The origins of Bimini's "Healing Hole" are a bit unclear. It is said that the Healing Hole was first discovered by a Dr. Richard Windgate. It is also said that Windgate, known as an explorer, mystic scientist, and published author, was prompted by the writings of Edgar Cayce to research Bimini's mangrove forest and the freshwater mineral springs contained within its lavish labyrinth. Beneath Bimini's mangroves (and throughout the Great Bahama Bank) there exists an extensive network of interconnecting underwater tunnels and passageways, some only as wide as your forearm, others considerably larger. On the outgoing tide, these tunnels have an outflow of both sea water combined with freshwater. What makes the "Healing Hole" unique is that it has been documented that the "outflow" from the Healing Hole contains considerable amounts of the minerals lithium and magnesium. Lithium has long been used to treat individuals for depression and magnesium is a mineral that is essential to the human body for healthy normal functions. For decades, visitors to Bimini have been making trips to the Healing Hole and many, regardless of their pre–trip beliefs, return "feeling great" and experience an overall sense of well being.
The ride to the healing hole is between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the tide. Getting there is ½ the fun though, because you'll be traveling thru the mangroves canals. Daily tide flows have cut a small channel thru the actual mangrove forest. You'll be twisting and turning thru an Indiana Jones type water trail…ducking under branches, slowing for the shallows, and stopping to look at the wildlife. Don't be surprised to see a southern stingray or even a baby lemon shark. Your guide will probably have to shut off the engine and "pole" his way thru the shallows to the Healing Hole creek. The entrance itself is a small walkway, single file, for 50 feet or so. You'll need to wade through water about hip deep and this is where your water shoes will come in handy ( proper water shoes or canvas sneakers work best…flip flops will probably come off in the soft sand and are not recommended). The trail ends at an opening, similar to an old fashioned swimming hole. Ropes have been draped from side to side for you to hang on to. The water will be over your head, 2 or 3 swimming strokes will get you to the ropes. Once "in" the Healing Hole, one of the first things you will notice is the brown color of the water. The mangrove roots secrete sulphur, which accounts for the color change. The water is a brackish (freshwater combined with saltwater) upwelling that is often times a bit chillier than the ocean water temperature. Combined with the lithium and magnesium, it makes for a very exhilarating experience. Some people even feel a tingling sensation. In any event, you will definitely be feeling "at one with nature" as you sit back, relax, and soak up the exotic surroundings. If you enjoy adventures that are a bit "off the beaten path", be sure that you schedule a trip out to the Healing Hole during your Wild Dolphin Week. For those with a real sense of adventure, both the Healing Hole Excursion and the Bimini Mangrove Adventure can also be done via Sea Kayak. If interested, please inquire about the Sea Kayaking option when making your reservation FYI – A trip to the Healing Hole can be combined with a standard Mangrove Tour for the complete Bimini Mangrove Experience. Ask about the combination tour at the time of booking. For further details and pricing information for all Guided Tours and Activities, please contact Wild Dolphin Adventures / Bimini Undersea at 242–347–3089 or email tours@WildDolphins.com |
The 2 – hour excursion begins at the dive center dock. One of our local guides will pick you up in a specially designed shallow water "flats" boat, as most of your tour will be in water less than 4 feet deep. These boats can fit up to 4 people, and generally offer little or no shade. Be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen. You'll also want a bottle of drinking water and some type of water shoes for your trek through the creek beds. 
