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Spanish Wells, Eleuthera, Bahamas
History
A short water taxi ride from North Eleuthera is St. George's Cay and Spanish Wells, the quiet corner of the Bahamas.
The Spanish conquistadors designated it the final landing point before attempting the big crossing back to their homeland, loaded down with the riches of the New World.
It was here that they sunk a well to provide their ships with a final load of potable water for the arduous last leg of their journey.
Most of the people indeed are European - true blonde-haired, blue-eyed descendants of the original Eleutheran Adventurers who still draw sustenance from the sea the way their forefathers did over three hundred years ago. Today, the island is the most prosperous of all the Bahamian islands outside New Providence. Their secret? A modern commercial fishing fleet specializing in Bahamian lobster for shipment to restaurants in Florida, Nassau, and Freeport.
Today's descendants of early seafarers are known for their expert seamanship. They make excellent guides and diving instructors.
For a peek into the islands' history and culture, be sure to visit the exhibits at the Spanish Wells museum.
Getting to Spanish Wells
There are two convenient ways to get to Spanish Wells. You can take Bahamas Fast Ferries from Nassau, Bahamas right to Spanish Wells. Or, you can fly from Florida or from Nassau to Northern Eleuthera. Northern Eleuthera airport is a short land and water taxi brings you to Spanish Wells.
Things to do on Spanish Wells
Spanish Wells is a charming and peaceful island where you will escape the throngs of tourists and commercialism. It is not atypical to have miles of stretches of beach to yourself. The locals take pride in their island whose economy is based on a thriving lobster industry. While you may just want to relax with a book and look out over the beautiful view from your beach front, there are many things to do including:
- Beachcombing
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Kayaking
- Kite Sailing
- World class fly fishing for bone fish
- Spear fishing for lobster and other eating fish
- Deep sea fishing - marlin, sword fish, tuna, mahi mahi, etc.
- Bottom fishing for tasty snapper and grouper
- Exploring local uninhabited islands and beaches for shells and treasures
- Explore Island by Golf Cart
- Shopping
- Day trip to Harbour Island on Bohengy fast ferry
- Enjoy local lobster, conch and other island delights at a number of restaurants
- Visit the island museum
Lobster
Spanish Wells is the lobster capital of the Caribbean. You can buy lobster tails from the local fisherman at reasonable prices. Or you can even try your hand at spear fishing for them in local waters. For a great lobster thermador recipe, click here.
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