Tired of Nassau’s hustle and Atlantis’s crowds? The Bahamas offers a cure: its Out Islands. These sparsely populated gems promise untouched beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a tranquility that’s increasingly rare. This is your guide to escaping the ordinary and discovering the extraordinary solitude of the Bahamas’ best-kept secrets, focusing on specific spots and providing practical advice to make your dream a reality.
Why Choose the Out Islands?
The Out Islands, also known as the Family Islands, are a world apart from Nassau and Grand Bahama. Think sleepy villages, friendly locals, and an absence of large resorts. The allure lies in the simplicity: days spent swimming in turquoise waters, exploring hidden coves, and savoring fresh seafood. It’s about disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with nature and yourself.
Eleuthera: Pink Sands and Pineapple Fields
Eleuthera, meaning “freedom” in Greek, lives up to its name. This long, thin island boasts pink sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and historic settlements. North Eleuthera is home to the famous Pink Sands Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best. While it’s undeniably beautiful, don’t limit yourself. Head further south to discover secluded stretches of sand where you might be the only soul in sight.
Getting There: Fly directly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH), Governor’s Harbour Airport (GHB), or Rock Sound Airport (RSD) from Nassau or the US. Several airlines, including Southern Air Charter and Bahamasair, offer flights. From the airport, you can rent a car, hire a taxi, or arrange for your accommodation to pick you up. A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. Expect to pay around $75-$125 per day for a rental car, depending on the season and vehicle type.
Where to Stay: Consider staying in a boutique hotel or a private villa. The Cove Eleuthera offers a luxurious experience, while smaller guesthouses in Governor’s Harbour provide a more authentic feel. Airbnb is also a great option for finding unique properties. Expect to pay upwards of $250/night for a luxury hotel and as low as $100/night for a guesthouse.
What to Do:
- Swim in the Queen’s Baths: Natural rock pools filled with warm ocean water, providing a unique bathing experience. They are located near the Glass Window Bridge.
- Visit the Glass Window Bridge: A narrow strip of land separating the dark Atlantic Ocean from the calm turquoise Caribbean Sea. It’s a stunning sight, but use caution when crossing during rough weather.
- Explore Preacher’s Cave: A historic cave where the first Eleutheran Adventurers sought refuge. It’s located near North Eleuthera and offers a glimpse into the island’s history.
- Go snorkeling or diving: The coral reefs around Eleuthera are teeming with marine life. Several dive operators offer tours.
- Indulge in fresh seafood: Sample local specialties like conch salad and grilled lobster at restaurants in Governor’s Harbour or Gregory Town.
Cost Considerations: Eleuthera is generally more expensive than some of the other Out Islands. Budget for around $150-$300 per day, excluding accommodation, depending on your activities and dining choices.
The Exumas: Swimming with Pigs and Stunning Cays
The Exumas, a chain of over 365 islands and cays, are renowned for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. Great Exuma is the largest island and offers a good base for exploring the region. However, the real magic lies in the smaller, uninhabited cays.
Getting There: Fly directly into Great Exuma Airport (GGT) from Nassau or the US. You can also take a ferry from Nassau, but it’s a longer and potentially rougher journey. Once on Great Exuma, you can rent a boat or hire a water taxi to explore the surrounding cays.
Where to Stay: Sandals Emerald Bay offers an all-inclusive experience on Great Exuma, while smaller hotels and villas are available in George Town, the main town. Consider staying on Stocking Island, just a short boat ride from George Town, for a more secluded experience. Expect to pay upwards of $400/night for an all-inclusive resort and as low as $150/night for a smaller hotel or villa.
What to Do:
- Swim with the pigs at Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): This is a must-do activity in the Exumas, but be mindful of the animals and follow the guidelines provided by tour operators.
Here’s a useful list of things to know before you go to Pig Beach. - Visit Compass Cay: Swim with nurse sharks in a shallow lagoon.
- Explore Thunderball Grotto: A stunning underwater cave featured in several James Bond movies.
- Snorkel or dive in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: A protected area teeming with marine life.
- Relax on the beaches of Stocking Island: Chat ‘N’ Chill is a popular beach bar and restaurant.
