Bajo Nuevo Bank

Bajo Nuevo Bank is a reef system in the western Caribbean Sea that consists of two separate atolls divided by a deep channel. The formations surround shallow lagoons that break at low tide only with a few very low sand humps, and the only permanently visible land is Low Cay on the northeast side.

Dutch cartographers recorded this area at sea as they crossed the Caribbean long before pirates used the region in the 17th century. After Colombia and its neighbors became independent in the 20th century, several states have tried to claim control over the waters.

Colombian naval patrols visit the small islands even though several governments in the region claim they own them. On the reefs you sometimes see markers or signs left by fishermen from multiple countries who have worked here for decades.

The nearest inhabited islands are far away and access is only possible by private boat across open sea. Currents are strong and weather can shift quickly, so trips are only feasible in calm conditions.

On Low Cay stands a metal lighthouse that sends bright signals visible over a long distance even though the reef itself is almost always underwater. The tower was rebuilt after a storm and now serves as the only permanent structure in this remote ocean area.

Location: Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

Location: insular area of the United States

Elevation above the sea: 2 m

Part of: US Caribbean, Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

GPS coordinates: 15.88333,-78.63333

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:50