As you embrace the joy of discovering new experiences on your vacation, you can do so with the knowledge that everything is just better in The Bahamas. With its noteworthy tagline, 'Fly Away,' and nearly 700 diverse islands that could keep us talking for almost two years, this tropical destination has an incredible amount to see, do, and taste. For today’s purposes, however, one island stands out—the magnificent Cat Island. Quiet and untouched, this secluded paradise harbours hidden treasures that beckon to be found.

About 130 miles southeast of bustling Nassau, Cat Island boasts uninhabited cays and hidden coves that await daring explorers. Offering premium escapism in the shadow of majestic Mount Alvernia (the highest point in The Bahamas), a stay on Cat Island also promises to be the high point of your vacation. To that end, we’ve created an exhilarating itinerary that allows you to explore and immerse yourself like a true Cat Island local. Ready to mix exploration and relaxation? Grab your map and embark on a memorable journey through the exquisite realm of Cat Island in The Bahamas.

About Cat Island

As much as we’d like to tell you the island takes its name from a particularly adorable feline, Cat Island is named after the pirate Arthur Catt. This picturesque island - comprised of contrasting white sand beaches and gently rolling green hills - stretches 50 miles north to south in a fishhook shape and has a population of approximately 1,700 residents. Nestled in the central Bahamas, this island is perfect if you're looking to disconnect and get in touch with unspoiled Bahamian nature. With no cruise ship ports and no high-rise resorts, experience nothing less than complete serenity when you stay on Cat Island.

Mount Alvernia, Cat Island - Photo courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation

Experiencing Cat Island

Rise to New Levels at Mount Alvernia

You can’t miss Mount Alvernia - or the historic Hermitage that sits at its peak. Built in 1939 by Father Jerome, this Medieval-style monastery is the highest landmark in The Bahamas. Rising to 206 feet above sea level, Mount Alvernia, also known to the locals as Como Hill, is a beloved place to escape to and take in the panoramic beauty of the island. As you wander up, gaze out upon the horizon and feel like you are standing on top of the world. With wide open space and the Caribbean sea breeze in your hair, rediscover the simplest pleasures in life amidst an idyllic backdrop.

Shannas Cove Dive Center

Next, descend from the highest point on the island to one of the lowest: into the welcoming just off of Shannas Cove Dive Center. From top-tier equipment to their well-trained staff, they are pleased to organize exclusive diving tours to meet the needs of novices and professionals. Offering wall diving from 100 to 200 feet at First Basin Wall and reef diving at Greenwood Reef and Deep South Reef, Shannas Cove Dive Center provides beautiful drop-offs and shipwreck sitings. All dive sites can be reached within 5 to 30 minutes, making it an ideal location for guests to scuba dive, snorkel, and swim.

Cat Island - Photo courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation

A Day by the Water

Of course, no itinerary for a Bahamian island would be complete without covering the beautiful beaches. Explore Cat Island's sandy refuges, including an eight-mile stretch of pink sand beach that is simply postcard-perfect. Indulge in thrilling aquatic activities, from snorkelling to kite surfing, with ideal conditions year-round. A little tidbit: if you love to surf, discover secret surf spots along the island's eastern coast that keep locals and tourists returning yearly. 

Prepare to be enthralled by the exquisite adventures awaiting you on one of the most serene islands in The Bahamas. By embracing your inner explorer, you can hike, swim, and dive around this breathtaking island…or simply revel in the pleasure of doing nothing at all. There’s more to discover about Cat Island than what we could cover here: stay at a charming family-owned inn, discover the flavours of a Bahamian fish fry, and kiteboard into the wild blue yonder.

For more information on Cat Island, visit https://www.bahamas.com/islands/cat-island.