Incredible adventure and many more-Cat Island Bahamas
Cat Island Bahamas
Cat Island is a small island located in the central Bahamas, known for its serene beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and abundant wildlife. Cat Island is one of the Out Islands of the Bahamas, located about 210 kilometers southeast of Nassau. The island is roughly 77 kilometers long and 6 kilometers wide, with a population of around 1,500 people. The island has a rich history, dating back to the pre-Columbian era. It was originally inhabited by the Lucayan people, who were later displaced by Spanish and British settlers. Today, Cat Island is known for its unique cultural traditions, including music, dance, and crafts. Cat Island is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including tropical hardwoods, palm trees, and numerous bird species. The island is also known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear turquoise waters.
Geology
Cat Island in the Bahamas is a small, elongated island composed mainly of limestone rock, which is a common feature of many islands in the Bahamas. The limestone rock formations on Cat Island formed millions of years ago when the island was submerged beneath the sea. Over time, the sea levels changed, and the limestone was lifted out of the water, creating a series of ridges and valleys that make up the island’s rugged terrain. The highest point on Cat Island is Mount Alvernia. The porous nature of the limestone allows for the formation of underground caves and freshwater reservoirs, which provide a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Cat Island Bahamas map- The Cat island map shows the location of Cat Island and nearby Bahamas and Nassau island.
Places to see on Cat Island
Cat Island in the Bahamas has a variety of interesting and unique places to see and explore. Here are some of the top attractions and places to visit on Cat Island-
Mount Alvernia-This is the highest point in the Bahamas, located on the southern end of Cat Island. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill to see the Hermitage, a small stone monastery built by Father Jerome, a Catholic priest and hermit who lived on Cat Island in the mid-1900s.
Port Howe- This historic settlement on the southern end of Cat Island was once an important trading port in the Bahamas. Visitors can see the ruins of Fort Howe, a colonial-era fortification that was used to protect the harbor.
The Bight- This is a stunningly beautiful beach on the western coast of Cat Island, with white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
New Bight- This is the largest settlement on Cat Island, and it’s home to several important cultural and historic sites, including the ruins of Deveaux Mansion, a colonial-era plantation house, and the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, which features colorful murals painted by Bahamian artist, Alton Lowe.
Greenwood Beach Resort-This beachfront resort on the southeastern coast of Cat Island features a large swimming pool, a restaurant and bar, and a variety of water sports and other activities for guests.
Things to do in Cat Island Bahamas
Cat Island in the Bahamas offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors looking for adventure, relaxation, and fun. Here are some of the top things to do on Cat Island are-
Cat Island is home to some of the best coral reefs and dive sites in the Bahamas. Visitors can explore colorful marine life and coral formations at sites like The Pinnacle, The Wall, and The Washing Machine by Snorkeling and scuba diving. The Island has some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the Bahamas, with white sand, crystal-clear water, and few crowds. Popular beaches include The Bight, Greenwood Beach, and Old Bight Beach. Hiking trails in Cat island lead through its rugged terrain, including Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas. Hikers can also explore the island’s forests and mangrove swamps.
Visitors can try their hand at kayaking, paddle boarding, or windsurfing, or take a boat tour of the island’s many coves and inlets. Cat Island is also famous for excellent fishing, with opportunities to catch bonefish, tarpon, and other species. Travelers can explore some sites like Deveaux Mansion, a colonial-era plantation house, and the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, which features colorful murals painted by Bahamian artist, Alton Lowe.
Cat Island Bahamas resorts
Cat Island in the Bahamas offers a range of resort options for visitors looking for a relaxing and luxurious vacation. Some of the most popular resorts on Cat Island is- Fernandez Bay Village- This beachfront resort is located on the western coast of Cat Island, offering stunning ocean views and access to a private beach. The resort features comfortable and well-appointed rooms, a restaurant and bar, and various amenities like kayaks, paddleboards, and bicycles for guest use.
Shannas Cove Resort- Located on the eastern coast of Cat Island, Shannas Cove Resort offers a secluded and tranquil atmosphere for guests. The resort features spacious and stylish rooms with ocean views, a restaurant and bar, and various activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing.
Pigeon Cay Beach Club- This family-friendly resort is located on the northern end of Cat Island, offering access to a beautiful white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters. The resort features comfortable rooms and suites with ocean views, a restaurant and bar, and various amenities like a swimming pool, tennis court, and beach volleyball.
Hawk’s Nest Resort & Marina- This waterfront resort is located on the southwestern coast of Cat Island, offering access to a marina and some of the island’s best fishing spots. The resort features spacious and well-appointed rooms and villas, a restaurant and bar, and various amenities like a swimming pool, tennis court, and boat rentals.
How to reach Cat Island Bahamas
Cat Island in the Bahamas is a remote island that is accessible by air or sea. By air: The most common way to reach Cat Island is by flying into New Bight Airport, which is served by several airlines. There are also charter flights available from Nassau or other islands in the Bahamas. Visitors can reach Cat Island by taking a ferry or private boat from other islands in the Bahamas, such as Nassau or Eleuthera.
