Island Harbour (AI) travel guide

Island Harbour (AI) travel guide

National Airports

There are no national airports in Island Harbour, Anguilla. The main international airport serving Anguilla is Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA). It is located in the eastern part of the island, near the village of The Valley.

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport is the primary airport for arrivals and departures in Anguilla. It offers both regional and international flights, connecting the island to various destinations in the Caribbean and beyond.

To reach Island Harbour from Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey to Island Harbour typically takes around 15-20 minutes.

It’s important to check the flight availability and schedules to Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport when planning your trip to Anguilla.

Trains in Island Harbour (AI)

There are no train services available in Island Harbour, Anguilla. Anguilla does not have a railway system for public transportation. The primary modes of transportation on the island are taxis, rental cars, and private transfers.

If you’re visiting Island Harbour or any other part of Anguilla, you will need to rely on these alternative transportation options to get around the island. Taxis are a common choice for shorter journeys, while rental cars offer more flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. Private transfers can be arranged with transportation providers or through your accommodation.

While trains are not available in Island Harbour or Anguilla, the island offers various other transportation options to help you navigate and enjoy your time there.

Buses in Island Harbour (AI)

Anguilla does not have a public bus system or scheduled bus services, including in the area of Island Harbour. The primary modes of transportation in Anguilla are taxis, rental cars, and private transfers.

Taxis are readily available throughout Anguilla, including Island Harbour, and are a convenient option for getting around. You can find taxis at taxi stands or hail one on the street. Make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Rental cars provide another option for transportation, giving you the flexibility to explore Island Harbour and the rest of Anguilla at your own pace. Several car rental agencies operate on the island, and you can arrange a rental car in advance or upon arrival.

Additionally, some accommodations may offer shuttle services or arrange private transfers for their guests. If you have made arrangements with your accommodation in advance, they may provide transportation services to and from Island Harbour.

While there are no scheduled buses in Island Harbour or Anguilla, taxis and rental cars can help you navigate the island and reach various attractions, beaches, and dining establishments.

How to get to Island Harbour (AI)

To get to Island Harbour in Anguilla, you have a few options depending on your point of departure:

From Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA): Island Harbour is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) east of the airport. The easiest way to reach Island Harbour from the airport is by taxi or private transfer. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey to Island Harbour typically takes around 15-20 minutes.

From Blowing Point Ferry Terminal: If you arrive in Anguilla by ferry from St. Maarten or another nearby island, you can travel to Island Harbour by taxi or rental car. Taxis are usually available at the ferry terminal, and the journey from Blowing Point to Island Harbour takes around 10-15 minutes.

From other locations in Anguilla: If you’re staying at a different part of Anguilla and want to visit Island Harbour, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a rental car to take you there. Taxis can be found at taxi stands or can be called through your accommodation. Rental cars provide more flexibility for exploring the island, and several car rental agencies operate in Anguilla.

When planning your transportation, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel periods or if you have specific requirements. It’s also recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as taxis in Anguilla do not have meters.

Island Harbour is relatively small, and many of its attractions and activities can be explored on foot. However, having a rental car or using taxis can provide more flexibility for visiting other parts of Anguilla beyond Island Harbour.

Remember to check the entry requirements for Anguilla, including passport validity and any visa requirements, to ensure a smooth arrival and stay in Island Harbour.

What is the best time to travel to Island Harbour (AI)

The best time to travel to Island Harbour in Anguilla depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your visit. Anguilla generally has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best time to travel to Island Harbour:

Weather: Anguilla experiences a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season typically runs from December to April, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rainfall. This period is considered the high season for tourism. The rainy season, from May to November, brings higher temperatures, more humidity, and occasional rain showers or thunderstorms. However, even during the rainy season, rainfall is usually brief and followed by sunshine.

Crowds and Prices: The high season, which coincides with the dry season, attracts more tourists to Anguilla, including Island Harbour. This can result in higher accommodation rates and more crowded attractions. If you prefer quieter surroundings and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May-June and November) or the low season (July-October). During these times, you may find better deals on accommodations and experience fewer crowds.

