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Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs

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Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)

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Long Island is a 130-kilometer-long landmass that exhibits a dramatic contrast between its leeward and windward shores. The eastern coast is dominated by rugged Atlantic cliffs, some of the highest in the Bahamas, which have been sculpted by the relentless energy of the ocean waves. These limestone formations rise steeply from the sea, providing a stark boundary between the island's interior and the deep Atlantic basin. Near the northern tip, Cape Santa Maria was named after Christopher Columbus's flagship during his 1492 voyage. The island is also home to Dean's Blue Hole, the world's second-deepest saltwater sinkhole, plunging 202 meters into the subterranean karst system. Geologically, the cliffs are composed of lithified sand dunes from the Pleistocene era, showing distinct layers of sedimentary deposition. Historically, the elevated terrain served as a landmark for early maritime explorers navigating the Lucayan archipelago. Today, the cliffs are a site of significant geological interest, offering insights into long-term erosion patterns and sea-level changes. The area also supports unique coastal flora that has adapted to the salt spray and high-wind environment of the Atlantic front.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242425252628292929282726
Rain mm2920213674654957751076432

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Reaching these dramatic eastern cliffs typically involves navigating unpaved local roads or walking paths from the main highway of the island. Hiring a local guide or using a sturdy vehicle is often recommended to safely access the best coastal viewpoints.
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Best season
The most favorable conditions are generally found during the drier months from winter through early spring, avoiding the peak hurricane season. Clear skies during this period provide the best visibility for admiring the steep drop-offs into the Atlantic.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape here is rugged and uneven, characterized by rocky limestone formations and steep, unguarded drops directly into the turbulent ocean. Visitors should expect to traverse jagged surfaces where well-defined hiking trails may not always be present.
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What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are essential for safely navigating the sharp and uneven rocky surfaces along the cliff edges. It is also wise to bring a windbreaker, as the Atlantic breezes can be surprisingly strong, along with ample drinking water.
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Parking
Dedicated parking lots are extremely rare; visitors typically leave their vehicles at the end of dirt tracks or in small clearings near the access points. Ensure your car is parked safely away from any eroding edges and does not block paths used by locals.
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Safety
Extreme caution is required near the cliff edges, as strong ocean winds and unstable, crumbly rocks pose a significant risk of slipping or falling. There are no guardrails or lifeguards in these remote areas, making self-awareness and careful footing absolutely critical.
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Time needed
Most travelers spend roughly one to two hours exploring the coastline, taking photographs, and taking in the powerful views of the crashing waves. This time frame allows for a leisurely appreciation of the dramatic geology without venturing too far into uncharted, rugged terrain.

Geography

Coordinates
23.10000, -75.00000

Facts

  • Long Island stretches approximately 80 miles in length but is only 4 miles wide.
  • Dean's Blue Hole is 202 meters deep, making it one of the world's deepest.
  • Cape Santa Maria was visited by Christopher Columbus in October 1492.
  • The Atlantic cliffs reach heights of over 30 meters above the breaking waves.
  • The island was originally called "Yuma" by the indigenous Lucayan people.
  • St. Mary's Catholic Church in the area dates back to the late 19th century.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dean's Blue HoleDean's Blue Hole2 km · SExplore →
Clarence TownClarence Town2 km · NExplore →
Port St. GeorgePort St. George3 km · WExplore →
Long Island Salt WorksLong Island Salt Works4 km · NEExplore →
CecilCecil6 km · SEExplore →
Addersley's CastleAddersley's Castle10 km · NWExplore →
Deadman's Cay Agri DepotDeadman's Cay Agri Depot10 km · SExplore →
Long Island MuseumLong Island Museum13 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (3)

Dean's Blue Hole📍 landmark

A deep, circular ocean sinkhole off Long Island, surrounded by steep cliffs and clear water.

Vertical Blue📍 landmark

An annual freediving competition held at Dean's Blue Hole, attracting athletes globally.

Clarence Town📍 landmark

A small settlement on Long Island, featuring a natural harbor and historic churches.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where are the cliffs on Long Island?
They stretch along the east side, which faces the open Atlantic Ocean.
How high are the cliffs?
In some places like Columbus Point, they rise over 30 meters steeply from the sea.
Is it windy there?
Yes, the trade winds hit the coast here unchecked.
Can you hike there safely?
Yes, but keep your distance from the edge, as the ground can be crumbly.
What is the most famous landmark?
The Columbus Monument on the northern cliffs provides the best view.
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs: where is it located?
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs is located in Bahamas.
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs: what is there to see?
Highlights include Dean's Blue Hole, Vertical Blue, Clarence Town.
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs: why is it worth visiting?
Long Island is a 130-kilometer-long landmass that exhibits a dramatic contrast between its leeward and windward shores.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Clarence Town — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Clarence Town
The picturesque capital of Long Island.
Port St. George — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Port St. George
A planned but never fully realized settlement on Long Island.
Cecil — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Cecil
A small residential settlement on Long Island.
🗺️
Hard Bargain
A small settlement in southern Long Island.
Deadman's Cay — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Deadman's Cay
A large settlement on Long Island with an airport.
🗺️
McKann's
A settlement in the middle of Long Island.
Gordon's — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Gordon's
The southernmost settlement on Long Island.
Simms — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Simms
A settlement in the northern part of Long Island.
Dunmore — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Dunmore
A small settlement on Long Island.
Mortimer's — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Mortimer's
A settlement at the northern tip of Long Island.

History & landmarks

Cape Santa Maria Beach — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Cape Santa Maria Beach
One of the world's most beautiful beaches at the northern tip of Long Island.

More places

St. Peter's and St. Paul's Catholic Church — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
St. Peter's and St. Paul's Catholic Church
One of Father Jerome's twin churches in Clarence Town.
Long Island Salt Works — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Long Island Salt Works
A salt operation continuing the island's traditional production.
Addersley's Castle — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Addersley's Castle
The ruins of a house on Long Island, erroneously called a 'castle', dating back to the plantation era.
Deadman's Cay Agri Depot — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Deadman's Cay Agri Depot
A transfer point for agricultural goods in southern Long Island.
Lucayan Indian Burial Ground — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Lucayan Indian Burial Ground
A significant archaeological site where the remains of the original inhabitants of The Bahamas were found.
Long Island Museum — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Long Island Museum
A museum dedicated to the rich history and culture of Long Island.
Addison's Plantation — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Addison's Plantation
Ruins of a Loyalist-era plantation on Long Island.
Livestock Farming on Long Island — Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs (Bahamas)
Livestock Farming on Long Island
Long Island is known for its goat and sheep farming, which is an important part of the local agriculture and cuisine.