About
Eleuthera
Island

As we like to say, “Eleuthera, it’s not for everyone” –
and that’s exactly what makes it special.

The Island Experience

Welcome to Eleuthera, a stunning 110-mile-long island in The Bahamas where pristine beaches meet warm local culture.

Eleuthera offers a genuine Bahamian experience far removed from the mega-resorts and tourist crowds.

Here, you’ll find:

  • Miles of untouched pink and white sand beaches
  • Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving
  • Quiet settlements filled with friendly locals
  • A perfect balance of relaxation and adventure
  • No casinos, no flashy clubs – just pure island charm
Glass Window Bridge Eleuthera Bahamas
Glass Window Bridge – Photo Credit Lace Daily

Natural Beauty

The island’s unique geography creates stunning natural features that make Eleuthera one of the most remarkable islands in The Bahamas.

From the dramatic Glass Window Bridge where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean, to mysterious ocean holes and ancient cave systems, Eleuthera’s natural wonders tell a story millions of years in the making.

The name “Eleuthera” comes from the Greek word “eleutheros,” meaning “free,” and there’s something truly liberating about exploring its untamed landscapes.

Hidden coves, towering cliffs and lush preserves, the island’s natural beauty remains largely unspoiled by development, allowing visitors to experience The Bahamas as nature intended.

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The Glass Window Bridge

Known as “the narrowest place on Earth,” this remarkable bridge marks where the deep blue Atlantic Ocean meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea, separated by just 30 feet of rock. The contrast between the two bodies of water creates one of the most photographed sites in The Bahamas.

Caves and Caverns

Eleuthera’s ancient cave systems, including Cathedral Caves, Preacher’s Cave and Hatchet Bay Caves, are rich with historical significance and natural wonders. The caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, ancient Lucayan Indian artifacts, and tell the story of the island’s first European settlers who sought refuge in Preacher’s Cave in 1647.

Ocean Holes

These mysterious inland blue holes across Eleuthera are natural swimming pools connected to the ocean through underground tunnels. The most famous is the Ocean Hole in Rock Sound, a supposedly bottomless lake filled with tropical fish and crystal-clear water.

Beaches

With over 135 beaches stretching along both its Caribbean and Atlantic coasts, Eleuthera offers everything from dramatic surf spots to tranquil coves. The Atlantic side features iconic pink sand beaches like French Leave and Double Bay perfect for long walks, while the Caribbean side offers calm, family-friendly beaches like Ten Bay and Winding Bay ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.

Local Life & Culture

Unlike more commercialized destinations, Eleuthera maintains its genuine character through its people, customs, and time-honored traditions.

Here, you’ll discover a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations – where community gatherings are cherished, doors are left open to welcome neighbors, and the rhythm of island life moves in harmony with the tides.

From bustling fish fry celebrations to quiet morning markets, every aspect of daily life in Eleuthera offers visitors a chance to experience the real Bahamas.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from our guests about this beautiful Bahamian island.

Eleuthera is renowned for its pristine 110-mile coastline and pink-sand beaches. The island’s crown jewel is the Glass Window Bridge, where the deep blue Atlantic meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

Once known as the “Pineapple Capital of the World,” Eleuthera offers secluded beaches, world-class surfing, diving, and unique attractions like Ocean Hole and Queen’s Bath. Unlike more developed Bahamian islands, it maintains its authentic charm with historic settlements and farm-to-table dining experiences.

Eleuthera offers a refreshingly different experience from other Bahamian destinations. You won’t find large resorts, cruise ship ports, shopping malls, or chain restaurants here. There are no crowded beaches, tourist traps, nightclubs, or casinos.

Instead, Eleuthera provides an authentic Bahamian experience where you can immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy miles of often-empty beaches. The settlements are genuine communities rather than tourist developments, and most businesses are locally owned and operated. If you’re looking to escape the typical tourist scene and experience authentic island life, Eleuthera is an ideal choice.

Yes and no. Beachfront accommodations, car rentals ($75-125/day), imported groceries, and dining out are costly. However, you can save by visiting during shoulder season (April-May, September-November), staying inland rather than beachfront, shopping at local markets, and cooking your own meals. The island caters to both luxury travelers and those seeking a more budget-friendly experience with proper planning.

Each region of Eleuthera has its own distinct character.

North Eleuthera includes the upscale Harbor Island and Spanish Wells, offering more developed areas with higher-end resorts and amenities.

Central Eleuthera, anchored by Governor’s Harbor (the capital), features historic buildings, popular beaches, and the majority of the island’s restaurants and services.

South Eleuthera provides a more remote, less developed experience with some of the island’s most pristine beaches and authentic settlements.

Your choice of location should depend on whether you prefer easier access to amenities or a more secluded, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Eleuthera is famous for its fresh seafood, especially conch, lobster, and grouper. The island’s signature fruit is pineapple, historically earning it the nickname “Pineapple Capital of the World.”

Local specialties include rock lobster, conch salad, guava duff (sweet pastry), and fresh fish served “snapper style” – steamed with local spices. Don’t miss the fish fry events in local settlements where you can sample authentic Bahamian cuisine.

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