Lameshur Bay Trail
Connecting Lameshur Bay to the Reef Bay Trail, this route climbs steadily through dry forest and open grassy ridges. At the 1.2-mile mark a spur leads to Europa Beach; wildlife sightings include deer and wild donkeys.
Highlights
Climbs from sea level through dry forest to a ridge
Transitions from cactus scrub to sabal palm grove and moist forest
Junction with spur to Europa Bay and connection to Reef Bay Trail
Wildlife sightings including deer and wild donkeys
Trail statistics
Distance | 3 miles round trip (1.5 miles one way) |
Elevation change | ~467 ft ascent |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Trail type | Connector |
Estimated time | 1.5–2 hours |
Parking | Great Lameshur Bay parking area |
Description
The Lameshur Bay Trail connects the quiet beaches of Little and Great Lameshur with the Reef Bay Trail. This 3‑mile round trip climbs gradually from the shoreline through dry forest and grassy hillsides. In the first mile you’ll walk past cactus scrub and acacia trees, sometimes spotting wild donkeys or deer. The trail then enters moister forest where sabal palms, genip and turpentine trees provide occasional shade. Switchbacks lead up to the ridge, gaining about 467 feet; from clearings you can look back over Lameshur Bay and forward toward Reef Bay. After 1.2 miles a spur trail branches off 0.3 mile to the secluded Europa Beach. Continuing straight, the main trail eventually joins the Reef Bay Trail near its midpoint. Because the climb is steady but not steep, Lameshur Bay is popular with hikers seeking a quiet alternative to the busier Reef Bay route. Plan to bring plenty of water - the south shore is hot and humid - and wear sturdy shoes for the rocky sections. Hikers starting from the Reef Bay side should remember that the return hike is uphill.
Distance & Difficulty
3 mi round trip
Moderate
Trail Map & Gallery
