The History of The Berry Islands

The Berry Islands were initially inhabited in 1836 by Governor Colebrook and a group of freed slaves at Great Stirrup Cay.

Great Harbour Cay, largest of the islands, was originally developed in the mid-1960s, with a marina ringed with waterfront town homes and luxurious yachts. Its proximity to the southern United States, together with an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Joe Lee, and a clubhouse providing the best in entertainment, made it the perfect hideaway for the rich and famous of the time. Notable residents and visitors over the years included Brigitte Bardot, Ingrid Bergman, Earl Blackwell, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Dame Margot Fonteyn, Cary Grant, Curt Jurgens, Jack Nicklaus, Hugh O'Brian and the Rockefellers.

Big Whale Cay was formerly the exclusive retreat of millionairess Marion Carstairs who created her own little village with Spanish-styled buildings, winding roads, a church and museum, some of which remain today.

The settlement of Little Harbour Cay was founded by ancestors of Chester Darville, who currently runs Flo's Conch Bar and Restaurant named for his mother. Some of their original houses, built in the late 1930's and the early 40's, have withstood even the most ferocious storms and are still standing – a testament to their advanced building skills.