Hawksbill Cay Anchorage
Moorings, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkelling in the northern reaches of the Land and Sea Park.
Hawksbill Cay occupies the northwestern reaches of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, its western shore indented with protected bays offering moorings amid some of the park's most pristine waters. Uninhabited and undeveloped, the cay rewards visitors with soft sand beaches, healthy reef snorkelling, and the quiet that defines the protected park.
Mooring fields at the central and southern bays accommodate cruising yachts of all sizes on a first-come, first-served basis. The cay's position makes it an ideal first or last stop for vessels transiting between the northern Exumas and the heart of the park at Warderick Wells.
Approach and Mooring
Hawksbill Cay offers moorings in bays along the central and southern sections of its western coast. The broad expanse of water west of the south mooring field can accommodate vessels from small sailboats to mega-yachts, with depths varying across the area.
Moorings are first-come, first-served with mailboxes ashore for registration forms and fee envelopes. Anchoring is not permitted to interfere with mooring fields. Northern and southern shore waters are very shallow — explore on a rising tide to avoid stranding. Consult Explorer Charts for current approach information.
Protection and Conditions
In prevailing easterly conditions, Hawksbill Cay provides adequate protection from northeast through southeast. However, swell builds as winds approach 20 knots, and conditions deteriorate in winds from any direction exceeding 20 knots.
Strong tidal currents flow through the cuts at both ends of the cay — time transits accordingly. Tides occur approximately 20 minutes before Nassau predictions.
Ashore and Snorkelling
Hawksbill Cay offers hiking trails, soft sand beaches, and opportunities for snorkelling and diving. The reef systems along the cay benefit from the park's strict no-take protections, supporting diverse marine life.
No facilities or services exist on the cay — bring everything you need. The solitude and natural beauty are the rewards for self-sufficiency.
Getting there
Hawksbill Cay lies in the northern section of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, roughly 8 nautical miles north of Warderick Wells and 6 nm south of Shroud Cay. Approach from the banks to the western mooring fields. The cay sits between Cistern Cay to the north and the main park headquarters to the south, making it a natural waypoint on north-south transits.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I pay mooring fees at Hawksbill Cay?
- Registration forms and fee envelopes are located in mailboxes ashore. Complete the form, enclose your fee, and deposit in the mailbox. Current rates are posted at the park headquarters or available on VHF Ch 9.
- Is Hawksbill Cay a good overnight stop?
- In settled conditions with winds under 20 knots, yes. If stronger winds are forecast from any direction, consider the better-protected moorings at Warderick Wells.
- What marine life can I see snorkelling at Hawksbill Cay?
- The park's no-take protections mean healthy populations of reef fish, including parrotfish, snapper, and grouper, along with coral formations, sea fans, and occasional sea turtles and rays.
Nearby
Warderick Wells North Mooring Field
The crown jewel of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park — pristine waters, protected moorings, and the park headquarters.
ExploreEmerald Rock Mooring Field
A calm, current-free mooring field with easy beach access and miles of hiking trails at Warderick Wells.
ExploreWarderick Wells South Mooring Field
A secluded mooring field between Warderick Wells and Hog Cay with all-around wind protection.
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