Sapphire Blue Hole
A bright turquoise sinkhole where cliff jumpers plunge past stalactites into waters inhabited by rare Cuban cave shrimp.
Sapphire Blue Hole is one of North Eleuthera's most thrilling natural attractions, a bright turquoise sinkhole accessible only by leaping from a 30-foot cliff into the water below. Unlike the deep dark blue of most Bahamian blue holes, this one glows with an almost unreal brightness, its clear water revealing stalactites hanging from the limestone walls.
The adventure begins with the jump itself, a moment of commitment before plunging into the refreshingly cool water. Once inside, snorkelers discover Cuban cave shrimp clinging to the submerged walls, their red bodies visible through the exceptional clarity. The climb out requires scaling a rope-assisted wall, completing the full adventure circuit.
The jump and the descent
There is no gentle entry to Sapphire Blue Hole. The cliff edge rises about 30 feet above the water, and jumping is the only way in. For those who hesitate, the view from the edge offers perspective on the hole's unusual brightness, the water below appearing almost artificially illuminated.
The jump delivers you into cool, clear water surrounded by limestone walls. The opening is well-lit with sunlight penetrating deeply, revealing the stalactites that hang just above and below the waterline where ancient caves were flooded by rising seas.
Snorkeling the blue hole
With snorkel gear, visitors can explore the underwater features of Sapphire Blue Hole. The stalactites extend into the depths, and careful observers will spot Cuban cave shrimp attached to the walls. These small red crustaceans are endemic to Caribbean cave systems and rarely seen elsewhere.
The blue hole can be scuba dived to approximately 90 feet, though most visitors stick to snorkeling and free diving the upper reaches. A snorkel mask hangs from a tree at the site, left for visitors to borrow for viewing the shrimp.
Getting out
Exiting Sapphire Blue Hole requires climbing a knotted rope up the limestone wall, adding a physical element beyond the initial jump. The climb is manageable but requires some upper body strength and careful footing on the rock.
The complete experience takes most visitors about an hour, including the hike in, multiple jumps for the brave, snorkeling time, and the climb out. Bring water shoes or reef sandals for the rough limestone surfaces.
Getting there
Sapphire Blue Hole is located in North Eleuthera, a short distance from Preacher's Cave. From North Eleuthera Airport, drive toward The Bluff and follow signs toward the blue hole. The final approach involves a short hike over rough terrain. A rental car is essential as no public transportation reaches the site. Many visitors combine this with Preacher's Cave and Tay Bay Beach for a full morning excursion.
Frequently asked questions
- Is there any way to enter without cliff jumping?
- No, the 30-foot cliff jump is the only entry. There are no ladders, stairs, or gentle slopes into the water. Visitors uncomfortable with jumping should consider visiting other blue holes like Ocean Hole in Rock Sound instead.
- What are the Cuban cave shrimp?
- Cuban cave shrimp are small red crustaceans endemic to Caribbean cave systems. They cling to the submerged walls of Sapphire Blue Hole and can be observed with a snorkel mask. A community mask hangs from a tree at the site for viewing them.
- Is Sapphire Blue Hole suitable for children?
- Only for older children comfortable with a 30-foot jump and able to climb out on a knotted rope. Younger children or those intimidated by heights should visit Ocean Hole or other more accessible swimming spots.