Abaco Guide
Discover everything Casuarina Point and North Abaco have to offer - from world-class bonefishing to Blue Hole adventures, family-friendly shallow waters, and authentic Bahamian culture.
Table of Contents
Exploring Casuarina Point
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Dining & Restaurants
Pete's Pub & Gallery
A laid-back beach bar and active bronze foundry serving fresh fish sandwiches, burgers, and chill vibes right on the water. Unique combination of dining and art gallery featuring Pete Johnston's bronze sculptures.
Daily 11AM-6PM (hours may vary seasonally)
Visit petespub.com for current information
Nippers Beach Bar & Grill
Famous for its Sunday pig roast, reefside pool, and live music. Home of the 'Grabber' rum punch. Stay for the sunset party and enjoy one of the most iconic beach bars in the Bahamas.
Daily 11AM-late (Sunday pig roast special event)
Accessible via ferry from Marsh …
Firefly Bar & Grill
Offers sunset cocktails and conch salad with sweeping views over White Sound. Highly rated by locals and visitors for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent views.
Daily for lunch and dinner (call ahead)
Located in Hope Town - …
Slip Away Restaurant & Bar at the Sunflower Farm
Slip Away Restaurant & Bar is a great dining option in South Abaco. This charming, thatched roof restaurant has open air seating, a full bar, a large screen TV for sports viewing, and on special occasions they have live … Read more...
Monday – Wednesday: by appointment
Thursday & …
Phone: 1-242-577-7441 or 1-242-577-0333
Abaco Inn Restaurant
Waterfront dining with Bahamian specialties and fresh seafood. Part of the historic Abaco Inn property with beautiful harbor views.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (seasonal hours)
Part of Abaco Inn - …
Jamie's Place
Family-run restaurant ideal for Bahamian classics including cracked conch and conch salad. Known for local hospitality and authentic island cuisine.
Check locally for current hours
Ask locals for directions and …
Calypso Coffee House
Local coffee shop serving fresh coffee, light breakfast, and casual fare in Marsh Harbour.
Morning and afternoon hours
Check AbacoSun.com for details
Cat 5 Restaurant
Restaurant in Marsh Harbour offering a variety of local and international dishes.
Check locally for current hours
See AbacoSun.com for full listing
Fork & Spoon
Local takeaway spot in Marsh Harbour serving quick meals and local favorites.
Lunch and dinner hours
Local takeaway - ask for …
Drifter's Bar
Casual bar and grill in Marsh Harbour offering drinks and local food in a relaxed setting.
Evening hours
Check locally for current status
Emergency Services & Important Contacts
In case of emergency, the most important numbers to remember are 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies, and (242) 367-2711 for the Marsh Harbour Medical Centre.
Keep these contacts handy during your stay in the Abacos:
Emergency Preparedness
Save these numbers in your phone before you need them. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, so consider having a backup communication plan. The medical centre in Marsh Harbour is the primary facility, but serious emergencies may require airlift to Nassau.
Police Emergency Emergency Only
For all police emergencies and urgent matters
Fire Department Emergency Only
Fire emergencies and rescue services
Marsh Harbour Medical Centre
Primary medical facility serving the Abacos
Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Emergency Only
Emergency air and sea rescue operations
BEC (Power Company)
Electrical outages and power emergencies
Water & Sewerage
Water service issues and sewage problems
Grocery Stores & Essential Services
Stock up on groceries and essential items at these local stores. Most major groceries are available, though selection may vary. It's wise to bring specialty items or medications you can't live without.
Shopping Tips
Grocery prices are higher than mainland US due to shipping costs. Stock up on non-perishables in Nassau if flying in, or bring items from home. Most stores accept credit cards, but cash is preferred at smaller establishments.
Cost Right Food Store
Large supermarket with wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, and household items
J.S. Johnson & Company
Full-service grocery store and pharmacy with good selection
Solomon's SuperCenter
Large department store with groceries, clothing, and electronics
Food Fair
Local grocery store with competitive prices and friendly service
Abaco Pharmacy
Full-service pharmacy with prescription and over-the-counter medications
Vernon's Grocery
Small local market in Hope Town with basic supplies
Iggy Biggy
Convenience store and deli in Hope Town
Treasure Cay Food Fair
Grocery store serving the Treasure Cay area
Natural Attractions & Activities
The Abacos offer incredible natural wonders from mysterious blue holes to world-class fishing flats. These unique geological and marine features make the islands a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Exploring Safely
When visiting blue holes and natural areas, always prioritize safety. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and let someone know your plans. These are protected areas - please respect the environment and take only photos.
Sawmill Sink Blue Hole
The best-known blue hole in the Abacos, featuring a ladder and freshwater pool in a majestic limestone sink. This site is also famous for significant Ice Age-era fossil finds and ongoing archaeological research.
Tips
Head north on Great Abaco Highway, turn right onto the dirt track after 8.6 miles, then a short walk to the site. Bring water and sun protection.
Coconut Tree Farm Blue Hole
Located just across the highway from the old coconut farm ruins, this popular local swimming hole features crystal-clear freshwater. Also known as Sheep Farm Blue Hole.
Tips
Easily accessible from the main highway. Perfect for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water.
South Abaco Pine Forest Blue Holes
A collection of blue holes including Dan's Cave, Nancy's Cave, and Ralph's Cave located in the South Abaco pine forest. These sites are actively researched and protected by the Bahamas Caves Research Foundation.
