Curator’s statement
The Bahamas (especially Eleuthera) is incredibly special to me. As a high school student, I studied abroad at The Island School, and the experience had a lasting impact on me. The Bahamas (which is made up of over 700 islands) is best known for its stunning turquoise waters, world-renowned beaches, and top-tier diving, snorkeling, and sailing. Eleuthera is home to spectacular wildlife, delicious tropical fare, and vibrant Caribbean culture. If you’re traveling to The Bahamas, you can’t miss a visit to Eleuthera!
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Where to stay on Eleuthera
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Things to do on Eleuthera
Glass Window Bridge and Queen's Baths mark where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Ocean. You can also explore the surrounding cliffs, but make sure you wear appropriate footwear.
Scuba dive/snorkel
Cape Eleuthera Divers and Millers Dive Shop offer scuba diving, snorkeling, and even deep-sea fishing. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s always best to book in advance.
Visit the Queen’s Baths & Glass Window Bridge
This is where the Atlantic and the Caribbean Oceans meet. The Queen’s Baths are located half a mile south of the Glass Window Bridge on the rugged Atlantic side of the island. These natural pools (carved by centuries of waves pounding the rock) are filled with dramatic crashing waves, shells, and small sea life that wash over from the Atlantic Ocean. Once settled, this crystal-clear water is warmed by the sun, creating a bathwater-temperature tidal pool that’s perfect for soaking. The best time to visit the hot tubs is during the low or medium tide. When visiting, it is best to wear water or tennis shoes.
Enjoy a relaxing beach day
Surfer’s Beach, French Leave Beach, Ten Bay Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Cape Eleuthera Resort Beach, and North Palmetto Point Beach are all great spots.
Explore Preacher’s Cave
This is one of Eleuthera’s best-known landmarks. The famous cave was discovered in the 1600s by Captain William Sayles and is located approximately 10 miles from North Eleuthera Airport. It is also adjacent to Tay Bay Beach.
Take a day trip to Harbor Island or Spanish Wells
The island of Eleuthera is about 100 miles long, but it also encompasses two smaller islands to the north: Harbor Island and Spanish Wells. Because Eleuthera is more secluded than other islands, I recommend renting a car, which will also allow you to take the ferry to Harbor Island or Spanish Wells for the day. Each ride is only about 20 or 30 minutes from the northernmost point of Eleuthera.
Visit Leon Levy’s Native Plant Preserve
This is a 30-acre botanical garden managed by The Bahamas National Trust. It is a living part of Bahamian history and was the first national park on the island of Eleuthera.
Places to eat & drink on Eleuthera
Traditional Caribbean food incorporates lots of locally grown flavor. Mangoes, plantains, guava, local fish, and Jamaican spices are commonly used in dishes throughout the Bahamas.
Tippy’s Restaurant & Beachside Bar
Perched on a sand dune overlooking one of the most spectacular beaches on Eleuthera, Tippy’s offers traditional Caribbean food, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Located in Governor's Harbour.
1648 - An Island Restaurant
1648 serves as the main dining option for French Leave Resort in Governor's Harbour, but it is also open to the public. Enjoy contemporary island cuisine with a blend of local flavors from fresh-caught fish to locally grown produce.
Harbour Point
Stunning views and authentic Bahamian hospitality set the stage for all to remember at this Cape Eleuthera restaurant and bar overlooking the marina.
La Bougainvillea
This posh four-star boutique hotel doubles as an authentic beachside farm and ocean-to-table restaurant. By only using fresh, local products, La Bougainvillea proudly supports the local economy. Located near North Palmetto Point Beach.
Front Porch
This family-owned spot, located in Alice Town, is best known for its cocktails and seafood.
Wild Orchids
This oceanfront restaurant is located in the settlement of Rock Sound, only steps away from the town’s famous Blue Hole.
Ship to Shore
Located in the settlement of Greencastle, Ship to Shore serves up authentic Bahamian dishes, including cracked conch, conch fritters, and local fish like grouper.
The Cove
If you’re looking for higher-end dining on Eleuthera, visit The Cove’s options, which include an elegant cliff bar overlooking the ocean, their Asian-inspired restaurant and sushi bar, or the Gregory Town Grill.
Need to know
There are three main airports you can fly into, depending on where you are staying on Eleuthera. If you’re staying in South Eleuthera (also known as The Cape), look into flights arriving in Rock Sound International Airport. If you’re staying north of The Cape, your best bet is to fly into Governor's Harbour. If you plan on spending time on Harbour Island, I recommend flying into North Eleuthera Airport. American Airlines, Pineapple Air, Bahamas Air, and other airlines offer these routes.
As mentioned above, it is difficult to experience Eleuthera if you don’t rent a car. I'm happy to provide recommendations!
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Alexis Welch
Alexis Welch
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