Did you know that Scrub Island is home to one of the most mysterious plane wrecks in the Caribbean? This uninhabited offshore cay of Anguilla holds fascinating secrets, including an abandoned airstrip, derelict vehicles, and some of the clearest turquoise waters you’ll ever see. Just a short boat ride from Anguilla’s mainland, this 3-square-mile island offers adventures that feel worlds away from the typical Caribbean experience.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching Scrub Island requires first traveling to Anguilla, then taking a boat to the offshore cay. The journey is part of the adventure, with spectacular views of Anguilla’s eastern coastline along the way.
Reaching Anguilla
Most travelers fly into St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), then take a 20-minute ferry or a 7-minute flight to Anguilla. Direct flights to Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) are also available from select Caribbean hubs.
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Boat Transfer to Scrub Island
From Anguilla’s mainland, you’ll need to arrange a boat charter to Scrub Island. Most depart from Island Harbour on Anguilla’s eastern end. The boat ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on sea conditions.
Local fishermen and charter companies offer day trips to Scrub Island. These experienced captains know how to navigate the deep waters and surrounding reefs safely. The waters around Scrub can be rough, so always book with reputable operators.
Local Tip: Check weather conditions before booking your Scrub Island excursion. The best experience comes on calm sea days when waters are clear for snorkeling and the boat ride is smooth.
Best Time to Visit Scrub Island
Timing your visit right can make all the difference in your Scrub Island experience. The island is exposed to Atlantic winds and can experience rougher seas than mainland Anguilla.
Recommended Months
- December to April: The dry season offers the most reliable weather with temperatures around 27°C (81°F). Waters tend to be calmer, making boat transfers more comfortable.
- May to June: Shoulder season with fewer tourists and still favorable conditions. Temperatures average 29°C (84°F).
Months to Avoid
- August to October: Hurricane season peaks during these months, with higher chances of storms and rough seas making boat transfers difficult or impossible.
- November: Often sees lingering rain from the wet season, which can limit visibility for snorkeling.
Getting Around Locally
Once you reach Scrub Island, all exploration is done on foot. There are no roads, vehicles, or facilities on this uninhabited island.
Exploring Scrub Island
The island features natural paths that lead to various points of interest. A full exploration of the island requires moderate hiking ability and comfortable walking shoes. The terrain varies from soft sand beaches to rocky outcroppings and desert-like interior landscapes.
Transportation on Anguilla
While on Anguilla’s mainland, you’ll need transportation to reach the boat departure points. Rental cars are the most convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace.
Explore Anguilla Your Way
Rent a car to easily reach Island Harbour and other departure points for Scrub Island excursions.
Where to Stay
Scrub Island itself has no accommodation options as it’s uninhabited. Visitors typically stay on Anguilla’s main island and take day trips to Scrub Island.
Recommended Areas on Anguilla
Island Harbour
The closest area to Scrub Island with a fishing village atmosphere. Staying here puts you nearest to boat departure points for Scrub Island excursions.
Shoal Bay
Just west of Island Harbour, this area offers beautiful beaches and a range of accommodations while still providing relatively easy access to Scrub Island boat departures.
Find Your Perfect Anguilla Stay
Book accommodations on Anguilla’s main island for your Scrub Island adventure.
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no restaurants or food services on Scrub Island. All visitors need to bring their own food and drinks for the day trip.
Picnic Essentials
- Water: Bring plenty! There are no freshwater sources on the island.
- Snacks: Pack energy-rich foods like fruits, nuts, and sandwiches.
- Ice: Keep drinks cool in the tropical heat.
Charter Catering Options
Many boat charters to Scrub Island offer catering services. These typically include Caribbean-inspired lunches, snacks, and beverages (including the essential rum punch). If you’re booking a guided excursion, inquire about food options when making your reservation.
Pro Tip: Even if your charter provides food, bring extra water and snacks. The combination of sun, swimming, and hiking can increase your need for hydration and energy.
Attractions & Sightseeing on Scrub Island
Despite its small size, Scrub Island offers several fascinating attractions that make for an unforgettable day trip.
Main Beach (West Beach)
The primary landing point for boats features a stunning mile-long stretch of powdery white sand. The beach is bordered by dramatic cliffs on either end and offers excellent swimming in protected areas.
