San Salvador Island is located on the far western reaches of the Bahamas. It was previously known as Watlings Island until 1925. However, it is believed that San Salvador was the first land Christopher Columbus visited when he made his famous voyage in 1492. He named the island San Salvador after Jesus Christ. While many are convinced San Salvador was the first sight Columbus saw, others are not and the claim remains disputed.
Today, approximately 1000 people reside on San Salvador. Most are involved in the tourism industry, and Cockburn Town is the principal community of the island.
Other attractions
San Salvador is one of the best areas in the Bahamas to get away from it all. With miles of undisturbed coastline and pristine beaches, you’re sure to find somewhere secluded to relax. Dixon Hill Lighthouse is an icon of the island. Climb up it and take in the view then photograph the lighthouse from the ground. Landfall Park memorializes the landing of Christopher Columbus. It’s a small reminder for an momentous event. Other ruins are scattered around the island, including Watling’s Castle and the Holy Saviour Roman Catholic Church.
Getting there
There is one airport on San Salvador Island called San Salvador International Airport. This small port of entry welcomes daily flights from Nassau and a weekly chartered flight from Ft. Lauderdale. It also occasionally sees chartered flight from Paris and Montreal. The only other way to reach the island is by private boat or weekly mail boats to Cockburn Town.
Note - Travel to any destination may be adversely affected by conditions including (but not limited) to security, entry and exit requirements, health conditions, local laws and culture, natural disasters and climate. Regardless of your destination, check your local travel advisory board or department for travel advice about that location when planning your trip and again shortly before you leave.
