Walker's Cay

A Legendary Sportfishing Heritage

Walker's Cay earned its reputation as one of the world's premier deep-sea fishing destinations beginning in 1935, when Palm Beach businessman Buzz Shonnard built the first marina, airstrip, and hotel on this remote outpost. The island's geography proved ideal: situated on the edge of the Little Bahama Bank, the shallow waters averaging ten feet deep drop off sharply on the north side into the deep Atlantic, creating a convergence zone that attracts game fish year-round.

Robert Abplanalp, inventor of the aerosol valve, purchased the island in 1968 and pioneered tag-and-release fishing conservation here in the early 1970s. The resort became a gathering place for celebrities and serious anglers alike, hosting the legendary Bertram-Hatteras Shootout and welcoming guests including President Richard Nixon, Roger Daltrey, and Roger Staubach. Recent fishing excursions have demonstrated the grounds remain exceptionally productive, with guests releasing 187 marlin over just two May weekends in 2023.

Walker's Cay National Park

Designated in 2002, Walker's Cay National Park encompasses 3,840 acres of protected marine habitat north of the cay. The park's barrier reef system supports a remarkable diversity of life, from stunning coral formations to schools of pompano and amberjack, sea turtles, eagle rays, and large populations of reef sharks.

The park gained international recognition for its shark diving, once famous as the site of the 'Shark Rodeo'—described as the sharkiest dive in the world, where 50 to 120 Caribbean reef sharks and blacktip sharks would gather for feeding events. Divers also explored notable shipwreck sites within the protected waters. While diving operations are currently limited during the island's redevelopment, the marine ecosystem remains pristine and protected.

The Marina and Modern Facilities

The rebuilt Walker's Cay Marina represents the centerpiece of the island's revival. This state-of-the-art facility features hurricane-resistant floating docks accommodating vessels up to 250 feet, with minimum approach depths of 12 feet MLW. The marina offers 55 slips with 30/50/100-amp electrical service, a new 72,000-gallon fuel system providing both diesel and gasoline, plus fresh water, ice, and WiFi connectivity.

Walker's Cay is designated as an official Bahamas Port of Entry, allowing international vessels to clear customs directly at the island. The marina monitors VHF Channel 74 and dockage is available by reservation. While full resort accommodations, restaurants, and public facilities remain under construction, the marina stands ready to serve fishing vessels, yacht transfers, and private groups traveling by air and sea.

Getting to the Top of The Bahamas

Reaching Walker's Cay requires some planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. The island lies 53 miles northeast of West End, Grand Bahama, and approximately 105 miles from Jupiter, Florida. Private vessels typically cross from South Florida, clearing Bahamas customs at West End or Spanish Cay before continuing north to Walker's.

Seaplane service offers the most direct arrival, with Tropic Ocean Airways operating charter flights from Palm Beach International Airport directly into the marina, where passengers can clear customs at the on-site cottage. Walker's Cay Airport features a 2,500-foot runway suitable for light aircraft, though the short length restricts larger planes. The nearest inhabited settlement is Grand Cay, located five miles southeast.

Getting there

Walker's Cay is most commonly reached by private yacht or charter vessel crossing from South Florida, with the passage from Jupiter covering roughly 105 miles. Vessels typically clear Bahamas customs at West End, Grand Bahama or Spanish Cay before continuing north. Seaplane charters from Palm Beach International Airport offer direct service into the marina, providing the fastest arrival with customs clearance available on-island. Walker's Cay Airport has a 2,500-foot runway for light aircraft. For crewed catamaran charters exploring the Abacos, Walker's Cay makes an exceptional northernmost destination before turning south through the island chain.

Frequently asked questions

Is Walker's Cay open to visitors?

The Walker's Cay Marina is open and accepting reservations for dockage and fuel. However, the resort remains under construction, so rental accommodations, restaurants, and public facilities are not yet available. The island welcomes vessels for marina services, fishing tournaments, and yacht transfers.

What fishing can you do at Walker's Cay?

Walker's Cay offers exceptional offshore and inshore fishing. The deep-water drop-off north of the island attracts blue marlin, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi. The surrounding flats provide world-class bonefishing, while Matanilla Reef extends 45 miles northwest with excellent mutton snapper habitat and minimal fishing pressure.

Can you dive at Walker's Cay National Park?

Walker's Cay National Park encompasses 3,840 acres of protected marine habitat with a barrier reef supporting diverse marine life including reef sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, and abundant tropical fish. While organized dive operations were suspended during the island's closure, the marine ecosystem remains pristine for snorkeling and diving as facilities continue to reopen.