The Caribbean island of Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory, located near St. Maartens; the island has 33 white sand beaches boasting of crystal clear waters suitable for various water sports and outdoor activities. One of these beaches is Sandy Island Beach, just two miles north west of Sandy Ground, and lying offshore from Road Bay. Sandy Island is ideal for sun worshippers and beach enthusiasts who wish to steer clear of commercial, tourist-swamp beaches. Unlike other touristy, crowded beaches that dot the tiny island, Sandy Island is literally just a strip of pristine sand, 300 feet long and 60 feet wide, with a few palm trees surrounded by hard coral formations. It offers just the basic amenities, including a beach bar and restaurant, and a snorkeling gear rental shop that also rents underwater cameras. Sandy Island is one of Anguilla’s seven marine parks, along with Stoney Bay Marine Park, Shoal Bay Harbour Reef System, Little Bay, Seal Island Reef System, Prickley Pear and Dog Island. Anguilla is in the hurricane belt, but the occurrence of hurricanes is very rare. Dry season is from January through April, while the rainy season starts from August to November. There is very little run-off during the rainy season that diving and snorkeling activities are not restricted.
SANDY ISLAND BEACH ANGUILLA
Sandy Island is noted for its abundant sea fans and soft corals. Inside the reef is a lagoon so shallow that no scuba diving gear is needed. The reef is a snorkeling paradise as it is home to some of the most diverse species of beautiful and colorful tropical fishes and other aquatic creatures. With a depth between 30 feet to 70 feet, Sandy Island is also an underwater paradise for both novice and experienced scuba divers. Sandy Deep, with a slope measuring 60 feet deep, is the habitat of seafans and various types of sponges as well as lobsters, margates, turtles and stingrays. Sandy Reef, located on the north side of Sandy Island, has a maximum depth of 60 feet. Divers will find lobsters, stingrays, moray eels and the occasional spotted eagle ray. The tiny, secluded island also offers a quiet spot for whole day or half day excursions as well as an oasis for peaceful sunbathing, swimming or simply people watching. Boats charters for snorkeling and scuba diving trips can be arranged from Sandy Ground. Ferries make regular hourly trips to take visitors from Sandy Ground to the small desert island.