Just 50 miles off Florida’s coast, Bimini calls to those seeking adventure and relaxation in The Bahamas. Its cerulean waters hold secrets—shipwrecks, bonefish flats, and vibrant coral reefs—making it a top spot for diving and fishing. I still remember the thrill of reeling in a catch on those shallow flats; it never gets old, as local legend and boat builder Ansil Saunders often says. He even had the chance to go boating with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he visited the island.
Most visitors gravitate to North Bimini, where Alice Town hosts major attractions and hotels. South Bimini, though quieter, is just a short ferry ride away across a narrow ocean passage. These islands offer a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and thrilling activities.
Discovering Bimini’s Unique Charm
Bimini is more than just beautiful beaches and clear waters. Grace Giste, an officer from The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation, shared that the island is rich in history and local gems. Ernest Hemingway and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. both graced these shores. You can dive into this past with local historians like Ashley Saunders, who spent over 25 years building the incredible Dolphin House Museum entirely from found and recycled materials.
Whether you dream of fishing for yellowtail, exploring historic shipwrecks, or trying your luck at a casino, Bimini offers countless unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into how you can plan your perfect trip to this small yet mighty island.
Unforgettable Stays: Hotels & Resorts
When it comes to accommodations, Bimini offers everything from sprawling luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, each with its own unique appeal.
Resorts World Bimini
For a dynamic stay with endless activities, Resorts World Bimini is an excellent choice. This luxurious 750-acre beachfront property covers about half of North Bimini. Picture miles of pristine white-sand beaches, three refreshing pools, ten diverse restaurants, and a world-class casino. Every room boasts a balcony, with some offering breathtaking ocean views. It’s a complete package for those who love having everything at their fingertips.
Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Nestled in the heart of Alice Town, the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina is a boutique hotel with a storied past, dating back to 1947. Its 51 accommodations range from cozy cottage bungalows to spacious penthouses. On-site, you’ll find the delightful Bimini Seafood Company & Conch Bar, Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center, and a full-service marina with 75 slips that can house boats up to 140 feet. It’s a hub of activity and an ideal choice for fishing enthusiasts and divers.
Adventures Awaits: Things to Do
Bimini is brimming with activities, from cultural experiences to underwater explorations. Here are some must-do items for your itinerary.
Step into the Enchanting Dolphin House Museum
Prepare to be amazed by Ashley Saunders’ Dolphin House Museum. This self-taught artist and historian, whose family has deep roots in Bimini, began constructing this masterpiece in 1993. Made entirely from recycled and salvaged materials—conch shells, sea glass, and more—the museum is a vibrant tribute to the dolphins that have inspired Saunders throughout his life. It’s a popular spot for daily walking tours and a truly unique cultural experience.
Dive Deep with Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center
For aquatic adventures, Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center is your go-to. They operate several dive boats, including a 60-foot glass-bottom vessel, perfect for admiring the ocean depths without getting wet. Beyond diving and snorkeling, they offer thrilling great hammerhead and wild dolphin safaris. As a member of the Reef Rescue Network, they also play a vital role in coral reef conservation. Don’t miss their half-day snorkel tour, where you can swim with Caribbean reef sharks and explore the historic S.S. Sapona shipwreck.
Relax and Recharge at Radio Beach
Radio Beach in Alice Town is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. It’s famous for its stunning sunsets and brilliant sapphire waters. As the only beach in Bimini with public facilities, including vendors and restrooms, it’s a convenient place to spend the day. Grace Giste highlights it as a fantastic location to savor local food and drinks, with Bahamian restaurants and bars lining the shore. Imagine enjoying fresh seafood, conch salad, and tropical cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon.
Try Your Luck at Resorts World Bimini Casino
If you’re feeling lucky, head to the 10,000-square-foot casino at Resorts World Bimini. Whether you’re a high roller or prefer lower stakes, you’ll find popular table games and over 160 slot machines. Plus, with numerous restaurants just steps away, you can easily refuel between games.
A Taste of Bimini: Best Restaurants
Bimini’s culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its island culture, with fresh seafood at its heart. Here’s where to savor the local flavors.
Bimini Seafood Company & Conch Bar
Located within the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina, this restaurant offers delightful breakfast, lunch, and dinner with picturesque marina views overlooking the famous bonefish flats. Their menu blends American and Bahamian cuisine, with signature dishes like spicy island shrimp and mouth-watering fish tacos. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view after a day of adventure.
