GREEN TURTLE & GUANA CAY
The Outer Cays are the serene jewels of the Abacos, where the turquoise Caribbean meets historic Loyalist charm. This island chain offers a tranquil escape defined by golf carts, colorful clapboard houses, and pristine coral reefs.
This subregion is a sanctuary for those seeking a slower pace of life. It is a land of vibrant maritime history, world-class sailing, and some of the most breathtakingly secluded beaches in the entire Bahamas.
Most Popular Attractions
Green Turtle Cay (New Plymouth & Historic Sites):
New Plymouth Settlement: A charming, 18th-century Loyalist village with narrow streets and brightly painted colonial cottages.
Albert Lowe Museum: A historic home turned museum showcasing Abaconian history, ship models, and local art.
Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden: A commemorative garden featuring 24 bronze busts of prominent figures in Bahamian history.
Ye Olde Jail: A small, historic limestone structure that once served as the island’s primary lock-up.
Vertical Blue Hole: A unique geological formation located inland on the island, popular for adventurous divers.
Green Turtle Club & Marina: A world-famous hub for boaters, known for its elegant atmosphere and “Dollar Bar.”
Bluff House Beach Resort: An iconic property offering stunning views of the Sea of Abaco and White Sound.
Coco Bay: A shallow, calm bay perfect for families, snorkeling, and spotting resident green sea turtles.
Great Guana Cay (Village & Social Hubs):
Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill: A legendary multi-level bar perched on a cliff, famous for its Sunday pig roasts and frozen cocktails.
Grabbers Bed Bar & Grill: A sunset-viewing hotspot located on Fisher’s Bay, perfect for a relaxed island vibe.
Guana Cay Settlement: The main village area where locals and visitors mingle at the harbor and small boutiques.
The High Rocks: A scenic area on the Atlantic side featuring dramatic limestone formations and crashing waves.
Guana Lumber Yard: A quirky local landmark and a central point for island logistics and supplies.
Baker’s Bay (Exterior): A luxury enclave on the north end of the island, known for its exclusivity and pristine landscapes.
Beaches, Reefs & Natural Wonders:
Great Guana Reef: Part of the third-largest barrier reef in the world, located just offshore and teeming with marine life.
Ocean Beach (Guana Cay): A stunning, miles-long stretch of white sand along the Atlantic side, perfect for beachcombing.
Bita Bay: A protected beach on Green Turtle Cay ideal for snorkeling right from the shore.
Gillam Bay: A secluded beach known for its shallow sandbars and the ability to find beautiful seashells at low tide.
Manjack Cay (Nearby): A short boat ride away, famous for feeding stingrays and small sharks in crystal-clear water.
Fiddle Cay: A tiny, uninhabited cay nearby that hosts the popular “Cheeseburger in Paradise” beach party.
No Name Cay: Home to a colony of friendly swimming pigs, accessible only by boat from Green Turtle Cay.
Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park: A protected underwater park nearby, offering some of the best coral garden snorkeling in the region.
Activities & Experiences
Feed the Swimming Pigs at No Name Cay: Take a short boat excursion from Green Turtle Cay to meet and feed the famous friendly pigs on this uninhabited beach.
Snorkel the Abaco Barrier Reef: Explore the world’s third-largest barrier reef, just offshore from Guana Cay, teeming with elkhorn coral and tropical fish.
Attend the Sunday Pig Roast at Nipper’s: Join the legendary weekly party at Nipper’s Beach Bar on Great Guana Cay for buffet-style food, music, and stunning Atlantic views.
Wander Historic New Plymouth: Walk the golf-cart-only streets of this loyalist settlement on Green Turtle Cay, known for its pastel-colored New England-style architecture.
Visit the Albert Lowe Museum: Dive into Bahamian history and maritime heritage in this 19th-century Victorian house turned museum in New Plymouth.
Rent a Boat for Island Hopping: Be your own captain for the day. Rent a 17–20ft Whaler to explore hidden coves like Fowl Cay National Park or the remote Manjack Cay.
Feed Stingrays and Sharks at Manjack Cay: Head to the northern end of the island chain to hand-feed gentle southern stingrays and observe lemon sharks in the shallows.
Surf the High Rocks: When the “Abaco Rage” (swells) comes in, head to the Atlantic side of Great Guana Cay for some of the best surf breaks in the Bahamas.
