Peterson Cay National Park
A small, rocky island paradise with vibrant coral reefs and a secluded beach, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Peterson Cay National Park
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, rocky island paradise with vibrant coral reefs and a secluded beach, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
"ABSOLUTELY STUNNING, A MUST SEE IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME TO THE BAHAMAS."
Snorkel Gear Check
Ensure your snorkel gear is in good condition before heading out. Some cruise operators may provide subpar equipment. :diving_mask:
Tide Chart is Key
Check the tide charts! High tide offers better water visibility for exploring the reefs. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Surrounding Peterson Cay
Explore a kaleidoscope of colorful coral formations teeming with diverse marine life. A must-see for snorkelers and divers.
Secluded Beach Paradise
Peterson Cay
Relax on a pristine, secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a tranquil escape and sunbathing.
Abundant Marine Life
Underwater around Peterson Cay
Swim alongside graceful turtles, colorful parrotfish, and schools of grunts in this thriving underwater sanctuary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Visibility
Protecting the Reefs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Snorkel Gear Check
Ensure your snorkel gear is in good condition before heading out. Some cruise operators may provide subpar equipment. :diving_mask:
Tide Chart is Key
Check the tide charts! High tide offers better water visibility for exploring the reefs. :world_map:
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the delicate coral by using reef-safe sunscreen. :sunwithface:
Consider a Tour Guide
A local guide can enhance your experience, pointing out turtles and the best reef spots. :guide_dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Snorkel Gear Check
Ensure your snorkel gear is in good condition before heading out. Some cruise operators may provide subpar equipment. :diving_mask:
Tide Chart is Key
Check the tide charts! High tide offers better water visibility for exploring the reefs. :world_map:
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the delicate coral by using reef-safe sunscreen. :sunwithface:
Consider a Tour Guide
A local guide can enhance your experience, pointing out turtles and the best reef spots. :guide_dog:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on the cay, so pack essentials. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Peterson Cay National Park is lauded for its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life, offering fantastic snorkeling and a beautiful secluded beach. While some visitors note recent impacts on water visibility due to nearby dredging, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and the chance to see diverse sea creatures. It's considered a must-see for first-time visitors to the Bahamas.
"It's about a mile off coast, with great snorkeling around a little island. Due to dredging happening nearby for the new carnival cruise terminal, water visibility is about 5 feet, and will probably kill the coral before too long. See it while you can, there's still some amazing coral and life to see there. If you arrive during high tide there is a little more to see."
jordan resnick
"Beautiful reefs and crystal-clear water full of sea life. We had a great time here with the family snorkeling and hanging out on the secluded beach. I would return the next time we are in the area. Be careful about the shallow waters and use charts."
Jason
"ABSOLUTELY STUNNING, A MUST SEE IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME TO THE BAHAMAS. Have a tour guide from the dock at Lucayan Market take you out here if you can. There's beautiful turtles to swim with and a colorful reef to see."
Leah Huber
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Peterson Cay is a small island located about a mile off the coast of Grand Bahama. The most common way to reach it is by boat from the Lucayan Market area in Freeport. Many local tour operators offer boat trips and excursions to the cay. Some visitors have also mentioned taking fast ferries from Florida to the Bahamas and then arranging local transport.
Absolutely! Peterson Cay is a popular destination for day trips, especially for those visiting Freeport. You can arrange a boat trip from the mainland for a few hours of snorkeling and beach time.
Public transport directly to Peterson Cay is not available as it's an island. You'll need to arrange boat transportation from the mainland, typically from the Lucayan Market area.
Peterson Cay is located approximately one mile off the coast of Freeport, Grand Bahama. This makes it an easily accessible destination for a short boat ride.
While there are fast ferry services to the Bahamas from Florida, these do not go directly to Peterson Cay. You would need to arrange local boat transportation from Freeport to reach the cay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Peterson Cay is a National Park, there isn't typically a formal ticket booth for entry to the cay itself. However, you will need to pay for boat transportation to get there, and some tour operators may include park fees in their package.
