Lighthouse Beach

Miles of Pink Sand

The scale of Lighthouse Beach sets it apart from other Bahamian beaches. Rather than a single cove or bay, the pink sand extends for miles along the southern coastline, creating endless opportunities for beach walking, shell collecting, and solitary contemplation.

The sand's distinctive color comes from foraminifera, single-celled organisms with pink or red shells that mix with white coral and shell fragments to create the characteristic hue. Early morning and late afternoon light brings out the most dramatic coloration, though the beach remains beautiful throughout the day.

Historic Lighthouse Ruins

The lighthouse that gives this beach its name stands in ruins on the point, a reminder of the maritime heritage that shaped Eleuthera's history. Built to warn vessels away from the treacherous waters around the island's southern tip, the lighthouse served mariners for generations before falling into disuse.

The ruins make for atmospheric photography and provide a destination for those walking the beach. The climb to the lighthouse point offers elevated views of the coastline and the deep blue waters beyond the reef.

Reaching the Beach

Lighthouse Beach's remoteness has always been part of its appeal and its challenge. The beach lies at the end of a rough road through South Eleuthera, past the settlement of Bannerman Town. Four-wheel drive was historically recommended, though road conditions vary with maintenance and recent weather.

The journey itself passes through landscapes that reveal Eleuthera's less-visited southern reaches: scrubby vegetation, scattered ruins, and stretches of untouched coastline. Visitors should bring all supplies, as no facilities exist at the beach.

Recent Developments

The area around Lighthouse Point has seen significant change with the development of Disney's Lookout Cay, a cruise ship destination that opened in 2024. While this development has brought new infrastructure to the southern tip of Eleuthera, access to Lighthouse Beach itself may be affected.

Visitors should research current access conditions before planning a trip, as the situation continues to evolve. The beach remains one of the Bahamas' natural treasures, and efforts to balance development with preservation continue.

Getting there

Lighthouse Beach is located at the southern tip of Eleuthera, accessible via a rough road past Bannerman Town. From Rock Sound Airport, the drive takes approximately one hour. Four-wheel drive is historically recommended due to road conditions. Recent development at Lighthouse Point may affect access, so visitors should research current conditions before planning a trip. Bring all supplies including food, water, and sun protection as no facilities exist at the beach.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Lighthouse Beach pink?

The pink color comes from foraminifera, microscopic organisms with pink or red shells that wash ashore and mix with white coral and shell fragments. The concentration of these organisms along Eleuthera's southern coast creates the distinctive rose-hued sand.

Can I still access Lighthouse Beach?

Access conditions may have changed with the development of Disney's Lookout Cay nearby. Visitors should research current access before planning a trip. Historically, the beach was reached via rough roads past Bannerman Town, but development may have affected traditional access routes.

Is Lighthouse Beach crowded?

The beach has historically been very secluded due to its remote location and challenging access. The recent cruise ship development nearby may bring more visitors to the general area, though the beach itself has traditionally seen very few people.