Go Bonefishing in the Flats: Hire a local guide to take you into the shallow mangroves and flats surrounding the cays to hunt for the elusive “Grey Ghost.”
Watch the Sunset at Grabbers: Relax in a hammock at Grabbers Bed Bar on Guana Cay with a “Grabber” cocktail in hand as the sun dips into the Sea of Abaco.
Explore the Sculpture Garden: Visit the Memorial Sculpture Garden in Green Turtle Cay, featuring bronze busts of key figures in Bahamian history set in a beautiful garden layout.
Local Tips & Transport
Golf Carts are King: There are very few cars on these islands. Renting a golf cart is the primary way to get around. It is highly recommended to book your cart weeks in advance, as they frequently sell out during peak season.
The Albury’s Ferry & GTC Ferry: To get to the cays, you must use the ferry services from the mainland (Marsh Harbour for Guana Cay; Treasure Cay dock for Green Turtle Cay).
- Schedules: Ferries run on a fixed schedule (usually every 1–2 hours). Always arrive at the dock 15 minutes early.
- Payment: Cash is preferred on the ferries, though some now accept cards or online booking.
Boats as “Cars”: In the Abacos, the water is the highway. If you are comfortable operating a boat, renting one provides the ultimate freedom to visit secluded beaches that golf carts cannot reach.
Walking in Settlements: The settlement of New Plymouth (Green Turtle) and the main village area of Guana Cay are very compact and easily explored on foot.
Island Time is Real: Service in restaurants and shops can be slower than what you might be used to. Relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the view—the locals call this “Island Time.”
Sunday Closures: Many grocery stores and smaller boutiques close on Sundays or have very limited hours. Plan your provisioning accordingly, especially if you arrive on a weekend.
The “Goombay Smash”: You must try the Goombay Smash at Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar on Green Turtle Cay; it is the birthplace of the Bahamas’ most famous rum cocktail. The recipe is a closely guarded secret!
Conserve Water and Power: Islands rely on cisterns and underwater power cables. Be mindful of your water usage and turn off A/C units when you leave your rental to respect local resources.
Respect the Reef: When snorkeling, never touch the coral or take “souvenir” shells that still have living organisms inside. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Hidden Gems:
- Bita Bay: A quiet beach on Green Turtle Cay with a protective reef very close to shore, making it perfect for beginners and children to snorkel in calm water.
- Gumelemi Bluff: Located at the northern tip of Great Guana Cay, this spot offers dramatic Atlantic views and a peaceful escape from the busier bar scenes.
- Brendal’s Dive Center: More than just diving, Brendal is a local legend. His beach picnic excursions, featuring fresh-caught seafood cooked over an open fire, are a “must-do.”
- The Low Place: A narrow strip on Green Turtle Cay where the Atlantic Ocean and the Sea of Abaco are separated by only a few yards of sand—perfect for a dual-sided beach day.
Language & Interaction: Bahamian English is the official language, often spoken with a beautiful, fast-paced rhythmic dialect. A friendly “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon” to everyone you pass is a vital part of local etiquette.
Top Restaurants
The Wrecking Tree [$20-$35] – A historic staple in New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay, built around a massive tree and famous for its authentic cracked conch, “bird-in-da-basket,” and harbor views.
Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar [$20-$35] – The legendary birthplace of the Goombay Smash in New Plymouth, where locals and visitors gather for traditional Bahamian grouper fingers and peas ‘n rice in a room papered with business cards.
McIntosh Restaurant & Bakery [$15-$30] – Located at the entrance of New Plymouth, this family-run favorite is essential for hearty Bahamian breakfasts and their famous Friday night Lobster Fest.
Two Shorty’s Takeaway [$10-$20] – A casual, no-frills roadside spot in New Plymouth known for the best “Chicken-in-the-Bag” and fresh conch salad made to order.
Plymouth Rock Liquors & Café [$15-$25] – A unique hybrid spot in New Plymouth where you can grab a local breakfast of souse or tuna and grits while browsing the island’s best wine selection.
Papa Pete’s Takeaway [$15-$25] – A popular local window in New Plymouth serving generous portions of BBQ chicken, fried snapper, and homemade Bahamian bread.
Kidd’s Cove [$20-$35] – A cozy, locally-loved spot in New Plymouth that specializes in fresh-caught seafood and traditional Bahamian sides like baked macaroni and cheese.
