Things to Do in Preacher's Cave, Eleuthera
Reviewed by Captain Ronald RollePreacher's Cave holds a sacred place in Bahamian history as the shelter where shipwrecked English Puritans established the first permanent European settlement in the Bahamas. In 1648, the Eleutheran Adventurers fled religious persecution in Bermuda, only to wreck on the treacherous Devil's Backbone reef. They found refuge in this cave, using a massive flat rock as their altar for worship services.
Today the cave stands much as it did centuries ago, uncommercialzed and free to explore. Casuarina trees shade the entrance while stalactites hang from the ceiling and natural skylights allow dramatic beams of light to pierce the darkness. A commemorative plaque honors the settlers, and archaeological excavations have revealed remains of both the Adventurers and the indigenous Lucayan people who inhabited Eleuthera centuries before.
Preacher's Cave
HistoryThis large sea cave served as church and shelter for the Eleutheran Adventurers after their 1648 shipwreck. The original altar rock remains inside, and natural skylights illuminate the cavern dramatically, especially in morning light.
Tip: Visit in the morning when sunlight streams through the ceiling openings.
Commemorative Plaque
HistoryA bronze plaque inside the cave honors the Eleutheran Adventurers and marks the spiritual and historical significance of this Bahamian landmark. It provides historical context for the settlers' journey and their struggle for religious freedom.
Tip: Read the plaque to understand the full significance of what happened here.
Tay Bay Beach
BeachThis pristine pink sand beach stretches alongside Preacher's Cave, offering excellent swimming in calm, clear water. The beach is rarely crowded and provides a perfect place to relax after exploring the cave.
Tip: Combine your cave visit with beach time for a perfect half-day outing.
Archaeological Site
HistoryExcavations at Preacher's Cave have revealed skeletal remains of both Eleutheran Adventurers and indigenous Lucayan-Taino Indians who inhabited the island before European contact. The site offers tangible connection to multiple eras of Bahamian history.
Tip: The excavated areas are protected, so please do not disturb any artifacts.
Casuarina Grove
NatureTall casuarina pines shade the cave entrance and surrounding area, their needles carpeting the ground softly. The trees provide welcome shade and frame the cave entrance beautifully for photographs.
Tip: The pine trees attract mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent.
Devil's Backbone Reef
SnorkelingThe same reef that wrecked the Eleutheran Adventurers now offers excellent snorkeling and diving. The shallow reef teems with tropical fish and coral formations, accessible by boat from nearby North Eleuthera.
Tip: Book a snorkel trip from Harbour Island or Spanish Wells to explore the reef safely.
Sapphire Blue Hole
NatureThis inland blue hole near Preacher's Cave features stunning deep blue water perfect for swimming. The hole connects to underground cave systems and offers a refreshing stop on your North Eleuthera exploration.
Tip: Many visitors combine Sapphire Hole with Preacher's Cave on the same trip.
Best time to visit
The cave can be visited year-round. Morning light creates the most dramatic illumination through the natural skylights. The beach alongside is most pleasant from December through May when trade winds keep temperatures comfortable.
Getting there
Preacher's Cave is located at the northern tip of Eleuthera, about 20 minutes from North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). A paved road leads to the site, with parking near the cave entrance. The cave is free to enter and always accessible.
Read the full Preacher's Cave, Eleuthera guide
Frequently asked questions
- Is there an entrance fee for Preacher's Cave?
- No, Preacher's Cave is free to visit and open to the public at all times. There are no gates, guides, or commercialization.
- Who were the Eleutheran Adventurers?
- They were approximately 70 English Puritans who fled religious persecution in Bermuda in 1647. Their ship wrecked on Devil's Backbone reef in 1648, and they sheltered in this cave while establishing the first permanent European settlement in the Bahamas.
- Can I swim at Preacher's Cave?
- Yes, Tay Bay Beach adjacent to the cave offers excellent swimming in calm, clear water. The pink sand beach is one of the prettiest in North Eleuthera.
- Are there facilities at Preacher's Cave?
- No, there are no restrooms, food vendors, or other facilities. Bring water, snacks, and insect repellent for your visit.
Ready to explore Preacher's Cave, Eleuthera?
Tell us your priorities and we'll plan the perfect Abacos charter for you.
Plan your charter