Top 5 Local-Approved Beaches in the Bahamas

A local’s guide to the Bahamian coast, from Grand Bahama down to Inagua.

Fact checked by

Kevin Ford

I am not ashamed to count myself in the company of Bahamians who are beach enthusiasts. Living in a country where beautiful beaches are as common as ships in the harbor, how could I not?

Beaches are not all we have in the Bahamas, but they are undeniably significant in what makes our islands so spectacular. The unique grains of sand and the vibrant medley of colors across our coastlines are simply matters of divine creation. Therefore, take your pick, from Grand Bahama in the north to Inagua in the south. Choose between lively beaches, surfing spots, secluded havens, and transient beaches (which emerge and subside with the flow of the tides). All are remarkable, but here are five of the best beaches in the Bahamas.

Pipe Creek Sandbar, Exuma Cays

Piloting a boat around the Exuma Cays can be challenging for novice navigators because the waterways here are a labyrinth of shallows. However, this is precisely why these islands host such extraordinary sandbars: The shifting currents unveil islands of sand at the same place during each tidal cycle. Among the 365 islands that comprise the Exuma Cays, one well-known site is Big Major Cay, home to the famous swimming pigs of the Bahamas. For a more authentic experience, navigate your boat to the Pipe Creek sandbar, a spacious patch of soft, fine sand off Little Pipe Cay. Remember, this beach disappears when the tide rises, so enjoy it while you can.

Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island

The aptly named Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island is a retreat for those seeking rest and relaxation. This three-mile stretch of smooth sand—whose pink hue originates from the seashells of microscopic organisms called foraminifera—ranges from 50 to 100 feet wide, depending on the tide. Even at its narrowest, there’s ample space for everyone.

Pro tip: If you’re aiming to capture a souvenir photo, visit Pink Sand Beach right after the tide goes out. The pink of the sand appears most vibrant when it’s wet.

Cape Santa Maria, Long Island

Numerous beaches boast powder-white sand, yet only a few in the Bahamas can be described as powder-soft sand. Notably, Tropic of Cancer Beach on Little Exuma and Cape Santa Maria on Long Island are exemplary. The latter is a crescent-shaped, two-and-a-half-mile romantic stretch offering picture-perfect sunsets, turquoise waters, and gentle breezes. Visitors can expect peace, quiet, and privacy along this serene, silky-sand beach.

Jumentos Cays and Ragged Islands

The Jumentos Cays and Ragged Islands are nearly untouched by modern civilization. There are countless beaches on this 110-mile-long archipelago. Whether you opt for a visit to Little Ragged Island (which is privately owned but unoccupied), Raccoon Cay, Hog Cay (also privately owned), Nurse Cay, Flamingo Cay (featuring an exclusive fishing and hunting resort), or Double Breasted Cay, each beach promises to provide seclusion and sanctuary.

Shroud Cay, Exuma Cays

On the north end of Shroud Cay, a small river known to locals as the “washing machine” flows around a little peninsula and empties into Exuma Sound. If you jump into the river on one side of the peninsula, the whirlpool-like current carries you around to the other side—this fun experience is timeless and appealing for all ages. The uninhabited, boat-access-only island is located at the northern end of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea National Park. This island is intersected by sandy-bottomed, mangrove-lined creeks, which are uniquely crystal clear. Riding a dinghy through these magical channels is an adventure worthy of a visit.