Elbow Reef Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Abaco Islands, located at the entrance to Hope Town Harbour on Elbow Cay. Built in 1863, it is one of the last remaining manually operated lighthouses in the world, still using a kerosene-fueled light and hand-wound mechanism to guide ships safely through the surrounding reefs.

The lighthouse’s distinctive red-and-white striped tower rises above the island’s pastel-colored cottages, creating a postcard-worthy scene that has become synonymous with Hope Town. Visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top, where panoramic views stretch across the Atlantic Ocean, the harbor, and the surrounding cays. The climb is steep but rewarding, offering a unique perspective on the island’s geography and maritime setting.

Today, Elbow Reef Lighthouse is both a functioning navigational aid and a cherished historical site. Maintained with care to preserve its traditional operation, it stands as a reminder of the Bahamas’ long seafaring history. For visitors, it combines scenic beauty, hands-on history, and a rare glimpse into a form of lighthouse technology that has largely disappeared elsewhere in the world.