Eleuthera is a treasure trove of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, offering a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, savor local cuisine, or connect with nature, Eleuthera has it all. Here are must-see sites and activities to consider for a fulfilling island adventure.
1. Relaxing on Idyllic Beaches
Eleuthera is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. Whether you want to lounge in the sun, enjoy calm waters, or simply admire the stunning landscapes, these are the beaches not to miss:
Ten Bay Beach: Located on the Caribbean side, this beach is perfect for swimming in shallow, crystal-clear waters. The calm, peaceful environment makes it ideal for relaxation.
French Leave Beach: With its famous pink sand and relatively calm surf, this Atlantic beach is a serene place to unwind. It’s ideal for long walks and quiet days.
Lighthouse Beach: Located at the southern tip, Lighthouse Beach offers soft pink sand, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most breathtaking views on the island. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquility and raw beauty.
Rainbow Bay Beach: Situated on the Caribbean side of Eleuthera, Rainbow Bay Beach is known for its calm, turquoise waters and powdery sand. Ideal for snorkeling and swimming, this beach offers shallow waters that are perfect for families and relaxation. The peaceful setting and picturesque views make it a must-visit spot, with nearby shaded picnic areas adding to its charm.
*Pro-Tip – See our beach guide that describes some of our favorite beaches on both the Atlantic and Caribbean sides of the island to experience exactly what you are seeking to find!
2. Exploring Natural Wonders
Eleuthera’s unique geography provides endless opportunities for exploration:
Glass Window Bridge: Often called the "Narrowest Place on Earth," the Glass Window Bridge is where the dark, choppy Atlantic meets the calm, turquoise Caribbean. The views from this narrow stretch are simply jaw-dropping, offering a true contrast between two oceans.
Queen’s Bath: Just south of the Glass Window Bridge, these natural tide pools are filled with warm, clear water, making it a unique spot for a relaxing soak while watching waves crash against the cliffs.
Hatchet Bay Cave: This extensive cave system near Gregory Town features dramatic limestone formations and ancient stalactites. Exploring the cave’s chambers is a thrilling experience for adventurers.
Preacher’s Cave: Preacher’s Cave is one of Eleuthera’s most historically significant and awe-inspiring landmarks. Located near the northern tip of the island, the cave served as a refuge for a group of English Puritans, known as the Eleutheran Adventurers, who were shipwrecked on nearby Devil’s Backbone in 1648. The large, naturally formed cave provided shelter for the group, and they held their first religious services there, giving the cave its name. Today, Preacher’s Cave remains a peaceful and fascinating place to visit, with its towering rock formations, cool interior, and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the cave, walk along the nearby secluded beach, and reflect on the island's early history.
*Pro-Tip – Visit Preacher’s cave and the sapphire blue hole in the same day. They are very close in proximity and if you can get to Ben Bay, it is a great beach experience.
3. Island Hopping Adventures
Eleuthera is surrounded by smaller islands that are easily accessible for day trips and further exploration:
Harbour Island: Famous for its pink sand beaches and vibrant culture, Harbour Island is a must-visit. Rent a golf cart and explore this charming island, where you’ll find luxury dining, boutique shopping, and beautiful scenery.
Spanish Wells: Just a short ferry ride away, Spanish Wells is a quiet fishing community with overwater swings, pristine beaches, and quaint restaurants. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful day of exploration.
Pineapple Cays: These small, uninhabited islands off the southern coast of Eleuthera offer secluded beaches, perfect for picnicking, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the untouched beauty. These cays are only accessible by boat if doing a self-guided tour.
4. Bird Watching and Marine Life Watching
For nature lovers, Eleuthera provides excellent opportunities to observe both land and sea creatures:
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve: Located near Governor’s Harbour, this nature reserve is home to many bird species, including the Bahama woodstar hummingbird. The well-marked trails also feature native plant species, medicinal gardens, and mangrove forests.
Savannah Sound & Whale Point: These areas are prime spots for watching dolphins, turtles, and other marine life. You can often spot sea turtles surfacing for air or pods of dolphins playing in the shallow waters.
Ocean Hole: In Rock Sound, this inland blue hole is known for its marine life. You’ll find tropical fish and the occasional turtle swimming in this deep, calm pool, making it a fun spot to snorkel and explore.
5. Geysers and Blowholes
For those looking for unique natural phenomena, Eleuthera’s blowholes and geysers provide a dramatic display:
Boiling Hole: Near Hatchet Bay, the Boiling Hole is a naturally occurring blowhole that spouts water during high tide. It’s a fun and fascinating sight, especially for nature enthusiasts.
Surfer’s Beach Blowholes: Located near Surfer’s Beach, these natural blowholes shoot water into the air when the tides are high, creating an exciting and dramatic show.
Geysers near Queen’s Bath: Close to Queen’s Bath, on the Atlantic side near the Glass Window Bridge, you’ll find natural geysers that shoot water up through the rocks when the tide and waves are strong. These powerful spouts create an impressive spectacle, making it a captivating spot for visitors seeking a unique and dramatic display of nature's force.
6. Dining and Culinary Experiences
Eleuthera’s dining scene is filled with fresh seafood, local Bahamian fare, and international dishes:
El Karaka (Gregory Town): Known for its laid-back vibe and local dishes, El Karaka serves up delicious Bahamian cuisine, fresh fish, and conch fritters, perfect for a casual meal after a day of exploring.
The Buccaneer Club (Governor's Harbour): This charming restaurant is a local favorite for its seafood, Bahamian dishes, and casual, friendly atmosphere. A great spot for lunch or dinner with fresh catch-of-the-day offerings.
Mate and Jenny’s (Palmetto Point): A well-loved spot for its pizza, fish, and Bahamian
specialties. It’s a great stop after a day of beach hopping or exploring the island.
*Pro-Tip – See our complete guide for our favorite restaurants around the island. From local favorites to fine-dining, there are plenty to choose from!
7. Island Festivals and Local Culture
Engage with Eleuthera’s rich culture by attending local festivals and events:
Pineapple Festival: Held in Gregory Town every June, the Pineapple Festival celebrates the island’s famous pineapples with music, food, and cultural performances. It’s a great opportunity to experience the island’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
Local Fish Fry (Governor’s Harbour): Head to Governor’s Harbour on a Friday night for a classic Bahamian fish fry. You’ll find grilled fish, conch salad, and an atmosphere filled with music and dancing.
*Pro-Tip – See our guide to Eleuthera’s festivals and plan your trip around those amazing events as you explore the island.
8. Sunset Viewing
No day on Eleuthera is complete without taking in one of its stunning sunsets:
Alabaster Bay: Located just north of Governor’s Harbour, this beach is known for its west-facing views, making it a prime spot for watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of colors.
Eleuthera offers a harmonious blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it a paradise for those looking to explore and unwind in equal measure.
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