The Bahamas🇧🇸 | regionsLong Islanddramatic cliffs, blue holes, twin coastlines | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Long Island
👍 Recommendedregion ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 6, 2026

Everyone talks about Long Island for Dean’s Blue Hole, like you fly all this way just to stare into a very deep circle of water. The real magic for travelers is what happens in between the “sights”: the empty roads, the tiny bars where everyone knows whose cousin you just met, the way the Atlantic and Caribbean sides feel like two different islands. Long Island sits in the southern half of The Bahamas, a long, skinny strip south of Exuma and far quieter than Nassau or Paradise Island. For backpackers, it’s gorgeous and raw, but not cheap: food and rooms cost more than you’d expect, and hitchhiking or rental cars are basically how you connect the scattered settlements like Clarence Town and Stella Maris. You trade nightlife and convenience for space, real conversations, wild coastline, and almost zero cruise-ship energy.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 The Bahamas Travel Guide.

Best time to go: December - May

Get your Bahamas guide

64 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (240 pages)

Loading the map 🌍

CLICK TO FILTER

cities

towns

villages

landmarks

national parks

hikes

beaches

attractions

festivals

regions

SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 region in The BahamasThe unique appeal for travelers

Long Island in The Bahamas is a backpacker’s playground, and here’s why you’ll want to linger. First off, the variety of landscapes is mind-blowing. You’ve got stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush greenery all within a short drive. This means you can soak in the sun at Tropic of Cancer Beach one day and hike through Dean’s Blue Hole the next, all without the hassle of constant relocation.

Then there’s the transport flexibility. Renting a scooter or a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can hit up local markets in Clarence Town for fresh conch fritters or find a secluded cove to unwind.

What really sets Long Island apart is the chance to mix nature and culture seamlessly. You can dive into the local scene, chatting with fishermen or joining a traditional junkanoo … read more 👉

Want to include Long Island in your The Bahamas route?
Create a personalized The Bahamas itinerary that includes Long Island and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Dean’s Blue Hole (Clarence Town) — The single most famous natural feature on Long Island: a massive, surreal blue sinkhole dropping straight down from the sea. It’s a magnet for freedivers and anyone who likes impossibly clear water and dramatic jumps. Go early to dodge the day-trippers and swim/snorkel the rim rather than trying to beat a depth record.
Hamilton’s Cave — A real limestone cave with big chambers, stalactites and bones/fossil finds reported by archaeologists. It’s one of the best places on Long Island to feel the island’s deep, silent geology and the trace-echoes of Lucayan inhabitants. Bring a flashlight and a local guide who can point out features and the safer routes.
Cape Santa Maria beach strip — Wide, soft sand and turquoise water that feels private even when a few

… read more 👉

Dean’s Blue Hole (Clarence Town) — The single most famous natural feature on Long Island: a massive, surreal blue sinkhole dropping straight down from the sea. It’s a magnet for freedivers and anyone who likes impossibly clear water and dramatic jumps. Go early to dodge the day-trippers and swim/snorkel the rim rather than trying to beat a depth record.
Hamilton’s Cave — A real limestone cave with big chambers, stalactites and bones/fossil finds reported by archaeologists. It’s one of the best places on Long Island to feel the island’s deep, silent geology and the trace-echoes of Lucayan inhabitants. Bring a flashlight and a local guide who can point out features and the safer routes.
Cape Santa Maria beach strip — Wide, soft sand and turquoise water that feels private even when a few others are around. This north-shore stretch is classic Bahamas shoreline without the crowds — excellent for long walks, sunset watching and easy snorkeling right off the sand.
Clarence Town (local life & viewpoints) — The island’s cultural heart: fishermen bringing in the day’s haul, small roadside eateries, and low-key streets with old wooden houses. It’s also the best base for visiting Dean’s Blue Hole and getting a feel for Long Island’s relaxed, community-centered pace.
Deadman’s Cay & the village piers — The practical hub (airport nearby) that’s also great for everyday local encounters: fresh-fish markets, small cafés, boat charters, and honest conversation with islanders. Go to the docks at dusk for fishermen unloading catches and a real slice of island routine.
West-side bonefishing flats — Long Island’s shallow, gin-clear flats are world-class for sight-fishing bonefish — a very specific Bahamian experience you won’t replicate in rougher-coast places. Hire a local guide/guide-skiff and learn the slow, patient rhythm of flats fishing.
Salt Pond area (hidden gem) — The settlement and surrounding salt ponds are quietly photogenic and rich with coastal birdlife and tide-scored flats. Few tourists linger here, so it’s a calm spot for walking, birdwatching and watching how locals harvest or use the ponds seasonally.
South shore cliffs and Atlantic outlooks (hidden gem) — Drive the quieter south side and stop where the road meets sheer cliffs and pounding surf. The geology, tidal pools and wind-shaped shoreline are raw and dramatic — perfect for a stormy-sky photo session or a solitary picnic far from resort beaches.
Small-village beach breaks and roadside stand food (hidden gem) — Plenty of tiny, unnamed beaches and family-run stands serving conch salad, fried fish and guava duff. These micro-experiences—eating where the locals eat, jumping into an empty bay after a long drive—are what turns a trip from “nice” into “I actually visited Long Island.”
Short boat trips to nearby little cays and snorkeling spots — Hire a local captain for a half-day and explore the tiny, uninhabited cays off Long Island’s coasts: isolated snorkeling walls, little sandbars and shell-strewn beaches you’ll often have to yourself. It’s low-cost, flexible and impossibly Bahamian in feel.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Bahamas

Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 64 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

Day 1: Nassau
Start your adventure in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. This is where the spine of your journey begins. The transport system here is straightforward, with buses and taxis connecting you to key spots. Spend the day exploring the vibrant markets and historical sites. The local vibe is electric, and you’ll want to soak it all in. Grab a conch fritter from a street vendor; it’s a rite of passage.

Day 2: Paradise Island
A quick ferry ride takes you to Paradise Island. This is where the luxury resorts shine, but don’t let that fool you. You can enjoy the beaches without breaking the bank. Spend the day lounging or snorkeling. The transport is seamless, making it easy to hop back to Nassau for dinner.

Day 3: Eleuthera
Now, here’s where the adventure ramps up. Take a ferry to Eleuthera. The pace slows down, and the scenery is breathtaking. Rent a scooter to explore the island’s pink sand beaches. This is where you’ll feel the true essence of The Bahamas. The transport options are limited, so plan your stops wisely.

Day 4: Harbour Island
From Eleuthera, a short boat ride lands you in Harbour Island. This is your off-path reward. The island’s charm is in its quaint streets and local eateries. Spend the day wandering and tasting the local cuisine. The slower pace here is refreshing, and the transport is manageable.

Day 5: Back to Nassau
Return to Nassau for your final day. This is where you can revisit your favorite spots or discover new ones. The transport system is reliable, allowing you to maximize your time.

The must-do day? Day 3 in Eleuthera. The combination of stunning beaches and local culture makes it the highlight of your trip. Embrace the slower pace; it’s where The Bahamas truly reveals its heart.

Turn your Long Island visit into an The Bahamas adventure
Build a complete The Bahamas route with Long Island, hidden gems, must-see destinations, and realistic travel times included.

Generate my trip

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

Weather: The Bahamas’ Long Island basks in tropical warmth year-round, but from June to November, brace for hurricane season—hot, humid, and wet. The sweet spot? December through May. Expect dry, breezy days that make hiking and beach lounging a joy.

Temperature: Winters hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for escaping cold snaps elsewhere. Summers climb to 28-32°C (82-90°F), which can feel sticky if you’re trekking all day.

Daylight Hours: Long Island enjoys roughly 11 to 13 hours of daylight. Peak daylight stretches from late spring to early fall, giving you more time to explore before sunset.

Crowds: The island stays low-key compared to Nassau or Grand Bahama, but winter holidays and spring break bring a spike. For near-solitude, aim for shoulder seasons—late April or early

… read more 👉

Weather: The Bahamas’ Long Island basks in tropical warmth year-round, but from June to November, brace for hurricane season—hot, humid, and wet. The sweet spot? December through May. Expect dry, breezy days that make hiking and beach lounging a joy.

Temperature: Winters hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for escaping cold snaps elsewhere. Summers climb to 28-32°C (82-90°F), which can feel sticky if you’re trekking all day.