Cost considerations: The Exumas can be relatively expensive, especially if you plan on taking boat tours to the outer cays. Budget for around $200-$400 per day, excluding accommodation. Boat rentals can range from $300 to $1000 per day, depending on the size and type of boat. Exuma experiences offers a good start to find adventure tours.
Long Island: Caves, Cliffs, and Deep Blue Holes
Long Island, stretching over 80 miles, offers a diverse landscape ranging from dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches. It’s a haven for divers and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Getting There: Fly directly into Stella Maris Airport (SML) in the north or Deadman’s Cay Airport (LGI) in the south. From there, rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the island. The drive from one end of the island to the other takes several hours.
Where to Stay: Stella Maris Resort Club offers a comfortable stay in the north, while smaller guesthouses and villas are available throughout the island. Expect to pay upwards of $200/night for a resort and as low as $80/night for a guesthouse.
What to Do:
- Visit Dean’s Blue Hole: The world’s second deepest blue hole, offering incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities.
- Explore Hamilton’s Cave: The largest cave system in the Bahamas.
- Climb to the top of Columbus Monument: Located on the northern tip of the island, offering panoramic views.
- Relax on Cape Santa Maria Beach: A stunning stretch of white sand beach.
- Go bonefishing: Long Island is a popular destination for bonefishing enthusiasts.
Cost Considerations: Long Island is generally more affordable than Eleuthera or the Exumas. Budget for around $100-$200 per day, excluding accommodation.
Abaco: Sailing Paradise and National Parks
Abaco is a group of islands and cays known for its excellent sailing conditions and protected national parks. Marsh Harbour is the main town and offers a variety of accommodations and services.
Getting There: Fly directly into Marsh Harbour Airport (MHH) from Nassau or the US. You can also take a ferry from Nassau, but it’s a longer journey. Once on Abaco, you can rent a car, boat, or golf cart to explore the surrounding areas.
Where to Stay: Abaco Beach Resort offers a range of accommodations and amenities, while smaller guesthouses and villas are available in Marsh Harbour and the surrounding cays. Consider staying on Elbow Cay or Green Turtle Cay for a more secluded experience. Expect to pay upwards of $250/night for a resort and as low as $100/night for a smaller hotel or villa.
What to Do:
- Go sailing or boating: Abaco is a sailing paradise, with numerous cays and harbors to explore.
- Visit the Abaco National Park: Home to the endangered Abaco Parrot.
- Explore Hope Town on Elbow Cay: A charming village with a historic lighthouse.
- Relax on the beaches of Green Turtle Cay: A laid-back island with pristine beaches and crystal-clear water.
- Go fishing: Abaco is a popular destination for fishing, with a variety of species to catch.
Cost Considerations: Abaco is generally moderately priced. Budget for around $150-$300 per day, excluding accommodation. Boat rentals can range from $200 to $800 per day, depending on the size and type of boat.
Bimini: Hemingway’s Haunt and Big Game Fishing
Bimini, the closest Bahamian island to the United States, offers a mix of history, fishing, and relaxation. Known as Ernest Hemingway’s favorite retreat, Bimini is a haven for anglers and those seeking a quick escape.
Getting There: Fly directly into South Bimini Airport (BIM) from Nassau or the US. You can also take a ferry from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Once on Bimini, you can get around by golf cart or taxi.
Where to Stay: Resorts World Bimini offers a luxurious experience, while smaller hotels and guesthouses are available in Alice Town and Bailey Town. Expect to pay upwards of $300/night for a resort and as low as $100/night for a smaller hotel or guesthouse.
What to Do:
- Go fishing: Bimini is known for its big game fishing, with opportunities to catch marlin, tuna, and other species.
- Visit the Healing Hole: A natural spring with supposed healing properties.
- Explore the Sapona Wreck: A concrete cargo ship that ran aground during Prohibition.
- Relax on Radio Beach: A popular beach with calm, shallow water.
- Learn about Ernest Hemingway’s connection to Bimini: Visit the Compleat Angler Hotel (now destroyed by fire, but with plans for rebuilding) and learn about his time on the island.
