The Abacos are a chain of islands and cays, shaped like a boomerang, which stretches nearly 130 miles between Walker's Cay to the north and Hole-In-The-Wall to the south. The configuration of the islands and cays create naturally protected waters, which are more commonly referred to as the Sea of Abaco. This is a favored cruising ground for casual boaters and yachtsmen, many of whom travel great distances to sail these waters. The sheltered harbors create a haven for yachtsmen. Abaco is known as a "Sailor's Nirvana" and as the "Sailing Capital of the World.

There are five populated Cays of major importance: Walker's Cay; Green Turtle Cay; Great Guana Cay; Man-O-War Cay and Elbow Cay. The Abacos were scarcely populated until the late 18th century, when the non-Indian population began to expand. While the colonial towns are a quaint example of New England architecture, the real attraction is the water.

The fishing is excellent throughout the Abacos. Fishermen come from all over the world to Walker's Cay, Treasure Cay, Green Turtle Cay and Marsh Harbor for summer fishing tournaments. The marlin, tuna and sailfish are common record holders and the deep-sea fishing is only a short boat ride away where the drop-off from the reef into the Atlantic is very steep. Charters are plentiful. The best time for Blue Marlin, Blue Tuna and Mahi Mahi is from April to July and King Mackerel is plentiful from January to April. Bone fishing has become popular among the Bahamas Islands. Guides will pole flat-bottomed boats through the flats for the anglers or the truly dedicated will wade. These fish school in the hundreds and are quick, strong and real fighters. A sport fish only!! Don't try to eat them as they live up to their name.

The Bahamian reefs are beautiful and the best way to become familiar with them if you are an inexperienced diver is by snorkeling. There are caverns to explore and unique ocean life to view. Barracuda, bonefish, spotted rays and coral clusters are all part of the wonders to be experienced. You can either go out on a guided tour or venture out on your own from your hotel or any public beach.

For the beginner and expert diver alike, the variety of islands in the Bahamas offers many unique diving experiences. There are the Catacombs, a sun-dappled cavern filled with colorful tropical fish. A series of winding caverns with clouds of shining Silversides, called the Coral Caverns, are a divers paradise. There are many beautiful reefs to explore such as The Towers. Imagine 60 ft. tall huge coral pinnacles, pierced with tunnels and caverns!! Then there is Grouper Alley, where many tunnels cut through a monstrous coral head in 40-foot depths. Tarpon Reef provides a home for schools of Tarpon and a huge Green Moray. Wayne's World is an outside tour of the barrier reef in 70 feet of water. While there, don't forget to check out the wreck of the San Jacinto, a large steamship from 1865 that sunk in 40 feet of water. Just like being inside your own personal tropical fish tank. If you have never been diving before, don't despair!!! There are three different ways you can learn to dive in the Bahamas: A resort course, which teaches safety and the basics but is not a certification course; A resort referral program, which can help you complete your certification; and a full certification course, complete with books and exams.

If you love sailing, diving, fishing or just exploring, the Hemingwayesque Abacos is for you.