The Mysterious Plane Wreck
One of Scrub Island’s most intriguing attractions is an abandoned airplane that crash-landed decades ago. Local lore suggests it was involved in an FBI drug chase that ended in an emergency landing. The plane remains remarkably intact despite years of exposure to the elements.
Deadman’s Bay and Salt Pond
On the northwestern part of the island lies a hidden gem – a protected salt pond with crystal-clear waters. This natural nursery for baby sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles offers calm swimming and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Ready for Adventure?
Book guided tours to Scrub Island and other Anguilla attractions.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Scrub Island offers a diverse range of natural environments to explore, from beaches to desert-like interiors.
Hiking the Island Interior
The island’s interior features unique desert-like landscapes with cacti, agave trees, and fascinating salt ponds that sometimes display striking red and orange hues. A network of natural paths and an overgrown road make exploration possible, though challenging in the heat.
Snorkeling Opportunities
The waters around Scrub Island offer excellent snorkeling, particularly in the protected areas near the main beach. Look for colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and fascinating coral formations.
Wildlife Spotting
Scrub Island is home to wild goats that roam freely across the terrain. In the tidal pools along the rocky coastline, you might spot sea anemones, urchins, crabs, and sometimes even baby sharks.
Eco Tip: Practice responsible tourism by taking all trash with you when leaving the island. This pristine environment remains unspoiled precisely because it’s uninhabited.
Historical Sites & Abandoned Structures
Scrub Island contains fascinating remnants of past human activity, offering a glimpse into previous attempts to develop this remote location.
Ancient Watering Holes
Stone structures throughout the island once served as watering holes for livestock. These remarkably well-preserved constructions date back centuries to when early settlers farmed the island.
Abandoned Airstrip
An overgrown airstrip cuts across part of the island, evidence of past development attempts. The strip is now barely visible in places, reclaimed by the island’s natural vegetation.
Derelict Vehicles
Several abandoned vehicles can be found rusting away in the island’s interior, relics from past development efforts in the 1980s and 90s. These weathered hulks create an almost post-apocalyptic scene against the island’s wild backdrop.
Safety & Practical Considerations
Visiting Scrub Island requires preparation and awareness of potential hazards.
Sun Protection
The Caribbean sun is intense, especially on an exposed island with limited shade. Bring wide-brimmed hats, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and consider UV-protective clothing.
Water Safety
The waters around Scrub Island can be deep and currents can be strong. Always follow your guide’s advice about safe swimming areas, and never swim alone.
Important Safety Note: Beware of manchineel trees on the island. These toxic trees are among the most poisonous plants in the Americas. Even brushing against their leaves can cause severe skin reactions, and standing under them during rain can cause blindness. Your guide will point these out to avoid.
What to Pack
- Water: At least 2 liters per person
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes for hiking, water shoes for rocky areas
- Food: Snacks and lunch if not provided by your charter
- Camera: Waterproof if possible
- Dry bag: To protect valuables during the boat ride
Recommended Tour Operators
Several reputable companies offer excursions to Scrub Island from Anguilla’s main island.
Tradition Sailing Charters
Offers trips to Scrub Island on classic West Indian sloop sailing vessels, combining history with adventure.
Anguilla National Trust
Provides educational tours focusing on the island’s natural history and conservation efforts.
Local Fishermen from Island Harbour
Many experienced fishermen offer more affordable, authentic experiences to Scrub Island.
Complete Your Caribbean Adventure
Consider combining your Anguilla trip with a Caribbean cruise that visits nearby islands.
Final Thoughts on Scrub Island
Scrub Island represents Caribbean adventure in its purest form. With no development, crowds, or amenities, it offers an increasingly rare opportunity to experience an untouched slice of the Caribbean. The combination of pristine beaches, mysterious ruins, unique desert landscapes, and marine life creates an unforgettable day trip from Anguilla.
While reaching Scrub Island requires some effort, those who make the journey are rewarded with stories and experiences that few Caribbean travelers can claim. In an age of all-inclusive resorts and crowded tourist attractions, Scrub Island stands apart as a reminder of the Caribbean’s wild beauty and fascinating history.
The above is subject to change.
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