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Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse is a prominent maritime landmark located on the northern end of Great Stirrup Cay in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. Built in 1863 by the British Imperial Lighthouse Service, the lighthouse was established to aid vessels navigating through the Northwest Providence Channel, a vital corridor for shipping between Europe and the Americas. The tower stands 24 meters tall and features a white circular design, originally housing a fixed light that has since been modernized and automated. Historically, the lighthouse served as a lonely outpost for keepers who maintained the light to protect sailors from the treacherous nearby reefs and shoals. Today, Great Stirrup Cay is well-known as a private destination for cruise lines, yet the historic lighthouse remains a central feature, symbolizing the island's nautical heritage. While its primary role has shifted with the advent of satellite navigation, the structure stands as a well-preserved example of Victorian-era engineering and colonial maritime infrastructure in the Caribbean.

Location: Bahamas
Nearby: Bullock's Harbour (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	23	23	24	26	28	29	29	29	27	25	24
Rain mm	47	41	52	64	116	152	133	147	185	120	60	44

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse is on a private island in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. The island is used by cruise ships as a private beach. The lighthouse is accessible to passengers, but the interior is usually closed.

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Typical hours

The island is open only on days when a cruise ship docks. Opening hours follow the ship's schedule. Typically, access is possible from morning until late afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is allowed on the entire island. The lighthouse provides a popular photo subject against the turquoise sea. Sunsets are especially photogenic.

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Time needed

Stay duration on the island is limited by the ship's schedule, typically 4-6 hours. For the lighthouse and beach activities, allocate about 1-2 hours. Time varies by cruise.

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Combine with

The island also gives water sports, snorkeling, and beach bars. Combine the lighthouse visit with these leisure activities. The entire island is designed for cruise passengers.

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Getting there

The island is reachable only by cruise ship or private yacht. No public ferries exist. Travel is arranged through the cruise line.

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Insider tip

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera. The lighthouse is a popular selfie spot; go early to avoid crowds. Alcohol is available on the island.

Geography

Coordinates

25.82670, -77.90420

Facts

Erected in 1863 by the British Imperial Lighthouse Service.
The white circular tower reaches a height of 24 meters (80 feet).
Strategically placed to guard the Northwest Providence Channel.
Modernized to run automatically with solar power in recent years.
Part of a private island managed by Norwegian Cruise Line since 1977.
Guided ships through treacherous reefs for over 150 years.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bullock's Harbour8 km · NExplore →

The Berry Islands' Sand Flats12 km · NExplore →

Nicolls Town21 km · SWExplore →

Bahamas Agricultural Research Centre21 km · NEExplore →

Crabbing on Andros27 km · WExplore →

Coakley Cay Relief27 km · WExplore →

Wood Cay29 km · NEExplore →

Fresh Creek29 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse (1)

Great Stirrup Cay📍 landmark

Private island in the Bahamas featuring a lighthouse and sandy beaches, part of the Berry Islands.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the lighthouse built?

The Great Stirrup Cay lighthouse was originally built in 1863.

Can you visit the lighthouse?

Visitors can view the exterior; the tower itself is usually closed to the public.

Where exactly is the lighthouse located?

It is located on the private island of Great Stirrup Cay, often visited by cruise ships.

Is the lighthouse still operational?

Yes, it is automated and continues to serve as a navigational aid for ships.

What should you bring for the visit?

Bring a camera for photos and sun protection, as there is little shade in the area.

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse: where is it located?

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse is located in Bahamas.

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?

The Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse is a prominent maritime landmark located on the northern end of Great Stirrup Cay in the Berry Islands, Bahamas.

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