Imagine a vacation where history meets adventure on a beautiful island. Green Turtle Cay in the Abaco Islands of the Bahamas is just that. It offers stunning beaches, friendly locals, and unforgettable experiences. You can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, try local foods, and soak up the sun.

This article will help you discover all the things to do in Green Turtle Cay. It will make your Bahamas vacation truly special.

Key Takeaways

• Green Turtle Cay promises a unique blend of nature and culture.
• Explore New Plymouth’s historical significance and local attractions.
• Indulge in a variety of water sports and outdoor activities.
• Experience delicious Bahamian cuisine at local dining spots.
• Enjoy comfortable lodging options for a restful stay.
• Participate in cultural events for an authentic experience.

Introduction to Green Turtle Cay

Green Turtle Cay is the northernmost populated cay in the Abaco chain. It’s a place full of history and natural beauty. Founded by Loyalists in the 1770s, it shows its history in its architecture and community spirit. This island offers a peaceful vibe, different from the busy tourist spots in the Bahamas.

The village of New Plymouth is a highlight, known for its colorful homes and friendly atmosphere. Its green turtle cay beaches are perfect for walks and sunbathing. The area is rich in tourism, fishing, and lobstering, blending culture and outdoor fun.

Green Turtle Cay has a wide range of activities, including top-notch boating and water sports¹. The south shore of New Plymouth has a sandy beach great for morning walks. You can see gravestones washed ashore during storms at low tide¹. Nature lovers can explore Ocean Beach, but swimming can be rough at times¹.

Here, you can enjoy the outdoors and local charm. You can also take pictures of the beautiful landscapes and connect with a community that values traditions.

For more about this hidden gem, check out this detailed introduction to Green Turtle Cay.

“Your escape into an authentically Bahamian experience awaits you on Green Turtle Cay.”

Looking for a peaceful beach, exciting adventures, or cultural experiences? Green Turtle Cay is your destination¹².

How to Get to Green Turtle Cay

Getting to Green Turtle Cay is an exciting journey. You can choose from scenic ferry rides or quick flights. Each option offers a unique way to reach this beautiful place.

Arrival by Ferry

The Green Turtle Ferry Service is the main way to get to Green Turtle Cay. It starts from Treasure Cay on Great Abaco Island. The trip costs $15 per person and takes about 15 minutes.

Ferries run often, making it easy to plan your trip. This is especially true during busy vacation times³. After arriving, you’re close to your green turtle cay accommodation.

Sailing Routes to Green Turtle Cay

Sailing fans have several routes to Green Turtle Cay. Boats often leave from Florida, like West Palm Beach. It’s about 149 nautical miles to the cay.

Charts are key for a safe trip. You should enter through White Sound or Black Sound. These spots have marinas and customs services⁴. Staying for three nights or more can get you a 10% discount on your stay³. Planning your Abaco island trip is now simpler with these sailing routes!

Exploring New Plymouth

New Plymouth, a quaint village on Green Turtle Cay, has a unique charm. It was founded in 1783 by Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution. Over time, it grew and became the second-largest city in the Bahamas by the 1800s⁵. Today, it has about 500 residents, adding to its lively atmosphere⁶.

Historical Significance of New Plymouth

The historical landmarks in New Plymouth show its rich past. The Albert Lowe Museum tells the story of the cay’s heritage. The Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden honors the settlers. Cemetery Hill lets visitors connect with the area’s early days⁵.

Attractions in New Plymouth

New Plymouth offers many green turtle cay attractions. Charming churches and colorful shops make for lovely walks. Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar is famous for its Bahamian vibe and Goombay Smash. You’ll also find great places to eat, showing off the cay’s food scene⁶.

Activities to Enjoy on Green Turtle Cay

Green Turtle Cay is a true snorkeling paradise. It’s perfect for those who love water sports and marine life. You can go on exciting snorkeling trips to see the rich waters’ biodiversity. Whether you’re new or experienced, Brendal’s Dive Center & Water Sports has tours and certifications for you.

