Central Abaco: Lighthouse, Island History and Beaches

The Elbow Reef Lighthouse is manually operated and is the last of its kind in the Bahamas. In Hope Town, the pastel-colored wooden houses and shops are examples of Loyalist architecture; on Great Guana Cay, a long white-sand beach and diverse coral reefs define the landscape. At low tide, an endless sandbar emerges at Tahiti Beach. These places showcase different sides of Central Abaco: maritime history, architectural heritage and coastal experiences.

Hope Town: Architecture and Local History

Hope Town was co-founded by Wyannie Malone in 1785. The Wyannie Malone Museum presents and preserves Hope Town’s rich and diverse history through mementos, artifacts, old photographs and documents. The town’s founding story, architecture and the museum collection offer different ways to explore its history.

A cholera cemetery is among Hope Town’s preserved historic features. You can pick up a brochure at Vernon’s Grocery Store in Hope Town with information about the cemetery’s location and some historical facts. Printed brochures may not always be available. Ask about one before your visit.

Local crafts also reflect the sailing culture: Hope Town Canvas designs bags made from recycled sails, each one unique.

Lighthouse, Beaches and Reefs

The Elbow Reef Lighthouse was built in 1862. Visitors can climb its spiral staircase to the top. The light station is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours may change, so check before your visit.

Great Guana Cay has a five-mile-long white-sand beach, is surrounded by diverse coral reefs and is considered a popular destination for snorkelers. Tahiti Beach is at the southern tip of Elbow Cay. The beach is accessible only by bicycle, boat or on foot; at low tide, an endless sandbar emerges there. The coastal experiences therefore differ in practical ways: Great Guana Cay combines beach time and snorkeling, while tides and access are part of planning a visit to Tahiti Beach.

Boatbuilding and Maritime Culture

Man-O-War Cay is considered the boatbuilding capital of the Bahamas and is one of the early Loyalist settlements in the Abacos. Its residents are known for woodcarving, sailing dinghies and making canvas goods. In Hope Town, the building of Abaco dinghies is preserved as part of the town’s history; these boats can be seen at regattas in the Bahamas. The focus differs: Man-O-War Cay highlights boatbuilding and several crafts, while Hope Town focuses on the history of Abaco dinghies and their presence at regattas.

Getting Around and Finding Your Way

Cars are prohibited in the center of Hope Town; visitors get around there on foot or by bicycle. Cars are permitted outside the town center. Local access rules may change. Check the current rules before your visit.

Leonard M. Thompson International Airport is located in Marsh Harbour. Elbow Cay can be reached from Marsh Harbour by private boat or a regularly scheduled ferry. Schedules may change. Check ferry times as you plan your trip.

The full-service marinas in Marsh Harbour offer berths for private boats as well as liveaboard sailboat and motorboat rentals.

Discover more destinations: Cherokee, The Bahamas, North Andros, South Andros, Long Island, Crooked Island And Long Cay, Bimini Island, West Grand Bahama

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