Getting around in the Bahamas

The food, the drinks, the amenities – if you’re staying in a resort in the Bahamas, it’s likely you won’t want to leave once you land. But to take full advantage of all the 700-plus islands have to offer, you’ll have to head out.

Admittedly, getting around the Bahamas is a little tricky with inter-island flights or ferries, but not a major hassle if you plan ahead. Conveniences like Uber and Lyft do not exist, but there are plenty of local taxis or buses to get you where you need to go. Here are the best ways to get around the Bahamas. 

Planes are the best way to island-hop

Travel between the islands of the Bahamas is best done by plane. Inter-island flights to popular locations such as Andros, Harbour Island, Eleuthera, the Exumas and the Abacos cost around US$125 to $150, with flight times ranging from 25 to 60 minutes. 

Domestic airlines such as Bahsmamsair, Flamingo Air and Southern Air fly to the Out Islands, which locals refer to as the Family Islands, daily. Most planes are smaller with one row, so pack light, but bags are always checked, so they don’t have to be carry-on sized.

There are 20 international airports in the country, but Lynden Pindling International Airport, located on the western end of New Providence island, is the biggest and busiest. It also serves as a hub for inter-island flights.  

You’ll have to arrange a shuttle service or grab a taxi once at the airport. Most taxi services will have a fixed rate based on distance. There are no public transportation options available. 

To see more of the country, go by car

Hitting the road in the Bahamas is a great way to cover more ground and explore the Out Islands. Driving in the Bahamas, especially in Nassau, is filled with one-way streets, narrow roads and heavy traffic. Heads up: folks drive on the left side of the road here.  

In order to drive in the Bahamas, a valid US passport is required, but if your stay is longer than three months, an international driver’s license is needed. Major rental-car companies, such as Hertz, Alamo, National, Avis, Budget, Dollar and Thrifty, have offices on most islands.

Taxis are another car option for getting around, and there’s no shortage of licensed drivers. Most taxis have a fixed rate, although some are metered,…