Water Sports and Snorkeling

The clear waters are great for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can explore at your own pace. Guided snorkeling trips show the amazing underwater world, a top green turtle cay activity.

Swimming with turtles and dolphins is thrilling. It highlights the area’s natural beauty.

Beach Relaxation

Coco Bay, Gillam Bay, and Ocean Beach are perfect for relaxing. These green turtle cay beaches are great for sunbathing and swimming. The idyllic sunsets add to the charm, making your stay serene.

Lobstering Adventures

Lobstering adventures on Green Turtle Cay are fun for seafood fans. It’s a chance to learn local practices and enjoy fresh seafood. Join tours to learn lobstering and enjoy a delicious meal that connects you with the island’s culture.

For those interested in local traditions and fresh seafood, the community welcomes you. These activities make Green Turtle Cay a great place for both leisure and adventure. They ensure you’ll have lasting memories with every visit⁷⁸⁹.

Dining Options on Green Turtle Cay

The dining scene on Green Turtle Cay is vibrant and diverse. It showcases the local culture through a variety of restaurants. You can find everything from casual to upscale dining, all set against the beautiful Bahamas backdrop. Must-try dishes at top spots like The Green Turtle Club and Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar highlight Bahamian cuisine.

Local Favorites

Many places are known for their local favorites. The Green Turtle Club serves breakfast from 7:15 am to 10:30 am and lunch from 11:30 am to 2:45 pm¹⁰. They offer Club Fare for casual dining, Creative Cuisine for gourmet meals, and Abaco Favorites¹⁰. Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar is famous for its Goombay Smash cocktail. Pineapples Bar & Grill offers live music and casual dining¹¹.

Must-Try Dishes

Don’t miss out on conch fritters, fresh lobster, and the Goombay Lobster. Harvey’s Island Grill is known for pizza and wing nights. McIntosh Restaurant has a Lobster Fest every Friday¹¹. Remember, some places add a 15% gratuity, and a 12% VAT applies to all meals in the Bahamas¹¹.

Accommodations on Green Turtle Cay

Planning your stay on Green Turtle Cay? You’ll find many lodging options to fit your needs and budget. The island offers everything from luxury resorts to cozy rentals. This ensures every traveler can find their ideal getaway.

Types of Lodging

Hotels like the Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina are located close to town and beautiful beaches¹². Guests love the quality of service and the friendly staff¹². Room prices vary, with Club Rooms from $249 to $339 per night, and Suite rates from $289 to $379¹³.

Rental Homes and Cottages

Looking for a private space? Check out the vacation rentals on the island. Maranatha Cottage is a top choice, with a 4.99 out of 5 rating from 70 reviews¹⁴. Turtle Dream and Linton’s Cottages offer beachfront comfort for sun-filled days and stunning sunsets. Villa rates at the Green Turtle Club range from $269 to $649, helping you find the perfect holiday spot¹³.

Experience the Culture of Green Turtle Cay

Visiting Green Turtle Cay lets you dive into a world of abaco culture. You’ll see its rich history and warm welcome. The island’s architecture, especially in New Plymouth, shows off its Loyalist roots. You’ll see colorful cottages and quaint shops that take you back in time¹⁵¹⁶.

Exploring historic sites like the Albert Lowe Museum is a must. It showcases rare Lucayan artifacts and local art. These pieces celebrate the island’s heritage¹⁷.

Getting to know the locals is a highlight of your trip. Join in on cultural events like the Island Roots Heritage Festival. It draws thousands and showcases traditional crafts and performances¹⁷.

The island comes alive during Christmas. Events like the Festival of Lights and Junkanoo parades fill the air with joy and island charm¹⁷.

