Both Anguilla and Turks and Caicos Islands are English speaking overseas territories of the United Kingdom.
In this article, we compare and contrast these two amazing Caribbean destinations to help you make an informed decision for your upcoming vacation.
As a general rule, Anguilla is better for travelers who are interested in beaches, exploring dive sites and tranquility. Alternatively, Turks & Caicos is perfect for a visitor who wants to explore several small islands with more nightlife, beaches and easier access to major cities.
Read on for further details and explanations on how these two magnificent Caribbean islands compare. This article is written by a Caribbean National familiar with both islands.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: Which Island Is Bigger
Turks and Caicos Islands have the bigger landmass of the two destinations being 238 square miles. The highest point of elevation is Blue Mountain at 163 feet.
The islands are a group that consists of 40 different islands and cays. However, only 8 of these are inhabited.
Alternatively, Anguilla is only 39.38 square miles and the highest point is Crocus Hill with an elevation of 210 feet
Both islands are relatively flat in topography and hence visitors to them should find it easy to navigate driving.
There is no public transportation in Anguilla and Turks & Caicos Islands so renting a vehicle is the best way to explore these two countries.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: Does The Currency Differ?
Despite being British overseas territories, the official currencies of both islands vary.
The official currency of Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. However, the US dollar is commonly used on the island for most transactions.
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar has been pegged to the US dollar since July 7th, 1976 at a rate of USD $1 to XCD $2.70.
This currency is also shared by seven other Eastern Caribbean islands and is managed through a regional central bank which is based in St Kitts.
Contrastingly, the official currency of the Turks & Caicos Islands is the US dollar.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: Which Island Has Better Nightlife
Generally, Anguilla and Turks and Caicos are more peaceful and tranquil Caribbean destinations.
However, there is more entertainment in Turks & Caicos than Anguilla.
Every Thursday night on the island of Providenciales, there is a Fish Fry where individuals can buy food from local vendors. Souvenirs and various forms of crafts are also on sale.
Nightlife in Anguilla is primarily meeting with others at beach bars.
Some of the popular entertainment spots in Anguilla include The Lounge Bar, Sky Lounge and The Pumphouse.
Nevertheless, one key advantage that Anguilla has over Turks & Caicos is easy access to St Maarten via ferry.
St Maarten is one of the Caribbean islands with a bubbling night life environment.
Travelers who want a great blend of tranquility, entertainment and duty free shopping may prefer Anguilla for this reason.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: Which Island Has Better Access To International Cities
The Turks & Caicos Islands have easy access to major international cities. There are direct flights to the islands.
These cities include New York, Atlanta, Boston, Montreal, Philadelphia, Washington, Chicago and Dallas.
This makes travel to and from the islands seamless via Jet Blue, American Airlines, United, Delta and Air Canada.
British Airways offers flights from London Gatwick twice weekly. This flight has a layover in Antigua for about one hour.
On the other hand, the only international airline that currently has flights to Anguilla is American Airlines.
There are no flights from London, Toronto or other major international cities. International travelers fly to Antigua or St Maarten and transfer unto smaller airlines such as Seaborne or Winair.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: Which Island Has Better Beaches
Both islands are known for having beautiful turquoise waters. Grace Bay, located on the island of Providenciales, is the pride of Turks and Caicos and it has won many awards both regionally and internationally.
Grace Bay Beach is part of Princess Alexandra National Park and known for its calm and turquoise waters.
It stretches three miles long and there is a barrier reef located about one mile off shore to keep the beach still and safe.
Grace Bay Beach shares its shoreline with many high rise and luxurious hotels on the island.
Likewise, Shoal Bay Beach truly embodies Anguilla’s slogan tranquility wrapped in blue.
This beach is long strip about 2 miles with perfect pinkish white sand and clear blue waters.
Shoal Bay shares its shoreline with many hotels, restaurants and beach bars.
The beach is perfect spot on the island for diving, snorkeling and kayaking.
Anguilla Vs Turks & Caicos: What Are The unique Things To Do
Unique Things To Do In Anguilla
Visit The Fountain Cavern National Park– this park is located in Shoal Bay East and covers an area of 14.5 acres and is the most iconic attraction on the island.
There is an Amerindian Interpretation Centre (AAIC) built with thatch roof reflecting the typical dwelling of the Taino Amerindians in Malliouhana.
The cave which is limestone was used by the Taino Indians who left stone carvings and petroglyphs.
This area has two freshwater swimming pools which are used by locals.
Explore Dive Sites– Anguilla is a paradise for divers due to the presence of wrecks and artificial reefs.
There are several exciting parks which include Prickly Pear, Dog Island and Sandy Island.
Unique Things To Do In Turks & Caicos
Kite Boarding– the beach waters and wind conditions makes the island an ideal spot for kite boarding.
Long Bay Beach is one of the popular spots on the island for this activity.
There is a kiteboarding school on the island where tutors will provide you with a lessons as well as equipment rental.
Beach Hopping– Only 8 of the 40 islands and cays of Turks and Caicos are inhabited.
The others are private cays where you can go and enjoy a private beach day on your own island.
This makes the destination unique and one of the many reasons why the islands are favored by celebrities.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, Anguilla is an exceptional choice for a traveler whose priority is enjoying the beach and exploring dive sites. On the other hand, Turks & Caicos is perfect for a visitor who wants to stay at an all-inclusive resort, seeking better access to international cities and kiteboarding.
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