The chain of tiny Abacos islands stretch for 200 miles (322km)
and form the most northerly part of the Bahamas nation. Located
only 200 miles (322km) from Miami they are a popular holiday
destination, and therefore fairly well developed for tourism. The
two main islands, Great Abaco and neighbouring Little Abaco, are
separated from each other by a narrow strait. They are often tagged
the 'Loyalist Isles' because of the many Tory expatriates who fled
there to avoid persecution after the American Revolution. The early
Loyalist settlements are still much in evidence on the cays around
Marsh Harbour, Great Abaco's main town. The accommodation on the
island is fairly low-key and visitors are likely to stay in a small
guesthouse by the beach or cottage near one of the many marinas. No
glamorous resort complexes can be found here. The sheltered waters
around the islands make it a hotspot for yachters, and islanders
claim it is the cruising capital of the world. There are also coral
reefs to entice divers and inland pine forests that provide
wonderful bird-watching and walking opportunities.
