Road Bay Port Guide

Just steps from the tender landing lies Sandy Ground Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying live reggae music at iconic local spots. A short 15-minute taxi ride brings visitors to world-renowned Shoal Bay East, frequently ranked among the top beaches globally for its shimmering pink-hued sand and calm waters.

For adventure seekers, Little Bay offers dramatic cliffs and exceptional snorkeling, easily reached via a short boat ride or kayak trip. Day charters also take guests on short water excursions to Prickly Pear Cays, an uninhabited paradise ideal for snorkeling among pristine coral reefs.

The island capital, The Valley, is located just 10 minutes away from Road Bay and features historic sites like Wallblake House and local art galleries. Along the southern coast, approximately 15 minutes by taxi, lies Rendezvous Bay, famous for its sweeping beach views of neighboring St. Maarten.

Travelers can also venture to Meads Bay, situated 15 minutes to the west, where luxury resorts and upscale beachfront restaurants offer relaxed dining by the sea.

Road Bay is exclusively a tender port where cruise vessels anchor in the sheltered bay and transport guests to the main dock at Sandy Ground. The landing site places passengers directly in the heart of the beachside village, surrounding them with popular restaurants, beach bars, and small shops.

Taxis are parked right at the head of the pier to transport visitors anywhere on the island, though many passengers choose to spend their entire day enjoying the immediate beach area.

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US Dollars (USD) are universally accepted across the entire island. Prices in tourist areas are frequently listed in USD, and change is often returned in American currency.

Major credit cards are widely accepted at resorts, high-end restaurants, and larger shops, though carrying small USD cash bills is recommended for taxis and local beach shacks. ATMs are easily accessible in nearby The Valley.

Anguilla is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming island destinations in the Caribbean, boasting very low crime rates. Cruise passengers can confidently explore the island independently by taxi or rental vehicle without safety concerns.

Standard travel precautions apply, such as protecting yourself from sun exposure, staying hydrated, and keeping personal belongings secure while swimming at the beach.

Road Bay enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, with average daily temperatures ranging between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The peak cruise season running from December through April offers dry, breezy days ideal for beach activities.

While the Atlantic hurricane season extends from June through November, the island benefits from refreshing trade winds throughout the year. Visitors should pack lightweight cotton clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and a sun hat.

Taxis are the most convenient mode of transport for cruise visitors, with fixed government-regulated rates posted near the tender pier. Passengers looking for guided island experiences can easily arrange island taxi tours right at the dock.

Car rentals and mini-mokes are available for independent travelers, though driving is on the left side of the road. Ride-sharing services are not available, but organized boat charters and snorkeling trips can be booked directly on the beach.

Shopping in Road Bay and across Anguilla is casual and boutique-focused rather than dominated by large duty-free malls. Visitors can find unique local handicrafts, hand-painted artwork, beachwear, and locally blended rums near the tender dock and in The Valley.

High-end boutiques offering designer resort wear and fine jewelry are situated within the island's luxury resorts at Meads Bay. Prices are fixed in shops, and sales tax is not levied on most goods.