Bahamas Botany: Explore Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
Deepen your connection to nature and Eleuthera by visiting the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve during your stay. The 30-acre botanical garden is just 50 minutes from The Cove Eleuthera. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore its lush landscape and connect with the cultural traditions of the Bahamas.
History of Leon Levy
The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve opened to the public in 2011. It was founded by Shelby White in memory of her late husband, Leon Levy. It is the island’s first national park and the first accredited botanic garden in the country. Now operated by The Bahamas National Trust, the venue is both a living celebration of Bahamian ecology and an educational site dedicated to conserving native plants.
A Sanctuary for Plants & Wildlife
From traditional medicine gardens to rare trees and blooming orchids, the preserve is rich with natural beauty. Winding trails and boardwalks guide visitors through mangroves, wetlands and tropical forests and are accessible to people of all abilities.
Bird life is vibrant here: More than 70 different species—including Bahama woodstars, Bahama mockingbirds, black-faced grassquits and red-legged thrushes—have been spotted in the preserve, making it a hot spot for birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers. Other animals, including Bahama Slider turtles, geckos and Bahamian Racer snakes (don’t worry: they slither away quickly when people get too close) have also made the area home.
“Visiting the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve is like stepping into the heart of Eleuthera’s natural beauty. I always encourage guests to take their time exploring the trails, seeing the wonderful bromeliads, orchids, and native plants.” – Ethan Freid, Botanist at Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
Thrill-Seeking Adventures
Those seeking more of an adventure can follow Ethan’s Tower Loop for a steep climb through the forest to the highest point in the preserve. At 75 feet above sea level, Ethan’s Tower provides a 360-degree view above the forest canopy. The tower is named after Dr. Ethan Freid, the botanist who envisioned and led the preserve’s construction. The entire loop is approximately one-half mile long or a 45-minute walk.
“From the top, you can take in a sweeping view of Eleuthera’s landscape – lush green forest rolling out beneath you and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how special this island really is.” – Ethan Freid, Botanist at Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
Getting There
Guests from The Cove may book a half or full day tour with our Experience Team at the Front Desk. Our team will take you on a guided tour to Governor’s Harbour and then to Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve. Guests may choose to make their own way through the preserve or have our guide accompany you. We recommend stopping at Tippy’s seaside restaurant for a Bahamian lunch with a view.
The guided tour is $360 for a half day or $500 for a full day.
Tips
Pack your camera and water and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. You may even want to bring a journal to note your findings. Take a moment to explore.
“Don’t rush your visit; from the freshwater wetland where friendly turtles greet you, to the quiet moments under the trees, the Preserve has something beautiful around every corner.” – Ethan Freid, Botanist at Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve