Eleuthera is a hidden gem in the Bahamas, boasting some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for pink sandy shores, excellent snorkeling spots, or a tranquil place to relax, Eleuthera has it all. Here are the top ten beaches you must visit when exploring this picturesque island.
Key Takeaways
- Lighthouse Beach offers miles of unspoiled pink sand and an old lighthouse with stunning views.
- French Leave Beach is known for its beautiful pink sand and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing day.
- Surfer’s Beach is a popular spot for wave riders, located just two miles from Gregory Town.
- Ten Bay Beach provides natural shade in the morning and is ideal for sunbathing in the afternoon.
- The Beach at Pineapple Fields is near Governor’s Harbour and features a unique restaurant and beach bar with spectacular views.
1. Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is a hidden gem at the southernmost tip of Eleuthera. This beach is famous for its unspoiled, blush-rose sand that stretches for miles. You can enjoy the best of both worlds here, with the Exuma Sound (Caribbean Sea) on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.
The beach offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. You can climb up to the old lighthouse perched on a dramatic limestone promontory for some breathtaking views. If you’re into photography, make sure to stand at the window of the lighthouse for a naturally framed shot.
The path to Lighthouse Beach is a bit challenging, but the reward is well worth it. Once you arrive, you’ll find secluded coves perfect for a romantic picnic or a sunset stroll. The rock structures also provide great protection if you decide to camp out for the night.
Disney has purchased this property to create a private cruise ship port. Soon, you might only be able to visit if you’re on a Disney cruise. See it now before it changes forever!
Directions from Rock Sound:
- Drive 7.3 miles south of Rock Sound Hardware (a large shopping center with an Esso station).
- Turn left at the road with “Cotton Bay Club” signs.
- Continue for 3.5 miles, then turn left at the crossroads.
- Drive 8 miles on a good road until you see the Bannerman Town sign.
- The highway takes a 90-degree bend to the right; go straight through to the beach access road.
- After 3.3 miles, you’ll see Lighthouse Bay on your right. Park at the end of the road and walk over the sand dunes to reach the beach.
2. French Leave Beach
French Leave Beach, also known as Club Med Beach, is a stunning pink sand beach that stretches for over a mile. Located on Bank’s Road in Governor’s Harbour, it is one of the nicest beaches on the Atlantic side of Eleuthera. The offshore reefs keep the water mostly calm, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Activities
- Beachcombing: The soft pink sand is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Snorkeling: The clear waters and offshore reefs make for an excellent snorkeling experience.
- Swimming: The calm waters are ideal for a refreshing swim.
- Sunbathing: The wide, pristine beach is perfect for soaking up the sun.
- Stargazing: The lack of light pollution makes it a great spot for stargazing at night.
The beach gets its name from the old Club Med Resort that was destroyed by Hurricane Floyd in 1999. It is now being rebuilt under the name French Leave Resort. This is one of the Eleuthera attractions you don’t want to miss.
If you’re looking for a beach with a small boutique feel and direct access to swimmable waters, French Leave Beach is a must-visit. Just be careful of the waves—they can be sneaky and might steal your sunglasses or even an apple watch!
3. Surfer’s Beach
Surfer’s Beach is a must-visit for anyone who loves catching waves. This spot is famous for its amazing surf conditions and laid-back vibe. If you’re coming from the north, head 2.0 miles south of Pam’s Island Made Gift Shop and turn left at the large sign that says “Surfer’s Beach Manor.” Follow the rocky road to Surfer’s Beach Manor, and at the bottom of the hill, turn left. The next road on your right is the sandy access road to the beach. Make sure your car has good clearance, or you can park at Surfer’s Beach Manor and walk.
Once you get there, you’ll find a small cove at the north end of the beach that’s perfect for swimming if you’re not a strong swimmer. This cove is also good for snorkeling on very calm days. There’s a cool beach shack made of driftwood where you can chill and watch the waves. If you walk north for a minute, you’ll see a huge rock formation that’s pretty interesting.
