Small Hope Bay

Diving Heritage

The lodge was founded by Dick Birch in 1960, establishing what would become one of the Caribbean's most enduring dive operations. For over sixty years, divers have gathered on this beach before heading out to explore the reef and the Tongue of the Ocean. The operation pioneered many techniques now standard in the industry and has introduced thousands of divers to the underwater world.

The dive center offers PADI and SSI certifications from Open Water through specialty courses in wreck diving, night diving, and enriched air. Morning and afternoon dives depart daily, and the proximity of world-class sites means minimal travel time and maximum underwater exploration.

The Reef and Beyond

The Andros Barrier Reef runs the length of the island's eastern shore, creating a protected lagoon between reef and coast. Beyond the reef, the seafloor drops precipitously into the Tongue of the Ocean, a deep trench that brings pelagic species close to shore and creates the dramatic wall dives that have made Andros famous.

Dive sites range from shallow coral formations perfect for beginners to challenging wall dives that descend into blue-black depths. The diversity includes wreck dives, cavern explorations like Diana's Dungeons, blue hole dives, and shark observation sites. Marine life encompasses everything from colorful reef fish to nurse sharks, hawksbill turtles, and visiting pelagics drawn by the deep water.

The Beach Experience

Small Hope Bay as a beach destination offers a lovely crescent of sand lapped by calm reef-protected waters. The lodge's beachfront location means swimmers and snorkelers have immediate access without boat travel. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for exploring the nearshore waters and mangrove edges.

The bay faces east, catching morning light that illuminates the turquoise shallows before the afternoon heat sets in. Coconut palms provide natural shade, and the lodge's beach bar is never far away. For non-divers accompanying diving partners, the beach and snorkeling provide ample entertainment while the dive boat is out.

Getting there

Small Hope Bay is located on the eastern coast of Central Andros, approximately ten minutes by car from Andros Town International Airport (ASD). The lodge provides airport transfers for guests. Daily flights connect Andros Town to Nassau, Fort Lauderdale, and other Florida gateways. Day visitors and non-guests should contact the lodge regarding beach access and dive trip availability.

Frequently asked questions

Can non-guests dive with Small Hope Bay Lodge?

Day visitors may be able to join dive trips depending on availability. Contact the lodge in advance to inquire about space on scheduled dives and pricing for non-guests. Walk-up availability is limited.

What level diver do I need to be?

The lodge welcomes divers of all levels, from complete beginners taking their first certification course to experienced divers seeking advanced wall and cavern experiences. Introductory snorkeling and scuba sessions are included for all-inclusive guests.

Is the beach good for snorkeling?

Yes, snorkeling from the beach provides access to healthy reef formations without requiring a boat. The lodge provides snorkel gear for guests. For more dramatic snorkeling, boat trips to outer reef sites offer exceptional visibility and marine life diversity.