Elbow Cay is a 4 mile long barrier island located in the northeastern Bahamas, part of the Abacos chain. It is easily accessible via the international airport in Marsh Harbour, and offers natural beauty and civilized comforts without over-development. With a year-round population of only a few hundred people, the island offers a fantastic retreat.
The climate is subtropical, with temperatures stabilized by the surrounding water. Fall and spring are delightful, with warm days and pleasantly cool nights. Summers are warm but comfortable due to constant ocean breezes. Winters are quite pleasant, with temperatures typically in the 70's during the day, and upper 60's at night.
Many local residents are descendents of British Loyalists that left the US in the 18th century. Others have joined their ranks over the years, attracted by the beauty of the environment and the island lifestyle. They are sincere, friendly, and appreciative of visitors.
There are no big businesses or factories, no cruise ships, and no mega resorts. With almost 100 rental homes and a few small island "hotels,” virtually every resident is involved in assuring that visitors have an enjoyable time while on the island. Elbow Cay has several grocery stores, liquor stores, and restaurants. The stores are surprisingly well stocked, and wine, beer, and liquor selections are very good. The restaurants are typically casual with fare ranging from simple to gourmet. Almost every restaurant has an associated bar, which may be quite lively at night.
Bahamian currency and US currency are equal in value, and either is readily accepted. Most every business accepts credit cards. There are no ATMs on the island, but several in Marsh Harbour.
There are telephones, fax machines, computers, the internet, and cable TV. Electrical voltage is the same as in the US. In years past, brownouts and blackouts were common, but they are now of short duration and infrequent. Sunrise Point has a whole house generator that will power on automatically in the event of a power outage. Drinkable water on the island comes from rain collection via gutters/cisterns or reverse osmosis water makers. It is perfectly safe.
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