At Home in Water World, Eleuthera

The Island School, Eleuthera, Bahamas 🇧🇸 

Yes, we’ve swallowed the anchor, so to speak, albeit temporarily. Tiny Bubbles II is on the hard in Virginia and we have settled smoothly into gainful employment here at The Island School. We discovered this island paradise on our sail through The Bahamas in 2018. It’s a match made in heaven for this crew!

Welcome to Water World!

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Eleuthera: A Must-Read for Sailors & Travelers

Eleuthera, a thin, 110-mile-long island in the Bahamas, is a dream destination for sailors, adventurers, and travelers seeking pristine beaches, laid-back charm, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re arriving by boat or catching a flight, this guide covers everything you need to know—from anchorages and marinas to hidden gems, must-visit beaches, and local cuisine.

This guide ensures you’re always prepared for a visit to Eleuthera, no matter the season.

Why Visit Eleuthera?

Eleuthera isn’t just another Caribbean island—it’s a sailor’s paradise with a unique blend of adventure, seclusion, and Bahamian culture. Unlike bustling Nassau, Eleuthera offers quiet anchorages, unspoiled pink sand beaches, and a slower pace of life. Its proximity to Exuma Sound and the Atlantic Ocean makes it a strategic stop for cruisers heading to the Out Islands or crossing to the U.S.

Expect breathtaking cliffside views, underwater caves, and some of the most surreal blue waters you’ll ever see.

Best Anchorages & Marinas for Sailors

If you’re arriving by boat, knowing where to anchor safely is crucial. Here are some top anchorages and marinas for cruisers:

1. Hatchet Bay Harbor

• Best For: Protected anchorage in all wind conditions

• Why Visit: A fully enclosed harbor with great holding, making it one of the safest anchorages in Eleuthera.

• Local Tip: Rent a car from Alice Town and explore nearby beaches.

2. Rock Sound

• Best For: Stocking up on provisions

• Why Visit: One of the largest settlements on Eleuthera, Rock Sound has a well-stocked grocery store, fuel dock, and great local restaurants.

• Local Tip: Check out the Blue Hole, a natural inland swimming hole within walking distance from the anchorage.

3. Governor’s Harbour

• Best For: Experiencing Eleuthera’s historic charm

• Why Visit: Governor’s Harbour is the cultural heart of Eleuthera, offering colonial architecture, local bakeries, and great restaurants.

• Local Tip: Visit Friday Night Fish Fry, a weekly event with live music, fresh seafood, and dancing.

4. Spanish Wells (Nearby)

• Best For: Staging point before crossing to the Abacos or U.S.

• Why Visit: This fishing village has excellent marinas, fuel docks, and a charming, walkable town. It’s also a great place to hire a local guide for a boat tour to Pig Beach or the blue holes of North Eleuthera.

Top Beaches & Natural Attractions

Eleuthera’s coastline is lined with hidden beaches, cliffs, and natural wonders. Here are some must-visit spots:

1. Lighthouse Beach (Southern Tip)

• Why Visit: One of the most stunning, remote beaches in the Bahamas. Pink sand, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs.

• Getting There: Accessible by 4x4 or boat. Expect a bumpy ride, but it’s worth it.

2. French Leave Beach (Governor’s Harbour)

• Why Visit: A postcard-perfect pink sand beach with few crowds. Ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing.

• Local Tip: Bring your own snacks—there are no vendors here.

Occasionally We Had Manatee Company!

3. Glass Window Bridge

• Getting There: We anchored right next to it, on the west side — safe from the prevailing winds. From there we paddled to shore and rock scrambled up to the bridge. We also visited it by car later in our travels. 

• Why Visit: A dramatic natural bridge where the deep blue Atlantic meets the shallow turquoise Caribbean. One of Eleuthera’s most famous sights.

• Local Tip: The currents here can be strong, so avoid swimming near the bridge.

4. Queen’s Bath

• Why Visit: Natural tide pools that heat up like hot tubs at low tide.

• Local Tip: Best visited at mid to low tide for a safe, enjoyable soak.

Where to Eat & Drink

Food on Eleuthera is fresh, local, and seafood-heavy. Here are some top spots to check out:

Tippy’s Restaurant (Governor’s Harbour)

• Why Visit: Beachfront dining with fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music.

• Local Tip: Try the grilled lobster. We avoid conch salad due to sustainability issues.

The Front Porch (Hatchet Bay)

• Why Visit: A cozy, family-run spot with some of the best cracked conch and Bahamian specialties on the island.

• Local Tip: Call ahead—reservations are recommended.

Pascal’s Oceanfront Dining (Rock Sound)

• Why Visit: A laid-back beachfront restaurant with amazing sunset views.

• Local Tip: The rum punch here is legendary.

Getting Around Eleuthera

While Eleuthera is long and narrow, there’s no public transportation system. Options for getting around:

• Rental Car – Best for exploring at your own pace.

• Taxis – Available but can be expensive for long distances.

• Bicycles & Golf Carts – Common in Spanish Wells and smaller settlements.

→ Pro Tip: If renting a car, be prepared for unpaved roads leading to some beaches.

Best Time to Visit Eleuthera

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Dry season, mild temperatures, and peak tourist season.

• Spring (Mar–May): Perfect weather, fewer crowds, and lively festivals.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Hotter with occasional rain, but great for snorkeling and diving.

• Fall (Sept–Nov): Fewer tourists, lower prices, and some risk of hurricanes.

Essential Tips for Sailors & Travelers

• Customs & Immigration: Clear in at Spanish Wells, Governor’s Harbour, or Rock Sound.

• Currency: Bahamian dollar (BSD) is used, but USD is widely accepted.

• Internet & Cell Service: SIM cards are available. We used BTC (Batelco). WiFi can be slow in remote areas.

• Grocery Stores: Rock Sound and Governor’s Harbour have the best selections.

Final Thoughts: Why Eleuthera Should Be on Your Travel List

Eleuthera is not just another island in the Bahamas—it’s a destination for those who love adventure, seclusion, and natural beauty. Whether you’re arriving by sailboat, flying in for a relaxing getaway, or island-hopping from Nassau, Eleuthera’s charm, friendly locals, and stunning landscapes make it unforgettable.