Abacos Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Abacos, including information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, cultural attractions, safety tips, and more.


Abacos Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do, and More

Abacos is a group of islands located in the Bahamas, in the Caribbean, which is a region in North America. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and warm tropical climate, Abacos is a popular destination for travelers seeking some sun, sea, and sand. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, cultural attractions, safety tips, and more.

Introduction to Abacos

Abacos is a group of islands located in the northern part of the Bahamas, which is an archipelagic country in the Caribbean. The islands are known for their stunning beauty and offer a range of outdoor activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to fishing and kayaking. Abacos consists of two main islands, Great Abaco and Little Abaco, and a number of smaller islands and cays.

List of Places to Visit in Abacos

Abacos is home to a number of cultural and natural attractions that are a must-visit for every traveler. Here’s a list of places you should definitely include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wyannie Malone Historical Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Abaco Islands and features exhibits on the Lucayan Indians, the Loyalist settlers, and the sponge industry, which was once a major economic activity in the region.

  • Albert Lowe Museum: This museum is located in Green Turtle Cay and showcases the history and culture of the cay. It’s named after Albert Lowe, a local boat builder, and features exhibits on boat building, fishing, and the island’s pineapple industry.

Natural Attractions of Abacos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park: This protected area covers more than 2,000 acres of land and sea and is home to a wide range of terrestrial and marine wildlife, including sea turtles, fish, and birds. It’s a great place for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

  • Hope Town Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse is located on Elbow Cay and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and the sea. It’s one of the few remaining hand-cranked lighthouses in the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Abacos

Abacos is home to a number of hiking and biking trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the islands in a unique way. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Abaco National Park: This park covers more than 20,000 acres of land and is home to a number of hiking and biking trails that offer visitors the chance to see a wide range of wildlife and plants.

  • Great Guana Cay: This small island is home to a number of hiking and biking trails that offer visitors stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands.

Best Things to Do in Abacos: Activities and Tours

Abacos offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are a few popular options:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Abacos is home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the Caribbean. The waters are crystal-clear and teeming with colorful marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

  • Fishing: Abacos is a great place for fishing, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner. The waters around the islands are home to a wide range of fish, including marlin, tuna, and wahoo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Abacos

If you’re planning to spend a week in Abacos, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day 1 Arrival and Check-in
Day 2 Explore Great Guana Cay
Day 3 Visit Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park
Day 4 Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Day 5 Fishing and Boating
Day 6 Visit Wyannie Malone Historical Museum
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Abacos

Abacos is home to a vibrant food and drink scene that’s influenced by the region’s history and culture. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Conch Fritters: A local favorite, conch fritters are made from diced conch, peppers, onions, and spices, and are deep-fried until golden brown.

  • Peas and Rice: This traditional Bahamian dish is made from pigeon peas, rice, and spices, and is often served as a side dish with seafood.

Local Beverages

  • Goombay Smash: A popular cocktail in the Bahamas, the Goombay Smash is made from rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut rum.

  • Kalik: This is the national beer of the Bahamas and is named after the sound of the cowbells that are used during Junkanoo, a Bahamian festival.

Where to Stay in Abacos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Abacos offers visitors a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and villas to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are a few popular options:

  • Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour: This is a luxury resort located in Marsh Harbour and features a marina, pool, and spa.

  • Green Turtle Club Resort and Marina: This is a boutique hotel located on Green Turtle Cay and offers guests access to a marina, pool, and restaurant.

What to Buy in Abacos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Abacos is home to a number of local products and souvenirs that make for great gifts and keepsakes. Here are a few popular options:

  • Straw Hats and Bags: Hand-woven straw hats and bags are a popular souvenir in the Bahamas.

  • Rum Cake: This delicious cake is made with Bahamian rum and makes for a great gift or dessert.

Local Culture and Customs of Abacos

Abacos has a rich history and culture that’s influenced by its location in the Caribbean and its ties to the United Kingdom. Some local customs and traditions include:

  • Junkanoo: This is a Bahamian festival that takes place on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day and features colorful costumes, music, and dance.

  • Island Time: Abacos operates on a more relaxed schedule than some other destinations, and visitors should expect a slower pace of life.

Best Time to Visit Abacos

The best time to visit Abacos is from December to April, when the weather is dry, and the temperatures are mild. Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November, and visitors should be aware of the potential for storms during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Abacos

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Abacos:

Do:

  • Respect the Culture: Abacos has a rich history and culture, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Protect the Environment: Abacos is home to a number of protected areas and visitors should take care not to damage the environment.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Abacos has a strict anti-litter policy, and visitors should dispose of their waste responsibly.

  • Trespass on Private Property: Abacos is home to a number of private homes and resorts, and visitors should respect the privacy of others.

Safety and Health

Abacos is a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take precautions to stay healthy and avoid potential hazards.

Safety in Abacos

  • Crime: Crime in Abacos is relatively low, but visitors should still take precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended on the beach.

  • Water Safety: Visitors should exercise caution when swimming in the sea, as strong currents and rip tides can be dangerous.

Health in Abacos

  • Sun Exposure: Abacos is a sunny destination, and visitors should protect themselves from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

  • Mosquitoes: Abacos is home to mosquitoes, and visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent.

Getting to Abacos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Abacos is accessible by air and sea, with a number of options available for travelers.

Airports Near Abacos

  • Marsh Harbour Airport: This is the main airport in Abacos and is served by domestic and international carriers.

  • Treasure Cay Airport: This airport is located on Great Abaco Island and is served by domestic carriers.

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from Nassau to Abacos.

How to Get Around in Abacos

Abacos is a small destination, and visitors can easily get around on foot, by bike, or by car. Rental cars are available on the island, and visitors should be aware that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, as in the United Kingdom.

Where to Go Next from Abacos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Abacos is located in the Bahamas, which is a country made up of more than 700 islands. Visitors can easily explore other parts of the country by air or sea.

Conclusion

Abacos is a beautiful destination that offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the outdoors, or immerse yourself in local history and culture, Abacos has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to this stunning destination.