Don’t miss the local music scene. Bands like Island Spice and the Gully Roosters perform at popular spots¹⁷. The people of Green Turtle Cay love to share their stories and customs. They’ll make your visit unforgettable.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Exploration

Green Turtle Cay is perfect for those who love the outdoors. It has many hiking trails and biking paths. These paths are great for families and show off the island’s beauty.

Hiking and Biking Trails

The hiking trails in Abaco are well-marked. They take you through beautiful landscapes. You can walk or bike, and find secret spots to relax.

These activities are good for your health. They also help you connect with Green Turtle Cay’s amazing nature.

Wildlife Watching and Fishing Opportunities

Green Turtle Cay is great for seeing wildlife. As you explore, you’ll find many native animals. Fishing here is also exciting, with many charters ready to take you out.

You might catch local fish, making your day even better¹⁸. The island offers snorkeling, diving, and more. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors¹⁹.

Understanding the Recovery from Hurricane Dorian

Hurricane Dorian hit hard in 2019, causing big damage in Green Turtle Cay and the Abaco Islands. The community has made great strides, with many businesses now open. This shows the strength of the local people. Over three years, they’ve faced tough times but keep going, rebuilding their homes and environment²⁰.

Current State of the Island

Green Turtle Cay is getting better, with work on electricity ongoing. About 60% of the electrical work is done in Elbow Cay, helping the recovery²¹. The community’s spirit is strong, with help from foreign governments and NGOs. They’ve brought medical supplies and support²⁰.

How You Can Contribute to Recovery Efforts

Your visit to Abaco can help with the recovery, especially by supporting local businesses and places to stay. Eating at local restaurants and joining community events boosts the local economy. Also, giving money to non-profits or volunteering your skills can help with restoration projects²¹.

When you’re in Abaco, look for things to do in Abaco that support the recovery and celebrate the island’s culture. Your choices can really help make this special place thrive again²².

Shopping & Souvenirs in New Plymouth

Shopping in New Plymouth is a treat, thanks to its lively arts scene and great food. You’ll find unique souvenirs made by local artists. These items give you a taste of the island’s culture and charm.

Local Art and Crafts

Local markets are full of handmade crafts and art. The Treasure Chest in downtown has gifts, home decor, and beach items. The Albert Lowe Museum has a shop with books about Abaco and art by Alton Lowe. It’s perfect for finding special souvenirs.

Grocery and Market Options

New Plymouth has several grocery stores for your daily needs. You can shop at Curry’s Sunset Grocery, Sid’s Groceries, and Lowe’s Food Store and Gift Shop. Sid’s and Lowe’s also sell souvenirs. Curry’s has toiletries and medications.

Island Greens is a farmer’s market with organic produce like greens and tomatoes. There are two liquor stores, Thirsty Turtle and Plymouth Rock, for your drinks²³²⁴.

Transportation Around Green Turtle Cay

Getting around Green Turtle Cay is key to enjoying the island. The cay is only three miles long, making golf carts the top choice for travel. You can rent a golf cart from several companies on the island. This makes it easy to find hidden spots and attractions.

Renting a golf cart is convenient and lets you see the island at your pace. The roads in New Plymouth are one-way, and there are few paths for walkers. It’s important to follow the rules, like not letting minors or drunk people drive.

Renting a cart is popular, especially when many people visit. So, it’s a good idea to book early to avoid missing out²⁵.

Renting a Golf Cart

Using golf carts is not just easy; it’s also a great way to see the island. The roads in New Plymouth are one-way, and there are few paths for walkers. It’s important to follow the rules, like not letting minors or drunk people drive.

Renting a cart is popular, especially when many people visit. So, it’s a good idea to book early to avoid missing out²⁵.

Alternative Transport Options

If you don’t want to rent a golf cart, biking or walking are good choices. These are common ways to get around in this small community. You can also rent a boat for a scenic trip around the cay.

Donny’s Boat Rental, Sunset Marine, and Reef Rentals offer boat rentals. This makes it easy to travel between different spots on the island⁴.

