Things to do green turtle cay abaco bahamas
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1. Stroll Through Historic New Plymouth Village
Kick off your trip in the heart of the cay: New Plymouth, a colorful settlement founded by Loyalists in 1783. Wander car-free streets lined with pastel cottages, blooming bougainvillea, and friendly locals. Pop into artisan shops for handmade jewelry or Bahamian crafts, and grab a cold Kalik beer at a waterfront bar. Don’t miss the Memorial Sculpture Garden, honoring islanders lost to storms—it’s a poignant spot for reflection amid tropical greenery.
2. Dive into History at the Albert Lowe Museum
Housed in a restored 1820s Loyalist home (once a jail!), this museum is a treasure trove of Green Turtle Cay’s past. Explore artifacts from shipwrecks, pineapple farming eras, and model boats crafted by local legend Alton Lowe. Open Monday–Saturday, entry is about $10—pair it with a visit to the nearby Ye Olde Jail for more tales of pirate lore and resilience.
3. Chase Bonefish on World-Class Flats
Green Turtle Cay is a bonefishing mecca, with shallow marls teeming with the elusive “gray ghosts.” Book a half-day guided trip (starting at $400 for two people) from outfitters like Green Turtle Club or local captains. Wade the flats or pole from a skiff—novices welcome, as guides provide gear and tips. It’s catch-and-release heaven, and the thrill of spotting tails in gin-clear water is addictive.
4. Snorkel and Swim in Pristine Bays
The cay’s reefs and coves are snorkeler’s dreams. Head to Coco Bay or Gillam Bay for calm, turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish, rays, and coral gardens. Rent gear from resorts or join a boat tour to nearby reefs like those off No Name Cay (home to the famous swimming pigs!). For a unique twist, try SwimTrek’s open-water swimming excursions, basing from the island for multi-day adventures through the Abacos’ channels.
5. Relax on Secluded Beaches
Escape to powdery white sands at beaches like Ocean Beach on the Atlantic side (great for shelling and sunsets) or the sheltered White Sound. Pack a picnic and lounge under casuarina trees—recent visitors call it “pure Vitamin Sea.” For privacy, ferry to nearby Brendal’s Dive Center on a private cay for beachcombing and sea biscuit hunts.
6. Meet the Swimming Pigs on No Name Cay
A short boat ride south from Green Turtle Cay lands you on No Name Cay, an uninhabited islet that’s become world-famous for its friendly swimming pigs. These quirky residents—descended from a few left by locals decades ago—wade out to greet arriving boats, eagerly swimming for snacks like carrots or grapes (bring your own to avoid overfeeding). The island, also nicknamed “Pigly Wiggly” or “Piggyville,” offers a shallow beach bar with rum punch and a pool for post-pig lounging. Tours from Brendal’s Dive Center or other operators run about 2.5 hours for $60–$80/person, combining this with snorkeling—perfect for families or Instagram moments.
7. Explore Nearby Uninhabited Islands by Boat
Green Turtle Cay’s location makes it an ideal launchpad for day trips to the Abacos’ constellation of uninhabited cays, where pristine beaches, mangroves, and reefs await without a soul in sight. Just north, Manjack Cay (aka Fiddle Cay) boasts stunning white-sand strands, sea caves, and blow holes—ideal for a private picnic or kayaking through turquoise channels. To the south, beyond No Name Cay, lies Spoil Bank Cay, a tiny mangrove-fringed spot great for birdwatching and quiet anchoring. Further afield, Tilloo Cay and Scotland Cay offer secluded shelling beaches and protected anchorages, while the more remote Walker’s Cay (northernmost in the chain) tempts advanced boaters with deep-sea fishing and untouched dunes. Charter a vessel from Black Sound Marina or join eco-tours to hop these gems, spotting turtles and rays along the way.
8. Dive and Snorkel with Brendal’s Dive Center
For underwater thrills, head to Brendal’s Dive Center, a PADI-accredited gem tucked on the shores of White Sound, right next to the Green Turtle Club Resort. Owned by the charismatic Brendal Stevens, this family-run operation specializes in small-group dives to vibrant reefs just offshore, featuring spur-and-groove formations teeming with nurse sharks, turtles, and colorful fish. Beginners can try discover scuba ($125), while certified divers explore wreck sites and blue holes ($95/dive). They also offer snorkel trips, kayak rentals, and custom charters—including the swimming pigs excursion. Recent guests rave about the fresh conch salad served on board and Brendal’s storytelling, making it a highlight of any Abaco itinerary.
9. Savor Fresh Seafood and Island Cocktails
Foodies, rejoice! Dine dockside at Pineapples Bar & Grill for conch fritters, grilled mahi-mahi, and sunset views—try their saltwater pool for a dip between bites. Invented here? The Goombay Smash at Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar, a rum-soaked legend since 1960. For upscale vibes, the Green Turtle Club’s restaurant offers Caribbean fusion with marina overlooks. Don’t skip cracking fresh conch at a roadside stand.
10. Explore by Boat or Kayak
Charter a boat from Black Sound Marina to hop outer cays like Man-O-War (famous for boat-building) or Elbow Cay’s Hope Town lighthouse. Kayak through mangroves spotting turtles and birds, or paddleboard calm bays at sunrise. Eco-tours often include stops at loyalist ruins and hidden snorkel spots—perfect for families or couples.
11. Attend a Local Festival or Event
Time your visit for the Island Roots Heritage Festival (May), featuring Junkanoo parades, rake-and-scrape music, and Bahamian cuisine. Year-round, catch fishing tournaments or regattas— the cay’s boatyards buzz with activity. Check the calendar for conch-cracking contests or full-moon parties on the beach.
12. Hike or Bike Nature Trails
For land-based adventure, follow trails through pine forests and coastal dunes. Spot endemic birds like the Bahama parrot or explore the Loyalist ruins on the island’s interior. Bike rentals are available, or join a guided eco-hike to learn about native plants and hurricane recovery efforts post-Dorian.
13. Stay Active with Water Sports and Yoga
Resorts like Bluff House offer yoga on the beach, paddleboarding, and Hobie Cat sailing. Dive wrecks off the coast with operators like Brendal’s (PADI-certified), spotting sharks and rays. For downtime, fish from the docks or simply hammock-swing at your villa—options like Linton’s Cottages provide private beaches for ultimate chill.
Green Turtle Cay’s magic lies in its simplicity: no crowds, just genuine island life. Fly into Treasure Cay Airport, ferry over (15 minutes, $25 round-trip), and let the sea set your pace. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, these activities blend adventure, culture, and relaxation into pure Bahamian bliss. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, and get ready to make memories! What’s your first pick?