Sandy Cay

World-Class Snorkeling and Diving

Sandy Cay is widely regarded as one of the premier snorkeling destinations in the Abacos. The reef features superb examples of large elkhorn coral, a critically endangered species that once dominated Caribbean reefs. Depths range from a gentle five feet to around 30 feet, making the site accessible to snorkelers while still rewarding for scuba divers.

The sandy patches between coral heads are frequented by spotted eagle rays and large southern stingrays. Loggerhead and green sea turtles patrol the reef, and schools of colorful tropical fish—damselfish, angelfish, butterflyfish—dart among the coral formations. The undersea caves characteristic of Pelican Cays add another dimension for experienced divers to explore.

Protected Marine Reserve

Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park operates as a strict no-take marine reserve, meaning all fishing, shell collecting, and marine harvesting are prohibited within its boundaries. This protection has allowed fish populations and coral to recover and flourish, creating a thriving ecosystem that serves as a benchmark for healthy Bahamian reefs.

The Bahamas National Trust manages the park and has installed day-use mooring balls off Sandy Cay to prevent anchor damage to the sensitive reef. Visitors are asked to use these moorings rather than anchoring, and to respect the protected status by leaving everything as they find it.

Anchorage and Access

Sandy Cay lies approximately 8 miles north of Cherokee Sound and roughly 10 miles south of Elbow Cay. The anchorage between Sandy and nearby Cornish Cays can experience ocean surge from North Bar Channel, so timing your visit around calmer conditions and slack tide improves both comfort and underwater visibility.

Several mooring balls on the eastern side of the cay accommodate vessels under 25 feet for day use while snorkeling and diving. Larger vessels should anchor on the western, lee side of the cay away from the moorings. There are no facilities, fresh water, or services on the cay—it remains undeveloped wilderness, which is precisely its appeal.

Best Conditions for Visiting

Morning visits typically offer the calmest water and best visibility for snorkeling. The reef can experience swell from the Atlantic, so checking conditions before heading out is advisable. Slack tide provides easier snorkeling with less current pulling across the reef.

Bring all supplies including water, sun protection, and snorkel gear. The absence of infrastructure means you will have the cay largely to yourself, but it also means being self-sufficient. Many charter guests combine Sandy Cay with nearby Tilloo Cay or a stop at Little Harbour for a full day exploring the Central Abacos.

Getting there

Sandy Cay is accessible only by boat, lying roughly 10 miles south of Elbow Cay and 8 miles north of Cherokee Sound. Private yacht charter is the most comfortable way to visit, allowing you to anchor or pick up a mooring for a half-day or full-day snorkeling excursion. From Marsh Harbour, the sail takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on conditions. There is no ferry service directly to Sandy Cay, so guests without their own vessel typically arrange a charter, rental boat, or guided snorkel trip departing from Marsh Harbour, Hope Town, or Little Harbour.

Frequently asked questions

Is fishing allowed at Sandy Cay?

No. Sandy Cay is within Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park, a strict no-take marine reserve. All fishing, spearfishing, lobstering, and shell collecting are prohibited to protect the recovering ecosystem.

Are there facilities or services on Sandy Cay?

There are no facilities, restrooms, fresh water, or services on Sandy Cay. It is undeveloped wilderness. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and sun protection.

Can I anchor my boat at Sandy Cay?

Day-use mooring balls are available on the eastern side for vessels under 25 feet. Larger boats should anchor on the western, lee side of the cay to avoid damaging the reef. Using the moorings rather than anchoring near the reef is strongly encouraged.