Sea Grape Harvesting

The harvesting of the sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera) is a cherished seasonal tradition in the Bahamas, typically occurring during the late summer months of August and September. This highly salt-tolerant woody plant thrives in the wild along sandy coastlines and dunes throughout the archipelago, serving an essential ecological role in coastal stabilization and erosion control. The fruits develop in pendulous clusters resembling traditional grapes, transitioning from green to a spirited purple or deep red upon reaching maturity. Local residents often forage these clusters by hand, consuming the sweet yet tangy berries fresh or processing them into artisanal delicacies such as sea grape jelly, wine, and preserves. Beyond its culinary uses, the sea grape is a staple in Bahamian ethnomedicine, with its large, leathery leaves and bark being utilized to treat various ailments. The plant also supports local biodiversity, providing a primary food source and nesting habitat for native bird species and insects. Characterized by its broad, nearly circular leaves with prominent red veins, the sea grape tree is a distinctive feature of the Bahamian landscape. The annual harvest remains a significant cultural event that strengthens the community's connection to the land and historical foraging practices.

Nearby cities

Freetown

A settlement on Grand Bahama, east of Freeport.

West End

The oldest town on Grand Bahama and the island's capital.

McLean's Town

The easternmost settlement on the island of Grand Bahama.

Pelican Point

A small coastal settlement on Grand Bahama.

Rocky Point

A remote fishing community in eastern Grand Bahama.

History & landmarks

Port Lucaya Marketplace

The largest shopping, dining, and entertainment center on Grand Bahama.

Gardens of the Groves

A beautiful botanical garden in Freeport with waterfalls and native wildlife.

Lucayan National Park

A park on Grand Bahama featuring one of the longest underwater cave systems.

Great Isaac Lighthouse

A historic cast-iron lighthouse surrounded by numerous ghost stories.

Bimini Road

Underwater rock formation that some believe is part of Atlantis.

Dolphin House Museum

A unique art house on Bimini, built out of shells and recycled materials.

SS Sapona Shipwreck

A visible wreck of a concrete ship south of Bimini that became a famous dive destination.

Nature

Goose River

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

More places

Granny's Pool

A sheltered, shallow sea pool said to have been created by an early settler for her grandchildren.

Rand Nature Centre

A 100-acre nature preserve in Freeport that serves as a major birding site and educational center.

Grand Bahama Shipyard

A major facility for ship repair and marine services.

Port Lucaya Marina

A marina harbor for tourism, provisioning, and leisure traffic.

Dolphins at Sanctuary Bay

A large, naturalistic facility in Freeport where visitors can interact with Atlantic spotted dolphins.

Grand Bahama's Pine Barrens

Vast tracts of Caribbean pine forest that cover much of the interior of Grand Bahama.

Little Bahama Bank

Another large carbonate platform north of Grand Bahama, known for its sand flats and coral reefs.

Walker's Cay National Park

The northernmost island in The Bahamas, a legendary sport-fishing destination protected as a national park.