Plan a day trip to Elbow Cay.

A day trip to Hope Town is one of those experiences that feels effortless but unforgettable.

With its candy-striped lighthouse, pastel cottages, and golf-cart-only charm, it’s the kind of place that slows you down the moment you arrive. Here’s exactly how to do it right—from getting there to making the most of every hour.

Getting There: Start from Marsh Harbour

Most day trips to Hope Town begin in Marsh Harbour, the main hub of the Abaco Islands. If you’re staying elsewhere in Abaco, you’ll likely connect through here.

From Marsh Harbour, hop on a ferry to Elbow Cay.

• G & L Ferry (the only ferry service) Here's the schedule

The ride is about 20–25 minutes, and the views alone are worth it—turquoise water, boats drifting by, and that first glimpse of the lighthouse as you approach.

First Stop: The Lighthouse

Once you arrive, your first move should be heading straight to the iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse. Visiting is free but there is a donation box so be generous.

• It’s the last manually operated kerosene lighthouses in the world.

• You can climb to the top (yes, it’s a workout—but worth it).

• The view is unreal—Harbour on one side,Sea of Abaco on the other.

• There are no roads to the lighthouse but there's a few tricks to checking it out. Tell the ferry captain that you want go visit the lighthouse and they will stop to the Gas dock there and yiu can walk from there. When you're ready to leave, check the ferry schedule and you can get a ride across the harbour with an incoming ferry. Another great travel hack is... from in the settlement Hope Town Inn and Marina has a shuttle constantly shuffling around the harbour picking up lunch guests. You can gate a ride to their resort and have lunch or a drink and you cna walk to the lighthouse from there. When you get back to the resort it'll probably be time for a refreshing drink. The shuttle will take you back across the harbour when you're ready.

Getting Around: Golf Cart Life

Hope Town is small, but to really enjoy it, rent a golf cart.

• Easy to drive and park anywhere

• Lets you explore beaches, restaurants, and hidden corners

• Adds to that laid-back island vibe

Walking is doable, but a cart gives you freedom to see more in a single day. Here is a linkt o the only short term golf cart company. (book well in advance for sure) Loyalist Carts

Take an Audio Tour and learn about the history of Hope Town. Here's a link

Beach Time: Atlantic Side Bliss

Hope Town has some of the prettiest beaches in the Bahamas, especially on the Atlantic side.

Top spots:

• Garbanzo Beach – wide, breezy, great for long walks

• On Da Beach area – perfect for grabbing a drink with your toes in the sand

• North End beaches – quieter, more secluded

The water here is usually more energetic than the Sea of Abaco side—perfect if you like waves and that deep blue colour.

Lunch with a View

After some exploring, it’s time to eat. Hope Town has several solid options depending on your vibe:

• Casual beachfront – burgers, conch fritters, frozen drinks

• Harbour-side spots – great views of boats and pastel houses

• Resort dining – a bit more upscale but still relaxed

Take your time—this isn’t a rushed lunch kind of place.

Wander the Village

Post-lunch, slow it down and explore the village itself.

• Narrow streets lined with colorful cottages

• Little shops with local art and souvenirs and sail bags

• Dock views that feel straight out of a postcard

This is where Hope Town really shines—no cars, no chaos, just charm.

Afternoon Drinks & Chill

Before heading back, grab a drink somewhere overlooking the water.

Whether it’s a frozen cocktail or a cold Kalik, this is your “pause and take it all in” moment.

Heading Back

Plan your return ferry ahead of time—you don’t want to miss the last one.

Late afternoon or early evening departures are ideal. The light at that time makes everything even more beautiful on the ride back.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Day

• Go early – more time, less heat

• Bring cash – not everywhere takes cards

• Pack light – swimsuit, sunscreen, flip flops

• Check ferry schedules the day before

• Stay flexible – the best moments here aren’t planned

Why It’s Worth It

A day trip to Hope Town gives you a perfect slice of the Out Islands without needing a full overnight stay. It’s relaxed but never boring, scenic without trying too hard, and just different enough to feel like a true escape.

If you’re anywhere in Abaco, skipping Hope Town would honestly be a mistake.

Interactive Map of Elbow Cay