BAHAMAS, FLORIDA
Bahamas Bound: Exploring Abaco and Bakers Bay
Welcome to the Abaco Islands and Bakers Bay in the Bahamas, a handcrafted paradise for travelers seeking both relaxation and discovery. Here, turquoise waters gently lap against white-sand shores, and the pace of life slows to a breezy rhythm, seamlessly blending adventure with luxury.
No matter if it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned island-hopper, this part of the Bahamas provides countless reasons to keep coming back. In this guide, we’ll take you through what makes the Abacos so special, spotlight some can’t-miss experiences in Bakers Bay, and show you how to experience it all in ultimate style — aboard Birdy, a private luxury yacht charter.
Welcome to the Abacos: The Bahamas’ Best-Kept Secret
The Abaco Islands, part of the northern Bahamas, are an archipelago made up of Great Abaco, Little Abaco, and a string of smaller cays that offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Caribbean. Known for their charming colonial towns, world-class boating, and uncrowded beaches, the Abacos are the perfect mix of laid-back and luxurious.
Treat yourself to a Margarita at a beachfront shack, then snorkel with sea turtles just 15 minutes later—this is that kind of place.
Top Things to Do in the Abaco Islands
Hop Between the Out Islands
The beauty of the Abacos lies in its string of satellite cays, each with its own personality. Hope Town on Elbow Cay is famous for its candy-striped lighthouse and pastel cottages. Green Turtle Cay offers a deeper dive into Bahamian culture and is home to the annual Island Roots Heritage Festival in May. Meanwhile, Man-O-War Cay is a quiet boating hub, ideal for fishing or soaking up the sun in total peace.
Boat hopping between these gems is a must — and there’s no better way to do it than on your own private vessel (more on that later!).
Snorkeling & Diving
From the stunning Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park to the reef-lined waters near Fowl Cay, snorkelers and divers can explore vibrant coral gardens, blue holes, and even underwater caves. The area’s reefs are teeming with tropical fish, rays, and colorful sea fans — it’s like swimming in a real-life aquarium.
Fishing the Flats and Deep Sea
The Abacos are world-renowned for sportfishing, offering everything from thrilling offshore adventures to delicate flats fishing. Whether you’re casting for bonefish in the shallows or trolling the deep blue for marlin, tuna, or mahi-mahi, the waters around these islands are an angler’s dream.
Local Charter Options to Consider:
Hope Town Fishing – Based in Elbow Cay Captain Justin Russell offers customized trips targeting mahi-mahi, tuna, wahoo, and more.
Abaco Fly Fishing Guide – For flats fishing enthusiasts, Captain Rick Sawyer is a well-known guide for bonefish trips around the cays.
- Capt. Mark’s Fishing Charter – Based at Treasure Cay Marina, Capt. Mark runs flexible half- and full-day trips for fishing, snorkeling, island-hopping, and wildlife spotting (think rays, sharks, turtles, and even swimming pigs!). Guests consistently praise his deep local knowledge and friendly style
Visit Treasure Cay
Once named one of the best beaches in the world by National Geographic, Treasure Cay is a must-see. This crescent-shaped beach boasts powdery soft sand and shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. It’s also a great home base for restaurants and beach bars.
Spotlight: Bakers Bay
Bakers Bay Golf & Ocean Club on Great Guana Cay is where barefoot luxury meets private club exclusivity. This gated enclave has quickly become one of the most desirable destinations in the Caribbean, known for attracting high-profile visitors, celebrities, and those who value privacy and polished service.
If you’re lucky enough to dock nearby or spend time in the club (either through membership, invitation, or yacht charter), you’ll find yourself enjoying:
- An award-winning Tom Fazio-designed golf course with sweeping ocean views
- Pristine private beaches that feel untouched by time
- High-end dining, curated spa experiences, and personalized concierge services
- Access to guided adventures like snorkeling, kayaking, and eco-tours
Even if you’re not staying inside Bakers Bay, the surrounding waters and cays are fair game for exploration — and they’re just as magical from the deck of a yacht.
Local Flavors & Island Culture
While luxury abounds in places like Bakers Bay, one of the joys of the Abacos is how effortlessly upscale blends with authentic Bahamian culture. You’ll want to eat like a local at least once during your trip.
Top Foodie Picks:
- Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill on Great Guana Cay: Famous for its Sunday pig roasts, frozen cocktails, and panoramic ocean views.
- Pete’s Pub in Little Harbour: A family-run beach bar with a bohemian spirit and freshly grilled seafood.
- Firefly Bar & Grill on Elbow Cay: Upscale Caribbean fare with gorgeous water views.
Don’t miss trying conch in all its forms — cracked, fried, stewed, or in a fresh salad with lime and peppers.
What’s On: Upcoming Events in the Abacos
The islands may be quiet in spirit, but their calendar is anything but boring. Here are some of the most exciting events drawing travelers in 2025:
- Regatta Time in Abaco – A multi-day sailing event filled with races, beach parties, and live music across several islands.
- Hope Town Music and Rum Festival – A holiday-season favorite, featuring local and international artists performing under the stars.
- Island Roots Heritage Festival – A cultural celebration in Green Turtle Cay that honors the island’s Loyalist heritage with parades, music, and food.
Planning your trip around one of these events is a great way to tap into local life and connect with fellow travelers.
Getting There & Getting Around
The Abacos are accessible via direct flights from Florida (Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami) into Marsh Harbour International Airport. From there, ferries and water taxis connect you to the outer cays — but the real freedom comes when you have your own vessel.
This is where your trip transforms from beautiful… to unforgettable.
Charter Birdy: The Ultimate Way to Explore the Abacos
Imagine skipping the crowded ferry lines, setting your own schedule, and watching the sun set from the deck of your own luxury yacht. That’s what we offer with Birdy — a private yacht charter experience designed for travelers who want to explore the Bahamas in complete comfort and style.
Whether you’re planning a week-long island-hopping adventure or a romantic weekend anchored near secluded beaches, Birdy can take you there.
Why Charter Birdy?
- Fully customized itineraries — You choose the route. From snorkeling off Fowl Cay to sunset cocktails near Bakers Bay, every stop is tailored to your dream trip.
- Onboard luxury — Think elegant interiors, spacious decks, gourmet dining, and plush accommodations.
- Expert crew — Our experienced captain and crew ensure a smooth, safe, and pampered experience from start to finish.
- Privacy & freedom — No set schedules. No other guests. Just you, your people, and the open sea.
Whether you’re new to the Abacos or a seasoned island traveler, Birdy offers an elevated way to experience the Bahamas — on your own terms, in unmatched comfort.
Ready to Set Sail?
The Abaco Islands are calling — and there’s no better way to answer than by chartering Birdy. Let the warm breeze guide you from cay to cay, with champagne in hand and adventure around every corner.
To learn more about chartering Birdy for your next Bahamian escape, visit our website at www.motoryachtbirdy.com, or you may contact Captain Warren Techow at captain@motoryachtbirdy.com.
Where will you go first?