Daylight Hours: Long Island enjoys roughly 11 to 13 hours of daylight. Peak daylight stretches from late spring to early fall, giving you more time to explore before sunset.

Crowds: The island stays low-key compared to Nassau or Grand Bahama, but winter holidays and spring break bring a spike. For near-solitude, aim for shoulder seasons—late April or early December.

Seasonal Activities: Turtle nesting peaks in summer, a rare treat if you’re around. Fishing and diving thrive year-round, but calmer seas from December to May make underwater adventures smoother.

Price Fluctuations: Expect prices to soar during the dry season’s holidays and spring break. Off-season (June-November) offers bargains but comes with the risk of storms and humidity.

Pro-tip: Book your trip for late April—weather’s solid, crowds thin, and prices haven’t hit their peak yet. You’ll feel like you cracked the code.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutThe Bahamas Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.

The digital guide (240 pages) contains:
✅ 64 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 2, 3 & 5-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place

Save weeks of stressful planning

Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout

Best Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025

What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic, amazing amount of information!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Awesome resource, thank you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love this! Well done, great idea.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This might be the best website I've ever seen.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

10/10 very good

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is very impressive! Good work.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in The Bahamas

When you’re backpacking in The Bahamas, Long Island is a must. It’s got a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for solo travelers or those on a budget.

Start in George Town, the capital. It’s safe, social, and has a friendly atmosphere. You’ll find local markets and beach bars where you can mingle with both locals and fellow travelers. The sunsets here are a daily ritual, and you’ll want to be part of it.

Next up, check out Salt Pond. This small village is quieter but offers a genuine Bahamian experience. You can chat with fishermen or join a local cookout. It’s a great spot to soak in the culture without the touristy hustle.

Don’t overlook Cape Santa Maria. While it’s a bit more upscale, you can still find budget-friendly options. The beach here is breathtaking, and it’s less crowded, giving you room to breathe and reflect.

Timing is key. Visit during the off-peak season for better prices and a more authentic experience. You’ll feel like a local, not just another tourist.

Best hostels in The Bahamas

Best quality hotels in The Bahamas

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

Long Island in The Bahamas flows like a gentle tide, where time feels more like a suggestion than a strict schedule. Here, the rhythm is dictated by the sun and the sea rather than clocks. You won’t find the frenetic pace of city life; instead, it’s a laid-back dance of locals and travelers alike, moving at their own speed. This isn’t a place for rigid itineraries. It’s about embracing spontaneity, where the next adventure might just be a chat with a fisherman or a last-minute boat ride to a secluded beach.

Here’s the lowdown on getting around Long Island without breaking the bank:

Local Buses - These colorful, open-air buses run sporadically, usually from 7 AM to 6 PM. A ride costs about $1-$2, making it a budget-friendly option. Just be ready for a bit of a wait; it’s all part of the

… read more 👉

Local Buses - These colorful, open-air buses run sporadically, usually from 7 AM to 6 PM. A ride costs about $1-$2, making it a budget-friendly option. Just be ready for a bit of a wait; it’s all part of the charm.

Car Rentals - Renting a car gives you freedom, with prices around $50-$70 per day. You can pick up a vehicle at the airport or local rental spots. Just remember, driving is on the left side here, so keep your wits about you. It’s a comfortable way to explore at your own pace.

Water Taxis - For a splash of adventure, hop on a water taxi. Prices vary, but expect around $10-$30 depending on your destination. They operate from early morning until sunset, offering a scenic and breezy way to travel between islands or to remote beaches.

Bicycles - Rent a bike for about $15 a day. It’s a fun way to explore the island’s hidden spots, and you’ll get some exercise too. Just be mindful of the heat and stay hydrated!

Private Transfers - If you’re looking for comfort, consider booking a private transfer. Rates start around $80, but you’ll enjoy door-to-door service. Perfect for those who want to kick back after a long flight.

Master tactical tip: Embrace the local vibe and don’t be afraid to ask for rides or join others heading your way. Locals are often more than willing to share a lift, making your journey not just efficient but also a chance to connect.

