Lubbers Quarters Cay

Island Character and History

Lubbers Quarters maintains the quiet, uncommercial character that defined the Abacos before modern tourism. The island was largely uninhabited until the 1930s and has developed slowly since, with a small community of vacation homes and a handful of full-time residents who cherish its seclusion.

Local legend holds that the island's most famous establishment, Cracker P's Bar and Grill, takes its name from Paul John "Cracker Pinder" Simmons, a fugitive from Georgia who settled here around 1915 and supported himself through fishing and gardening. This colorful history adds to the island's authentic, off-the-beaten-path appeal.

Cracker P's Bar and Grill

Since 1999, Cracker P's has been the heart of Lubbers Quarters and one of the most celebrated beach bars in all of the Bahamas. This Bahamian-owned, family-operated establishment sits elevated above a scenic dock, offering panoramic views across the Sea of Abaco toward Tahiti Beach and Tilloo Cut.

Boaters tie up bow-to-dock with stern anchors out, then climb the steps to an open-air bar serving house-made rum punch (the signature "Shotgun"), an extensive rum collection, and fresh local fare including grilled wahoo, smoked fish dip, conch dishes, and homemade bratwurst. Volleyball and bocce courts, plus legendary full moon parties, make this a destination worth planning your cruise around.

Anchorage and Access

Lubbers Quarters lacks a protected harbor of its own, but cruisers typically anchor in the excellent holding ground south of Elbow Cay near Tahiti Beach, then dinghy the short distance to the island's docks. Look for a sandy patch among the sea grasses to drop your hook in settled weather.

The channel between Elbow Cay and Lubbers Quarters is narrow but passable for most cruising boats if you read the water carefully. From the Tahiti Beach anchorage, Cracker P's dock is just a quick dinghy ride away, making it easy to combine a beach day with a memorable lunch stop.

Beaches and Nature

Despite its small size, Lubbers Quarters offers pristine white-sand beaches and nature trails through native Bahamian vegetation. The island's western shore provides calm, protected swimming, while the surrounding waters teem with marine life ideal for snorkeling.

With no vehicles on the island, exploration happens on foot along sandy paths. The surrounding flats offer excellent bonefishing, and nearby Tilloo Cut provides quick access to Atlantic waters with deep drop-offs less than half a mile offshore for those seeking bigger game.

Getting there

Lubbers Quarters Cay is accessible only by boat. On a private yacht charter, you will typically anchor at Tahiti Beach on the southern tip of Elbow Cay and dinghy across to the island's docks in just a few minutes. From Marsh Harbour, the island lies approximately six miles to the northeast. Albury's Ferry Service runs regular routes between Marsh Harbour and Hope Town on Elbow Cay, from which you can arrange water taxi service or dinghy to Lubbers Quarters. There is no airstrip or car access on the island itself.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cracker P's Bar and Grill still open?

Cracker P's has operated as a beloved Bahamas beach bar since 1999, though it sustained damage from Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The establishment has historically been open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to early evening. Visitors should check current status before planning a trip, as hours may vary seasonally.

Can you stay overnight on Lubbers Quarters Cay?

Yes, Lubbers Quarters has a small number of vacation rental homes and the Lubbers Landing lodge. However, most visitors experience the island as a day trip from nearby anchorages at Tahiti Beach or from Hope Town on Elbow Cay.

What is the best anchorage for visiting Lubbers Quarters?

The most popular anchorage is at Tahiti Beach on the southern tip of Elbow Cay. Look for a sandy patch among the sea grasses for good holding, then dinghy across the channel to Cracker P's dock on Lubbers Quarters. In settled weather, this provides easy access to both the famous beach bar and Tahiti Beach itself.