Acklins and Crooked Island are two of four islands that form an atoll hugging the crystal clear shallow waters of the Bight of Acklins. Nearby, Castle Island and Long Cay are virtually uninhabited and all four of the islands are as natural as they were when the Bahamas were first "discovered". What makes these islands so special is their natural state and sense of history.

The Crooked Island Passage, which today serves as an important route for steam ships traveling from Europe to Central and South America, was reputedly sailed by Columbus. Referred to locally as "the going through", this seaway became a convenient base for buccaneers and pirates who attacked ships in these shallow waters, earning it a notorious reputation. Off the southwest tip of Acklins, Castle Island has a very conspicuous lighthouse that was once used as the retreat of pirates who attacked ships in the nearby passage. When sailing, you may want to check out the Mira Por islets and the Samana Cays. On Crooked Island, the Bird Rock Lighthouse built in 1872 stands on the cliffs at the northern entrance of the Crooked Island Passage. Christopher Columbus was said to have anchored here for a short period.

American Loyalists began to settle here in the late 1700's, bringing these islands out of virtual obscurity. They came to start a cotton industry, albeit short-lived. Bringing slaves and money, by the 19th Century these Loyalists had more than 40 plantations and over 1200 slaves. Soil depletion and Emancipation made the cotton industry uneconomical so sponge diving became the cornerstone of the Island's economy. A fungus soon destroyed the sponges so the inhabitants now earn their living by fishing and simple farming.

Acklins is one of the least known of the Bahama Islands. It is located at the southern and southeastern part of the chain. Its terrain is desolate and hilly with obscure rock formations, varied plant and animal life. You will even see an occasional swamp turtle. Along the coastline, there are many beautiful beaches, hidden coves and small, colorful villages. The island is very quiet and you can hear the tropical breezes blowing. The natives say that you "make your own sunshine", meaning that you are "on your own". A very laid back place, ideal for a relaxing get-away.

Crooked Island, fragrant with native herbs and flowers, inspired Columbus to call it "one of the fragrant islands". He christened the island "Isabella" after his queen. The Awawaks called it "Semoete". Today, Crooked Island is the more functional and well known name for this small piece of fragrant land. The natural resources are many. Brightly colored tropical birds thrive on the cliffs and reefs and magnificent limestone caves hold the mysteries of the past. The shelves, coral gardens and reefs make for a diver's paradise, while the deep creeks, tidal flats and pools filled with fish make it a game fisherman's delight. And for those who enjoy simply laying back and basking in the sun, there are miles of clean, white sand beaches and crystal clear water.