In short
- Swimming in Ben's Cave is strictly forbidden for general visitors.
- Cave diving requires an authorized guide from UNEXSO.
- The underwater cave system spans over 6 miles (10 km).
In this article
The underwater cave systems at Lucayan National Park contain fragile ecosystems and historical artifacts. To protect these environments, park authorities heavily restrict water access. You can view the water from elevated wooden platforms, but casual swimming and snorkeling are not allowed.
Can you swim in Ben's Cave?
No, general visitors cannot swim in Ben's Cave or any other cave in the park.
This rule is strictly enforced to protect the delicate environment inside the cave. Visitors walk down a wooden staircase to a viewing platform to observe the 60 feet of water. You will see a visible freshwater layer floating on top of saltwater. Keep to the platform and do not enter the water.
Why is swimming prohibited in the caves?
Swimming is banned to protect fragile geological formations, historical sites, and local wildlife.
The charted underwater tunnels map out over 6 miles (10 km) and hold sensitive ecological features. Burial Mound Cave contains stalactites and the site where ancient pre-Columbian Lucayan Indian skeletal remains were discovered in the 1980s. Human interaction alters water chemistry and risks damaging these undisturbed areas.
Can you cave dive at Lucayan National Park?
Yes, but only if you hold specialized cave diving certifications and obtain the proper permits.
You cannot dive independently. Cave diving requires an authorized guide from UNEXSO. The cave system is highly technical and dangerous for untrained divers. You must arrange your permits and guide well in advance of your trip.
| Visitor Type | Water Access Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| General Public | No | Stay on wooden platforms |
| Technical Divers | Yes | Specialized permits and UNEXSO guide |
What can you do at Ben's Cave instead?
You can view the cave structure and look for fish from the observation deck.
Spend 15 to 20 minutes observing the massive sinkhole and deep blue hole from above. Keep quiet and look closely at the water to spot fish. Do not feed the fish, bats, or any wildlife you see from the platform. Remember not to touch the limestone walls.
Are there places to swim at Lucayan National Park?
Yes, you can swim in the ocean at Gold Rock Beach.
While the caves are off-limits for swimming, the park's coastal zone offers open water access. Gold Rock Beach is a short walk across the highway from the caves. You can swim, sunbathe, and use snorkeling gear at Gold Rock Reef.
Are the caves at Lucayan National Park safe to walk in?
Yes, the caves are safe to view as long as you stay on the designated paths.
Wooden boardwalks and stairs provide safe access over the tidal swamps and down into the sinkholes. Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the cave steps safely. Venturing off the paths or touching the formations is prohibited.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to pay extra to see Ben's Cave?
No. Access to the cave viewing platforms is included in the standard park entry fee of $15 for adults and $8 for children.
Can I bring my own diving gear to Ben's Cave?
You cannot dive without an authorized UNEXSO guide and specialized permits. Do not bring diving gear unless you have pre-arranged this specific technical dive.
How deep is the water in Ben's Cave?
The water visible from the Ben's Cave observation platform is 60 feet deep.
