Captain's Bay
Untouched, untamed, and unforgettable - Anguilla’s wild beauty lives at Captains Bay.
Quick facts
Plan Captain's Bay at a Glance
Best for
Solitude and seclusion, Scenic walks and photography, Wildlife watching (dolphins, whales, pelicans)
Swimming
Use caution
Snorkeling
Limited
Food nearby
Limited
Parking
Roadside / Public Parking
Family-friendly
Limited
Coast
West Coast
Vibe
Quiet, Sunset
Estimated Water Conditions
Model estimates from marine forecasts and coastal exposure, not on-site measurements. A calmness score does not confirm safe swimming.
ℹ️The model suggests more water movement. Check local conditions and advisories.
The model suggests more water movement. Check local conditions and advisories.
Wave Height
0.31m
Glass calm · Ideal for kids · Offshore 0.98m
Wind Speed
5 kts
Calm breeze
Wind Direction
SE
Wind coming from SE (131°) · Blowing toward NW
Status
Caution
Use caution
Last Updated
4:00 AM AST
Quick answer
Is Captain's Bay worth visiting?
Captain's Bay is Anguilla's most remote beach - a wild, Atlantic-facing crescent of white sand on the island's northeast tip, known for dramatic surf, total solitude, and the adventure of getting there.
About Captain's Bay
Captain's Bay is Anguilla's most remote and dramatically wild beach. Sitting on the island's far northeast tip, it faces the open Atlantic, and everything about it reflects that exposure - the deep blue of the water, the power of the surf, the rugged coral rock framing either end of the crescent, and the near-total absence of other people. Getting here is an adventure in itself: there are no signs on the main road, the dirt track is rough and potholed, and an SUV or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Visitors who find their way here are almost always rewarded with a beach entirely to themselves.
The beach stretches approximately 500 metres of powder-white sand, flanked on both sides by sharp coral formations and dramatic cliffs. The only structure in the area is Villa Exclusivity, a large private rental villa that overlooks the bay. There are no facilities of any kind - no food, no water, no shade, and no restrooms. Everything must be brought in, and all waste must be taken out.
Captain's Bay is not a swimming beach. Facing the Atlantic, the surf here can be powerful and the currents deceptively strong - strong enough to pull a person under even in shin-deep water. Wading is possible on calmer days, but swimming is not recommended for anyone, including experienced swimmers. The appeal of Captain's Bay is scenic and experiential rather than aquatic: the crashing waves, the wild beauty of the coastline, the complete solitude, and the extraordinary feeling of being at the edge of something vast and untamed.
Wildlife encounters add to the experience. Visitors have spotted dolphins offshore, whales during seasonal migrations, and pelicans diving along the shoreline. The rocks and tidepools at the northern end of the beach reward careful exploration. And as the day winds down, Captain's Bay offers another surprise - because the bay itself faces north-northwest, it catches stunning sunset light over the water, painting the sky from one of the most private vantage points on the island.
Roadside / Public Parking
There is no formal parking area. Visitors park roadside along the rough dirt track that leads to the beach. The road itself is unpaved, potholed, and in parts quite rocky - an SUV or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Regular cars can make the trip on calmer sections but should proceed slowly and carefully. Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle.
Captain's Bay Travel Guide
What Captain's Bay is like
Captain's Bay is Anguilla at its most wild. Sitting on the island's far northeast tip facing the open Atlantic, it is a sweeping crescent of powder-white sand flanked by sharp coral rock and rugged cliffs, with deep blue surf rolling in from the open sea. The only structure in sight is Villa Exclusivity, a private rental villa on the bluff above the beach.
The beach is almost always completely empty. Getting here requires navigating an unsigned dirt track in a high-clearance vehicle, which means most visitors never make the attempt. Those who do typically have the entire beach to themselves.
Swimming and safety
Captain's Bay is not a swimming beach. The Atlantic surf here can be powerful and the currents deceptively strong - strong enough to pull a person under even in shallow water. Wading at the shoreline is possible on calmer days, but entering the water beyond knee depth is not recommended for anyone.
The appeal of Captain's Bay is scenic rather than aquatic. Come for the drama of the landscape, the solitude, and the wildlife - not to swim.
Wildlife and exploration
Captain's Bay rewards patient visitors. Dolphins have been spotted swimming offshore, whales appear during seasonal migrations, and pelicans dive along the shoreline throughout the day. The rocky tidepools at the northern end of the beach are worth exploring carefully.
Because the bay faces north-northwest, it also catches genuine sunset light over the water in the evenings - one of the most private and dramatic sunset views on the island.
Getting there and what to bring
There are no road signs to Captain's Bay. The most reliable route runs via Palm Grove (Nat's Place) near Savannah Bay - the friendly staff there can give current directions. An SUV or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and Google Maps should be downloaded offline before you leave WiFi as cell service can be unreliable.