The natural shading here is perfect for taking a break and enjoying the sea view.
For those coming from the south, head 5.9 miles north of the Rainbow Inn and turn right at the large sign that says “Surfer’s Beach Manor.” Follow the rocky road to Surfer’s Beach Manor, and at the bottom of the hill, turn left. The next road on your right is the sandy access road to the beach. Again, make sure your car has good clearance, or you can park at Surfer’s Beach Manor and walk.
4. Ten Bay Beach
Ten Bay Beach is one of the best beaches in Eleuthera. Located on the Caribbean side, the water here is incredibly calm, almost like a swimming pool. The beach is long and curved, offering plenty of space to relax without feeling crowded.
The beach is lined with trees, providing a bit of shade and a sense of privacy. There are also cute little vacation homes nearby, making it feel like a hidden gem. The other beachgoers are usually just chill tourists staying in nearby rentals.
From our vacation rental, we had the option of walking to the beach through a charming little woodsy path. We could also kayak or paddleboard from our rental’s dock. If you’re adventurous, you could even swim to the beach!
There are no facilities at Ten Bay Beach, so make sure to bring everything you need, like water, snacks, and sun protection.
The water is shallow and calm, making it perfect for kids. At low tide, you can wade out more than 200 yards and still be only waist-deep. We spent many days here floating in the beautiful water, finding starfish and sand dollars, and even spotting dolphins and bonefish.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful beach to spend your days, Ten Bay Beach is the place to be.
5. The Beach at Pineapple Fields
The Beach at Pineapple Fields is a hidden gem near Governor’s Harbour. This spot offers spectacular views and a unique vibe that makes it a must-visit. One of the best parts about this beach is Tippy’s, a one-of-a-kind restaurant and beach bar. You can sit back, have a Kalik or lemonade, and take in the awesome view. The location of the resort couldn’t be better, just steps from a gorgeous and secluded beachfront that I could have been satisfied spending my entire trip on.
6. Ben Bay Beach
Ben Bay Beach is a hidden gem on Eleuthera. This horseshoe-shaped beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the water. The narrow opening to the bay keeps the water calm, even when the Atlantic is rough. The swimming here is fantastic, with clear, calm water and a sandy bottom.
If you love snorkeling, bring your gear! You can explore the rocky areas that protect the beach. The proximity to the beach is great, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
To get to Ben Bay Beach, follow these directions:
- From North Eleuthera airport, drive west for 1.5 miles.
- Turn right at the large gas station and head north towards Spanish Wells.
- After 6 miles, take the first dirt road to the right, just past a sharp 90-degree bend to the left.
- Continue for 0.2 miles, then turn left at the fork.
- Go for 0.3 miles and turn right at the next fork.
- Continue for half a mile, then turn left at the final fork.
- Stay on this overgrown road for about two minutes and park your car in the shade of the casuarina trees on the beach.
The people were wonderful!!! 5 stars!
7. Tay Bay Beach
Tay Bay Beach is a hidden gem just a few steps away from Preacher’s Cave, a famous tourist attraction in Eleuthera. The beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. The proximity to the beach makes it an ideal spot for a quick visit after exploring the cave.
The water here is calm and clear, making it great for swimming and snorkeling. The sandy bottom is even and comfortable to walk on. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear to explore the underwater life.
Highlights
- Proximity to Preacher’s Cave: Just a short walk away.
- Calm and clear water: Perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Sandy bottom: Comfortable for walking and wading.
If you’re looking for a serene spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Eleuthera, Tay Bay Beach is a must-visit. The people were wonderful and the beach offers a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots.
8. Alabaster Bay or Receiver’s Beach
Alabaster Bay, also known as Receiver’s Beach, is a hidden gem in Eleuthera. The shallow sea here is usually calm, making it perfect for a relaxing day out. The beach stretches for more than a mile, offering plenty of space to find your own little spot. The sand is powdery white, and the water is crystal clear. You might even find some gorgeous sand dollars and starfish while strolling along the shore.
