Close-up of a large bunch of unripe green papayas on the tree.

Explore

The Coastal Zone

This shoreline area sits just across the highway from the caves. It features an undeveloped white sand beach and a coastal nursery.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

The Coastal Zone is the southern segment of Lucayan National Park. It connects the upland forest environments directly to the ocean.

You will cross the Grand Bahama Highway to reach this area. The zone includes a mangrove wetland and the famous Gold Rock Beach.

Fresh conch meat next to a large pink conch shell.

Gold Rock Beach

2-3 hoursLow tide sandbar

Gold Rock Beach is an undeveloped white sand beach. At low tide, the shoreline extends 75 yards into the sea, revealing a rippled sandbar. Locals call this sandbar the 'Welcome Mat of Grand Bahama'.

Close-up of a banana flower with young green bananas emerging.

Gold Rock Creek

15-30 minsWetland access

Gold Rock Creek is a coastal nursery and wetland area. It feeds into the beach and the offshore reef system. You will find a few picnic tables and barbecue pits under the trees here. Watch out for local raccoons around the tables, as they often scavenge for food.