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Andros Barrier Reef

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Andros Barrier Reef is the third-largest barrier reef in the world, stretching for an impressive 305 kilometers along the eastern coast of Andros Island. This massive coral ecosystem creates a natural boundary between the shallow, turquoise waters of the island shelf and the deep blue abyss of the 'Tongue of the Ocean,' a submarine canyon that plunges to depths exceeding 1,800 meters. The reef supports an incredible diversity of life, including over 160 species of fish and 60 species of coral, making it one of the most critical marine biodiversity hotspots in the Atlantic Ocean. Geologically, the reef is a living structure that has evolved over thousands of years through the growth of stony corals, such as elkhorn and staghorn varieties. Its significance to the Bahamas is both ecological and economic, as it protects the shoreline from erosion and provides a foundation for the local fishing and diving industries. Despite its vast size, the system is highly sensitive to climate change and ocean pollution, leading to much of it being placed under strict environmental protection. For scientists, the Andros Barrier Reef has unique opportunities to study the complex interactions between reef habitats and adjacent deep-sea environments.

Location: Bahamas
Nearby: Andros Town (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	23	24	25	27	28	29	29	29	27	25	24
Rain mm	35	34	41	65	137	166	146	170	178	125	64	39

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Andros Barrier Reef is an underwater nature reserve that can only be visited by boat or diving. The third largest barrier reef in the world gives spectacular coral formations and rich marine life.

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Typical hours

Diving and boat trips to the reef are typically operated during the day by local providers, often with morning departures. Best visibility is usually in the early morning before wind picks up.

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Photography

Underwater photography is obviously possible and very popular, but requires a waterproof camera or GoPro. Be careful not to touch the corals as they are fragile.

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Time needed

A typical diving trip to the reef takes about half a day, including boat transfer. Snorkeling trips are usually shorter, about two to three hours.

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Combine with

Combine the reef visit with exploring Andros island, especially the blue holes and mangrove forests. A visit to the Androsia Batik Factory is also recommended.

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Getting there

The Andros Barrier Reef lies off the east coast of Andros Island and is only accessible by boat. Most diving and snorkeling operators depart from Andros Town or Mangrove Cay.

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Insider tip

A valuable tip: Book your diving trip directly with a local operator on the island for the best deals. Ask about current visibility and current conditions.

Geography

Length

305 km

Coordinates

24.50000, -77.80000

Facts

The reef extends for a total length of approximately 305 kilometers (190 miles).
It ranks as the third-largest barrier reef system in the world.
The adjacent 'Tongue of the Ocean' trench drops to depths of over 1,800 meters (6,000 feet).
The ecosystem is home to over 160 documented species of fish and 60 coral species.
The reef is situated between 1.6 and 3 kilometers off the coast of Andros Island.
It provides a critical habitat for endangered species like the green sea turtle.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Fresh Creek6 km · EExplore →

Andros Crab Processing Plant6 km · NEExplore →

Coakley Cay Relief7 km · SEExplore →

Southern Bight (Andros)11 km · NWExplore →

Andros Mangrove Forests11 km · SExplore →

Crabbing on Andros18 km · SExplore →

Andros Island20 km · SExplore →

Kemp's Bay21 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

Vehicle

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

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Andros Barrier Reef?

It is the third largest barrier reef in the world, with a length of about 300 km.

What can you see there?

Hundreds of fish species, sharks, and impressive coral formations.

Can you go snorkeling from the beach?

No, the reef is about 1.5 to 3 km offshore; you need a boat.

Are there guided diving tours?

Yes, boats depart daily from Andros Town and other settlements to the reef.

Is the reef protected?

Parts of it belong to the Andros Barrier Reef National Park.

Andros Barrier Reef: where is it located?

Andros Barrier Reef is located in Bahamas.

Andros Barrier Reef: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Andros Barrier Reef: why is it worth visiting?

The Andros Barrier Reef is the third-largest barrier reef in the world, stretching for an impressive 305 kilometers along the eastern coast of Andros Island.

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