What To See...

Little Harbour:

Years ago, this quaint community on Great Abaco Island was only accessible by boat, but, due to the recent development of roadways, is now accessible by car from Marsh Harbour. Probably the most significant attraction here is the Johnston Studios & Art Foundry, housing the artwork of Randolph Johnston, internationally known for his wax-casting bronze sculptures. Since his passing in 1992, Randolph's son, Pete Johnston, continues to preserve this history, combining the works of his father with his own life-size bronze sculptures and exquisite jewelry. His book, Artist on His Island, chronicles the lives of the Johnston family who had left civilization in the 1950's in search of a pure and simple lifestyle and settled the town of Little Harbour.

Pete's Pub, a waterfront, open-air restaurant, is also located in Little Harbour. Diving, snorkeling, shelling and cave exploring are all excellent area activities.

Elbow Cay & Hopetown:

Located on Elbow Cay, Hopetown is a very short distance from Marsh Harbour by ferry. Noted as one of Abaco's most charming villages, Hopetown's picturesque colonial architecture clearly reflects the New England heritage of its residents. Pastel homes of pink, blue, green and yellow are surrounded by gardens bursting with vibrant color. One of the island's most prominent views is Hopetown's famous candy-striped lighthouse. Built in 1863, this historical monument remains as one of the few manned lighthouses in the Bahamas today, still utilizing the original brass weight mechanism.

Hopetown offers a wide range of sights and activities. The Wyannie Malone Museum houses the rich history of Hopetown and Elbow Cay, displaying fascinating artifacts which date back to the earliest settlers. Numerous shops feature local island art, crafts and gifts, and small grocery stores and bakeries are on virtually every corner. Some of the most superb beaches and snorkeling can also be found on Elbow Cay.

Man-O-War Cay:

Also easily accessible from Marsh Harbour by ferry, Man-O-War Cay is the most active boat building center in the area, known as the "nautical capital" of the Abacos. Boats of all types visit Man-O-War for maintenance and repair. The famous Joe Albury, whose family dates back several generations on this cay, continues to craft sailing dinghies, model hulls and gifts in his studio, all made from Abaco hardwoods. The Sail Shop offers visitors the opportunity to observe the process of sails and canvas bags being created.

Man-O-War is quite a conservative, family-oriented town. It is a "dry" island - there are no liquor stores but many shops, bakeries, quaint churches and a lovely beach. Renting a bicycle is a perfect way to explore Man-O-War.

Great Guana Cay:

Epitomizing the laid-back atmosphere of all the settled cays, Great Guana, about ten miles from Marsh Harbour by boat, is one of Abaco's most idyllic destinations. The care-free spirit of Guana is the very definition of Abaco life, inherent in the genuine warmth of the friendly residents who occupy this beautiful island - and, in fact, all of the Abaco Islands.

Great Guana Cay offers the ultimate in pure island activities and relaxation. Known for having one of the most unspoiled, private and breathtaking beaches in the Bahamas, stretching for nearly the full five-and-a-half mile length of the island, this cay is perfect for those with a passion for the sea. Visitors can walk, swim, sunbathe, picnic - or snorkel on Guana's fabulous reef - the options are endless and limited only by the imagination. Nippers Bar & Grill, perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the crystal turquoise water, offers the ideal spot to wile away the afternoon, admiring the awe-inspiring view.