Great Guana Cay

For beach lovers, seven miles of powder-white sand lining a turquoise ocean might sound like the stuff dreams are made of. It almost seems like a crime that a flight to Marsh Harbour and short ferry ride is all it takes to make that fantasy a reality. Great Guana Cay, another link in the chain of Abaco isles, is home to what is arguably one of the country's most pristine coastlines - though, without doing a little research, you might not know it.

The island is home to fewer than 200 year-round residents and, although it doesn't boast a booming nightlife or prestigious hotels, the cay knows how to keep its visitors coming back for more. Just a few feet off the island's coast is the world's third-largest coral reef - a playground for avid snorkelers, divers or explorers who just want to wade amongst the multitude of tropical marine life. For those with a bit of an adventurous spirit, the island's known surf spot, Williwaw, invites wave riders to tackle its swells.

Keeping its visitors and locals refreshed between beach walks and reef dives are two of Great Guana Cay's best known bars and restaurants, the famous Nippers Beach Bar and Grill - a popular beachfront hotspot, and Guana Grabbers - a laidback bar offering reasonably priced accommodation and a private marina for boaters. Making relaxation its specialty, it's no wonder this island was rated at 4 ½ out of 5 points on Tripadvisor.