Bring everything you need: water, food and snacks, sun protection, a hat, and a garbage bag. There are no facilities of any kind at Captain's Bay. Stop at Palm Grove for food and drinks before heading out, and plan your visit knowing you are on your own once you arrive.
Best For at Captain's Bay
Best for travelers looking for Solitude and seclusion, Scenic walks and photography, Wildlife watching (dolphins, whales, pelicans), Tidepool and coastal exploration, Sunset watching, Adventure seekers, and Picnics with a view.
What's This Beach Best For?
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Swimming & Conditions
Swimming
Swimming at Captain's Bay is not recommended. The beach faces the open Atlantic and is exposed to strong surf and deceptive currents that can pull swimmers under even in shallow water. On calmer days, careful wading at the shoreline is possible, but entering the water beyond knee depth should be avoided. Always check conditions before approaching the water and err on the side of caution - the power of the surf here is not always immediately obvious.
Snorkeling
Captain's Bay is not suitable for snorkeling. The exposed Atlantic surf, strong currents, and rocky shoreline make water entry unsafe. Visitors looking for snorkeling should head to Little Bay, Crocus Bay, or Shoal Bay East.
Safety
Captain's Bay carries genuine safety risks that visitors must take seriously. (1) Swimming is not recommended - currents can pull people under even in shin-deep water; (2) the coral rock at either end of the beach is sharp and can cause cuts - wear footwear when exploring; (3) the beach has no shade, so sun protection is essential; (4) the road to the beach is rough and remote - ensure your vehicle has adequate clearance and that you have sufficient fuel; (5) cell service can be unreliable in this area; (6) there are no facilities and no nearby help if something goes wrong - plan carefully and tell someone where you are going.
Location Map
Tap the pin for directions
Frequently Asked Questions
Swimming is not recommended at Captain's Bay. The beach faces the open Atlantic and is subject to strong surf and deceptive currents that can pull people under even in shallow water. On calmer days, careful wading at the shoreline is possible, but entering the water beyond knee depth should be avoided.
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Beach Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Plenty of drinking water
- Cash for beach chairs/bars
- Snorkel gear
- Light cover-up or rash guard
- Water shoes (for rocky areas)
Getting Here
From Ferry Terminal
Approx. 15–25 mins by taxi from Blowing Point. Taxis are always waiting at the terminal.
From Airport
Approx. 10–20 mins from Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA).
Estimated fare
...
Based on published taxi zone rates for 2 passengers and standard luggage. Confirm final fare with your driver.
Facilities & Parking
Parking
There is no formal parking area. Visitors park roadside along the rough dirt track that leads to the beach. The road itself is unpaved, potholed, and in parts quite rocky - an SUV or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Regular cars can make the trip on calmer sections but should proceed slowly and carefully. Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle.
Access
Captain's Bay is on Anguilla's far northeast tip and is one of the most difficult beaches on the island to find. There are no road signs. The most reliable route is via Savannah Bay: get yourself to the entrance of Palm Grove (Nat's Place) near Savannah Bay, follow the dirt road east and north, take the left fork when Savannah Bay disappears from view, and continue downhill toward the beach. Downloading Google Maps offline before leaving WiFi is strongly recommended. A taxi from the airport costs approximately $35–45 USD for the 30–40 minute ride. The road is not suitable for standard saloon cars - SUV recommended.
Food
There is no food or drink available at Captain's Bay or nearby. The nearest food options are at Palm Grove Bar and Grill (Nat's Place) near Savannah Bay, which is a useful stop before or after your visit. Pack everything you need - water, snacks, and any supplies - before leaving for the beach. Bring a garbage bag as there are no rubbish bins; please take all waste with you when you leave.
Local insight
Visitor Tips
Best time to visit
Morning light is excellent for photography and the beach is at its most private early in the day. Late afternoon is rewarding for the sunset light - because the bay faces north-northwest, it catches genuine sunset color over the water despite being on the north coast. Visit on a weekday for the greatest chance of having the beach entirely to yourself.
Who should visit
Adventurous travelers who want to experience Anguilla's wild, untamed side. Nature lovers interested in coastal scenery, wildlife, and tidepools. Photographers looking for dramatic landscapes. Anyone who wants a genuinely deserted beach and is willing to make the effort to reach it. Anguilla regulars who have already visited the main beaches and want something completely different.
Who should skip
Visitors with young children, non-swimmers, anyone seeking swimming or snorkeling, those without a suitable vehicle, and travelers who need any kind of facility or service at the beach. If you are not comfortable navigating unsigned dirt roads in a remote area, this beach is not the right choice.
Local tip
Download Google Maps offline before you leave WiFi - cell service can be unreliable on the road to Captain's Bay. Stop at Palm Grove (Nat's Place) near Savannah Bay for food and drinks before heading out, and ask the friendly staff there for current directions. Bring absolutely everything you need, including more water than you think you'll want. Pack a garbage bag and leave the beach exactly as you found it.
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