Introduction to Elbow Cay

Elbow Cay is known for its spectacular beaches. One of the best in The Bahamas, Tahiti Beach, lies in splendid isolation at the far end of Elbow Cay, with sparkling waters and powdery white sand. Access is possible only on foot, by riding a rented bicycle across sand and gravel paths from Hope Town, or by private boat.

The cay's largest settlement is Hope Town, a scenic little village with a candy-striped 36m (118-ft.) lighthouse -- the most photographed attraction in the Out Islands. Hope Town seems frozen in time. Like other offshore cays of the Abacos, it was settled by Loyalists who left the new United States to remain subjects of the British Crown. Its clapboard saltbox cottages are weathered to a silver gray or painted pastel colors, with white picket fences setting them off. The buildings may remind you of New England, but this palm-fringed island has South Seas flavor.

The island is almost free of cars. While exploring Hope Town, you can take one of two roads: "Up Along" or "Down Along," which both run along the water.