Under the Water Introduction   Anguilla is fringed by coral reefs and has a number of small islets & cays dotted off the North Coast. There are a huge array of coral formations, walls, ridges ,canyons, tunnels, and trenches populated by common reef dwellers as well as the less common nurse sharks, rays, lobsters and turtles. There are at present 6 good wreck dives. The wide range of dive locations cater to experienced divers and novices with equal alacrity and several local dive operators to help you reach them. There are many ideal snorkelling locations close to the shore in calm water; it is well worth bringing your snorkel gear if you have it or hire some equipment from a local watersports operator. Anguilla has a 6 Marine Parks located at Little Bay, Shoal Bay (East), Junk's Hole Bay, Sandy Island, Dog Island and Prickly Pear. These parks have permanent moorings that must be used and no vessels over 50 feet (17 metres) can moor on them. The rules are basic in the Marine Parks: preserve the environment by leaving all marine life undisturbed. Snorkellers can reach the Marine Parks at Little Bay, Shoal Bay (East) and Junk's Hole Bay from the shore whilst those at Sandy Island, Dog Island and Prickly Pear require a boat ride in order to reach them.

For a complete list of recommended snorkelling locations, see our Beaches, Beaches, Beaches... editorial. Dive shops run uncrowded operations and have and wealth of experience in these waters. You will be well rewarded, whether diving or snorkelling.