Greenwood Beach

Atlantic Power and Pink Sands

The Atlantic Ocean shapes Greenwood Beach with constant energy. Waves roll in from thousands of miles of open water, building and breaking over the offshore reef before washing up on sand that shifts with each storm season. The beach never looks quite the same twice, its contours remolded by forces operating on geological timescales.

The pink coloration intensifies where wave action concentrates the foraminifera particles, particularly along the high-tide line and in wind-blown accumulations against the dune grass. Early morning and late afternoon light brings out the warmest tones, making those hours best for photography.

Snorkeling and Reef Access

Coral heads rise close enough to shore that strong swimmers can reach them without a boat, making Greenwood one of Cat Island's best shore-entry snorkeling spots. The reef supports healthy fish populations, with parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors common sights. Occasional larger visitors, including nurse sharks and spotted eagle rays, patrol the deeper margins.

Greenwood Beach Resort offers snorkeling gear and can provide guidance on current conditions. The Atlantic side demands respect: snorkel only on calm days, watch for current, and never venture beyond the protective reef without local knowledge.

Sea Turtle Nesting

Greenwood Beach serves as nesting habitat for endangered sea turtles, primarily hawksbills and loggerheads. Nesting season runs roughly from May through October, with females crawling ashore at night to dig their nests and deposit eggs. Hatchlings emerge weeks later, making their instinctive dash for the water under cover of darkness.

Visitors during nesting season may encounter tracks on the morning beach or witness hatchlings if timing aligns. The resort can provide information about current nesting activity. Disturbing nests or nesting turtles is illegal and actively discouraged; observation from a distance protects these remarkable creatures.

Getting there

Greenwood Beach lies near Port Howe on Cat Island's southeastern coast. From New Bight Airport (TBI), the drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes heading south on the main road. Greenwood Beach Resort arranges airport transfers for guests. Rental cars are limited on Cat Island; book well in advance. Some visitors fly into Arthur's Town in the north and drive the length of the island, though New Bight provides closer access to Greenwood.

Frequently asked questions

Is Greenwood Beach safe for swimming?

Swimming is possible but requires Atlantic awareness. The beach faces open ocean and can experience strong currents and surf. Swim near the resort where staff can advise on conditions. The calmest water often occurs in the morning before afternoon winds build.

When is the best time to see sea turtles?

Nesting season runs from May through October. Female turtles come ashore at night, so early morning offers the best chance to see fresh tracks. Hatchlings emerge unpredictably throughout the season. Never disturb nesting turtles or their nests.

Is Greenwood Beach really pink?

Yes, the sand contains crushed foraminifera shells that impart a pink tint, though it's subtler than Harbour Island's famous pink sand. The colour shows best in certain light conditions and where wave action concentrates the pink particles.