Getting Around Grand Bahama. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Jitneys

Grand Bahama does not have a metro or tram system. The main public transportation consists of shared minivans known as "jitneys" or simply "buses." These are private vehicles operating on fixed routes, providing an affordable and authentic way to travel.

Main hubs are typically the downtown Freeport area and the Port Lucaya Marketplace area. Jitneys connect these two major centers, passing many resorts and businesses in between.

Jitney Details

Route Maps: No official, widely published map. Drivers know their routes.
Fares: Paid in cash directly to the driver, $1.25 to $2.50 USD per person per ride.
Hours: Typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. Less frequent after dark.
Accessibility: Not typically wheelchair accessible.

Hailing a Jitney

Wave down from the side of the road. No marked stops. Drivers flash lights if they have space.

Confirm Route

If unsure, ask the driver: "Are you going to Port Lucaya?" or "Does this bus go downtown?"

Exact Change

Drivers may not carry much change. Have exact fare for a smoother process.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information

Licensed taxis have specific plates, often marked "Taxi" or "T".
Fares are government-regulated; confirm fare before starting the journey.
Payment typically in cash (BSD or USD); some may accept credit cards.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber or Lyft do not operate in Grand Bahama.
Local private car services may be available via hotel concierge.
Taxis are generally safe. For jitneys, less recommended after dark.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Valid driver's license, minimum age often 21/25.

Scooter Rental

Available from local operators, exercise caution.

Bicycle Rental

Available from hotels/local shops for short distances.

No Sharing Programs

No formal bicycle sharing like in larger cities.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Grand Bahama on foot or by bicycle in appropriate areas.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Port Lucaya Marketplace: Very pedestrian-friendly with shops and restaurants.
Resort Areas: Grounds designed for walking within the property and to nearby beaches.
Beaches: Ideal for leisurely walks along miles of coastline.
Walking Tour Options: Inquire through local tour operators for guided historical or nature tours.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.
Safety Precautions: Wear a Helmet. Use lights if cycling at dusk or night.
Be highly aware of traffic, especially on main roads. Stay to the left side.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking or cycling along major highways or unlit roads, especially at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Tour operators offer sightseeing tours by bus or van, often including stops at major attractions.

No formal hop-on-hop-off service exists.
Day tours serve a similar purpose.
Provides guided transport to multiple sites.

Boat Taxis

Connect Port Lucaya Marketplace to the Taino Beach and Bell Channel Bay area.

Offer a scenic and convenient way to cross the channel.
Check local schedules and fares.
Popular for short water transfers.

Boat Charters

Numerous boat charters are available for various water activities.

For fishing, snorkeling, or diving.
Visit nearby cays like Peterson Cay.
Provide customized water experiences.

Accessibility Limitations

Public Transport Barriers

Accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges is generally limited outside of major resorts.
Jitneys are not accessible for wheelchairs.
Accessible taxis are rare and need to be pre-arranged if available.

Planning for Mobility Needs

Newer resorts often have ramps and accessible rooms.
Private accessible transportation might be arranged through specialized tour operators.
Plan these arrangements well before your trip.

Final Transit Note

Grand Bahama is an island. Land transportation focuses on driving within the island.

There are no land borders, train connections, or long-distance bus services.

Getting Around Grand Bahama