Andros Mangrove Forests

The mangrove forests of Andros constitute a vast and intricate ecosystem that dominates the coastal margins and internal waterways of the largest island in the Bahamas. This wilderness is primarily composed of Red, Black, and White mangroves, along with Buttonwood, each occupying distinct ecological niches based on salinity and tidal exposure. Geographically, these forests serve as a critical nursery for a myriad of marine species, including snappers, crawfish, and the economically vital bonefish, earning Andros its reputation as the 'Bonefishing Capital of the World.' The complex prop-root systems of the Red Mangroves are highly effective at preventing coastal erosion and acting as a natural buffer against the destructive forces of hurricane storm surges. Historically, these nearly impenetrable wetlands provided a safe haven for indigenous wildlife and served as a vital source of food and materials for early inhabitants. Today, vast sections are protected under the Central Andros National Park, one of the largest marine and terrestrial preserves in the country. The ecosystem is uniquely integrated with the island's famous inland 'blue holes,' as subterranean conduits often link the deep limestone caves to the mangrove swamps. Furthermore, these forests are significant carbon sinks, playing a vital role in global climate regulation. They also provide essential nesting sites for diverse avian populations, including herons, egrets, and the elusive roseate spoonbill. Preserving the integrity of the Andros mangroves is paramount to the ecological health of the entire Bahamian archipelago.

Nearby cities

Nicolls Town

A town on North Andros known for its giant land crabs.

Bullock's Harbour

The main settlement on the Berry Islands.

Kemp's Bay

A settlement in the southern part of Andros Island.

Long Bay Cays

An area of settlements in South Andros.

Congo Town

A settlement on South Andros Island.

Rocky Point

A remote fishing community in eastern Grand Bahama.

Wood Cay

A small island and settlement off the coast of Little Abaco.

Crown Haven

The northernmost settlement on the island of Great Abaco.

Pelican Point

A small coastal settlement on Grand Bahama.

Fox Town

A small settlement on Little Abaco Island.

McLean's Town

The easternmost settlement on the island of Grand Bahama.

Cephas

A very small settlement near Mount Pleasant on Abaco.

Mount Pleasant

A small rural community on mainland Abaco.

History & landmarks

Andros Barrier Reef

The third largest barrier reef in the world, perfect for diving.

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse

A historic maritime beacon on a private island in the Berry Islands.

Baha Mar Resort

A massive hotel and casino complex dominating the Cable Beach skyline.

Ocean Atlas Statue

The largest underwater sculpture in the world, depicting a local Bahamian girl.

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral

The first Catholic church built in the Bahamas, featuring impressive Gothic architecture.

Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts

A distinctive building that serves as the heart for theater and culture in the Bahamas.

Nature

Fresh Creek

A major tidal creek on Andros that leads deep inland and connects to blue holes.

Southern Bight (Andros)

An extensive network of tidal creeks that nearly divides South Andros in half.

Goose River

A wide tidal creek in North Andros that winds through mangrove forests.

Tongue of the Ocean

A deep oceanic trench between Andros and New Providence islands.

Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park

An important wetland area on New Providence, designated as a vital habitat for water birds.

More places

Coakley Cay Relief

A typical small cay within the Andros tidal creeks, demonstrating the complex topography of the region.

Andros Island

The largest island in the Bahamas, crisscrossed by tidal creeks and covered in vast pine forests.

Andros's West Coast Flats

A vast, uninhabited, and pristine wilderness of tidal flats, considered one of the world's best bonefishing areas.

Crabbing on Andros

Andros is the 'land crab capital' of The Bahamas.

Great Bahama Bank

A vast underwater carbonate platform known for its extremely shallow, turquoise waters.

Andros Crab Processing Plant

A processing plant for crabs and marine products from Andros.

The Berry Islands' Sand Flats

The Berry Islands are renowned for their vast, white sand flats exposed at low tide, creating an angler's paradise.

Goulding Cay Forest

A small cay off the west coast of New Providence with a dense, pristine dry forest.