Home Planning & logistics

Planning & logistics

The practical part, sorted.

The Bahamas is 700 islands and a lot of small logistics. Here's what actually matters before you book — when to go, how to move between islands, and what to bring.

Best time to visit

There's no bad season — only trade-offs between crowds, price, and weather.

Dec – April

Peak & perfect

Dry, breezy, low 80s. The weather everyone pictures — and the highest rates. Book rentals two to three months out.

May – June

The sweet spot

Warm water, thinner crowds, softer prices, and storm season hasn't started. Our favourite window to travel.

July – Nov

Value & watchfulness

The best rates of the year, but it's hurricane season — travel with flexible cancellation and an eye on the forecast.

Getting around

How you move depends entirely on the island. Nassau you can taxi; the Out Islands you'll want your own wheels.

Rental car

Essential on Exuma, Eleuthera, and Grand Bahama. Drive on the left; book ahead in peak season.

Taxis & golf carts

Fixed-rate taxis in Nassau; on Harbour Island a golf cart is the only vehicle you'll need.

Boat charters

The real way to see the cays. Half- and full-day charters; ask your host to arrange a trusted captain.

Ferries & inter-island flights

Island-hopping takes a little planning — services are frequent but not always daily.

Fast ferries

High-speed catamarans link Nassau to Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, and the Abacos in a few hours. Best for short hops near New Providence.

Typically daily · book a day ahead

Regional flights

Small carriers connect Nassau to Exuma (GGT), Eleuthera (ELH/GHB), and Grand Bahama (FPO) in 30–45 minutes. The fastest way to the Out Islands.

Multiple daily · light baggage limits

Mail boats

The slow, local, cheap option — overnight freight boats that take passengers to nearly every settlement. An experience, not a schedule to rely on.

Weekly · flexible travelers only

Packing tips

What we always bring — and what to leave.

Out-Island shops are small and pricey. Pack the essentials; buy the rest before you fly.

  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Water shoes
  • Cash for smaller settlements
  • Any prescriptions
  • Dry bag & snorkel
  • Bug spray (Out Islands)

Now pick where to stay

All islands Best for luxury Read the journal

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