Green Turtle Cay Travel Guide: New Plymouth, Beaches & Golf Cart Exploring
Green Turtle Cay, located just off the coast of Great Abaco, is one of the Bahamas’ most charming and culturally rich destinations. Known for its brightly painted historic village, scenic beaches, protected harbors, and friendly atmosphere, the island draws travelers seeking history, relaxation, and authentic Out Island living. Whether you’re arriving by ferry or private boat, Green Turtle Cay quickly becomes a favorite stop—thanks to its walkable streets, photogenic cottages, great restaurants, and easy golf cart exploration.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Green Turtle Cay, including New Plymouth highlights, the best beaches, top dining spots, local culture, boat-access adventures, and the must-see areas you won’t want to miss.
A Quick Overview of Green Turtle Cay
The island is just three miles long and a half-mile wide, making it perfectly sized for exploring by golf cart or bicycle. Named after the once-abundant green turtles that inhabited its waters, the cay has played an important role in Abaco’s maritime culture for centuries.
Green Turtle Cay is widely known for:
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Its historic village of New Plymouth
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Excellent boating and fishing opportunities
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White-sand beaches and calm coves
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Rich Loyalist history and Bahamian craftsmanship
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Friendly locals and a tight-knit community feel
Despite its small size, the island offers a surprising variety of attractions—mixing heritage, natural beauty, and adventure.
Exploring New Plymouth: The Heart of the Island
Historic Charm and Bright Pastels
New Plymouth is a beautifully preserved Loyalist settlement featuring narrow streets, pastel wooden homes, picket fences, and waterfront views. Its layout is compact and walkable, making it perfect for slow, leisurely exploration.
Top Things to See in New Plymouth
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Albert Lowe Museum – A must-visit attraction showcasing Bahamian history, boatbuilding, and local craftsmanship.
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Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden – Featuring statues and vibrant flowers, honoring the island’s early settlers.
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New Plymouth Town Square – The heart of daily life, surrounded by vibrant houses, government buildings, and local businesses.
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Local Shops & Artisan Boutiques – Offering handmade crafts, island jewelry, paintings, clothing, and woodwork.
The village is an ideal place to learn about Bahamian heritage while enjoying a relaxed, friendly environment where residents often greet visitors with a warm smile.
Best Beaches on Green Turtle Cay
Though compact, Green Turtle Cay boasts some of the prettiest beaches in the Abacos, each offering a unique atmosphere.
1. Gillam Bay
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas, Gillam Bay features calm, shallow waters and sweeping views toward the Sea of Abaco. During low tide, the sand flats extend dramatically, creating a dreamlike landscape perfect for photography and wading.
2. Coco Bay
Located on the northern side of the island near the resort area, Coco Bay is peaceful and sheltered—excellent for swimming, paddleboarding, and beginner snorkeling.
3. Ocean Beach
Facing the Atlantic, this long stretch is ideal for beachcombing, surfing (on rare occasions), and enjoying deep blue ocean vistas. Waves can be stronger here, but the natural beauty is stunning.
4. Bita Bay
A quiet cove-like beach with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and a secluded feel. Great for couples or travelers wanting privacy.
Green Turtle Cay beaches offer options ranging from calm lagoon-like water to rugged oceanfront scenery, appealing to all types of beach lovers.
Golf Cart Exploring: The Best Way to See the Island
Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on Green Turtle Cay. Rental kiosks are available near the ferry dock and throughout the island.
Why Golf Carts Are Ideal
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Convenient for navigating the island’s narrow roads
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Easy to park in New Plymouth or at beach access paths
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Fun and breezy way to explore with the family
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Allow access to remote beaches, hilltop lookouts, and small settlements
Top Spots to Visit by Golf Cart
Golf cart sightseeing is one of the highlights of visiting the island and gives visitors a sense of freedom and adventure.
Food & Dining on Green Turtle Cay
Despite its small population, Green Turtle Cay has a delicious and diverse dining scene.
Top Dining Spots
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Green Turtle Club Restaurant & Bar – Famous for fresh seafood, conch dishes, and elegant harbor views.
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Bluff House Beach Bar & Grill – Perfect for casual meals, cold drinks, and stunning beachfront dining.
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Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar – Legendary birthplace of the Goombay Smash, a Bahamian classic cocktail. A must-visit.
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Local bakeries and cafés – Serving pastries, Bahamian bread, and sweet treats.
What to Try
Dining on the island mixes local flavors with relaxed seaside ambiance—ideal for travelers wanting a true Bahamian experience.
Boat-Access Spots & Water Adventures
Green Turtle Cay is surrounded by clear waters, making it a playground for boaters and water lovers.
Top Boat-Accessible Destinations
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Manjack Cay – Known for friendly rays, turtles, and sheltered anchorages.
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No Name Cay – Home to the famous swimming pigs.
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Coco Bay & White Sound – Calm anchorages with gorgeous water.
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Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park – Excellent snorkeling, reefs, and blue holes (accessible from mainland Abaco).
Visitors arriving by private boat can dock at:
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Green Turtle Club Marina
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Bluff House Marina
Both provide fuel, electricity, restaurants, lodging, and boating services.
Local Culture: What Makes Green Turtle Cay Special
The island’s heritage is deeply rooted in its Loyalist ancestry. Generations of boatbuilders, fishermen, and artisans have shaped the community’s identity. Visitors will find:
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Beautiful hand-carved model boats
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Traditional Bahamian straw work
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Wood-carved signs and décor
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Friendly, conversation-filled gatherings at bars and waterfront areas
Festivals, regattas, and community events bring the island together, especially during holidays and the summer season.
Where to Stay on Green Turtle Cay
Travelers will find a variety of accommodations, including:
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Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina
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Bluff House Beach Resort & Marina
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Private cottages and beachfront villas
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Harbor-view vacation rentals in New Plymouth
Options range from luxury waterfront suites to cozy island cottages.
Tips for Visiting Green Turtle Cay
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Book golf carts early, especially during peak season.
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Bring cash, as some local vendors prefer it.
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Mind the tides when exploring beaches like Gillam Bay.
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Respect local wildlife, including turtles, rays, and land crabs.
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Enjoy the pace—Green Turtle Cay is all about slowing down.
Green Turtle Cay’s mix of culture, history, beaches, and boating makes it one of the most rewarding destinations in the Abacos. Whether you're exploring New Plymouth, cruising the nearby cays, or relaxing at a quiet beach, this charming island offers a pure taste of Bahamian life.