Man-O-War Cay is a small island in the Bahamas, with a population of about 435 (300 Bahamian residents and 135 foreign resident families). It’s only 2.5 miles long, so you can walk from one end to another in under an hour.
Though small, Man-O-War Cay has lots of fun activities to keep you busy. Here’s what to do, what to eat, and where to stay in Man-O-War Cay!
What To Do on Man-O-War Cay
Here are some of the main activities in Man-O-Cay:
Explore the Beaches
Man-O-War Cay’s beach stretches along the shore opposite the harbor, facing Marsh Harbour.
With sugar-white sand, crystal-clear waters, and palm trees dotting the surrounding area, it’s a picture-perfect area for sunbathing, swimming, or walking along the shore. Man-O-War Cay doesn’t get a lot of tourists, so you can enjoy the calm, shallow waters without the crowds.
Near the island is a large sandbar accessible only by boat. It’s a favorite for boating excursions, snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, offering a more secluded beach experience away from the main island.
Discover the Island’s History
Man-O-War Cay has a deep and rich history. British Loyalists settled here when they fled the American Revolution War after the colonies defeated Britain. A lot of the families here today are direct descendants of those early settlers.
What really makes Man-O-War stand out, though, is its boatbuilding legacy. For generations, this island was known as the boatbuilding capital of The Bahamas. I’m pretty sure almost every local knows how to fix or build a boat. Ask one, and they’ll likely give you a step-by-step crash course on the best types of wood to use, how to chisel, and all the tricks of the trade.
If you want to know more about the island’s history, there’s no better place to be than the Man-O-War Heritage Museum.
The museum is small but full of charm, packed with archival records, artifacts, historical photographs, and exhibits on local boatbuilding. It’s pretty inconspicuous, housed in a small wooden home built in the 1800s. Make sure to ask a local where it is so you don’t miss it!
Just outside the museum is a coffee shop where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments while supporting the museum’s preservation efforts. The museum is open several days a week, usually Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings.
After visiting the museum, stop by the Hero’s Wall—a memorial commemorating the people who helped build the Man O War’s community. The plaque honors families like the Alburys and Sweetings, who have lived on the island since the 1820s.
Water Adventures
An excursion to Man-O-War Cay wouldn’t be complete without parking in its many water adventures. Here are some of the activities you can do:
- Snorkeling or diving: Man-O-War Cay’s waters are teeming with marine life. You can snorkel or dive right off your boat or launch from the shore. Many private tours combine boat rides with stops for feeding turtles or rays at nearby cays.
- Fishing: Yes, you can fish in Man-O-War Cay! The waters are full of snappers, groupers, wahoo, bonefish, and even marlin. Just make sure you’re fishing in a non-protected area. Many boat tours include fishing as part of their activities and include fishing equipment you can use.
- Boating and Sailing: WaterWays Boat Rentals lets you grab a small boat to explore the Abaco chain at your own pace.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and head out to scenic sandbars around Man-O-War.
Local Crafts & Shopping
Man-O-War has several notable spots where you can pick up local items.
One popular spot is Albury’s Sail Shop (“The Sail Shop”), a multigenerational family-run store that sells handmade handbags, tote bags, hats, and shave kits.
If you’re looking for wooden decoratives, Joe’s Studio is the place to be.
You also have other places like Schooner’s Gift Shop, which offers a selection of souvenirs and local crafts, and Man-O-War Hardware for tools, fishing gear, or anything you might need for a DIY project while you’re on the island.
Where To Eat on Man-O-War Cay
The local delicacies in Man-O-War Cay shouldn’t be missed! Here are some of the places to go to:
Local Favorites
- Dock & Dine: a dockside restaurant that serves fresh seafood, burgers, ribs, fish tacos, and conch fritters.
- Man‑O‑War Heritage Coffee Shop: Serves coffee, baked goods, and light bites; a great place for breakfast and brunch.
- Hibiscus Cafe: A family-run spot that takes full advantage of the island’s local flavors. It serves freshly caught seafood, Bahamian-style chicken, and salads with freshly-picked vegetables.
- Wally’s Fine Dining: If you’re up for a short boat ride or ferry to Marsh Harbour, Wally’s Fine Dining is an excellent spot to be. It offers dozens of Bahamian specialties like cracked conch, conch chowder, and grouper salad, as well as international options like pasta and pork loin.
- Outsider’s GRILL: a small takeaway spot that sells fresh bread, freshly caught fish, and burgers. It doesn’t have a dine-in area, but the restaurant is happy to deliver the food right to your doorstep.
Grocery Options
Man O War has two main grocery stores: Man‑O‑War Grocery and Albury’s Harbour Store. Both offer a decent selection of canned goods, bakery items, dairy, and veggies/meats. If one store doesn’t have the items you’re looking for, the other often has it in stock. Both also accommodate special requests.
If you have special dietary requirements, such as gluten-free food, shop in Marsh Harbour beforehand. Larger supermarkets like Maxwell’s Supermarket and Abaco Groceries offer a good variety of gluten-free items and international brands that you can bring during your visit to Man-O-War Cay.
Where To Stay on Man-O-War Cay
Here are some top spots to stay on Man‑O‑War Cay:
- Sea Glass Found: Situated on a 20-acre private peninsula at the northern tip of Man‑O‑War Cay, with 360° ocean views, three private beaches, a heated infinity pool, private marina, and boats (with captain) included. The property can fit groups of 8 to 24.
- Airbnb Vacation Rentals: Man-O-War Cay has several privately owned cottages and homes, with prices ranging from $100 to upwards of $500 per night.
Tips for Visiting Man-O-War Cay
Keep these tips in mind when visiting Man-O-War Cay to get the full experience:
- Renting a golf cart or bicycle is the best way to explore the island and get around the narrow streets. You won’t find cars anywhere since it’s a small island; locals mostly get around by foot.
- Man-O-War Cay is a dry island, meaning alcohol isn’t sold locally. You’re allowed to bring your own supply, so plan accordingly. You can buy alcohol in Marsh Harbour, specifically in Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits, Central Pines Liquors, and 700 Wines and Spirits.
- Man-O-War Cay is a small, close-knit community where locals are friendly and welcoming. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversation and ask them where the ‘must visit’ locations are!
- Since Man-O-War Cay is somewhat remote, internet, TV, and phone service can be intermittent. It’s a good idea to download movies or TV shows to your laptop or device beforehand so you have entertainment during any downtime.
- Power outages can be common, so it’s wise to be prepared with backup power or chargers. If you didn’t bring backup power with you, visit the nearby Man-O-War Hardware store. They sell batteries, generators, and chargers.