Festivals and Events: Anguilla hosts various festivals and events throughout the year that may interest you. For example, the Anguilla Summer Festival, held in August, is a vibrant celebration of Anguillian culture, music, and cuisine. The Moonsplash Music Festival, held in March, features live performances by renowned reggae artists. Consider aligning your visit with a festival or event that appeals to you.

Beach Activities: If you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach and engage in water activities, the dry season may be the best time for you. The sea conditions are generally calmer during this period, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.

It’s important to note that while Island Harbour itself is a relatively small area, it serves as a gateway to other attractions and experiences on the island. Consider your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and activities when deciding on the best time to travel to Island Harbour.

How to get around Island Harbour (AI)

Island Harbour is a small area in Anguilla, and getting around is relatively easy. Here are some options for getting around Island Harbour:

Walking: Island Harbour is a compact area, and many of its attractions, restaurants, and accommodations are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a pleasant and convenient way to explore the village, enjoy its scenic beauty, and interact with the local community.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Anguilla, including Island Harbour. You can find taxis at taxi stands or hail one on the street. Taxis are a convenient option for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. Make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Rental Cars: Renting a car provides you with the flexibility to explore Island Harbour and other parts of Anguilla at your own pace. Several car rental agencies operate on the island, and you can arrange a rental car in advance or upon arrival. Having a rental car allows you to venture beyond Island Harbour and visit various attractions, beaches, and dining establishments.

Bicycles: Some accommodations or rental shops in Anguilla offer bicycle rentals. Bicycles can be a fun and eco-friendly option for getting around Island Harbour and nearby areas. You can enjoy leisurely rides, explore the surroundings, and soak in the island’s natural beauty.

While Island Harbour itself is small and easily walkable, having a rental car or using taxis can provide more flexibility for exploring other parts of Anguilla beyond the village. Additionally, taxis and rental cars are useful for reaching beaches, attractions, and dining establishments located throughout the island.

It’s important to note that driving in Anguilla is on the left-hand side of the road, as per British driving regulations. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local road rules and drive safely when using rental cars or personal vehicles.

Make sure to plan your transportation ahead of time and consider factors such as traffic conditions, parking availability, and the proximity of your destinations. Having a map or GPS navigation system can be helpful in navigating the roads of Anguilla.

Accommodations in Island Harbour (AI)

Island Harbour, being a small area in Anguilla primarily known for its fishing village charm and scenic harbor, does not have a wide range of accommodations within its immediate vicinity. However, there are a few options available in the surrounding areas that provide easy access to Island Harbour and other attractions on the island. Here are some suggestions for accommodations near Island Harbour:

East End Village: East End Village is located nearby and offers a range of accommodations. You can find guesthouses, small hotels, and vacation rentals that provide comfortable and convenient stays. Examples include Arawak Beach Inn, Villa Amarilla, and Palm Grove Villa.

Shoal Bay East: Shoal Bay East, known for its beautiful beach, is a short drive from Island Harbour. There are a few accommodations in this area, including beachfront resorts and villas. Consider options such as Zemi Beach House, Shoal Bay Villas, and Serenity Cottages.

Sandy Ground: Sandy Ground is another area near Island Harbour that offers accommodations. This vibrant area is known for its beach bars, restaurants, and entertainment. Accommodations range from guesthouses to beachfront villas. Examples include The Reef by CuisinArt, The Ferryboat Inn, and Carimar Beach Club.

West End Village: West End Village, located on the western side of Anguilla, offers a range of accommodations. You can find boutique hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals that provide comfortable stays. Examples include Frangipani Beach Resort, Turtle’s Nest Beach Resort, and Carimar Beach Club.

When considering accommodations, it’s important to note that Anguilla is a relatively small island, and it’s easy to travel to Island Harbour and other attractions from various parts of the island. Transportation options like taxis and rental cars allow you to easily access Island Harbour regardless of where you choose to stay.

It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to secure the best rates and availability.