High Rock is a quaint seaside town which has remained virtually untouched by tourism. Named for a 30-foot-high (9-metre) rocky bluff between the coastal road and the sea, the town exudes a charming, old-fashioned atmosphere. Admire the wood-framed buildings dotted throughout the village, visit the town’s picturesque candy-striped lighthouse or check out the beautiful natural scenery in nearby Lucayan National Park.
Walk along the town’s pleasant sandy beach and enjoy lazy beachcombing. Notice a handful of beach clubs clustered along the shore, where you can stop for a snack or a drink.
Continue along the beach past the cemetery to reach the town’s iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse. The faux lighthouse was constructed in the late 1990s and belongs to the small chapel located just across from it. Interestingly, the lighthouse was once featured on the label of the Bahamian Brewery’s High Rock beer. Not surprisingly, the church didn’t approve of this association with the beer brand and the packaging was later changed to feature a buoy instead.
High Rock is an excellent base for exploring Lucayan National Park. This impressive 40-acre (16-hectare) seaside park encompasses several different ecosystems, including pine forest, hardwood forest, mangrove, rocky coppice and beach. Follow Creek Trail. You’ll end up at Gold Rock Beach, an enjoyable place for a swim. Explore Ben’s Cave and Burial Mound Cave, the two entrances to what is believed to be one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems.
Visit High Rock during the High Rock Sea Fest in early August. This annual event features live performances by local musicians and plenty of fresh seafood. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see a traditional Junkanoo “rush-out,” in which increasingly festive music encourages onlookers to rush out into the streets and celebrate.
High Rock is located in Eastern Grand Bahama, 7 miles (12 kilometres) east of Lucayan National Park and 26 miles (42 kilometres) from Freeport. The town itself is relatively compact. Navigate the streets on foot.
