Burial Mound Cave is one of two accessible entrances to one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems. Part of the same cavern system as nearby Ben’s Cave, Burial Mound has been the site of a number of interesting archeological discoveries related to the Lucayan Indians. Descend the zigzagging stairs to inspect the cave’s fascinating geological formations.

Although this complex underwater cavern system has many thousands of entrances, Ben’s Cave and Burial Mound Cave are the most accessible. Follow the wooden staircase down to Burial Mound Cave’s observation platform.

Walk in the footsteps of the island’s earliest inhabitants as you enter the dark depths of the cave. The bones of several Lucayan Indians were discovered here by divers in the 1980s, who found them buried under mounds of rocks covered by fresh water. A number of other Lucayan artifacts, including bits of pottery, have also been uncovered here, with the cave’s low oxygen levels helping to preserve these pieces over the centuries. It’s believed that the caves may have symbolized the doorway to the afterlife in this ancient civilization.

The cave’s viewing platform is set just above water level, allowing you to admire craggy stalactites, stalagmites and other unique rock formations. The upper section of the cave’s water is fresh and therefore floats above the heavier salt water below. The water is extremely clear. Look closely to see fish swimming below the surface.

After checking out the cave, follow the path across the road outside, which winds through mangroves and pine forests to Gold Rock Beach. This pretty white-sand beach is also connected to the caves by an underground network of tunnels.

Burial Mound Cave is located just beyond Ben’s Cave in Lucayan National Park. The park is east of Freeport along the highway. There is an admission fee to enter the park, which is open from sunrise to sunset. Follow the trail leading from the parking lot.