Out Islands The Bahamas Travel Guide
Eleuthera has three main airports, each serving a distinct part of the island. These facilities offer fundamental services for travelers.
Major US airlines, including Aa, Delta Air Lines, and Silver Airways, operate direct flights from various US cities to Eleuthera. Regional airlines like Bahamasair plus Occidental Air deliver flights from Nassau. Smaller carriers and private charters also serve the island.
Ideal for accessing Harbour Island and Iberian 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 quite scarce 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 which leads to the shore and attractions are often unpaved, narrow, sandy, and rugged. A 4x4 vehicle receives strong recommendation for discovering 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 usually don't 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 trips between settlements. No train services exist on the island.
Travel by sea 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 reach to Harbour Island plus Spanish Wells. The journey from Nassau to Governor's Harbour typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours.
Eleuthera does not have an exclusive cruise port for large cruise ships. Main cruise lines typically dock in Nassau or Freeport. However, some smaller cruise companies 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 arrivals by boat must clear Bahamian Border control And customs.
Prepare for your departure from Eleuthera to result in a smooth transition. As of the BEGINNING of 2024, a departure tax typically receives inclusion in the airline ticket price for international flights departing From 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 have basic waiting areas. You may find a small snack bar or limited food options. Duty-duty-free shopping remains very limited or non-existent at Eleuthera's airports. Plan to acquire any last-minute items before making it to the airport to avoid disappointment.
Confirm with your rental agency if airport drop-off is available or where to come back the car.
Pre-book a cab 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.
