Tilloo Cay

Tilloo Cay National Reserve

Established in 1990 as a gift to the Bahamas National Trust, the Tilloo Cay National Reserve encompasses 11 acres of wild Atlantic shoreline. The oceanfront features eroded coral rock ledges and low-growing silver buttonwood scrub that has been "kept natural forever" per the original conservation agreement.

The reserve is internationally recognized as an Important Bird Area, providing critical nesting habitat for white-tailed tropicbirds from March through October. Yellow-crowned night herons and several tern species also breed here. With minimal infrastructure and no permanent staff, the reserve remains a true wilderness—visitors should tread lightly and observe wildlife from a respectful distance.

Tilloo Bank and Tilloo Cut

The shallow Tilloo Bank west of the cay is a highlight for anyone exploring by dinghy, kayak, or paddleboard. The water clarity is exceptional, revealing a sandy bottom dotted with large cushion starfish, sea biscuits, and sand dollars. Snorkelers may also spot loggerhead turtles and southern stingrays gliding through the shallows.

Tilloo Cut, the narrow strait between the cay and Tahiti Beach, provides a relatively safe passage between the protected Sea of Abaco and the open Atlantic. Though deeper and more forgiving than many Bahamian cuts, it can develop rough conditions when northeast winds oppose the tide—local knowledge and careful timing remain essential.

Anchorages and Access

Cruising vessels typically anchor in the lee of Tilloo Cay, north of Tilloo Bank. This open roadstead offers good holding in sand but is exposed to westerly winds, making it best suited for settled weather or short daytime stops. The nearby Tilloo Pond, a small protected basin, provides better shelter when conditions deteriorate.

From the anchorage, dinghy trips to Tilloo Bank, the nature reserve shoreline, and neighboring Lubbers Quarters are all within easy reach. The cay has a handful of private homes but no public docks, shops, or services—self-sufficiency is key for visitors.

Getting there

Tilloo Cay is accessible only by private boat. Charter guests typically sail south from Marsh Harbour or Hope Town, anchoring in the lee of the cay for day visits or overnight stays in calm conditions. The Tilloo Bank and nature reserve are best explored by dinghy, kayak, or paddleboard launched from your anchored vessel. There is no ferry service or public dock on the cay.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the Tilloo Cay National Reserve?

Yes, the reserve is open to visitors, though it has no trails, facilities, or staff. The shoreline can be explored by dinghy or kayak. Visitors should avoid disturbing nesting tropicbirds, especially from March through October.

Is Tilloo Cut safe for passage?

Tilloo Cut is considered one of the safer ocean passages in the Abacos, with adequate depth for most cruising vessels. However, conditions can become rough when northeast to east winds oppose the tidal flow, so timing and local knowledge are important.

What marine life can you see at Tilloo Bank?

The shallow, crystal-clear waters of Tilloo Bank are home to large cushion starfish, sand dollars, sea biscuits, southern stingrays, and occasional loggerhead turtles. The area is ideal for wading, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.