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

Long Island in The Bahamas is a food lover’s paradise. The local specialty, cracked conch, is a must-try. Picture tender conch, battered and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty dipping sauce. Pair it with peas and rice, a staple that’s both hearty and comforting. Don’t miss out on rock lobster when in season; it’s grilled and seasoned to perfection, bursting with ocean flavor.

For a true local experience, hit up the markets. Vendors serve up fresh seafood and tropical fruits, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. Street food is where the magic happens—grab a fish sandwich from a roadside stall and savor the freshness. Casual eateries dot the landscape, offering a laid-back vibe perfect for backpackers.

Dining customs here are relaxed. Don’t be surprised if you share a table … read more 👉

Other Bahamian regions near Long Island

Explore more nearby:

Berry Islands—private islets, sport fishing, quiet anchorages| 52 km away
Andros Island—blue holes, pine forests, barrier reef| 63 km away
Eleuthera Island—pink sand beaches, narrow land bridge, pineapple fields| 131 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for The Bahamas including Long Island and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all regions

Or checkout all The Bahamas has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore The Bahamas

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

Long Island in The Bahamas is a breath of fresh air. It’s laid-back, with a vibe that feels like you’ve stumbled into a local’s backyard barbecue. Don’t miss the hidden beaches; they’re the real treasure. But here’s the scoop: some spots close early, so plan your sunset cocktails accordingly. The best surprise? The locals’ warmth. They’ll share stories that make you feel like family. Just remember, this isn’t a party island—embrace the chill and soak it all in.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in The Bahamas. While every effort is made to keep the information accurate and current, conditions can change — so if you spot anything incorrect or outdated, please get in touch.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Get full country guide •

The Bahamas🇧🇸 | regionsLong Islanddramatic cliffs, blue holes, twin coastlines | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Long Island
👍 Recommendedregion ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 6, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 region in The BahamasThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Things to do around Long Island

Pirate Jeep Sightseeing Adventure!

Rum Reggae and Rhythms Tour: Dancing and Cocktails

Nassau Atv Island Half-Day City Tour with Free Pick-Up

Rums and Reggae Tour (Shore Excursion)

Rum Reggae and Rhythms Private Tour (minimum of 6 people)

Historic Island Tour Plus Rum Cake Sample and Local Beer

Island Insider || Concierge Services

Atv Guided Tours Nassau Bahamas

Wild Bahamas Nature Tours

Authentic Bahamian Cultural Experience Tour

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutThe Bahamas Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in The Bahamas

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

Other Bahamian regions near Long Island

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

The Bahamas🇧🇸 | regionsLong Islanddramatic cliffs, blue holes, twin coastlines | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Long Island👍 Recommendedregion ranked #5By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 6, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a4578')

✨ Why go?Ranked #5 region in The BahamasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a4ed1')The unique appeal for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a4ed6')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a6976')Key sights and experiences for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a697d')

Things to do around Long Island

Pirate Jeep Sightseeing Adventure!

Rum Reggae and Rhythms Tour: Dancing and Cocktails

Nassau Atv Island Half-Day City Tour with Free Pick-Up

Rums and Reggae Tour (Shore Excursion)

Rum Reggae and Rhythms Private Tour (minimum of 6 people)

Historic Island Tour Plus Rum Cake Sample and Local Beer

Island Insider || Concierge Services

Atv Guided Tours Nassau Bahamas

Wild Bahamas Nature Tours

Authentic Bahamian Cultural Experience Tour

⌛️ 5 daysaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a71b6')What you can realistically do in a weekaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a71ba')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a79c0')Seasonal considerations and timingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a79c6')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutThe Bahamas Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a8e5d')Best areas to stay in The BahamasaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a8e63')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a979f')Getting around like a localaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1a97a4')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b1b43')What to Eat & DrinkaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b1b4a')

Other Bahamian regions near Long IslandaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b2c99')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b2dae')Is it worth it?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b2db2')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b2deb')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5acff1b2dee')

Backpacking in Long Island
👍 Recommendedregion ranked #5
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 6, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #5 region in The BahamasThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

⌛️ 5 daysWhat you can realistically do in a week

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in The Bahamas

🚌 Getting aroundGetting around like a local

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

Other Bahamian regions near Long Island

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?