Kemps Bay

Boat-Building Heritage

The boatyard at Kemps Bay represents a living connection to Bahamian maritime tradition. Here, skilled craftsmen construct fishing sloops using techniques passed down through families for generations. These wooden vessels, designed for the specific conditions of Bahamian waters, remain prized by local fishermen for their seaworthiness and handling.

Watching the boat builders at work offers a glimpse into a craft that has nearly vanished elsewhere. The smell of fresh-cut wood, the precise fitting of planks, and the patient process of creating a vessel by hand speak to a time before fiberglass and mass production transformed boating worldwide.

The Conch Shell House

Among the settlement's most distinctive features is a house decorated with thousands of queen conch shells, their pink interiors creating an otherworldly facade. This unique structure has become one of the most photographed sites in South Andros, attracting visitors who make the journey specifically to see it.

The house reflects the central importance of conch to Bahamian life—as food, as craft material, and as cultural symbol. The shells used in its decoration were gathered from nearby waters where conch remain abundant, their large pink shells sometimes reaching the size of footballs.

Beaches and Natural Beauty

Paradise Beach near Kemps Bay offers the quintessential South Andros experience: powdery white sand, crystal-clear water in shifting shades of turquoise and blue, and virtually no other visitors. The beach stretches for miles, backed by casuarina pines and sea grape, providing endless space for walking, swimming, and simply absorbing the natural beauty.

The waters offshore host healthy populations of bonefish, attracting anglers to the area. The barrier reef lies within reach for snorkeling and diving, while blue holes scattered through the surrounding landscape offer swimming and exploration opportunities.

Getting there

Kemps Bay is reached via Congo Town Airport, which receives flights from Nassau. From the airport, drive north along the Queen's Highway for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Rental cars and taxis are available at the airport. The mailboat from Nassau also serves South Andros, arriving weekly at Driggs Hill port.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors watch the boat builders at work?

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to observe the craftsmen at the Kemps Bay boatyard. It is courteous to ask permission and not interfere with the work. The builders are often happy to explain their techniques to interested visitors.

Is the Conch Shell House a private residence?

Yes, the Conch Shell House is privately owned. Visitors can photograph the exterior from the road, but should respect the owners' privacy and not enter the property without permission.

Are there accommodations in Kemps Bay?

Limited guesthouses and vacation rentals are available in and around Kemps Bay. For more options, Congo Town to the south offers additional accommodations including properties near the airport.