Out Islands, The Bahamas
Eleuthera has three main airports, each serving a distinct part of the island. These facilities offer basic services for travelers.
Major US airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Silver Airways, operate direct flights from various US cities to Eleuthera. Regional carriers like Bahamasair and Western Air deliver flights from Nassau. Smaller carriers and private charters also serve the island.
Ideal for accessing Harbour Island and Spanish Wells.
Central location, convenient for Governor's Harbour area.
Access point for the southern regions of Eleuthera.
Departure tax typically receives inclusion in the airline ticket price for international flights. Confirm with your airline.
Arrive at the airport 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled international flights. For domestic flights, 1 hour generally suffices.
Eleuthera's airports deliver basic waiting areas, limited snack options. Duty-free shopping is very limited or non-existent.
Renting a car is the preferred way to explore Eleuthera. A valid national driver's license from most countries generally proves sufficient for visitors staying up to 3 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) receives recommendation but is not strictly required by all local rental agencies. A major credit card also forms a requirement.
The main road, Queen's Highway, stretches the length of the island. It has general paving but can contain potholes in certain sections. Side roads leading to beaches and attractions are often unpaved, narrow, sandy, and rugged. A 4x4 vehicle receives strong recommendation for exploring these off-highway areas and reaching many of the island's secluded gems.
Eleuthera mainly has local, independent rental agencies. DiscoverCars.com offers a good starting point for finding local options like Stanton Cooper Car Rentals, Dean's Car Rentals, and Big E's Car Rental. Major international chains typically do not operate directly on the island.
Eleuthera does not have a public long-distance bus system for tourists. While limited private jitneys might serve specific routes for locals, these do not count as reliable for general tourist transportation. Visitors depend on private vehicles or taxis for travel between settlements. No train services exist on the island.
Sea travel delivers another way to reach Eleuthera, specifically from Nassau or for private vessels. Bahamas Ferries runs regular passenger and freight services. These ferries link Nassau (Potter's Cay Dock) to Governor's Harbour and Rock Sound on Eleuthera. Services also extend to Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. The journey from Nassau to Governor's Harbour typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours.
Eleuthera does not have a dedicated cruise port for large cruise ships. Major cruise lines typically dock in Nassau or Freeport. However, some smaller cruise lines or private yachts may call at ports like Governor's Harbour or Spanish Wells. Passengers arriving by sea, whether on a private vessel from international waters or a ferry from outside The Bahamas, must clear Bahamian Customs and Immigration.
Smaller vessels welcome at ports like Governor's Harbour and Spanish Wells.
Taxis are typically available at ferry docks. Pre-arrange a rental car for exploration.
All international sea arrivals must clear Bahamian Customs and Immigration.
Prepare for your departure from Eleuthera to make for a smooth transition. As of early 2024, a departure tax typically receives inclusion in the airline ticket price for international flights departing The Bahamas. For domestic flights, this tax also finds inclusion or a local charge at the airport. Confirm with your airline or travel agent if uncertainty exists.
Eleuthera's airports offer basic waiting areas. You may find a small snack bar or limited food options. Duty-free shopping remains very limited or non-existent at Eleuthera's airports. Plan to acquire any last-minute items before arriving at the airport to avoid disappointment.
Confirm with your rental agency if airport drop-off is available or where to return the vehicle.
Pre-book a taxi for airport transfer, especially for early morning or late-night flights.
Check if your accommodation offers transfer services to the airport, sometimes as part of your stay.
Double-check your passport and travel documents for validity and accessibility before heading to the airport.