Smitty’s Beach Bar & Restaurant
For a lively, casual outdoor dining experience with stunning beach views, Smitty’s Beach Bar & Restaurant is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy classic Bahamian dishes, including, of course, delicious conch, often accompanied by patrons belting out karaoke tunes. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxed meal and some good-natured fun.
Nate’s Bimini Bread
A true island institution, Nate’s Bimini Bread is the place for freshly baked treats. Every morning, they create outstanding coconut rolls, guava and cream cheese loaves, and cinnamon raisin buns. The aroma alone will draw you in, and the taste will keep you coming back for more.
Stuart’s Conch Salad Stand
No trip to Bimini is complete without a visit to Stuart’s Conch Salad Stand. This renowned establishment has been serving up fresh conch and lobster salads for over 20 years. Be sure to try their house-made hot sauce if you dare! Their conch salad is simply prepared with roughly chopped conch, bright citrus juice, onions, tomatoes, and green peppers—a refreshing and authentic island delight.
Planning Your Visit: When to Go & How to Get There
Timing and travel are key to a seamless Bimini experience.
Best Time to Visit
While the Bahamas enjoys warm, pleasant temperatures year-round, the sweet spot for a visit to Bimini is from mid-December to mid-April. During these months, you’ll find temperate, dry weather, perfect for all your outdoor activities. Be aware that this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds and potentially higher hotel prices. Hurricane season runs from June to November, which is worth keeping in mind for travel planning.
How to Reach Bimini
Bimini is conveniently located about 50 miles east of Florida. The most budget-friendly option is the two-hour Balearia ferry from Fort Lauderdale, which operates charters three days a week. If you prefer to fly, you can take a roughly half-hour flight on Tropic Ocean Airways, also departing from Fort Lauderdale.
Navigating the Islands: Getting Around
Once you arrive, getting around Bimini is part of the adventure.
If you’re flying in, you’ll land at South Bimini Airport. Most visitors head to North Bimini. From the airport, a quick five-minute taxi ride to the South Bimini ferry dock costs about $5 per person. Then, hop on the public ferry to North Bimini for around $10 per person. A little tip: most vendors in the Bahamas prefer cash, so it’s good to have some on hand.
On Bimini itself, golf carts are the primary mode of transport. You can rent one starting at $90 per day from places like Bimini Bay Resort. If you’re staying at Resorts World Bimini, they offer a complimentary tram to take you around the property. And for many spots, walking is a perfectly pleasant way to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions in Bimini?
Bimini offers a variety of attractions, including the unique Dolphin House Museum, excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities with Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center, relaxing at Radio Beach, and trying your luck at the casino in Resorts World Bimini.
Is Bimini good for families?
Yes, Bimini can be a great destination for families. Resort World Bimini offers plenty of amenities like pools and various dining options. Activities like glass-bottom boat tours, swimming at Radio Beach, and exploring the Dolphin House Museum are enjoyable for all ages.
What types of seafood can I expect to find in Bimini?
Bimini is famous for its fresh seafood, especially conch. You’ll find conch salad, conch fritters, and cracked conch, along with fresh fish like snapper and yellowtail, and lobster when in season.
Are there any historical sites in Bimini?
Absolutely. Bimini has a rich history associated with figures like Ernest Hemingway and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Dolphin House Museum, built from salvaged materials, is a living tribute to the island’s unique heritage and local stories.
What is the best way to get around Bimini?
The most popular way to get around Bimini is by renting a golf cart. Many areas are also easily walkable, and Resorts World Bimini provides a complimentary tram for its guests.
Is English spoken in Bimini?
Yes, English is the official language spoken in Bimini, as it is throughout The Bahamas, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate.
Can I go fishing in Bimini?
Bimini is renowned as one of the best fishing spots in the region, particularly for bonefishing in its shallow flats. Many resorts and tour operators offer fishing excursions for various types of fish.
Your Bimini Adventure Awaits!
Bimini, with its captivating blend of clear turquoise waters, rich history, and vibrant culture, is waiting to be explored. From the artistic marvel of the Dolphin House to the thrill of deep-sea diving and the savory delights of fresh conch, this island offers an escape unlike any other. Don’t just dream about it—start planning your unforgettable journey to Bimini today and immerse yourself in the magic of The Bahamas. Your perfect island adventure is closer than you think!
References
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation
Resorts World Bimini
Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Bimini Seafood Company & Conch Bar
Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center
The Dolphin House Museum
Balearia Caribbean
Tropic Ocean Airways
Bimini Bay Resort
Nate’s Bimini Bread
Stuart’s Conch Salad Stand
