The Berry Island chain, located just 120 miles east of Miami, is best known for its fantastic Bahamas real estate opportunities and superb fishing. Miles of flats are laden with bonefish and permit, the deeps are loaded with game fish and the reefs are teaming with snapper, grouper and hogfish. Definitely an angler's dream! However, these islands offer plenty for the non-fisherman as well.
Great Harbour Cay, the “capital” of the Berry Islands, is an ideal spot for families! There is virtually no crime on the island. It is relatively small and easy to get around in a golf cart or jeep. It offers all the necessities, such as an international airport, full service marina, 9 holes of golf, grocery stores, restaurants and a medical clinic. Best of all, there are five splendid miles of white, powdery sand beaches that line the east side of the island.
The north end, called Sugar Beach, is an undeveloped stretch, boasting wild beauty with lush green hills, caves to explore and secluded coves. The sea here has more wave activity, perfect for body-surfing. Heading south along Great Harbour Cay Drive, one can marvel at the beautiful beach homes. Many of these are second homes are owned by people from across the globe.
Midway along the island coast is a wide expanse of beach, jutting out into a point. This beach is called “Hotel Point” and many say it is the most beautiful beach along the entire seven mile long island.
This tucked away spot will someday, perhaps, have a hotel, but for now, it is a secluded place, perfect for a picnic or a game of volleyball. When the tide is low, families often head down to Sand Dollar Beach, located at the southern tip of Great Harbour Cay. Here you can pick up literally handfuls of sand dollars.
This area of flats is bordered by Shark Creek, a mangrove creek that separates Great Harbour Cay from Haines Cay. This area is full of wildlife. Kayaking is a popular way to peacefully approach the many species of birds, such as the Spoon Bill Ibis and the Great Blue Heron. Looking down into the crystal clear water, you may likely see spotted eagle rays, sea turtles and maybe even a baby shark. Kids just love this spot. The shallows and the variety of sea life keep them occupied for hours.
After adventuring, there are a few popular restaurants on Great Harbour Cay. The Beach Club, established in 1970, is located directly across from the airport. They offer a variety of sandwiches and drinks, and, of course, world famous cheeseburgers.
The Rocky Hill restaurant is located in the Great Harbour Cay Marina. This poolside eatery offers lunch and dinner. It is a popular hangout for tourists and locals in the evenings.
For Bahamian fare, visitors head into the “Village” to Coolie Mae's overlooking the sea. The village of Bullock's Harbour has several small grocery stores stocked with all the necessities. Also located in town is the post office, clinic, administrative office, mail boat dock, playground and the school.
As you can see, Great Harbour Cay really has plenty to offer besides fishing. Many first timers come for a visit. Some instantly decide this is where they want to build their island home so they can always come back to enjoy this island paradise.
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