Our first time visiting Allan’s Pensacola Cay was in April of 2017. We enjoyed this island because it gave us great protection from 30 knot Easterlies for a few days while keeping us easily entertained. This island has it all – secluded anchorages, beautiful beaches, abundance of marine life, and light hiking trails. Plus lots of other areas to dinghy explore. Allan’s Pensacola Cay is a great stop to make and that’s why we’re back to enjoy it all over again during this sailing season!!
What is a Cay?
Many islands in the Bahamas are actually considered cays. These low-lying islands are difficult to see from afar and sometimes aren’t seen until low tide even. There are actually 700 islands/cays in the Bahamas.
Cay [key, kee] – a low island or reef of sand or coral.
Anchorages at Allan’s Pensacola Cay
The anchorages at Allan’s Pensacola Cay have plenty of room so no worries on being speedy to get here. There is plenty of sand to drop your hook into and will provide great holding for a day on shore. The main anchorage is entered from the Sea of Abaco and is the one you’ll see most boaters at due to it’s protection from east winds. Here’s a simple map I put together so you can enjoy some day hiking, relax on the beach, and leave your mark at The Signing Tree.
The Signing Tree
What sets this island apart from others is it’s immense amount of trash crashed in by the ocean’s waves. Although there is enough trash to make a tiny island landfill, instead it’s visitors pick it up to make fun, artsy, installations for others to see. Signing their names and hanging along the island paths and ocean frontage. It’s a sort-of interactive guestbook for the island’s boating friends. Quite a scene to see and very fun to visit.
Here’s a look at our little art installation at Allan’s Pensacola Cay. We started it on our last visit and added more this time. Looking forward to others adding too <3
Beaches
Each of the trails on Allan’s Pensacola Cay lead to a beautiful Ocean Beach. If you walk along the shore towards the other anchorage, you’ll see the ruins of an old missile tracking station. These ruins are only a foundation now but a trail leads you to a more secluded beach by the ocean side anchorage. We loved both, you will too!
Ocean Beach via Matty’s Trail or The Signing Tree Trail
Secluded Beach near Ruins at Ocean Side Anchorage
We stayed for a day here before heading South but had an amazing day hiking with the dogs and exploring this beautiful island. If you’ve been to Allan’s Pensacola Cay and have a unique story to share, leave us a comment below.
Cheers and thanks for reading!
