Peterson Cay
A tiny one-acre national park rising from the reef a mile offshore, where kayakers and snorkelers discover Grand Bahama's most pristine underwater sanctuary.
Peterson Cay is the smallest national park in the Bahamas — a tiny island of just 1.5 acres rising from the reef approximately one mile off Grand Bahama's south shore. Managed by the Bahamas National Trust, this protected cay offers some of the best snorkeling accessible from Grand Bahama, with vibrant coral formations, abundant fish life, and crystal-clear visibility.
The cay itself is little more than a palm-fringed sandbar, but its isolation and protected status have allowed the surrounding reef to thrive. Kayakers paddle out from the mainland for morning snorkeling sessions, while boat tours bring visitors who float above elkhorn coral, brain coral, and schools of tropical fish in waters rarely more than 15 feet deep.
Snorkeling the Reef
The reef surrounding Peterson Cay offers exceptional snorkeling for all skill levels. Shallow sand bars and coral patches create a varied underwater landscape, with depths ranging from knee-deep to about 20 feet. Elkhorn coral colonies — increasingly rare throughout the Caribbean — thrive here, along with brain coral, sea fans, and soft corals.
Fish life is abundant: schools of blue tang, parrotfish crunching on coral, sergeant majors investigating snorkelers, and the occasional sea turtle cruising through. The protected status prohibits fishing, ensuring fish populations remain healthy and unafraid of humans.
Kayak Excursions
Peterson Cay lies approximately one mile offshore, making it accessible by kayak for those comfortable with open-water paddling. Several tour operators offer guided kayak-snorkel excursions, typically departing from Paradise Cove or nearby launch points. The paddle takes roughly 30 minutes each way.
Guided tours provide kayaks, snorkel gear, and safety support. Independent kayakers should check conditions, bring proper safety equipment, and understand that the open-water crossing can become challenging if winds increase.
National Park Protection
Peterson Cay National Park was established to protect the island's nesting seabirds and the surrounding reef ecosystem. Fishing, collecting, and disturbing wildlife are prohibited. Visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the fragile environment.
The cay has no facilities — no restrooms, fresh water, or shade structures. Visitors should bring everything they need and carry out all trash. Overnight camping is not permitted.
Getting there
Peterson Cay lies approximately one mile off Grand Bahama's south shore, roughly eight miles east of Port Lucaya. Most visitors join kayak-snorkel tours from Paradise Cove or nearby operators, which provide equipment and safety support. Boat tours from Freeport also visit the cay. Independent kayakers can paddle from the mainland but should be experienced with open-water conditions and bring proper safety gear.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit to visit Peterson Cay?
- Foreign vessels require a valid Bahamas cruising permit, which covers park visits. No additional fees or permits are specifically required for Peterson Cay, though visitors should follow national park regulations including no fishing and no collecting.
- How long does it take to kayak to Peterson Cay?
- The paddle from the mainland takes approximately 30 minutes each way, depending on conditions and paddler experience. Most guided tours allow about one to two hours on the island for snorkeling and exploration.
- Is snorkeling at Peterson Cay suitable for beginners?
- Yes. The shallow depths, calm protected waters, and abundance of marine life make Peterson Cay excellent for beginner snorkelers. Guided tours provide instruction and flotation devices if needed.
Nearby
Pinder's Point
A historic fishing village where the descendants of freed slaves still tend a striped lighthouse guiding ships past treacherous shoals.
ExploreRand Nature Centre
A 100-acre sanctuary where native pine forests shelter rare orchids, migratory songbirds, and one of Grand Bahama's most peaceful nature trails.
ExplorePelican Point
A secluded eastern settlement where pelicans patrol pristine bonefishing flats and the annual Coconut Festival celebrates island traditions.
Explore