Love Beaches
A string of pink-sand coves near Stella Maris with a natural swimming pool sheltered by ancient rock
Love Beaches curve along Long Island's Atlantic coast near Stella Maris, a chain of four pink-sand coves connected by rocky headlands and splashed with the wild energy of the open ocean. The name fits: these beaches draw couples seeking solitude, honeymooners watching the sunrise, and adventurous visitors willing to navigate the rocky paths for something beyond the typical Caribbean strand.
The signature feature is a large natural swimming pool, a calm stretch of water protected by rock formations that break the Atlantic surge. While waves crash against the outer rocks, the pool remains gentle enough for children to paddle safely, making Love Beaches a rare combination of wild scenery and family-friendly swimming.
The Natural Pool
The protected swimming pool at Love Beaches forms where ancient rock walls create a natural barrier against the Atlantic swells. Seawater flows in through gaps in the rocks, filling the pool with clear, refreshed water while blocking the force of the waves. The result is an improbably calm swimming spot mere metres from crashing surf.
The pool varies in depth from wading levels to several feet, accommodating swimmers of different abilities. At low tide, more of the surrounding rock formations emerge, creating additional shallow pools and tide pools worth exploring for small marine creatures.
Pink Sand and Shipwreck History
The pink hue of the sand comes from crushed foraminifera shells mixed with white coral fragments, a phenomenon more commonly associated with Harbour Island but present in subtler shades throughout the eastern Bahamas. The colour intensifies where waves deposit concentrations of the pink particles along the high-tide line.
Remnants of an old shipwreck lie scattered among the rocks at one end of the beach, adding an element of maritime mystery to exploration. The wreck's origins are unclear, but rusting metal and weathered timbers speak to the Atlantic's power and Long Island's history as a challenging passage for vessels.
Getting to Love Beaches
Access requires a short but somewhat rugged walk from where vehicles can park. The Stella Maris Resort maintains trails to the beaches, and guests can obtain directions at the resort desk. The path crosses rocky terrain in places, making sturdy footwear advisable until you reach the sand.
Bring everything you need for the day, as no facilities exist at the beaches themselves. Water, snacks, sun protection, and snorkeling gear are all worth carrying down. The morning hours often offer the calmest conditions in the natural pool, while late afternoon brings dramatic lighting for photography.
Getting there
Love Beaches lie on Long Island's Atlantic coast near the Stella Maris resort area. From Stella Maris Airport, the resort is approximately five minutes by taxi. The resort provides directions and trail access to the beaches. Expect a short walk over rocky terrain to reach the sand. Standard rental cars can navigate the roads to the trailhead. No public transportation serves this area; you need your own vehicle or resort transportation.
Frequently asked questions
- Why are they called Love Beaches?
- The romantic name suits the secluded, intimate nature of these four connected coves. The pink sand, natural pool, and Atlantic sunrises make them popular with couples and honeymooners seeking a private beach experience.
- Is the natural pool safe for children?
- Yes, the protected pool offers calm water sheltered from Atlantic waves. Depths vary, so supervision remains important. At low tide, additional shallow pools form among the rocks, perfect for small children to explore safely.
- Can you snorkel at Love Beaches?
- Snorkeling is possible in the protected pool and along the rocky areas during calm conditions. The open Atlantic side can be dangerous for snorkeling due to surge and currents. Check conditions on arrival and stay within sheltered areas.