As an island park, Peterson Cay doesn't have strict opening and closing hours like a land-based attraction. Access is generally determined by the availability of boat services from the mainland, which usually operate during daylight hours.
The primary cost associated with visiting Peterson Cay is the boat transportation to get there. Prices can vary depending on the operator and the duration of your trip, but expect to pay for the round trip.
It's advisable to book your boat tour to Peterson Cay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and ensure availability.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment. Avoid touching coral, and ensure you take all your trash with you. Some areas might have depth considerations for swimming.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Peterson Cay is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities due to its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. You can also enjoy relaxing on the secluded beach, bird watching, and swimming in the clear waters.
Yes, Peterson Cay offers fantastic snorkeling. The surrounding reefs are home to colorful corals, sea fans, and a variety of fish. Visibility can be best during high tide.
You can expect to see a diverse range of marine life, including colorful reef fish like parrotfish and grunts, sea turtles, and various invertebrates.
Peterson Cay is a natural park with minimal facilities. It's best to bring your own water, snacks, and any other necessities you might need, as there are no vendors on the island.
Yes, Peterson Cay can be great for families. The shallow, clear waters near the beach are good for younger children, and snorkeling can be an exciting activity for older kids. Ensure supervision and appropriate safety measures.
📸 📸 Photography
The underwater world around Peterson Cay offers incredible photo opportunities with its colorful coral and marine life. The secluded beach also provides a picturesque backdrop for beach photography.
Absolutely! Peterson Cay is a prime location for underwater photography. Bring an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case to capture the vibrant reefs and sea creatures.
For underwater shots, an action camera like a GoPro or a dedicated underwater camera is ideal. For above-water shots, a standard digital camera or smartphone will work well to capture the scenic beauty.
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, schools of fish swimming through the coral, and the unique textures of the coral formations. The clear water often provides excellent lighting conditions.
Morning light, especially during high tide, can offer the clearest water and beautiful lighting for both underwater and above-water photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic light shafts underwater.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family outing, consider booking a boat trip with a reputable local operator who can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Bringing kid-friendly snacks and plenty of water is crucial, as there are no facilities on the cay. Don't forget sun protection for everyone, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture those memorable family moments exploring the reefs.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
To maximize your experience, pay close attention to the tide charts; high tide generally provides the best visibility for spotting the intricate details of the coral and the movement of fish. Bringing your own high-quality snorkeling gear is highly recommended to ensure comfort and clarity underwater.
☀️ Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
While the focus is often on the underwater attractions, don't underestimate the simple pleasure of relaxing on the cay's shores. Pack a good book, a towel, and enjoy the natural beauty. Remember to bring your own refreshments as amenities are scarce, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
While the park is celebrated for its marine biodiversity, some recent observations suggest potential impacts from nearby dredging for a new cruise terminal. This has led to reduced water visibility in some areas, with reports of around 5 feet. Despite this, many visitors still find the coral and marine life to be amazing and worth seeing. It's a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these delicate underwater environments.
When planning your snorkeling or diving adventure, ensure you have reliable gear. Some travelers have cautioned against relying solely on equipment provided by certain cruise operators, recommending visitors bring their own or ensure the provided gear is in good condition. This proactive approach can significantly enhance your underwater experience and safety.
Planning Your Day Trip Adventure
Many visitors opt to book their excursion through local tour operators who can provide boat transport and sometimes even guided tours. These guides can offer valuable insights into the local marine life and point out the best spots for snorkeling. Some day passes to resorts like the Grand Lucayan Resort can also be purchased, which might include excursions or transport options.
Remember that Peterson Cay is a natural park with limited amenities. It's essential to pack all your essentials, including water, snacks, sunscreen (reef-safe, of course!), and any personal items you might need. This preparation ensures a comfortable and enjoyable day exploring the cay's natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit