City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Eleuthera, Bahamas
Located east of New Providence Island and west of Harbour Island, Eleuthera is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and stunning landscapes. The tropical Bahamian island is about 110 miles long (two at the widest) and filled with a landscape of palm trees, pineapple groves, fruit orchards, natural pools and the gorgeous sapphire blues of the Caribbean.
Eleuthera is a popular tourist destination that attracts boaters, beach bums and other travelers from around the world. Whether you choose North or South Eleuthera, you’ll find a wide variety of activities like diving, snorkeling, fishing, sightseeing or bicycling along the Queen’s Highway (which is about 65 miles long and an excellent way to see the island). We’re also perfectly content to toss a towel and spend the day on Pink Sand Beach, Surfer’s Beach or Lighthouse Beach.
Photo: Wikimedia
Let’s take a look at a few of the fun things to do from private boat dock rentals in Eleuthera.
Glass Window Bridge
Photo: Travel Bahamas (Facebook)
Looking for one of the most unique and stunning island scenes? Glass Window Bridge is the best spot to see deep blue Atlantic Ocean waves meeting the turquoise hues of the Bight of Eleuthera. This natural wonder is separated by a 30-foot-wide stretch of land. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for this view.
Queen's Bath
Photo: Travel Bahamas (Facebook)
The Queen's Bath (also called Hot Tubs) is a unique natural formation that consists of a series of interconnected tide pools. The pools are located at the bottom of a cliff and fill up with water from the crashing Atlantic Ocean waves. As the water warms in the sun, it becomes perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reach the Queen’s Baths via a short hike while enjoying beautiful scenery along the way.
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
Photo: Wikimedia
The 30-acre Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve is a national park and nature center that makes a terrific day trip from a private boat lift for rent. It’s home to a variety of native plants and flowers. Take a guided tour of the preserve to learn about local flora and fauna and the conservation efforts being taken to protect them. Don’t miss the visitor center and gift shop before heading back to a private boat slip rental.
Preacher's Cave
Photo: Tripadvisor
Preacher's Cave is a historic site that dates back to the 1600s. It was once used as a refuge by the first European settlers of Eleuthera who were seeking religious freedom. Today, visitors can take a tour of the cave and learn about its history.
Ocean Hole
Photo: Tripadvisor
Looking for ways to get up close to native marine life? Ocean Hole is a natural saltwater swimming hole located in the center of Eleuthera. The hole is more than 600 feet deep and is home to a variety of tropical fish and marine life. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the hole and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Ocean Hole Park. There’s a ladder for easy access as well as a couple of places to dive from.
Hatchet Bay Cave
Photo: James St. John/Flickr/CC
Located just south of Surfer’s Beach, Hatchet Bay Cave is a large cave that features stunning rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites and a freshwater lake. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about its history and geology. The cave is home to a variety of bats and other wildlife.
Island Farm
Photo: Island Farm (Facebook)
Shop for honey, hot sauce, jams and jellies, organic fruits and vegetables, bread, herbs and more at Island Farm. It’s a great way to stock up the boat’s galley at a private boat dock rental. Visitors can take a tour of the farm and learn about sustainable agriculture practices and the importance of eating locally grown produce. The farm also features a farm-to-table restaurant and a gift shop.
From stunning beaches to historic sites and natural wonders, Eleuthera offers something for every member of your crew. If you’re planning a trip to the Bahamas, whether flying in or visiting by boat from Florida, be sure to add Eleuthera to your itinerary.
