Cottage Pond
Sandy Point Road, North Caicos
Cottage Pond is a naturally formed submerged sinkhole on the island of North Caicos. The feature is 165 feet (50 m) in diameter and 255 feet (78 m) deep, and is found close off Sandy Point Road.
Cottage Pond is technically referred to as a blue hole, and the geological action that created it is called the Karst process. Sea level can greatly affect blue hole formation, which is probably why the Middle Caicos Ocean Hole (likely the widest blue hole in the world) found 19 miles (31 km) away has a similar depth.
Cottage Pond is somewhat tidal and distantly connected to the ocean, likely through the porous limestone substrate of the Caicos Islands plateau and very small fissures. The surface of this pond offers about 30 feet (9 m) of relatively fresh water, which is largely a reflection of the freshwater lens thickness found in this region of North Caicos. Under this lens is a halocline mixing layer. Below that, the water is similar in salinity to the ocean.
For most visitors, Cottage Pond really doesn’t offer much beyond the sights of a small scenic pond. However, the site is the perfect opportunity to see a tropical blue hole. It offers quite a few interesting features for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, and it definitely warrants at least a quick stop.
Exploration of the Bottom
The depth and structure of Cottage Pond was a mystery until 2001, when the bottom of Cottage Pond was reached by the Caicos Cave Project cave diving team.
Due to the depth of the feature, it was necessary to use complex scuba diving techniques and gas mixtures in order to reach the bottom. During these explorations, it was found that past 100 feet (30 m), Cottage Pond opens into a much larger cave. A unique species of marine remipede, christened Kaloketos pilosus, was also discovered during subsequent dives.
Visiting Cottage Pond
Cottage Pond is located on Sandy Point Road, about 0.75 miles (1.2 km) from the T-junction of Sandy Point Road and Kew Highway.
To get to Cottage Pond from the North Caicos Ferry terminal at Bellefield Landing, follow the road leading from the marina for a distance of 2.6 miles (4.2 km), then turn left. This quiet access road provides a shortcut bypassing the quaint town of Kew. Follow the road for 0.8 miles (1.3 km), then turn left onto Kew Highway (early King's Road).
After about half a mile (1 km), Sandy Point Road will be on your left. Continue for 0.75 miles (1.2 km). You will see a sign for Cottage Pond on your left. Note that it’s very easy to miss the entrance to Cottage Pond when traveling southeast from Sandy Point, due to the direction the road sign faces.
Cottage Pond does not have any safety handrails or paths. Beware when visiting with children.