Although TREASURE CAY is now an exclusive resort, it began life as humble Carleton Point , a settlement of six hundred Loyalists who in 1783 fled the newly formed United States, hoping to develop a major commercial and agricultural centre at the northern end of the former Sand Banks Cay. Although this didn't necessarily occur, Treasure Cay has grown rapidly in recent years, and now supports an array of time-share villas, condos and upscale resorts. Not really a cay at all, but a slender peninsula , Treasure Cay has its own schools, churches, stores, post office, banks, health clinic and marina. Its beachfront, stretching four miles along the Sea of Abaco , is not as spectacular as other Bahamian beaches, but it is good for swimming and sunbathing.

North Americans make up the bulk of the year-round residents of Treasure Cay, who maintain more than 150 expensive vacation and retirement homes. The marina is a favourite with yacht sailors, who make use of its huge dock, featuring a marina store, dive shop, boat rentals, pool, bar and restaurant. Between Treasure Cay's beach and the outer island of Whale Cay are several eye-catching turquoise banks that are especially lovely at dawn and dusk.