Eleuthera
With direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Charlotte, and Atlanta, Eleuthera is one of the most accessible Out Islands—yet it feels a world away. Stretching 110 miles long, the island is dotted with charming settlements, dramatic natural landscapes, and countless secluded beaches.
Derived from the Greek word for freedom, Eleuthera truly lives up to its name. The island’s expansive scenery evokes a sense of openness and tranquility that’s become increasingly rare in today’s world. Eleuthera also holds a unique place in Bahamian history as one of the earliest islands settled. In 1648, a group known as the Eleutheran Adventurers arrived from Bermuda seeking religious freedom. Shipwrecked on the Devil’s Backbone near the island’s northern tip, they took refuge in Preacher’s Cave for nearly a year while their small vessel returned to Bermuda for help and supplies.
Eventually, the settlers established communities in Spanish Wells and Harbour Island, where they built their livelihoods around shipwreck salvage and maritime trade. Despite the bustling activity of these nearby islands, Eleuthera itself has retained a quiet, natural, and distinctly unspoiled charm.
On the island’s northern coast, Gregory Town and Surfer’s Beach attract surfers from around the world, offering one of the Caribbean’s few year-round surf breaks. Governor’s Harbour, one of the oldest and most picturesque settlements, serves as the island’s main town and commercial hub. It’s also the heart of local life, where colorful cottages line the harbor and farmers’ markets brim with fresh island produce.
Eleuthera’s fertile soil yields the famous Eleuthera pineapples, celebrated each summer during the Pineapple Festival in Gregory Town. The island’s farms and local eateries showcase the best of Bahamian farm-to-table dining, reflecting a growing appreciation for sustainable living in paradise.