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Mount Cauldwell
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Mount Cauldwell is the highest elevation on Little San Salvador, an island primarily known today as Half Moon Cay, situated between Eleuthera and Cat Island. Rising to approximately 121 feet (37 meters) above sea level, it stands as one of the most significant topographical landmarks in the generally low-lying Bahamian archipelago. Geologically, the hill is composed of ancient oolitic limestone formed during previous interglacial periods. From its summit, visitors can view the island's iconic horseshoe-shaped bay and the extensive reef systems that surround the cay. While the island is currently used as a private destination for cruise lines, the area around Mount Cauldwell is maintained as a natural preserve. The hillside vegetation consists of salt-tolerant shrubs and several species of wild orchids unique to the region. Historically, this peak served as an essential navigational aid for sailors traversing the challenging waters of the Exuma Sound.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: Colonel Hill · Crooked Island, Bahamas
- Nearby: Lovely Bay (10 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 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 20 | 20 | 30 | 69 | 53 | 37 | 46 | 65 | 101 | 73 | 33 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This prominent elevation is quite easily accessible via the main roads of Crooked Island, with very short footpaths leading straight to the top. The approach is entirely straightforward with rental cars.
Best season
Visiting is generally pleasant year-round, though it is usually best to gracefully avoid the peak hurricane season from August to October. Clear days enthusiastically offer the most spectacular sweeping views.
Terrain & paths
The area pleasantly features mild coastal elevations, rocky limestone outcrops, and the incredibly typical Bahamian coastal scrub vegetation. The ground can be slightly uneven and somewhat sharp in spots.
What to bring
Light and highly breathable clothing, simple but closed walking shoes, and sufficient drinking water are typically all that is needed. High-quality sunscreen and sunglasses greatly increase comfort.
Parking
Visitors can normally find very convenient pull-offs right along the island's main road near the gentle base of the hill. Parking is delightfully informal and requires absolutely no special fees.
Safety
The midday sun can become fiercely intense, and the sharp limestone rocks require visitors to carefully watch their footing. Staying properly hydrated is key to preventing heat-related dizziness.
Time needed
Taking in the sweeping panoramic views and thoroughly completing the short relaxing walk generally requires no more than one to two leisurely hours.
Geography
Facts
- Mount Cauldwell reaches a maximum elevation of approximately 121 feet.
- The hill is located on the island of Little San Salvador (Half Moon Cay).
- It is geologically composed of fossilized sand dunes known as eolianite.
- The summit provides a vantage point over the entire 2,400-acre island.
- The surrounding area is home to more than 30 documented bird species.
- It is designated as a protected natural feature within the island's preserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mount Cauldwell located?
This is the highest point on Crooked Island in the Bahamas.
How high is Mount Cauldwell?
It is about 47 meters high, which is significant for the flat Bahamas.
Can you climb the hill?
Yes, it's more of a hike than a climb, but the path can be overgrown.
What do you see from the summit?
You have a panoramic view over the island and the surrounding coral lagoons.
Do you need a guide?
A local guide is recommended to find the best way through the thicket.
Mount Cauldwell: where is it located?
Mount Cauldwell is located in Bahamas.
Mount Cauldwell: what is there to see?
Highlights include Colonel Hill, Crooked Island, Bahamas.
Mount Cauldwell: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Mount Cauldwell: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Cauldwell is the highest elevation on Little San Salvador, an island primarily known today as Half Moon Cay, situated between Eleuthera and Cat Island.
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History & landmarks
Nature
More places
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Crooked Island's Limestone Hills
A series of low-lying limestone hills that traverse Crooked Island, creating varied topography.
Salt House Ruins on Crooked Island
The remains of buildings used to store salt before it was shipped from Crooked Island.
High Cay (Acklins) Relief
A small, elevated cay off the coast of Acklins, providing a contrast to the surrounding low-lying area.
Bight of Acklins
A large, shallow lagoon enclosed by Acklins, Crooked Island, and Long Cay.
Cotton Gin Mill Ruin
The remains of a mill on Acklins used for processing cotton during the plantation era.
San Salvador's Inland Lakes
The interior of San Salvador is dotted with a network of hyper-saline lakes and ponds, creating a unique ecosystem.
Farquharson's Plantation Ruins
The ruins of a Loyalist plantation on San Salvador, also known as 'Blackbeard's Castle'.
San Salvador West Coast
The sheltered western coast of San Salvador, renowned for its spectacular wall dives.