Cost Considerations: Bimini is generally moderately priced. Budget for around $150-$300 per day, excluding accommodation. Fishing charters can be expensive, ranging from $500 to $1500 per day.
Preparation and Practical Tips
Before you embark on your Out Island adventure, consider these practical tips:
- Pack light: You won’t need fancy clothes on the Out Islands. Focus on comfortable clothing, swimwear, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Bring insect repellent: Mosquitoes and sand flies can be prevalent, especially in the evenings.
- Carry cash: While some establishments accept credit cards, many smaller businesses operate on a cash basis.
- Learn a few basic Bahamian phrases: The locals appreciate the effort.
- Respect the local culture: The Out Islands have a unique culture and way of life. Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Stay connected (or disconnect): Cell service can be spotty on some islands. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or relying on Wi-Fi. Remember to inform your bank that you’re traveling.
- Travel insurance is essential: Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Cost-Saving Strategies for Out Island Travel
Traveling to the Bahamas, even the Out Islands, can be expensive. Here are some strategies to keep your costs down:
- Travel during the off-season: The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Cook your own meals: Rent a villa or apartment with a kitchen and prepare some of your own meals. Grocery stores are available on most islands, although prices can be higher than in the US.
- Take advantage of free activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and hiking are all free activities that you can enjoy on the Out Islands.
- Look for deals on flights and accommodation: Use comparison websites like Kayak or Google Flights to find the best deals. Sign up for email alerts from airlines and hotels.
- Consider staying in guesthouses or smaller hotels: These options are often more affordable than large resorts.
- Travel with a group: Sharing accommodation and transportation costs can save you money.
Safety Considerations on the Out Islands
The Out Islands are generally safe, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Some common crime in Nassau may be pick-pocketing, so be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
- Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid getting involved in arguments or confrontations.
- Drink responsibly.
- Follow the advice of local authorities.
- Keep your belongings secure.
For additional information and travel advisories, consult your government’s travel resources. For US citizens, the U.S. Department of State provides comprehensive travel information.
Sample Itinerary: A Week of Solitude in Eleuthera
Here’s a possible itinerary for a week-long escape to Eleuthera:
Day 1: Arrive at North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). Pick up your rental car and drive to your accommodation near Pink Sands Beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and swimming in the turquoise water.
Day 2: Explore Pink Sands Beach and take photos. Visit the nearby Dunmore Town, a charming historic settlement. Have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Drive south to Governor’s Harbour. Visit the Haynes Library and explore the town. Have lunch at a local conch shack. In the afternoon, relax on French Leave Beach.
Day 4: Drive further south to explore the Queen’s Baths and the Glass Window Bridge. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike down to the bottom of the bridge for a closer look at the ocean.
Day 5: Spend the day snorkeling or diving. Several dive operators offer tours to nearby reefs. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beach bar.
Day 6: Visit Preacher’s Cave and learn about the history of the island. Relax on a secluded beach and enjoy the tranquility.
Day 7: Depart from North Eleuthera Airport (ELH).
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit the Out Islands?
The best time to visit the Out Islands is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) when the weather is pleasant, the prices are lower, and the crowds are thinner. The winter months (December-March) are also popular, but prices are higher.
Do I need a visa to visit the Bahamas?
Citizens of most countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa to visit the Bahamas for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. However, you will need a valid passport.
What currency is used in the Bahamas?
The currency used in the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD). The Bahamian dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. US dollars are widely accepted throughout the Bahamas.
What is the language spoken in the Bahamas?
The official language of the Bahamas is English. However, you may hear Bahamian dialect spoken, which is a variation of English with its own unique vocabulary and pronunciation.
Are the Out Islands safe for solo travelers?
The Out Islands are generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re traveling solo, it is advisable to let a trusted contact know your itinerary plans.
References
- Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Official Website
- U.S. Department of State Travel Information
Ready to trade the tourist traps for turquoise tranquility? The Out Islands of the Bahamas are calling. Start planning your escape today! Research your chosen island, book your flights and accommodation, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. The solitude, beauty, and authentic Bahamian experience await. Don’t just dream it – live it!