Bahamas Caves Research Foundation for research info
Tips
These are ecological and archaeological treasures - please don't swim near cliff edges and take only photos. Consider guided tours for safety and education.
Hope Town Lighthouse
Historic hand-cranked lighthouse offering panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding cays. One of the last working kerosene lighthouses in the world and a symbol of Hope Town.
Accessible via Hope Town ferry
Tips
Climb to the top for spectacular views. The lighthouse keeper often shares fascinating history about the light.
Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park
Protected marine park perfect for snorkeling and diving. Features pristine coral reefs, tropical fish, and clear waters. One of the top snorkeling destinations in the Abacos.
Charter boats available from Marsh Harbour
Tips
Bring snorkel gear and underwater camera. Respect the marine life and coral - look but don't touch.
The Marls Bonefishing Flats
World-famous bonefishing destination with crystal-clear shallow waters and abundant bonefish. The Marls are considered some of the best bonefishing waters in the Bahamas.
Abaco Lodge or local flats guides
Tips
Book with experienced local guides. Bring sun protection and polarized sunglasses. Wade quietly and watch for tailing fish.
Ferry Services & Island Transportation
Getting between the islands is easy and scenic with regular ferry services. The main hub is Marsh Harbour, with connections to Hope Town, Man-O-War Cay, and Great Guana Cay.
Ferry Booking Tips
Book in advance during holiday seasons—ferries fill fast and schedules can shift due to weather. Always confirm departure times, especially on Sundays when schedules may be reduced.
Albury's Ferry Service
Primary ferry service connecting Marsh Harbour to Hope Town with hourly departures
G&L Ferry Service
Ferry service to Man-O-War Cay and Great Guana Cay, formerly Albury's outer island routes
Ferry Route Guide
Marsh Harbour ⇄ Hope TownMarsh Harbour ⇄ Outer Islands
- Hourly service Monday-Saturday
- 7:15 AM - 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 7:15 AM - 4:30 PM
- Departs from Crossing Beach dock
- Man-O-War Cay: Multiple daily runs
- Great Guana Cay: Several departures
- Perfect for day trips
- Great for island hopping adventures
Weather & Trip Planning
Proper planning makes for a safer and more enjoyable trip. Check weather conditions, tide tables, and seasonal considerations before heading out on the water.
Tide Tables & Marine Weather
Real-time tide charts and marine weather forecasts for safe boating
Hurricane Season Planning
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Travel insurance is highly recommended during this period. Monitor weather forecasts closely and have flexible travel plans.
Diving, Snorkeling & Fishing
The Abacos are renowned for world-class fishing and diving opportunities. From shallow bonefishing flats to vibrant coral reefs, the waters around these islands offer adventures for every skill level.
Brendal's Dive Center
Full-service dive operation offering scuba diving, snorkeling trips, and equipment rental
Abaco Lodge
Premier bonefishing lodge offering guided flats fishing and luxury accommodations
Sandy Point Bonefishing
World-famous bonefishing destination at the southern tip of Great Abaco. These flats are legendary among anglers for their size and quantity of bonefish.
Local flats guides or Abaco Lodge
Tips
Book experienced local guides well in advance. Bring polarized sunglasses, sun protection, and plenty of water. Wade quietly and watch for tailing fish.
Fishing & Diving Safety
Always use reputable guides and operators. Check weather conditions before heading out. For diving, ensure your certification is current and equipment is properly maintained. When bonefishing, protect yourself from sun exposure and stay hydrated.
Popular Fishing & Diving Spots
BonefishingDiving & Snorkeling
- The Marls - World famous flats
- Sandy Point - Large fish, pristine waters
- Cherokee Sound - Excellent wade fishing
- Crossing Rocks - Good for beginners
- Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park
- Fowl Cay National Reserve
- Rainbow Reef
- Shark Rodeo dive sites
Getting to the Abacos
The Abacos are easily accessible from Florida and other Caribbean destinations. Here's everything you need to know about traveling to this beautiful island chain.
Transportation Options
By Air
Fly into Marsh Harbour Airport (MHH) with direct flights from Florida. Multiple airlines offer daily service from Fort Lauderdale, Nassau, and other regional airports.
By Sea
Private boats and charters welcome. Excellent harbors and marinas throughout the chain.
Ground Transportation
Rental cars, taxis, and golf carts available on the main islands for local transportation.
Inter-Island Travel
Regular ferry services connect the main islands - see our transportation section above.
Planning Your Visit
Proper planning ensures you get the most out of your Abaco Islands experience. Here are the essential details for U.S. travelers.
Best Time to Visit
The Abacos are a year-round destination with peak season from December to April when weather is most pleasant. Hurricane season runs June through November - consider travel insurance during this period.
Essential Travel Information
Entry Requirements
U.S. citizens need a valid passport. No visa required for stays under 90 days.
Currency
Bahamian Dollar (equivalent to USD). U.S. dollars widely accepted throughout the islands.
Climate
Year-round tropical climate with average temperatures of 75-85°F. Light clothing and sun protection recommended.
Utilities
Standard U.S. electrical outlets (110V). No adapters needed for American devices.
Packing Essentials
Don't forget: reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and any prescription medications. Most items are available locally but at higher prices due to import costs.