Harvey’s Island Grill [$25-$40] – Overlooking the harbor in New Plymouth, this restaurant offers a wide variety of Bahamian classics with a focus on fresh lobster and grouper when in season.
Mama’s Bakery [$5-$15] – Not a full restaurant, but an essential New Plymouth stop for traditional Bahamian coconut bread, guava duff, and cinnamon rolls.
Sundowners Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – A waterfront favorite on the edge of New Plymouth, perfect for watching the sunset with a plate of conch fritters and a cold Kalik.
The Lizard Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – A colorful, poolside spot at Leeward Yacht Club on Green Turtle Cay offering classic burgers and fish sandwiches in a relaxed garden setting.
The Boat House [$30-$50] – A recently renovated gem at Bluff House on Green Turtle Cay, serving elevated Bahamian seafood and steaks with views of White Sound.
The Club Restaurant (Green Turtle Club) [$40-$70] – An elegant but relaxed dining room in White Sound that blends Bahamian ingredients with international techniques, featuring a menu that changes nightly.
Jolly Roger Bar & Bistro [$30-$50] – A modern waterfront spot on Green Turtle Cay offering creative takes on seafood, including gourmet fish tacos and artisanal burgers.
The Dollar Bar [$25-$45] – Part of the Green Turtle Club, this historic bar offers a more casual, modern bistro menu amidst thousands of signed dollar bills hanging from the ceiling.
Bluff House Main Dining [$40-$70] – A sophisticated space in White Sound that focuses on “Island-Fusion” cuisine, combining local Abaco produce with modern plating.
Turtle Crawl Café [$10-$25] – A modern, breezy café in New Plymouth perfect for gourmet coffee, artisanal ice cream, and creative light lunches.
The Grotto at Orchid Bay [$35-$55] – A chic, modern poolside dining experience on Great Guana Cay featuring creative cocktails and Mediterranean-influenced island dishes.
Abaco Inn (Nearby Outing) [$40-$65] – While technically on Elbow Cay, it is a frequent modern-dining destination for boaters from the Outer Cays, known for its creative seafood risotto and tuna tartare.
Firefly Sunset Resort (Nearby Outing) [$40-$70] – Another popular modern destination for those island-hopping from the Cays, offering southern-style fusion like fried green tomatoes with Bahamian lobster.
The Green Turtle Club (Formal Room) [$60-$100] – For the most formal experience on the island, this candlelit dining room offers multi-course meals featuring prime cuts and the freshest local lobster.
Orchid Bay Fine Dining [$60-$120] – An upscale evening option on Great Guana Cay providing a white-linen atmosphere and a menu focused on high-end imported meats and local delicacies.
Lincoln Jones Beach Picnic [$50-$80] – A legendary experience where you travel by boat from Green Turtle Cay to a secluded beach to eat fresh-caught fish and lobster cooked over an open fire.
Brendal’s Dive Center Adventure Lunch [$40-$70] – A unique “catch and cook” experience where the dive team prepares a fresh seafood feast on a remote cay after a morning of snorkeling.
Big O’s (No Name Cay) [$25-$45] – Just a short boat ride from Green Turtle, this modern bar allows you to dine on cracked conch while the famous “swimming pigs” roam the beach nearby.
Eddie the Rock’s Conch Stand [$15-$25] – A true “foodie” experience in New Plymouth where you watch the freshest conch salad in the Abacos being made right in front of you on the dock.
New Plymouth Fish Market [$15-$30] – More of a “buy and grill” spot, but essential for those staying in cottages to get the day’s catch directly from the fishermen.
Donna’s Cart Rentals & Snacks [$10-$20] – A local hub in New Plymouth for quick snacks and Bahamian treats while you pick up your island transportation.
The Liquor Store Coffee Bar [$5-$15] – A surprising locals’ secret in New Plymouth for high-quality espresso and morning pastries in a historic building.
Island Spice Live Music Nights [$20-$40] – More of an event than a location, these pop-up food nights at various bars feature specific local cooks and rotating menus.
Curry’s Grocery Deli [$10-$20] – The go-to spot in New Plymouth for custom sandwiches and local sides if you’re planning a boat day or beach picnic.
Guana Grocery Deli [$10-$20] – The Great Guana Cay equivalent, offering freshly made Bahamian sandwiches and “macaroni pie” to go.
