Our Beach
"Calypso" sits on a slight rise which leads down a very low bluff to a pink sand beach which stretches for miles in both directions. We have 600 feet of beach front, but in any case there are rarely others around for miles. Although we face the Atlantic, and Africa, the big waves break with a distant roar on the outer reef, and the beach is swimmable in all but the roughest weather. There is a flat, narrow coral shelf at the edge of the beach, which is sometimes covered by sand. This can be easily crossed to the deeper ocean (perhaps 10 paces) even in bare feet, but our immediate beach is not always suitable for small children. However, a 5 minute walk along the beach to the east brings you to the beautiful, isolated "Halcyon Bay", a perfect crescent of soft sand which is well sheltered except at high tide and suitable for the most timid child. It is our favorite beach on the entire island, where you are unlikely to see anyone else. It also has several small but sheltered snorkelling spots over deep coral recesses where even complete novices will see interesting colorful fish, and several magnificent live conch.
You can snorkel right off our beach and spend hours safely exploring magnificent coral heads, and perhaps bring back a lobster or grouper for supper. Nonsnorkelers can see spectacular sealife, such as frolicking turtles and grazing bright green parrot fish by just walking along the endless beach, which is dotted with rock pools, small inlets and tongues of sand. You can also sea kayak ( kayak provided) out to Diamond Key, which is located on the outer reef, and has spectacular views of the deep ocean beyond. Young children can safely kayak on Calypso pond.
You will find pretty shells on our beach. Enthusiasts can request a copy of our shelling notes – we have found 100 different species on the Island.
