Elizabeth Harbour | Grand Exuma

Elizabeth Harbour is one of the most beautiful and well-known natural harbors located on Great Exuma Island in the Bahamas. Known for its crystal-clear waters, sheltered bays, and proximity to George Town (the capital of Exuma), Elizabeth Harbour offers a stunning setting for boating, swimming, and exploring the surrounding islands. It is also one of the most visited spots in the Exumas, both for tourists and locals, due to its scenic beauty and range of activities.

Key Features of Elizabeth Harbour:

1. Clear, Turquoise Waters:

• The harbor is famous for its vibrant, turquoise waters that remain calm and ideal for various water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and sailing.
• The water is so clear that visitors can easily see the sandy bottom and marine life just beneath the surface.

2. Sheltered Location:

• Elizabeth Harbour is a protected natural harbor, making it safe and suitable for anchoring boats, sailing, and fishing.
• The sheltered environment offers calm waters for swimming and water sports, even on days with higher winds elsewhere.

3. Proximity to George Town:

• The harbor is located near George Town, making it an easy and convenient place for travelers to explore local shops, restaurants, and other attractions while being surrounded by natural beauty.
• Visitors can also access the harbor by boat, taking advantage of its central location.

4. Picturesque Views and Scenic Beauty:

• The harbor provides breathtaking views, with lush hills surrounding the water and islands dotted throughout the bay. The sunrise and sunset views from the harbor are especially stunning.
• Nearby, Stocking Island offers another layer of scenic beauty and is a popular destination for those looking to explore more natural surroundings.

Activities and Attractions at Elizabeth Harbour:

1. Boating and Sailing:

• Elizabeth Harbour is a popular destination for boating and sailing, as its calm, clear waters make it ideal for a day on the water. Many tourists rent boats or take guided sailing tours to explore the surrounding cays and islands.
• The harbor is home to several boat docks and marinas, including the Regatta Point and Exuma Yacht Club, offering docking services.

2. Snorkeling and Diving:

• The harbor’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, and there are numerous spots around Elizabeth Harbour where visitors can discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Snorkelers can explore nearby reefs or take a boat tour to more remote locations like Thunderball Grotto or the Exuma Cays.

3. Swimming and Relaxation:

• The sheltered waters make Elizabeth Harbour a great place for a swim, and its calm nature makes it particularly family-friendly. It’s a wonderful spot to relax on the water or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Exploring Stocking Island:

• Just a short boat ride across the harbor, Stocking Island is a must-visit destination. The island is known for its pristine beaches, hiking trails, and snorkeling opportunities.
• Visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach, or explore the island’s nature trails and wildlife.

5. Fishing:

• Elizabeth Harbour offers excellent fishing opportunities, including both deep-sea fishing and bonefishing. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or wading in the shallow waters, the harbor is abundant with marine life.
• Many boat tours in the area offer fishing trips, where visitors can catch a variety of fish species such as snapper and grouper.

6. Regattas and Local Events:

• Elizabeth Harbour is the site of various local events, including the Annual Exuma Regatta, a sailing event that brings together international and local sailors. This event typically takes place in April and features competitive sailing, parades, and celebrations.

Nearby Attractions:

George Town:

• Elizabeth Harbour is only a short distance from George Town, Exuma’s capital, where visitors can explore the local culture, shops, restaurants, and the Exuma Market.

Sandbars and Cays:

• The harbor is surrounded by some of the most beautiful sandbars and small islands in the Exumas, including Ruth Cay, Moriah Cay, and Lighthouse Point. Many boat tours from the harbor visit these spots, offering opportunities for sightseeing and beachcombing.

Iguanas of Stocking Island:

• On nearby Stocking Island, visitors can interact with the local population of Exuma rock iguanas, which are a protected species in the area. The island is a popular spot for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Elizabeth Harbour:

• The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is sunny and calm, perfect for boating and other water activities.
• The summer months (May to October) can still be enjoyable, though there's a higher chance of rain and occasional storms during hurricane season.

Accessibility:

• By Boat: Elizabeth Harbour is accessible by boat from George Town, where many tourists rent boats or join guided tours to explore the harbor and its surroundings.
• By Air: Visitors can fly into Exuma International Airport (GGT), which is located near George Town, and take a short taxi or boat ride to Elizabeth Harbour.

Why Visit Elizabeth Harbour?

1. Stunning Natural Beauty: The turquoise waters, scenic landscapes, and surrounding islands make Elizabeth Harbour one of the most picturesque locations in the Bahamas.
2. Water-Based Activities: Whether you love boating, snorkeling, or fishing, the harbor offers endless opportunities for water sports and exploration.
3. Proximity to Local Amenities: The harbor is close to George Town, allowing visitors to enjoy both the natural beauty of the harbor and the amenities and attractions of the nearby town.
4. Unique Island Experience: The nearby Stocking Island and other cays provide the opportunity to explore unspoiled natural landscapes, swim with stingrays, and enjoy secluded beaches.

Conclusion:

Elizabeth Harbour is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Exuma. Its calm, clear waters, stunning natural surroundings, and access to nearby islands make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re interested in sailing, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Bahamas, Elizabeth Harbour offers a tranquil and unforgettable experience.