Pirate Coves & Buccaneer History Walk
Explore the coves and hidden beaches of Cumberland Bay that served as a secret provisioning stop for English buccaneers raiding Spanish Pacific trade routes.
- 1
Bahía Cumberland North Shore
The north shore of Cumberland Bay was a favourite anchorage for English privateers including William Dampier, who visited the island multiple times between 1680 and 1709.
- 2
Pirate Water Source
A freshwater stream flowing to the bay was the main attraction for buccaneers reprovisioning their ships — they could take on water, wood, and fresh meat here.
- 3
Buccaneer Anchorage Rock
A distinctive rock formation marks the preferred anchorage used by pirate fleets resting between raids on Spanish galleons carrying silver from Peru.
- 4
Spanish Watchtower Ruins
Ruins of a Spanish colonial watchtower built to warn the mainland of pirate activity in the bay — part of Spain's futile attempt to control this remote island.
- 5
Governor's House Site
The foundation stones of the colonial governor's residence mark where Spain tried and repeatedly failed to establish a permanent garrison on the island.
- 6
Treasure Legend Point
Local legend holds that vast pirate treasure is buried somewhere in this area — the island has been searched many times, so far without success.