Casual and welcoming Anguilla keeps things relaxed, but visitors are asked to dress appropriately in public spaces. Here is everything you need to know before you arrive.
General vibe
Casual
Relaxed but respectful smart casual works anywhere on the island
Beach attire
Beach only
Swimwear and cover-ups are for beach and pool areas, not streets or shops
Ports of entry
Covered up
Shirt, bottoms, and footwear required at all official ports
Day-trippers welcome
Pack a cover-up
Arriving from St. Martin? Toss a light cover-up in your bag you're all set
Anguilla maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, but visitors are expected to dress appropriately in public spaces. Swimwear including bikinis, bra-type tops, brief shorts, and similar attire as well as toplessness, are considered unsuitable outside of the beach environment. Nude and topless swimming and sunbathing are not permitted anywhere on the island.
When arriving or departing through official ports of entry, visitors are required to wear a shirt or top, suitable bottoms (shorts, skirts, dresses, or trousers), and footwear. Beachwear must be properly covered in these areas.
Comfortable, casual clothing is all you need to enjoy Anguilla.
Light shorts, linen trousers, sundresses, t-shirts, and casual tops are perfectly suited for exploring the island, visiting restaurants, and getting around.
A sarong, light dress, shirt, or any cover-up over your swimwear is all you need when stepping off the beach into shops, cafés, or public areas.
Sandals, flip-flops, or shoes are expected in restaurants, shops, and public areas. Bare feet are for the sand.
Nicer restaurants may expect a slightly smarter look in the evenings. A simple collared shirt or a light dress fits the bill nothing overly formal.
These are not appropriate outside of the beach or pool areas.
Bikinis, bra-type tops, brief shorts, and similar beach attire are considered unsuitable outside of the beach or pool environment under Anguilla's public standards.
Topless sunbathing and swimming are not permitted anywhere on the island. This applies to all visitors regardless of origin.
Nudity in public spaces, including beaches, is not allowed in Anguilla. The island maintains community standards that all visitors are asked to respect.
Ferry terminals and the airport are regulated public spaces covered clothing is required.
Arriving or departing on the ferry from St. Martin? You must be wearing a shirt or top, appropriate bottoms (shorts, trousers, skirt, or dress), and footwear. A beach cover-up packed in your bag makes this simple.
The airport is a regulated public space. Appropriate clothing shirt, bottoms, and footwear is required for all passengers, whether arriving or departing.
A light linen shirt, a sarong, or a simple sundress takes up almost no bag space. Keep one on top of your things so it is easy to throw on when you leave the beach.
Anguilla loves visitors arriving on the ferry for a day at the beach. All you need is a light cover-up in your bag toss on a shirt or sarong when you step off at Blowing Point, enjoy the island, and head back whenever you're ready. It's as easy as that.
Answers to the dress code questions visitors ask most.
Can I wear a bikini top as a top when exploring the island?
No bikinis and bra-type tops are considered beachwear and are not appropriate in public spaces outside the beach or pool. Wear a shirt, top, or cover-up when stepping off the sand.
Can I walk from the beach to a beachside restaurant in my swimwear?
Most beachfront restaurants are relaxed about a cover-up or light top over your swimwear. A quick wrap or shirt is all you need to move comfortably between the beach and dining areas.
I'm arriving as a day-tripper on the ferry. What should I wear?
You are very welcome! Just make sure you are wearing a shirt or top, suitable bottoms, and footwear when you step off the ferry at Blowing Point Terminal. Pack a light cover-up over your swimwear and you will have no trouble getting around the island.
Is nude or topless sunbathing allowed on any beach?
No. Nude and topless swimming and sunbathing are not permitted anywhere in Anguilla. Visitors are asked to follow the island's public standards at all beaches.
Do I need formal clothing for restaurants?
Most restaurants are casual. For nicer evening dining, smart casual attire a light dress, collared shirt, or tidy trousers is generally expected. Swimwear and cover-ups are for the beach, not the dinner table.
Are there dress code rules for churches or other local sites?
When visiting churches, heritage sites, or community spaces, modest clothing is respectful. Covered shoulders and longer bottoms are appreciated, even if not formally required.
