What Are the Best Out Islands in The Bahamas to Visit?

It’s no wonder why The Bahamas is one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers looking for a tropical destination to bask in sunshine and lounging along pristine beaches.

The Out Islands of The Bahamas provide the quintessential dream vacation experience; the perfect balance between a memorable escape and an authentic local experience. The Out Islands are unspoiled and unpopulated, providing a unique opportunity to experience true Bahamian culture and nature in its full splendor.

Each of the unique Out Islands offers something unique and special, that’s why it can be hard to decide which one will be the perfect fit for your adventure. To make it easier, here are some of the best Out Islands that offer great activities and experiences, plus tips on the best time to visit and some essential information you should know when travelling to each destination.

1. Cat Island

Arguably one of the most charming of all Out Islands, Cat Island offers a peaceful refuge away from the hustle and bustle of Nassau and Freeport/Lucaya. As one of The Bahamas’ southernmost islands, here guests will find many deserted beaches with soft white sand and aquamarine waters. There is no airport on the island and passage with The Bahamas Ferries or charter flight is its only access point.

The island is not as populated as other Out Islands so its top attractions include exploring miles of temperate beaches, diving and snorkeling in countless reefs, back-to-nature experiences, golfing, surfing and experiencing the cultural attractions centered around its many intriguing historical landmarks.

The best time of year to visit Cat Island is during the summer months (May through October) when temperatures are high and more tropical activities are available.

2. Long Island

Long Island is another popular Out Island in The Bahamas that is well-known for its world-renowned beaches, crystal clear waters and renowned local cuisine. Here visitors have access to some of the archipelago’s best-kept secret beaches and coves, which are popular with honeymooners.

One of the highlights of visiting Long Island is experiencing the stunning array of sea life that call these waters home. It’s perfect for anyone who loves boating, fishing or scuba diving as well as beachgoers with shallow coastal waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

The island is also home to historical landmarks like Dean’s Blue Hole which is the world’s deepest saltwater blue hole or the breathtaking tide pools located at Cockburn Town.

The best time to visit Long Island is during the winter months (December through April) when temperatures stay around 24°C/75°F.

3. Exuma

Exuma is a 365-island chain that is located approximately 480 miles southeast of Miami but just 45 miles from Nassau. Their white sand beaches make Exuma a popular hotspot for luxury resorts, spas and private cottages found along the waterfronts.

One of their best attractions is visiting the legendary swimming pigs that have resided on Big Major Cay since 1992, where they famously swim around in crystalline waters looking to be fed apples by beachgoers. Another popular spot is Stocking Island where endless teal waters offer an ideal paradise for a day out on a boat or a beach BBQ with friends.

The best time to visit this archipelago is during the winter months, although it tends to be quite humid due to its tropical climate.

4. Eleuthera

Eleuthera is an idyllic slice of paradise in The Bahamas that provides a laid-back island life full of old-time classic Bahamian culture, heritage sites and beaches that go on for miles. Divided into two parts by only a two-mile-wide strip called Current Cut Cut, Eleuthera offers something for every type of traveler from laid-back locals to families looking for sun-drenched beaches and watersports galore.

Among its many attractions, Eleuthera boasts some spectacular pink sand beaches like Lighthouse Beach, an 18th century lighthouse attraction in Governor’s Harbour as well as fishing retreats like Club Peace & Plenty, full of picturesque landscapes perfect for Instagram posts.

The weather in Eleuthera is warm all year round but most people like to visit during the winter months where it maintains a steady temperature of 24°C/75°F.

5. Harbour Island

Harbour Island is one of The Bahamas’ popular travel destinations that attract honeymooners out for an idyllic vacation. A small, vibrant Dunmore Town has been dubbed the “Gem of The Islands” after its colorfully painted buildings, high-end resorts and world-class swimming beaches.

Here visitors can enjoy an excellent selection of snorkeling spots with more than enough coral formations to discover diverse fish species among them purple starfish, tiger eels and parrotfish as well as many other unique aquatic animals that make up the vibrant underwater life found in these waters.

The best time of year to visit Harbour Island is during the summer months when temperatures reach up to 31°C/88°F but can dip down to 19°C/66°F in winter months making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming or enjoying wonderful activities like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking along its many beautiful sea caves.

Conclusion:

With so many great Out Islands in The Bahamas to choose from, it can be hard to make your final decision. Each lovely island has something special for visitors to explore that makes them all worthy candidates for an unforgettable vacation experience. So take a chance and pick any one of these amazing Out Islands and you won’t be disappointed!

In order to find more information regarding the best Out Islands to visit according to your preferences you can consult BahamasLocal website, they have a complete guide with all sorts of information regarding different islands so you can make an informed decision ahead of time before making your plans.