Salt Picking
Salt picking in Anguilla dates back to the 1600s, when the island’s natural salt ponds became a vital economic resource. It is no doubt that, before this time, the Amerindians – who also dug many wells that are still in existence to this day – utilised the rock salt harvested from the ponds.
Step into Road Bay Pond, not only the largest pond on the island but also the main producing site of Anguilla’s main export throughout history, the rock salt. In the early 1900’s an industry was built around the abundance of naturally occurring salt which became a major economic earner for Anguilla. Embark on a brief yet fascinating journey through time: learn traditional salt-harvesting methods, and witness glistening crystals forming naturally.
Learn about the nuances of history and science hidden below the surface at Road Bay pond. As this is a seasonal experience, it is only available from May to September.
Featured Mentions
Quest’s exclusive Salt Picking Experience has been spotlighted by leading global media outlets — celebrating Anguilla’s unique cultural tradition.
Forbes
“Four Seasons Anguilla honors the island’s salt heritage, offering guests a hands-on harvesting experience.”
Read on Forbes
Travel + Leisure
“Try salt picking in Anguilla — one of the most authentic and memorable experiences on the island.”
Read on Travel + Leisure
Travel Agent Central
“Cap Juluca now offers salt-picking activities — connecting guests to Anguilla’s deep history with salt.”
Read on Travel Agent Central
DRIFT Travel Magazine
“Take Anguilla’s history with a pinch of salt — literally! Visitors can now join guided salt-picking tours.”
Read on DRIFT Travel
Rudi Steele Travel
“Getting ‘salty’ in Anguilla: guests wade into the salt ponds, collecting crystals by hand.”
Read on Rudi Steele Travel
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Departure/Return Location
Sandy Ground Village, Anguilla, AI2640 -
Departure Time
7:30am -
Dress Code
Beach wear, long sleeve, sneakers/crocs/sea shoes with socks -
Included
GuideRefreshments -
Not Included
AccommodationTransportWater
From our gallery
Moments from Salt Picking
Tour Plan
Salt Picking Experience - $55/person
- Intensity: Moderate
- Minimum: 2 persons
- Included: Refreshment
- Solo bookings are welcome! You’ll either be paired with the nearest available group or may choose to confirm your experience by covering the minimum booking rate for two guests.
- Final confirmation will be provided subsequent to your booking request being sent via the booking calendar.
- A payment link will be sent after final confirmation of your booking request
Tour Location
Meet at the Old Pumphouse Parking Lot in Sandy Ground.
Road Bay pond
Quest Reviews
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Refunds & Cancellations
- 15% (if 72-48 hours before the Experience);
- 30% (if 25-47 hours before the Experience) or
- 100% (less than 24 hours before the Experience).
Adrianne Calvo
Excellent in every possible way!!!
George
Clemvio, our amicable tour guide, and his team took really good care of us on our salt-harvesting experience. The knowledge they shared about their island’s history and heritage was fascinating. We were taken to the middle of the Sandy Ground salt pond and back into the early 18th century when salt production on Anguilla peaked. Having the opportunity to harvest our own salt was a real “only in Anguilla” experience. Clemvio is a proud Anguillian and a great connector for visitors to the authentic culture of the island.
Aline
Very unique and fun experience in Anguilla! Clemvio is so knowledgeable and gives a deep and interesting history of Anguilla’s historical importance in the Salt trade for the region. Best part was actually getting to pick the salt and use it at home in cooking. Highly recommend!
Annabel
We have been visiting Anguilla every few summers since we were kids in 1993 and this was one of our favorite experiences! We enjoyed and learned a lot from the hands-on salt harvesting, history since the Arawak, mural, and salt harvesting equipment all shown to us by Clemvio and Quest Experiences staff. They were knoweledgeable and passionate about Anguilla. We even got to see a rainbow over the bay! We appreciate folks at Carimar setting up the appointment for us.