If you’ve got a layover in The Valley, don’t let it go to waste sitting at AXA. The city, in Anguilla, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into The Valley, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Anguilla vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: The Valley is roughly 60 minutes from AXA via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in XCD. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from AXA to The Valley
From AXA, the Taxi gets you to The Valley in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into The Valley might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$15 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$33 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In The Valley, two standouts are:
- Shoal Bay East — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- Wallblake House — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside AXA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Anguilla Airport Souvenir Shop
- Tarmac Viewing & Relaxation Area
Eating Well on a The Valley Layover
For food in The Valley, local travelers recommend Da’Vida Restaurant & Bayside Grill. If you have time for a second stop, Elvis’ Beach Bar is another popular pick.
Back at AXA, AXA Airport Cafe is the go-to. Island Bites Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at AXA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in The Valley itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AXA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into The Valley and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at AXA
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AXA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in The Valley genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.