Hatchet Bay Cave lies on Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, in the Caribbean region of North America. It is a limestone cave system that runs for more than a mile underground, and for many visitors it offers a welcome change from the bright sun and sea of the islands above.
What you will see
The cave is known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, the slow mineral growths that shape the chambers. Several freshwater pools lie within the system. One of them is so clear that it is known as the "Cathedral Room," and its still water is a highlight for many who go underground.
The air inside stays cool throughout the year, so the cave is a comfortable place to spend time whatever the weather above ground.
What kind of visit it makes
Guided tours are the way to explore the cave. They explain its geology and the way the formations have developed, and they also cover the cave's past use as a shelter during hurricanes. Joining a guide helps you understand what you are looking at, and it keeps the route easy to follow through a large underground network.
- Setting: a limestone cave on Eleuthera Island
- Highlights: stalactites, stalagmites and clear freshwater pools
- Atmosphere: cool and steady in temperature all year
- Best suited to: visitors interested in geology, history or a quieter outing
Planning your trip
Eleuthera is a long, narrow island, and Hatchet Bay Cave is a good stop for anyone already exploring the island's natural features. Because the cave is a natural underground site, it suits visitors who enjoy walking through varied terrain and listening to a guide's explanations. Wear sensible footwear and check ahead about tour arrangements before you set out.