Choosing the right way to get around is important for a great visit. Whether you rent a golf cart, bike, walk, or take a boat, it’s all about enjoying Green Turtle Cay³.

Nightlife and Entertainment on the Cay

The nightlife on Green Turtle Cay is inviting for both relaxation and fun. You’ll find many bars and clubs for different tastes. Enjoy cocktails, local music events, and exciting evenings.

Popular Bars and Clubs

Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar is a favorite for its Goombay Smash. Violet Smith, Miss Emily’s daughter, guides you through local culture. The Bluff House and Green Turtle Club offer live music, showcasing Abaco’s music heritage.

Pineapple’s has an open-air setting with great views. Enjoy grilled fish and Kevin McIntosh’s electric piano tunes on Fridays. Sundowners offers dine-in and take-away with beautiful Sea of Abaco views.

Local Music and Events

Bahamian music is key to Green Turtle Cay’s nightlife. Gully Roosters, Abaco’s longest-running band, perform at Bluff House and Pineapple’s. Traditional Rake and Scrape music gets everyone dancing.

Food and music come together at events. The Wrecking Tree and Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar serve great food and live music. This nightlife scene is a mix of delicious food and cultural expressions²⁶.

Cultural Events and Festivals

Green Turtle Cay is alive with cultural celebrations. These events show off the island’s rich heritage and community spirit. The green turtle heritage festival in May is a highlight, celebrating the island’s history and ties to Key West, Florida.

This festival offers traditional music, art, and food. It’s a chance to dive into the local culture. Visitors can enjoy activities that highlight the island’s charm and history.

Annual Green Turtle Heritage Festival

The Island Roots Heritage Festival is a big deal, happening over three days in May. It started in 1977 and has won a Cacique award. This makes it a key event in Abaco’s cultural calendar.

Entertainment runs from noon to midnight each day. The admission fee is just $4 for adults and $2 for kids. This makes it easy for families to join in.

Artists and artisans display their work. It’s a great way to see local talent and enjoy cultural festivals in Abaco.

Other Notable Events

Green Turtle Cay has more than just the heritage festival. It hosts art exhibits, music nights, and food events all year. These events bring the community together and celebrate the island’s diverse culture.

Visitors can also meet Bahamian genealogists at the Family Heritage Research Centre. This adds to the festival experience for those tracing their Abaco roots. With so much happening, these events are a great way to connect with the area.

Why Choose Abaco Green Turtle Cay?

Abaco Green Turtle Cay is a special place with beautiful nature and a rich history. It’s perfect for your next vacation. The island’s history as the wrecking capital of the Abacos in the mid-1850s adds intrigue to your visit²⁷. It’s also known for family-friendly activities, making it great for all ages.

The island has a small population of about 450 residents. You’ll feel the warm welcome from the local community²⁷. It has two sounds, White and Black, perfect for boating²⁷. New Plymouth offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural history, from pineapple and citrus exports to the 1932 hurricane²⁷.

Your abaco green turtle cay vacation will be full of relaxation and adventure. Relax at Tranquil Turtle Beach Bar or explore the beautiful beaches. You can swim with sea turtles at Coco Bay or play golf on golf carts. The wait for a ride to restaurants is just 10 minutes if golf carts are not available, making it easy for families²⁸.

Green Turtle Cay offers more than just fun activities. You’ll see turtles in Coco Bay, making your marine adventures exciting. With affordable activities and the local culture’s warmth, your abaco green turtle cay vacation will be an unforgettable adventure²⁸.

Planning Your Trip to Green Turtle Cay

Planning your visit to Green Turtle Cay? The dry season from November to April is the best time. It has pleasant weather for outdoor fun and a memorable trip. This season is ideal for enjoying the island’s activities.

Best Time to Visit

Summer months are quieter but hotter and sometimes rainy. The dry season is better for seeing Green Turtle Cay’s beauty. Also, think about travel details. Major airports like Miami and Atlanta are common starting points²⁹.

