Matthew Town

Salt Industry Heritage

Morton Salt operates one of the largest solar salt evaporation facilities in North America here, producing approximately one million tons of high-purity sea salt annually. The Erickson family arrived in the 1930s and introduced mechanization, building roads and restoring the island's economy. Morton Salt acquired operations in 1954, transforming Matthew Town into a company town of sorts. The geometric patterns of the salt ponds and towering white salt mounds create a surreal industrial landscape visible from the air.

Gateway to Flamingo Country

Matthew Town serves as the base for all visits to Inagua National Park and its population of over 80,000 West Indian flamingos. The Bahamas National Trust maintains a warden station, and all park visits must be arranged through authorized guides. Early morning departures from town lead to Lake Windsor and the surrounding wetlands where flamingos feed, nest, and perform elaborate courtship displays. The park hosts over 140 bird species beyond flamingos, including the threatened Bahama parrot.

Town Amenities

As Great Inagua's only populated area, Matthew Town provides essential services including a government dock, fuel, modest grocery stores, and a handful of guesthouses. The town maintains a small clinic and school. Dining options are limited but friendly, with local establishments serving Bahamian comfort food. The pace of life moves slowly here, and visitors should arrive with patience and flexibility regarding schedules and availability.

Beyond the Flamingos

While flamingos draw most visitors, Great Inagua offers additional attractions accessible from Matthew Town. Union Creek Reserve on the northwest coast protects endangered green and hawksbill sea turtles in a research partnership with the University of Florida. The Inagua lighthouse dates to the 1870s. Wild donkeys and feral cattle roam the bush, descendants of livestock left behind by earlier settlers. Fishing and diving opportunities abound for those with proper arrangements.

Getting there

Matthew Town is accessible by scheduled Bahamasair flights from Nassau, typically operating twice weekly. The flight takes approximately two hours. Private aircraft can land at Matthew Town Airport. Arrival by private yacht requires careful navigation and coordination with local authorities, as facilities are limited. Advance arrangements are essential for park visits and accommodation, as options are few and communication can be challenging.

Frequently asked questions

How do I arrange a flamingo tour from Matthew Town?

All visits to Inagua National Park must be arranged through the Bahamas National Trust or authorized local guides. Contact the BNT Nassau office before travel to coordinate with the Matthew Town warden station. Tours typically depart early morning for best wildlife viewing.

What accommodation is available in Matthew Town?

Matthew Town has a handful of modest guesthouses and rental properties. The Morton Salt company maintains housing that occasionally hosts visitors. Booking in advance is essential, and expectations should be calibrated for a remote Out Island experience.

Can I visit the Morton Salt facility?

Tours of the Morton Salt operation may be available with advance arrangements through the company. The massive salt ponds and crystallizing areas are visible from public roads, offering impressive views of this industrial landscape.