Fernandez Bay Beach

A Naturally Protected Beach

The bay's orientation on Cat Island's leeward coast shields it from the prevailing easterly trades and Atlantic swells that shape the island's opposite shore. The result is water so calm it barely qualifies as beach swimming, more like entering a warm bath that extends indefinitely toward the horizon.

The absence of waves makes Fernandez Bay ideal for families with small children, elderly swimmers, and anyone seeking relaxation over adventure. Kayaks and paddleboards glide easily across the glassy surface, and snorkelers can explore without fighting current or surge.

The Casuarina Shade

Australian pine trees, locally called casuarinas, line much of Fernandez Bay's shore. These feathery-needled trees provide natural shade along the beach, allowing visitors to escape the sun without retreating indoors. The trees also add a distinctive soundscape, their needles creating a gentle hissing as trade winds pass through.

The beach sand runs fine and white, contrasting with the craggy ironshore that appears at the bay's northern end. This transition from sand to rock creates varied exploration opportunities and microhabitats for small marine creatures in the tide pools.

Connection to Mount Alvernia

From Fernandez Bay Beach, the ridge of Mount Alvernia dominates the inland view. At 206 feet, it stands as the highest point in all of the Bahamas, crowned by the Hermitage that Father Jerome built stone by stone in the 1930s. Many visitors combine a morning on the beach with an afternoon climb to the Hermitage, a pilgrimage of sorts across different elevations of the same peaceful island.

Fernandez Bay Village provides the most convenient accommodation base for exploring both the beach and the mountain, though the bay can also be reached as a day trip from the airport at New Bight.

Getting there

Fernandez Bay Beach lies just north of New Bight on Cat Island's western coast. Fly into New Bight Airport (TBI), from which the beach is approximately a 10-minute drive. Fernandez Bay Village arranges airport transfers for guests. Day visitors can drive or taxi from the airport along the main road heading north. Limited rental cars are available on Cat Island; book in advance. The beach has no public facilities outside the resort.

Frequently asked questions

Can non-guests visit Fernandez Bay Beach?

The beach itself is public, though the adjacent resort is private property. Day visitors should be respectful of resort guests and use public access points. The resort may allow lunch reservations that include beach access; contact them in advance.

Is Fernandez Bay good for snorkeling?

The calm water makes snorkeling easy, though marine life is less abundant than at the Atlantic-side reefs. The ironshore areas at the bay's ends offer the most interesting exploration. Serious snorkelers should also visit Greenwood Beach on the island's eastern coast.

How does Fernandez Bay compare to Cat Island's Atlantic beaches?

Fernandez Bay offers calm, protected water ideal for relaxation and families. The Atlantic beaches feature bigger waves, pink sand, and better snorkeling but more challenging conditions. Each offers a distinct experience; most visitors try both during a Cat Island stay.