visited with a guide from the Anguilla National Trust.

Island Harbour Fishing Village

The heart of Island Harbour is its working fishing village, where you can observe local fishermen bringing in their daily catch, mending nets, and maintaining their colorful wooden boats. Early morning (around 6-7am) is the best time to see the fishing fleet return with their catch. This authentic cultural experience provides insight into traditional Caribbean life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Heritage Collection Museum

Just a short drive from Island Harbour is the Heritage Collection Museum, Anguilla’s foremost historical museum. Founded by historian Colville Petty, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling Anguilla’s history from its earliest Amerindian settlements through colonization, plantation era, and the 1967 revolution. The small but comprehensive museum provides valuable context for understanding Anguilla’s unique cultural identity.

Water Activities in Island Harbour

With its protected harbor and proximity to excellent marine environments, Island Harbour is a perfect base for enjoying various water activities.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Island Harbour offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, particularly around Scilly Cay and nearby Scrub Island. Expect to see colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and occasionally sea turtles. For more serious diving, local operators offer trips to sites around Anguilla, including shipwrecks and deeper reefs teeming with marine life.

Fishing Charters

Given Island Harbour’s fishing heritage, it’s no surprise that fishing charters are popular here. Local captains offer half-day and full-day excursions for both deep-sea fishing and reef fishing. These trips provide not only the chance to catch mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and marlin (depending on the season), but also valuable insights into traditional Anguillan fishing techniques.

Boat Excursions

Various boat tours depart from Island Harbour, including trips to offshore cays, snorkeling excursions, and sunset cruises. The most popular is the short hop to Scilly Cay, but longer excursions to more distant locations like Prickly Pear Cays and Dog Island are also available.

Where to Eat in Island Harbour

Island Harbour is known for some of Anguilla’s most authentic dining experiences, with an emphasis on ultra-fresh seafood and local specialties.

Scilly Cay Restaurant

This iconic restaurant on its own tiny island serves a simple but perfect menu of grilled lobster, crayfish, chicken, and their famous rum punch. The food is prepared to order over an open grill, and dining is a leisurely affair with spectacular views. While not inexpensive, the combination of fresh seafood, stunning setting, and unique experience makes it worth the splurge.

Elite Restaurant

A local favorite in Island Harbour, Elite serves authentic Anguillan cuisine in a casual setting. The menu changes based on what’s fresh, but often includes dishes like grilled fish, curry goat, oxtail, and johnnycakes. Prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious.

Falcon Nest

This beachfront bar and restaurant offers simple, delicious food with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The fish is often caught the same day by local fishermen. The casual atmosphere, reasonable prices, and beautiful views make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Le Bon Pain

Located just outside Island Harbour, this French bakery is a must-visit for breakfast or a light lunch. Their fresh-baked pastries, breads, and sandwiches are excellent, and the coffee is some of the best on the island. Arrive early for the best selection, as they often sell out of popular items.

Shopping in Island Harbour

While Island Harbour isn’t a major shopping destination, it offers a few authentic places to purchase local goods and souvenirs.

Local Crafts

Look for small stands and shops selling handmade crafts, particularly items made from wood, shells, and other natural materials. These make for meaningful souvenirs that support local artisans.

Fresh Fish

If you’re staying somewhere with kitchen facilities, don’t miss the opportunity to purchase fresh fish directly from the fishermen at the harbor in the morning. There’s nothing quite like preparing a meal with fish caught the same day in local waters.

Island Grocery

For essentials and snacks, Island Harbour has small grocery stores carrying basic supplies. For more extensive shopping, you’ll need to visit The Valley, Anguilla’s capital.

Day Trips from Island Harbour

Island Harbour’s location on the northeastern tip of Anguilla makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of the island and even nearby islands.

Shoal Bay East

Just a short drive from Island Harbour is Shoal Bay East, consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Its powder-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Several beach bars and restaurants offer refreshments and rentals of beach chairs and water sports equipment.

The Valley

Anguilla’s small capital is worth a visit for its historic buildings, including the Old Valley Well, Wallblake House (the island’s oldest plantation house), and the Heritage Collection Museum. The Valley also offers more extensive shopping options than Island Harbour.