Green Turtle Cay is easily reached from these airports. Leonard M. Thompson International Airport in Marsh Harbour offers direct flights.

Travel Tips for a Memorable Experience

For a great visit, follow these tips. Enjoy the island’s relaxed pace and use cash for local treats and souvenirs. The taxi to the ferry dock takes 30-40 minutes, and the ferry ride to Green Turtle Cay is 15-20 minutes²⁹.

Renting a golf cart is a good idea for exploring. Keep an eye on flight and ferry times for a smooth trip. Pack light for the Bahamas. And watch the weather to stay flexible and enjoy your trip to Green Turtle Cay.

Conclusion

A trip to Green Turtle Cay is unforgettable. It offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a close-knit community. This makes it perfect for those looking for both relaxation and adventure.

The island’s beaches and vibrant culture in New Plymouth are highlights. You’ll find many travel insights that make it a great Abaco Island getaway.

Exploring the local cuisine and water sports is exciting. The island’s residents are known for their strong sea ties and history. Their hospitality and heritage make the memories last long.

Planning your visit is key to a great experience. You can enjoy outdoor adventures and local festivals. For more on the community, check out the area’s history and evolving story.

This mix of past and present makes Green Turtle Cay a Caribbean gem. It’s a place you must see to believe²⁹³⁰.

Source Links

1. https://abacosun.com/2014/10/16/green-turtle-cay-101-playing-here-part-one/
2. https://adventuresontheclub.com/2019/02/20/our-introduction-to-the-abacos/
3. https://greenturtleclub.com/getting-here/
4. https://lintoncottages.com/green-turtle-cay/getting-to-green-turtle-cay/
5. https://yachtwarriors.com/destinations/abaco-bahamas/islands/green-turtle-cay
6. https://lintoncottages.com/green-turtle-cay/about-green-turtle-cay/
7. https://www.bluffhouse.com/activities
8. https://www.abacoescape.com/GreenTurtleCay.html
9. https://www.insidethetravellab.com/bahamas-green-turtle-cay/
10. https://greenturtleclub.com/dining/the-club-restaurant/
11. https://abacosun.com/2014/06/15/green-turtle-cay-101-dining-here/
12. https://greenturtleclub.com/
13. https://greenturtleclub.com/accommodations/
14. https://www.airbnb.com/green-turtle-cay-the-bahamas/stays
15. https://lokeycottages.com/blog/about-green-turtle-cay-abaco-bahamas
16. https://costamar.com/greenturtlecay/about
17. https://abacosun.com/2016/01/21/green-turtle-cay-cultural-activities/
18. https://www.hellomondo.com/bahamas/green-turtle-cay/
19. https://orlandostylemagazine.com/escape-the-ordinary-unwind-at-green-turtle-cay-abaco-islands/
20. https://abacosun.com/2022/09/01/today-we-remember-96-hours-of-anguish/
21. https://opm.gov.bs/national-report-on-hurricane-dorian-restoration-effort/
22. https://angieaway.com/2019/09/03/how-to-help-the-bahamas-recover-from-hurricane-dorian/
23. https://abacosun.com/2018/11/21/gtc-101-shopping-here/
24. http://www.bahamascruisersguide.com/Abacos/Abacos/Green-TurtleC.html
25. https://abacosun.com/2019/05/16/gtc-101-getting-around-on-the-cay/
26. https://lintoncottages.com/things-to-do/food-dining-restaurants-bars/
27. https://guyharveyoutpost.com/lodging/out-island-lodges/bahamas/green-turlte-club-resort-marina/
28. https://pelagicexplorers.com/2018/05/03/exploring-green-turtle-cay/
29. https://www.ramble-on-travel.com/inspiration/how-to-get-to-green-turtle-cay-bahamas
30. https://dxnews.com/c6agt_green-turtle-cay_bahamas/