North America > 🇦🇮 Anguilla
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Anguilla can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Anguilla; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Anguilla?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Anguilla?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Anguilla
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|
Should You Rent a Car in Anguilla? 🚗🌴
Anguilla is a small, luxurious Caribbean island known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise water, hidden coves, and world-class dining. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and refreshingly undeveloped. But everything is spread out—so should you rent a car in Anguilla? Here’s the real story.
🌴 Can You Get Around Without a Car?
You can, but only if you plan to stay in one area or use taxis regularly. Anguilla has no public buses and very limited shared transport. Resorts offer transfers, but once you arrive, you’ll rely heavily on taxis.
✅ When You Don’t Need a Car
| Situation | Why a Car Isn’t Necessary | Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Staying at a luxury resort with on-site dining and beach access | Everything you need is on property | Resort shuttle / golf cart |
| Taking boat excursions daily | Tours provide transport | Hotel pickup |
| Short stay (1–2 days) | Taxis are easy to book | Taxi only |
| You prefer not to drive on holiday | Private driver can be arranged | Chauffeur service |
➡ Taxis in Anguilla are regulated and reliable, but fares add up quickly if you move around often.
🚗 Why Renting a Car Improves Your Freedom
Anguilla is just 16 miles long, but the best beaches, beach bars, and snorkeling spots are scattered across the coastline. With a car, you get total flexibility and the ability to discover hidden gems.
✅ Top Reasons to Rent a Car
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Beach hopping | Visit multiple beaches in one day |
| Dining freedom | Explore beach shacks and fine dining across the island |
| Privacy | Stop at remote coves with no crowds |
| Cost efficiency | Renting often costs less than multiple taxi rides |
📍 Best Places to Explore by Car
| Spot | Why Go | Distance from The Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Shoal Bay | One of the world’s best beaches | 10 mins |
| Meads Bay | Luxury dining & resorts | 15 mins |
| Rendezvous Bay | Calm swimming waters | 12 mins |
| Little Bay | Cliffside hidden beach | Access via short hike or boat |
🚦 Driving in Anguilla
-
Drive on the left-hand side
-
Roads are safe and easy to navigate
-
You’ll need a temporary Anguillan driving permit (issued when you rent)
-
Parking is free almost everywhere
-
Traffic is light—perfect for relaxed island driving
🏁 Final Recommendation
| Traveller Style | Car Needed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxing at one resort | ❌ No | Everything is nearby |
| Beach and food explorer | ✅ Yes | Multiple stops per day |
| Adventurous couple | ✅ Yes | Freedom to discover hidden coves |
| Short trip traveler | ❌ Optional | Taxi-only is manageable |
| Family trip | ✅ Yes | Easier with beach gear and kids |
✨ Final Takeaway
So, should you rent a car in Anguilla?
👉 If you want to explore multiple beaches, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints, then yes, renting a car is the absolute best way to enjoy the island.
👉 But if you plan to relax in one resort and take occasional tours, you can skip the car and use taxis or transfers instead.