People visit the Bahamas for a variety of reasons. Relaxing away from the monotony of everyday problems, to find a beachside escape, or even to experience the rich culture of the islands - and they're all extremely valid. In fact, a traveler doesn't even need a reason to want to visit such a beautiful place as the Bahamian Islands, but the Healing Hole of Bimini is a good one.
This underwater destination is one that has attracted snorkelers and scuba divers for years. It brings with it the air of mystery that one can only find by discovering an entire underwater world - and one that allegedly has healing properties, to boot.
Here's what the Healing Hole of Bimini actually is, and why it's so special.
The Discovery Of The Bimini Healing Hole & Its Properties
In order to understand the mystery and allure surrounding the Healing Hole On Cat Island, one must first understand Bimini. This small island is home to only 1,200 inhabitants, speaking to its friendly nature and pristine beaches. However, if one is planning a trip to Bimini, then chances are that they're not visiting strictly for the beaches, alone. It's said that this island is a source of creative wealth; according to Map My Heart, famed literary author Ernest Hemingway wrote The Old Man and the Sea and Islands in the Stream there. This is where the Compleat Angler Hotel gained its reputation, as Hemingway was known to spend much time there during his residence on the island. It's also known that Martin Luther King Jr. made trips to Bimini, and may have written some of his powerful speeches on its shores.
In general, Bimini is a small island with a very long history and one that has been visited by creatives and famed alike. Additionally, humans are not the only species that reach out for human connections on the island. Marine life, specifically Bimini's dolphins, are incredibly friendly around humans - especially those who swim with them in the island's crystal-clear waters! Those who dive will also be met with an entire range of marine species, along with underwater environments that are still untouched to this day.
The Curative Healing Powers Of Cat Island, Bimini
The Healing Hole, specifically, as it's known by Bimini locals, was discovered long ago by the Taino people. It's believed that the well-like hole on Cat Island offers powers of healing that are unparalleled anywhere else in Bimini, and there is a multitude of explanations for this. The first, and most scientifically accurate explanation, is due to the water's high salt concentration. Similar to the Dead Sea and other bodies of water around the world with a high salt concentration, it's believed that this is beneficial for both the skin and muscles. The exact composition of the water has been determined to be made of sulfur, lithium, and alpha radiation, all of which exist within the salt lake.
The Healing Hole is only accessible via boat, surrounded by the mangroves and swamps that can be found on Cat Island. Originally known as a secretive healing location only by locals and regularly-visiting ship crews, it's now a popular destination for those adventurous enough to traverse Bimini's most remote island.
- Fun Fact: Due to the high levels of salt in the water, the lake's shores froth up on windy days.
Visiting The Nearby Mermaid Pool On Cat Island
Another interesting destination, according to legend, is the Mermaid Pool, which can also be found on Cat Island. The pool received its name due to the local lore of the mermaid that lives within it, with reports of one being seen on several occasions. Whether or not there's any truth to the legend remains to be seen, but the location itself is worth a visit.
- Lake Length: 65 feet across
- Lake Depth: 10 feet
Bimini Healing Hole And Its Ties To Atlantis
Those familiar with the mythical city of Atlantis are likely familiar with the notion that it existed around 10,000 B.C. Those who are very keen on the tale of the lost city of Atlantis also know that it's believed the city stood somewhere around where Bimini sits today - thus, its connection with the island's Healing Hole.
Those who snorkel or scuba dive in the Bimini Healing Hole will be able to make out a unique stone structure that is believed to be part of the road to Atlantis. Although it has yet to be determined if it's that or an ancient wall or building, it's still a source of intrigue to those invested in finding the real-life city of Atlantis. It was predicted by a man named Edgar Cayce back in 1938 that the underwater structure would be discovered between 1968 and 1969, and, much to everyone's surprise, it was.
- Where To Find It: At a depth of roughly 15-20 feet
Whether or not this is actually the ruins of Atlantis is a question that will likely continue to go unanswered. Those who have visited claim to feel unique things, though, with many claiming to have felt the energy radiating from the underwater vortex point.