Anegada Island stands apart from its British Virgin Islands siblings with a stark, compelling wilderness shaped by coral and salt flats rather than lush hills. Here, adventure waits in the folds of flat terrain and along the lapping turquoise shore, where hikes and shore dives offer access to an often overlooked world—raw, fiercely natural, and patient in its pace.

Hikes That Meet the Sea

The terrain of Anegada is deceptively simple: low elevation, around 20–30 feet at its highest, but that flatness opens long and revealing walks. The Lava Flow Trail is a 3-mile route starting near The Settlement. It crosses coral limestone expanses, dry shrubland, and salt flats. The ground crunches beneath your boots as the wind pushes constant—a reminder that here, nature sets its rhythm. Keep a sharp eye for the pink flamingos that frequent the salt ponds and the bushes that seem to whisper with heat.

For a loop that takes you around to Anegada’s quieter east coast, the 4.5-mile East Coast Coastal Trail threads closer to the water’s edge. Sand crunches underfoot. The wind dares you to keep pace as you skirt white beaches with wild grasses whispering secrets. This trail offers a steady stroll with little elevation change but frequent crashes of shallow reefs and tidal pools to interrupt your way.

Shore Dives: The Coral Calls

Shore diving at Anegada dives straight into reefs favored by hammerhead sharks, rays, and vibrant coral gardens. The Horseshoe Reef is a spectacular site accessible by launching a small boat from the island or walking a short rocky path from shore. Currents gently nudge divers forward here, pushing you along vast coral walls with crystal clarity often exceeding 100 feet.

Another highlight is the western coral reef near Cow Wreck Beach. Here, divers slip into calm waters, greeted by soft corals and schools of snapper that shimmer ahead. The reef lies just 20-40 feet deep, making it an excellent spot for newcomers and those looking to combine a surface swim with a dive.

Preparation and Practical Tips

Bring sturdy hiking shoes that tolerate sand and jagged coral fragments. Hydration is crucial—pack at least 2 liters of water for any hike. Set out early to avoid midday heat, especially between June and September when the sun leans hard, and afternoon winds build.

For shore dives, a reef-safe sunscreen and sturdy masks with good visibility are essentials. Check currents beforehand and dive with a buddy. Though the island’s remoteness encourages exploration, local guides familiar with tides and hidden channels add safety and depth to your experience.

Anegada’s wilderness demands attention but rewards you with encounters that remind you nature operates on its own terms: slow, steady, and unapologetically present.