If you’re into a bit of history, drive down the road and you’ll see remnants of buildings that were once part of a US Navy Base. It’s a cool little detour that adds some intrigue to your beach day.
Getting There
- From the North: One mile south of Governor’s Harbour airport, look for four brightly colored buildings on your right. Turn right at the paved road where a sign says Cocodimama Charming Resort. Drive 0.1 miles to the beach and park your car in the shade of the casuarina trees.
- From the South: 6.8 miles north of the Shell station in Governor’s Harbour, turn left at the paved road. Drive 0.1 miles to the beach and park your car in the shade of the casuarina trees.
Alabaster Bay is a wonderful place for relaxation. The calm, shallow waters and the long stretch of white sand make it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Eleuthera.
9. Twin Coves Beach
Twin Coves Beach is a hidden gem on Eleuthera, known for its two beautiful coves. The beach is lined with mature palm trees, giving it a tropical vibe. The water here is shallow, but be cautious as the waves can be sneaky.
Snorkeling Adventures
If you love snorkeling, head to the far right side of the beach where there’s a rocky area. You can also snorkel around the little island or the far left side where the water is crystal clear. Just remember, this is the Atlantic side, so pick a calm day for the best experience.
Getting There
- From the North: Drive 6.5 miles south of Governor’s Harbour airport. Look for a large white building trimmed in blue called Workers House. Turn left right after it and follow the road up the hill.
- From the South: Drive 1.6 miles north from the gas station in Governor’s Harbour. Turn right just before the Workers House and follow the road up the hill. Continue up to the top, cross a paved road, and go left at the fork. Follow the sand road for 0.3 miles until you reach a coconut grove. Turn left at the end of the garden and walk the last few steps to the beach.
Nearby Amenities
Both Twin Coves Beach and French Leave Beach are close to Governor’s Harbour. This makes it easy to grab an ice cream, a bite to eat, or even pick up an emergency pair of sunglasses from a gift shop.
The rock promontory at Twin Coves is razor sharp, so make sure to wear shoes if you plan to walk out and watch the waves crashing. It’s my favorite way to experience the giant waves.
Final Thoughts
Twin Coves Beach is perfect for a day of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re snorkeling, walking along the beach, or just soaking up the sun, you’re sure to have a memorable time.
10. Whiteland Beach
Whiteland Beach is a romantic and secluded spot on the Atlantic side of Eleuthera, about four miles south of Rock Sound settlement. The beach is reef-protected, which means the water is calm and perfect for a relaxing swim. The sandy bottom is even, and there are many tiny coves to explore.
Highlights
- Blue Window: This is a famous hole in the rock that you must see.
- Plenty of Shade: Ideal for a picnic lunch with family or friends.
- Natural Tiny Coves: Great for swimming and exploring.
Directions from Rock Sound
- Drive 0.7 miles south of “The Market Place” shopping center in Rock Sound.
- Turn left onto Fish Street and continue for 1.5 miles on a paved road until you reach a T-junction.
- Turn right onto a gravel road and continue for 2.5 miles.
- Make a left and go 0.2 miles to find parking and beach access.
Whiteland Beach is one of the favorite Eleuthera attractions because of its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to unwind and relax.
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach with some great snorkeling around rocks on the southern end, Whiteland Beach is the place to be.
Conclusion
Eleuthera’s beaches are truly a hidden gem in the Bahamas. From the pink sands of French Leave Beach to the serene waters of Ten Bay Beach, each spot offers its own unique charm. Whether you’re a surfer catching waves at Surfer’s Beach or someone looking to relax at the secluded Lighthouse Beach, Eleuthera has something for everyone. The island’s natural beauty and unspoiled shores make it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. So pack your sunscreen, grab a good book, and get ready to discover the best beaches Eleuthera has to offer.