The Abaco Islands have some of the most breathtaking sea landscapes in The Bahamas. Endless blue horizons, lovely people, unlimited adventure, and delicious food, everything you need for a magical vacation is here.
But if you want to immerse in the full Bahamian experience, I suggest you visit Man-O-War Cay. This peaceful little slice of tropical paradise boasts pristine beaches you can explore and a rich history to discover.
Here are the top things to do on Man-O-War-Cay.
1. Stroll The Lovely Sandbars
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss out on in your Bahamian travels, it’s witnessing the Man-O-War Cay sandbar.
You can get there by renting a boat from George Town, Great Exuma. It’s a slight detour from the Abaco Islands, but it’s definitely worth the trip.
Stunning shades of blue greet you at your first step. The sheer size of the sandbar backdropped by the cerulean waves rolling on the horizon will make you feel like you can walk on forever!
The sand also becomes exposed at low tide, making it a popular spot for diving and sunbathing.
2. Cruise The Turquoise Abaco Waters
Man-O-War Cay is the heart of boat building in the Abaco Islands. The residents are renowned for their astonishing craftsmanship.
While humble in size, the island is a haven if you enjoy scenic boating excursions. Clean, white coasts, friendly locals, breathtaking North Atlantic vistas, there’s really nothing more you can ask for.
Once in Man-O-War Cay, you can rent a boat at WaterWays Rentals to cruise and experience the surrounding islands.
The boomerang-shaped stretch of azure waters in the Great Abaco is only roughly 60 miles long and 5 miles wide so it’s quite effortless (and quick) to explore on a boat!
3. Dive Beneath The Blue Surface
The shallow and crystal-clear waters around Man-O-War Cay make it a fantastic spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Snorkeling lets you explore the island’s varied tropical marine life, from massive French angelfish to intimidating barracudas and slimy moray eels.
For divers, there’s the wreckage of the USS Adirondack northeast of the island you can plunge into and discover.
- Rent a Golf Cart
4. Rent A Golf Cart
Renting a golf cart may sound like an excess luxury, but it does make exploring the 2.5-mile-long island easier—and cozier, too!
Golf carts can breeze through different terrains so navigating Man-O-War Cay’s main attractions and beaches won’t take as much leg power. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your island vacation experience.
5. Visit The Hero’s Wall
If you love local history, you’ll definitely enjoy your time in Man-O-War Cay.
The Hero’s Wall is a memorial commemorating the people who helped build Man-O-War Cay’s small community. Adorned with plaques, you’ll find that many of them share the same name: Albury and Sweetings.
This fascinating detail goes back to the 1820s when Benjamin Albury found himself in a shipwreck and became one of the founding figures of the island.
Many of the family-owned businesses on Man-O-War Cay are owned by the Alburys.
6. Shop At Joe’s Studio
For those looking for presents to bring home, Joe’s Studio is a store selling amazing artworks made by the island’s local artists, such as paintings and handcrafted items.
The store bestsellers are beautiful half-models of sailing dinghies, designed to be mounted on a wall. Resident master wood carver and studio owner, Joe Albury, also creates 3-D boat models from local hardwood and driftwood.
7. Dine At Sea Glass Found
The best way to immerse in a culture is through their food. And if you’re craving delectable cuisine amid panoramic Bahamian scapes, Sea Glass Found is the only place to be.
Nestled at the northern tip of Man-O-War Cay, Sea Glass Found offers a once-in-a-lifetime beach experience for everyone.
This luxurious rental location boasts some of the most thrilling adventures, from fishing, surfing, snorkeling, diving, and sightseeing. You can spend an entire afternoon feeding adorable sea turtles!
The sprawling tropical retreat has a private marina, two private beaches, and spacious beach houses to cater to your family and friends.
8. Find Souvenirs From Albury Sail Shop
Drive or walk to the northern end of Man-O-War Cay’s harbor road and find The Albury’s Canvas Shop. The locals call it the “Sail Shop.”
Inside, you’ll find all sorts of bags, hats, purses, briefcases, and other accessories made from canvas traditionally used for boat sails.
Three generations of women from Man-O-War Cay handcrafted all the items displayed. And while the craftsmanship is straightforward, they’re colorful, sturdy, and radiating an authentic appeal you can write home about.
Boaters love the Sail Shop, and it’s always been a highlight for those who tour around Hope Town and Guana Cay.
9. Tour Man-O-War Cay Heritage Museum
Man-O-War Cay’s Heritage Museum is where you can find everything about the island. Here, you can learn about the extensive boat-building heritage of the community.
The museum is housed in a century-old home owned by the Sweetings, another prominent founding name in Man-O-War Cay. Photos of the Sweeting’s family tree are on display inside the museum.
Surprisingly, the heritage site also doubles as a coffee shop—the only one on the island. The cafe serves otherworldly homemade scones as well.
So, if you ever thirst for a savory cup of brewed coffee while island hopping, the Man-O-War Cay Museum Coffee Shop is the place to go.
Final Thoughts
Man-O-War Cay is a hidden gem in The Bahamas. If you’re looking for a laidback, yet unique island life experience in your travels, this humble Bahamian island is for you.
With its rich history, stunning beaches, quaint homes, and friendly locals, I wouldn’t be surprised if you decide to make Man-O-War Cay a regular holiday stop!