Sandy Island

This small offshore cay is accessible by boat from Sandy Ground (about a 25-minute drive from Island Harbour). The tiny island features a beautiful beach, excellent snorkeling, and a popular restaurant serving fresh seafood and strong cocktails.

St. Martin/St. Maarten

For a more ambitious day trip, consider visiting the nearby island of St. Martin/St. Maarten. Ferries depart regularly from Blowing Point (about a 30-minute drive from Island Harbour) and take 20 minutes to reach Marigot on the French side. The island offers duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, and a more developed atmosphere than Anguilla.

Practical Tips for Visiting Island Harbour

Make the most of your visit to Island Harbour with these helpful tips and essential information.

Currency and Banking

The official currency of Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. Island Harbour has limited banking facilities, so it’s advisable to bring cash. ATMs are available in The Valley and other more developed areas of Anguilla.

Communication

Mobile coverage is generally good in Island Harbour. Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may be slower than you’re accustomed to. For international visitors, consider purchasing a local SIM card or checking with your provider about international roaming packages.

Health and Safety

Island Harbour and Anguilla in general are very safe destinations with low crime rates. The island has a small hospital and several clinics, though serious medical issues may require evacuation to St. Martin or Puerto Rico. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Electricity

Anguilla uses 110-volt AC (60 cycles), the same as the United States and Canada. Visitors from countries using 220-240 volts will need adapters and possibly converters for their electronic devices.

Local Etiquette and Cultural Tips

Understanding and respecting local customs will enhance your experience in Island Harbour and help you connect with the community.

Dress Code

Anguilla is relatively conservative despite being a beach destination. While beachwear is appropriate at the beach, cover up when walking through villages or visiting shops and restaurants. For dining, casual resort wear is generally acceptable, though some upscale restaurants may require more formal attire.

Greetings and Interactions

Anguillans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A simple “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good evening” goes a long way when entering shops or restaurants. Take time to chat with locals – they often have fascinating stories and valuable recommendations.

Photography

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly fishermen at work. While most Anguillans are amenable to photos, it’s respectful to ask first and perhaps offer to share the images via email.

Respect for Fishing Traditions

The fishing industry in Island Harbour is not just an occupation but a cultural heritage. Observe but don’t interfere with fishermen going about their work. If you’re interested in learning more, politely ask questions – many fishermen are proud to share their knowledge and traditions.

Annual Events in Island Harbour

Island Harbour hosts and participates in several annual events that showcase local culture and traditions.

Festival Del Mar

Held during the Easter weekend (usually in March or April), Festival Del Mar celebrates Anguilla’s rich maritime heritage. The festival features fishing competitions, swimming races, boat races, seafood cooking contests, and live music. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Anguillan culture and sample a variety of local seafood dishes.

Anguilla Summer Festival

While centered in The Valley, this August festival includes events throughout the island, including Island Harbour. The celebration marks Emancipation Day and includes colorful parades, boat races, beach parties, and competitions. The festival typically runs for a week, culminating on Anguilla Day (August Monday).

Tranquility Jazz Festival

This November event brings international and regional jazz musicians to venues across Anguilla, sometimes including performances in Island Harbour. The festival offers a mix of free and ticketed concerts in various settings, from beaches to upscale resorts.

Why Island Harbour Should Be on Your Anguilla Itinerary

Island Harbour offers a rare glimpse into authentic Caribbean life that has largely disappeared from more developed islands. Here, you can experience the genuine warmth of Anguillan hospitality, savor incredibly fresh seafood, and enjoy pristine beaches without the crowds found at more famous destinations.

What makes Island Harbour truly special is its perfect balance – it provides enough amenities for visitor comfort while maintaining its traditional character and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re watching fishermen bring in their morning catch, enjoying a legendary lunch at Scilly Cay, or simply relaxing on the beach, Island Harbour delivers an experience that feels both authentic and accessible.

As development continues throughout the Caribbean, places like Island Harbour become increasingly precious. This small fishing village offers not just a vacation but a connection to the rhythms of island life that have sustained communities for generations. Come discover why those who know Anguilla often count Island Harbour among their favorite spots on this already exceptional island.