Article by Bill Pino
Green Turtle Cay
Over the last three weeks, I’ve covered the Galapagos, Cape Verde, and Morocco—three of the most exotic destinations in sport fishing. These spots are true bucket-list locations for many anglers. But what about the family destination, the weekend getaway, the girls’ trip, or a couples’ retreat where the fishing is still great—but you don’t need to take two weeks off?
I traveled to Green Turtle Cay via American Airlines, flying from Salisbury to Charlotte with a connection on to Marsh Harbour in the Abacos, Bahamas. The two short flights had me landing in Marsh by noon. After a 30-minute cab ride, I arrived at the ferry dock for the 15-minute ride across the Sea of Abaco. Green Turtle Club owner Adam Showell had invited me for a couple of relaxing days of bottom fishing and island hopping. I truly had no idea what a treat I was in for.
After checking into my charming waterfront cabin, we set off in golf carts to explore this quaint, low-key, and gorgeous island. Adam showed me the tiny village of New Plymouth and the various bays and beaches scattered across the island. It seemed like every turn revealed a new cove or beach, showcasing that unique color of water I can only describe as “Bahamian bliss.” That clear, turquoise water teeming with tropical fish—the kind I used to admire in aquariums—was now lapping at my feet. The island breeze was refreshing as we waded through crystal-clear shallows.
We meandered through quiet streets, stopping at seaside bars and local restaurants where the chatter of expats and the sound of island music mingled with ocean waves and rustling palms. Dinner that evening was at the Green Turtle Club’s restaurant, where we enjoyed fresh conch salad, lobster bisque, and blackened grouper. Afterward, I couldn’t resist a visit to the club’s legendary Dollar Bar. Surrounded by a wallpaper of dollar bills signed by past guests and filled with island decor, we sipped a nightcap before calling it a day. I’m not much of a bar enthusiast these days, but I could definitely appreciate the laid-back charm of this cool little piece of Green Turtle history.
The next morning, we met for breakfast at the club to discuss the day’s fishing plans. The winds were light, so we decided to head to the reef. Adam and our guide Marcus planned for us to start with some mutton snapper on a productive patch, then move to deeper water for more variety. The day was a non-stop flurry of bent rods and tasty surprises. The hilarious banter between Marcus and Wesley, the Marina Dockmaster who joined us, added another layer of fun to the adventure.
I lost track of all the species we caught—strawberry grouper, yellowtail snapper, the magnificent queen triggerfish—all met with shouts of excitement as they came over the gunnels.
After a great day of fishing, Adam gave me a tour of neighboring Spanish Cay and a few other islands along the way back to Green Turtle. Marcus couldn’t stop bragging to Wesley about the large grouper he caught and how the kitchen would prepare it as coconut-crusted strawberry grouper. I knew we were in for another delicious dinner.
Back at the club, Marcus and Wesley hauled the fish off to the cleaning tables while I headed to my cottage for a quick rest before the evening meal. The Coral Sand Cottage was just a four-minute golf cart ride from the marina, perched on a point between a picturesque cove and the marina channel. This two-bedroom cottage featured a full kitchen and living area, hot water, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, A/C, and even a private dock perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or tying up your boat. Many guests bring their boats over from Florida, and Green Turtle Club accommodates them with both a marina and waterfront cottages with private docks.
The following morning, we set out on a beautiful cruise to Elbow Cay, where we visited the iconic Abaco Inn for lunch. Located on the northern tip of the island, the Inn offers stunning views, top-notch food, and that unmistakable Bahamian vibe.
Green Turtle Club felt exactly how I always imagined the Bahamas would feel—charming, relaxed, and full of island character, yet with all the amenities a boater, fisherman, or explorer could need. The club also offers charter services for guests who want to fish or island-hop without their own boat. Many patrons arrive on their own vessels to tour the Abacos at their own pace.
I found myself wishing I had planned a longer visit. Adam told me about the beachside fish barbecues the club hosts for guests and shared stories of excursions to nearby cays, each with its own charm—including one island where resident pigs enjoy a swim in the sea. I’ll definitely be booking a longer stay next time to savor more of this island paradise that’s so close to home.
For availability, reservations, and guest services, please contact:
Green Turtle Club and Marina
Green Turtle Cay
Abaco, Bahamas Out Islands
Phone: 1-443-912-5839
Email: [email protected]