Bakers Bay (Private/Invite) [$80-$150] – An ultra-exclusive resort at the north end of Great Guana Cay, accessible only to members or guests, offering world-class fine dining.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar: Located in the heart of New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay, this is the historic birthplace of the Goombay Smash. It is an essential stop for a world-famous rum punch in a room papered with business cards from around the globe.
Sundowners: Perched on the western edge of New Plymouth, this spot is the go-to for sunset cocktails. It offers a relaxed deck overlooking the Sea of Abaco and is known for its friendly “island time” service.
Pineapple’s Bar & Grill: Situated across the harbor from New Plymouth, this colorful bar features a salt-water pool and a lively dockside scene, perfect for a chilled “Tipsy Turtle” cocktail.
The Wrecking Tree: A historic spot in New Plymouth built on the site of an old wrecking tree, offering traditional Bahamian drinks and a shaded patio for a quiet afternoon beverage.
Bluff House Jolly Roger Bar: Located at the Bluff House Beach Resort on Green Turtle Cay, this marina-side bar is a favorite for yachties looking for a refined nautical atmosphere and classic frozen daiquiris.
The Club @ Green Turtle Club: An upscale, wood-paneled bar in White Sound that evokes a colonial-era British social club, serving sophisticated cocktails and fine rums.
Dollar Bar: Found within the Green Turtle Club, this iconic space is covered in thousands of signed dollar bills and serves as a cozy, historic nook for a pre-dinner drink.
Grabbers Bed Bar: Located on the sunset side of Great Guana Cay, this beachside bar is famous for the “Grabber” cocktail. It features hammocks, a pool, and a quintessential Caribbean vibe.
Kidd’s Cove Bar: A rustic and authentic local spot in Guana Cay settlement where the drinks are strong and the atmosphere is strictly “no shoes, no shirt, no problem.”
Mama’s Bar: A friendly, brightly painted kiosk in the heart of Great Guana Cay, perfect for a quick Kalik beer or a rum ginger ale while exploring the settlement.
Orchid Bay Marina Bar: Overlooking the sleek yachts in the Orchid Bay Marina, this bar offers a more modern, polished setting for cocktails with a view of the harbor.
The Tranquil Turtle: A scenic beach bar located at the Green Turtle Ocean Gallery, offering a quiet, toes-in-the-sand experience with artisanal tropical blends.
Two Shortys: A casual takeaway and drink spot in New Plymouth that serves as a local meeting point for a quick midday refreshment.
Mama Merlene’s: A true hidden gem on Green Turtle Cay where you can experience authentic island hospitality and potent homemade fruit punches.
Lizard Bar: Located at the Leeward Yacht Club on Green Turtle Cay, this poolside bar is known for its “Lizard Juice” and a great Friday night social scene.
Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill: The most famous “club” in the Abacos, sitting on a cliff overlooking the ocean on Great Guana Cay. On Sundays, it hosts a legendary pig roast that transforms into a massive multi-level outdoor dance party.
Grabbers After Dark: While a bar by day, this Great Guana Cay staple turns up the music on Friday and Saturday nights, with locals and boaters dancing on the sand to Bahamian rake-and-scrape and international hits.
Sundowners Late Night: On Green Turtle Cay, this is the place to be after 10:00 PM. The pool table area clears out, the DJ starts, and the deck becomes the island’s primary dance floor.
The Gully Rooster Nights: Occasionally hosted at various venues like the Green Turtle Club, these nights feature the famous local band “The Gully Roosters,” drawing everyone on the island for a night of high-energy dancing.
Pineapple’s Friday Night Party: Every Friday, this Green Turtle Cay spot ramps up the volume with live music or a DJ, creating a club-like atmosphere around the pool and dock.
Bluff House Beach Party: A seasonal event held on the sands of White Sound, featuring bonfires, loud music, and a pop-up outdoor nightclub vibe under the stars.
Nipper’s Upstairs: The elevated VIP-style lounge at Nipper’s offers a more intense clubbing feel with a dedicated bar and a bird’s eye view of the dance floor below.
Barefoot Man Concert Venue: An annual transformation of the Guana Cay beachfront into a massive concert and dance venue, attracting thousands of visitors for a multi-day festival.
New Plymouth Street Beats: During Junkanoo or holidays, the streets of New Plymouth transform into an open-air club with mobile sound systems and professional dancers.
Abaco Inn Socials: While slightly south on Elbow Cay, many from the Outer Cays take the “party boat” over for their high-end theme nights and sophisticated DJ sets.