Last updated: May 2026
The best things to do on Elbow Cay include climbing the candy-striped Hope Town lighthouse, swimming at Tahiti Beach and its famous sandbar, snorkeling the reefs, wandering the car-free village of pastel cottages, and enjoying fresh seafood at dockside restaurants.
Climb the Hope Town lighthouse
The red-and-white striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse is one of the last manually operated, kerosene-burning lighthouses in the world. Climb to the top for the best view of Hope Town harbour and the Atlantic beyond.
Spend a day at Tahiti Beach
At the southern tip of Elbow Cay, Tahiti Beach is a shallow, palm-fringed sandbar that all but disappears at high tide. It's a favorite for families, paddleboarders, and the floating snack boat that often anchors nearby. It's an easy walk or golf-cart ride from Catch A Wave.
Explore the village of Hope Town
Hope Town is car-free and made for wandering: pastel cottages, the Wyannie Malone Historical Museum, local shops and bakeries, and harbour-side cafes. Rent a golf cart or bike, or simply stroll.
Get out on the water
- Snorkel the reefs and explore dive sites just offshore
- Charter a bonefishing or deep-sea fishing trip
- Island-hop by boat to Tilloo Cay, Lubbers Quarters, or Marsh Harbour
- Paddleboard or kayak the calm sound side
- Catch the surf on the Atlantic side, steps from the house
Frequently asked questions
- What is Hope Town known for?
- Hope Town is known for its candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse — one of the last kerosene-burning lighthouses in the world — its car-free village of pastel cottages, and nearby Tahiti Beach.
- Is Tahiti Beach worth visiting?
- Yes. Tahiti Beach is a shallow, palm-lined sandbar at the south end of Elbow Cay, popular with families and paddleboarders, and easy to reach by golf cart or boat.