Great Harbour Cay

Sugar Beach and the Limestone Caves

Sugar Beach stretches along Great Harbour Cay's eastern shore, a series of sandy coves set among dramatic limestone cliffs that many consider among the most beautiful in The Bahamas. The beach takes its name from the fine, sugar-white sand, though its real treasures lie within the rock formations themselves.

At low tide, visitors can explore shallow limestone caves adorned with stalactites and natural columns carved by millennia of wave action. The ruins of the original Sugar Beach Resort and Golf Club stand nearby, remnants of the island's glamorous past now being reclaimed by thatchberry trees and native vegetation. Shelling is excellent along the northern stretch of beach, where sand dollars and colorful shells wash ashore.

The Marina and Hurricane Hole

Great Harbour Cay Marina sits in one of the most naturally protected harbors in The Bahamas, earning its reputation as a reliable hurricane hole. The marina offers 65 slips accommodating vessels up to 150 feet, with 30/50/100-amp shore power and reverse-osmosis water at each slip. A separate fuel dock near the cut provides diesel and gasoline.

The marina staff operates seven days a week, offering services from boat washdowns to fresh-baked Bahamian bread delivery. Weekly BBQ and pizza nights bring cruisers together, while the marina pool provides respite from the tropical heat. VHF channel 68 keeps arriving vessels in contact with the dockmaster.

Bonefishing and Flats Fishing

The Berry Islands are celebrated as the Fish Bowl of The Bahamas, and Great Harbour Cay delivers some of the archipelago's finest bonefishing. The saltwater flats surrounding the island hold bonefish averaging four to seven pounds, with double-digit fish caught regularly by experienced anglers. Shark Creek, located just around the bend from the main settlement, offers accessible wading flats where fly fishers stalk tailing bones in ankle-deep water.

Guided trips venture further to the creeks and flats south of Great Harbour, reaching uninhabited cays where fish see minimal pressure. The firm white-sand bottom makes wading comfortable, and the protected Sea of Abaco side offers calmer conditions when Atlantic winds pick up.

Bullocks Harbour Village

Bullocks Harbour serves as the capital and commercial center of the Berry Islands, home to most of the archipelago's residents. The village clusters around the government dock where the weekly mail boat delivers fresh provisions. Narrow streets wind past colorful churches, a community clinic, and small shops including Nad's Grocery and a well-stocked liquor store.

Restaurants like Coolie Mae's Sunset by the Sea, The Carriearl Roost, and The New Beach Club serve fresh-caught seafood and Bahamian specialties. Wednesday afternoons and Thursdays offer the best selection at the grocery stores following the mail boat's arrival. Golf cart rentals available in the village provide the easiest way to explore the island's seven miles of coastline.

Getting there

By private yacht charter, Great Harbour Cay lies approximately 35 nautical miles northwest of Nassau across the Great Bahama Bank, a comfortable day sail in settled conditions. The protected harbor entrance requires attention to the channel markers but presents no major challenges for cruising vessels. By air, Great Harbour Cay Airport (GHC) has a 4,536-foot paved runway receiving scheduled flights from Nassau via Bahamasair and charter flights from Fort Lauderdale via Makers Air and other operators. Golf carts are the primary transportation on the island and can be rented near the airport or marina.

Frequently asked questions

Is Great Harbour Cay a good hurricane hole?

Yes. Great Harbour Cay Marina is renowned as one of the most protected anchorages in The Bahamas. The natural harbor offers excellent all-around protection, and the marina's 65 slips can accommodate vessels up to 150 feet during hurricane season.

What is the best beach on Great Harbour Cay?

Sugar Beach on the eastern shore is the island's most celebrated beach, featuring fine white sand, dramatic limestone cliffs with explorable caves, and the atmospheric ruins of the original resort. Shark Creek Beach offers excellent shelling and shallow wading flats.

Can I fly directly to Great Harbour Cay?

Yes. Great Harbour Cay Airport (GHC) has a 4,536-foot paved runway. Bahamasair offers scheduled flights from Nassau, and charter operators like Makers Air fly from Fort Lauderdale. Private aircraft are also welcome.