Rum Cay Travel Guide

Plan your ultimate getaway to Rum Cay with our travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Rum Cay

Located in the Caribbean, Rum Cay is a small island known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm, sunny weather. The island is one of the most laid-back and relaxing destinations in the Bahamas, offering visitors a chance to escape their busy lives and unwind in a tranquil tropical paradise.

List of Places to Visit in Rum Cay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Port Nelson Lighthouse: Built in 1895, this historic lighthouse was once a vital navigation aid for ships traveling through the Bahamas. Today, it’s a popular sightseeing destination and a great place to take photos of the island’s stunning coastline.
  • The Hermitage: Located at the top of a hill on the southern end of Rum Cay, The Hermitage is a small wooden church that dates back to the 1940s. The church is still in use and offers visitors breathtaking views of the island’s scenery.
  • La Escampada: This abandoned Spanish mansion is an intriguing piece of history that reflects the tumultuous past of Rum Cay. While the building is in disrepair, it’s a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Rum Cay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Columbus Point: Named after Christopher Columbus, who’s believed to have visited the island during his voyages, this stunning natural landmark is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Rum Cay. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.
  • Conception Island National Park: This protected park encompasses a cluster of uninhabited islands that are home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and reef sharks. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning coral reef systems, swim in the pristine waters, or simply admire the natural beauty of their surroundings.
  • Rum Cay Beach: No trip to Rum Cay is complete without a visit to the island’s namesake beach! With its soft white sand, clear blue water, and gentle waves, this idyllic beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rum Cay

  • The Hermitage Trail: This 1.5-mile hiking trail winds through the lush forest surrounding The Hermitage, offering hikers a chance to observe the island’s flora and fauna up close. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities.
  • Rum Cay Loop Trail: This 13-mile cycling route takes visitors on a scenic tour of the island’s most beautiful landscapes, including its beaches, forests, and historic landmarks. The trail is relatively flat and is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Rum Cay: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and Diving: With its pristine coral reefs and clear blue waters, Rum Cay is the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning underwater world and encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and rays.
  • Fishing: The waters surrounding Rum Cay are teeming with fish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can charter a boat and try their luck at catching a variety of species, including bonefish, tarpon, and snapper.
  • Island Tours: To get a comprehensive introduction to Rum Cay, visitors can take an island tour that will take them to all the major attractions and points of interest on the island. Tours can be conducted by foot, bicycle, or vehicle, depending on the visitor’s preference.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rum Cay

Day Activity
1 Arrive on Rum Cay, relax on the beach
2 Visit Port Nelson Lighthouse and La Escampada
3 Snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the coral reefs
4 Explore the island’s hiking and biking trails
5 Visit Conception Island National Park for a day trip
6 Take an island tour to discover Rum Cay’s history and culture
7 Departure day, spend last day relaxing on the beach

Food and Drink Scene of Rum Cay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Conch Fritters: This local specialty is a crispy fried ball of conch, a type of shellfish that’s abundant in the Caribbean.
  • Peas n’ Rice: A staple dish in the Bahamas, Peas n’ Rice is a tasty blend of pigeon peas, rice, and spices.
  • Cracked Lobster: Freshly caught lobster that’s been cracked and grilled to perfection, served with butter and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Goombay Punch: A sweet and fruity soft drink that’s popular in the Bahamas.
  • Kalik Beer: A light, refreshing beer that’s brewed in the Bahamas.
  • Rum Punch: A delicious cocktail made with rum, fruit juice, and a splash of grenadine.

Where to Stay in Rum Cay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Wreck Vault: A stylish and modern accommodation with spacious rooms, stunning sea views and a private beach.
  • Rum Cay Resort Marina: A hotel property set in lush, tropical gardens, featuring an outdoor pool and snorkeling equipment.

What to Buy in Rum Cay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Straw Hats: Handmade straw hats are a popular souvenir in the Bahamas and make a stylish and practical addition to any traveler’s wardrobe.
  • Rum Cake: A sweet and delicious cake made with rum and spices, Rum Cake is a tasty souvenir that’s easy to transport.
  • Shell Jewelry: Made from natural seashells found on the island’s beaches, shell jewelry is a unique and beautiful souvenir that will remind visitors of their trip to Rum Cay.

Local Culture and Customs of Rum Cay

The people of Rum Cay are friendly and welcoming, with a deep appreciation for their island’s natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Visitors should respect the island’s customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and avoiding loud or disruptive behavior in public places.

Best Time to Visit Rum Cay

The best time to visit Rum Cay is during the winter months, from December to February, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Visitors can also consider traveling in the off-season, from May to September, when the island is less crowded and prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rum Cay

Do:

  • Respect the island’s customs and traditions.
  • Take care of the environment and dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Try the local cuisine and support small businesses.

Don’t:

  • Engage in behavior that’s disruptive or disrespectful.
  • Damage or remove natural resources, such as coral reefs or beach vegetation.
  • Buy or consume illegal drugs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rum Cay

Rum Cay is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly local population. Visitors should, however, take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and using common sense when engaging with strangers.

Health in Rum Cay

Visitors to Rum Cay should take basic precautions to avoid common health risks, such as drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites, and wearing sunscreen to protect against sunburn and skin damage.

Getting to Rum Cay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rum Cay

  • San Salvador International Airport (ZSA): This small airport is the closest major airport to Rum Cay, located approximately 80 miles to the north.

Bus Stations Near Rum Cay

  • There are no bus stations on Rum Cay

Other Options

  • Visitors can reach Rum Cay by chartering a private boat or using a water taxi service from a nearby island or the mainland.

How to Get Around in Rum Cay

Visitors to Rum Cay can get around the island on foot, by bicycle, or by rental car. Many of the island’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, but visitors who wish to explore the whole island may prefer to rent a car or bicycle to get around.

Where to Go Next from Rum Cay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Salvador Island: Located approximately 80 miles to the north, San Salvador Island is a larger and more developed destination that offers visitors a wider range of attractions and activities.
  • Cat Island: Located 30 miles to the south, Cat Island is a quiet and secluded destination that’s popular with travelers who seek a more tranquil and unspoiled travel experience.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed island vibe, Rum Cay is a truly special destination that offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the island’s historic landmarks, soak up the sun on its beautiful beaches, and indulge in delicious local cuisine and beverages. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Rum Cay is the perfect place to escape and unwind.