Scilly Cay

Discover Scilly Cay

Just a few hundred yards offshore from Island Harbour, Scilly Cay is one of Anguilla’s most iconic dining destinations and one of the Caribbean’s most memorable island escapes. Accessible only by a short boat ride across calm turquoise water, this tiny privately owned island combines exceptional seafood, laid-back island hospitality, and breathtaking scenery into an experience that has become a tradition for generations of visitors. The journey to Scilly Cay takes only a few minutes, yet stepping ashore feels like discovering another world. Brilliant white sand, swaying palms, colorful buildings, and uninterrupted Caribbean views create an atmosphere that is both relaxed and unmistakably Anguillian. With no roads, vehicles, or large-scale development, the island offers a rare opportunity to disconnect and enjoy one of Anguilla’s most distinctive coastal settings. At the heart of the experience is Scilly Cay Restaurant, a family-owned institution that has welcomed guests for decades. Famous for its freshly grilled lobster, crayfish, snapper, and signature rum punch, the restaurant has become one of the island’s culinary landmarks. Lunch is served beneath shaded pavilions overlooking the sea, often accompanied by live music that captures the warm, welcoming spirit for which Anguilla is known. The waters surrounding Scilly Cay are as inviting as the island itself. Crystal-clear shallows and nearby reef formations make the area ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with colorful reef fish and other marine life frequently encountered just offshore. Many visitors spend the afternoon alternating between the beach, the water, and a leisurely lunch, creating a day that feels wonderfully unhurried. Although small in size, Scilly Cay occupies an important place in Anguilla’s culture and culinary identity. For many visitors, a meal here has become a cherished tradition, passed from one generation to the next. Its combination of authentic island hospitality, exceptional seafood, and spectacular waterfront setting has earned the island an enduring reputation as one of Anguilla’s must-visit destinations. Despite its popularity, Scilly Cay has retained its intimate character. The island remains beautifully simple, allowing its natural surroundings and welcoming atmosphere to define the experience rather than luxury amenities or elaborate facilities. It is this authenticity that continues to draw travelers back year after year. Whether you’re arriving for a long seaside lunch, a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water, or simply to experience one of Anguilla’s most beloved traditions, Scilly Cay offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. It is a place where exceptional food, remarkable scenery, and genuine island hospitality come together to create memories that last long after the boat returns to Island Harbour.