Exploring the Bahamian island of Eleuthera

When most people think of The Bahamas, New Providence often takes center stage as the focal point, housing two-thirds of the country’s population, serving as the home to the capital city of Nassau, and acting as the primary gateway to Paradise Island and the renowned Atlantis resort.

But The Bahamas has around 30 other inhabited islands, less populous than New Providence, but offering the same breathtaking beaches, historic sites, and stunning architecture that New Providence is known for. One such island is Eleuthera.

Eleuthera refers to the single Bahamian island and is also used to refer to its associated chain of small islands, which include Harbour Island, Windermere Island, Man Island, and Current Island.

This tiny island, home to some 10,000 people, is known for its unspoiled beauty and serene charm. The island stretches over 100 miles, offering a diverse landscape of pink sand beaches, hidden coves, and lush greenery. The beaches are a standout feature, with the unique pink hue created by the blend of white sand and tiny fragments of coral.

The pace of life on Eleuthera is delightfully laid-back, providing a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility. Here is more on exploring Eleuthera:

How to get there

The most convenient means to reach Eleuthera is by taking a commercial flight. The island is served by three airports: North Eleuthera Airport (ELH), catering to the northern settlements, including Harbour Island and Spanish Wells; Governor’s Harbour Airport (GHB) in the central region; and Rock Sound Airport (RSD), accommodating the southern settlements and Cape Eleuthera.

Non-stop flights from the United States are accessible from Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Alternatively, you can opt for direct flights into any of the three Eleuthera airports via Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas.

For a broad range of flight options into all three airports, consider flying with Bahamian-owned carriers. Bahamas Air operates flights from Fort Lauderdale with a layover in Nassau, while Pineapple Air, Southern Air Charter, and Bahamas Air provide daily flights from Nassau.

Best time to visit

For those venturing to the Bahamas for the first time, it’s crucial to note that hurricane season spans from June 1st to November 30th each year, with the highest likelihood of hurricanes occurring between late August and late October.

The prime tourism seasons in the Bahamas typically revolve around the holidays, from mid-November to New Year’s, and pick up again in March (spring break), extending through the summer months.

During the low season, which coincides with hurricane season, some establishments, particularly on the out islands like Eleuthera and Harbour Island, may temporarily close, especially during the months of September and October.

Top 5 Eluethera attractions

1. The Sapphire Blue Hole

Sapphire Hole is a two-acre area that contains an inland blue hole on the island of Eleuthera near Harbour Island in the Bahamas. Located only one mile from the beach, it is one of Eleuthera’s most famous sights. It’s full of tropical fish and other forms of wildlife like sea birds and crustaceans. Local tradition has it that this legendary body of water has no bottom and has supernatural healing powers. Of course, you can also jump in. The jump itself is about 20 feet and given the clarity of the water, it feels much higher. To climb out there is by a rope, which will help guide you up the sides. Wearing rubber-soled water shoes is highly recommended.

2. Glass Window Bridge

Nature’s breathtaking masterpiece, The Glass Window Bridge, is sure to leave you in awe as you take in its mesmerizing panoramic vista. This unique location stands out as one of the rare spots on the planet where you can juxtapose the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean on one side of the road with the tranquil turquoise-green waters of the Exuma Sound (Caribbean Sea) on the other. These distinct bodies of water are separated by a mere strip of rock, measuring just 30 feet wide.

Situated about two miles east of Upper Bogue, The Glass Window Bridge serves as the link between Gregory Town and Upper Bogue at the narrowest point on the island. The elevated land on both sides dramatically descends to nearly sea level, almost bisecting the island. A bridge atop this geological wonder connects the northern and southern points of Eleuthera through a paved road.

3. The Queen’s Bath

The Queen’s Baths, also known as the Hot Tubs, can be found 0.6 miles south of the Glass Window Bridge on the rugged Atlantic side of the island. These natural pools, sculpted over centuries by the relentless pounding of waves against the rock, showcase dramatic crashing waves, scattered shells, and small sea life carried over from the Atlantic Ocean. Once settled, the crystal-clear water is gently warmed by the sun, creating a tidal pool with bath-like temperatures—ideal for a relaxing soak. For the optimal experience, it’s recommended to visit the hot tubs during low or medium tide. When exploring this natural wonder, wearing water or tennis shoes is advisable.

4. Preacher’s Cave

Situated approximately two miles east of Gene’s Bay, this expansive and distinctive cave has a rich historical significance. It was stumbled upon by William Sayle and a group of Christians in search of religious freedom, a journey now known as “The Eleutheran Adventures.”

Their voyage led them to the Eleuthera coast, where their ship was shipwrecked on a reef known as the Devil’s Back Bone. Seeking refuge, they discovered this cave and, at its far end, fashioned an altar from a large boulder that remarkably still stands today. It was in this cave that they conducted the island’s inaugural religious service, bestowing the cave with its name. Today, the cave serves as a gathering spot for both locals and visitors who enjoy picnics and social outings on the adjacent lovely white sandy beach.

5. Gaulding Cay Beach

Nestled three miles north of Gregory Town, Gaulding Cay Beach unfolds as an expansive stretch of pristine white powdery sand, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic lunch. During low tide, you have the option to stroll or swim to Gaulding Cay, a petite islet adorned with a scattering of casuarina trees. The crystal-clear waters create an optimal environment for snorkeling, allowing you to marvel at a variety of vibrant and colorful fish.