Taking a Vacation in Eleuthera, Bahamas
Eleuthera, an out-island of The Bahamas, is not for everyone. If you’re seeking nightlife, casinos, attractions, malls and more, then Eleuthera is not for you.
However, if you simply want to relax on a secluded pink sand beach and enjoy the sound of the ocean and the search for sells, then Eleuthera fits the bill.
Accommodations
Finding accommodations on the island of Eleuthera can be an adventure on its own.
Places to stay range from modern (but small) hotels and quaint inns to renting self-catering homes or cottages.
Prices also run from several hundreds of dollars per night to less than one hundred dollars a night.
There are choices to fit almost every budget.
Car Rental
Even though Eleuthera has a very small population, it is a fairly large, long and narrow island. The island is long and skinny – over 100 miles from end to end and barely 2 miles wide at its widest point.
So, having access to transportation is vital if you want to get around and visit any of the beaches or got to restaurants and other local attractions.
Renting a vehicle on Eleuthera is a little different than most people would expect. There are no national card rental agencies. You’ll rent directly from a Bahamian business person. You’ll likely rent a vehicle at whichever airport you arrive at. If not, any place you stay should be able to arrange a rental for you.
Usually, there aren’t any forms to fill out. The individual renting you the car may ask for some information, such as you’re name and the hotel you’re staying at. But, often as not, they’ll hand yo the keys, give you their name and possible their card and ask you when you plan to return the card. Yes, it can be that simple.
Make sure to agree on the cost of the rental. Rental rates vary – from about to per day – and are based on how long you plan to keep the vehicle. The long you keep it, the better rate you should be able to get. If you only want the car for a day or two, you’ll pay a higher rate.
Make sure you have sufficient cash to pay for your rental. Don’t expect credit cards to be accepted for your rental.
Getting To Eleuthera
By plane From the U.S.A.
If you’re arriving in Eleuthera by air, remember that there are three airports and that Eleuthera is 110 miles long.
Eleuthera actually has three international airports – North Eleuthera (ELH), Governor’s Harbour (GHB) and Rock Sound (RSD). Make sure you pick the correct airport – the one that’s closest to where you’ll be staying.
Currently there are four airlines servicing Eleuthera directly from the US. Some fly out of Fort Lauderdale, some out of Miami.
- Twin Air
- Lynx Air
- Continental
- American Eagle
By plane from Nassau, Bahamas
You can choose to arrive in Nassau (NAS) and pick up a local airline to continue on to Eleuthera.
- BahamasAir
- Southern Air
By Fast Ferry from Nassau, Bahamas
If you’re traveling to Eleuthera from Nassau, you can choose to use the fast ferry – The Bo Hengy. It departs from Potter’s Cay each morning with stops at Spanish Wells and Harbour Island.
You’ll be able to get a water taxi from either Spanish Wells or Harbour Island to the main island of Eleuthera. You’ll be able to get a tax or rent at car at either dock.
Restaurants
Restaurants on Eleuthera range from small take-aways to world-class cuisine.
Make sure to eat at a small Bahamian-owned restaurant so you can experience some authentic local food like peas and rice, conch fritter or conch salad.
The Beaches
Eleuthera has an abundance of incredible beaches, the most well known is probably Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island.
But, if you’re looking for a secluded beach there are several of them on Eleuthera. However, most of them are hard to find. A guide to finding the beaches – The Elusive Beaches of Eleuthera – can be invaluable in help you to find fabulous beaches that you’ll often have all to yourselves.
No, Eleuthera isn’t for everyone, but it can make for a memorable vacation experience.
|
0 Positive Reviews |
|
0 Negative Reviews |
Average Rating:
 |
Leave a Reply