Written By: Missy Johnston

Eleuthera Beach

Though Eleuthera is just one stop on your private luxury yacht cruise through the Bahamas, it’s worth spending some time to explore. This scenic paradise island has something for everyone, whether relaxing on one of its 160-plus beaches or renting a 4×4 vehicle for an adventurous trip to see some of the island’s sinkholes, caves, or bathing ponds. 

Though it’s impossible to cover all of Eleuthera’s majestic beauty and exciting attractions in one article, the following recommendations will help with how to  enjoy this one-of-a-kind place. 

Pick Your Favorite Beach

There are so many shores to choose from up and down the 100-mile island’s length that finding the perfect spot to come ashore and pour a cocktail is a tall order. Stick to the island’s west side if you prefer calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The east side is ideal for surfing and playing in the rough waves rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean. 

As you may guess from the name, check out Surfer’s Beach if surfing is your game. Two of the better locations include Gaulding Beach and Ten Bay Beach. If you have access to a 4×4 vehicle and are up for an adventure, drive out to Lighthouse Beach and see why this area is renowned as a hidden gem.

Explore Caves And Sinkholes

White sand beach bay on Eleuthera island

In addition to its numerous beaches, Eleuthera also features plenty of caves, sinkholes, and ponds. Some of these are well-known to tourists, but others you may stumble upon while you’re out and about. 

Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Queen’s Baths on the east side of the island. These tidal pools continually refresh as waves from the Atlantic Ocean splash into eroded sections of rock and then become warmed by the sun. 

If you are the adventurous type, jump right into the large blue sinkhole known as the Sapphire Blue Hole in the northern section of Eleuthera. It’s a perfect spot for scenic photos, too, so bring the whole group along to make some lasting memories. 

Or, plan a pleasant afternoon at Preacher’s Cave. This cave became both a home and a place of worship for English Puritans who, in the 1600’s, shipwrecked on the Devil’s Backbone Reef and found safety in the cave’s shelter. Today, it’s an interesting historical site with a nearby beach and picnic tables.

Don’t Miss These Must-See Attractions

Glass window bridge on Eleuthera island

There are only a few places in the world regarded as truly one-of-a-kind. Eleuthera happens to be home to at least two of them. 

Cathedral Cave is marvelous and a fascinating place to explore—unless you have arachnophobia. Gnarled roots from the trees above and enormous, thick spiderwebs cover the cave’s ceiling, making visitors feel as if they’re on a movie set. 

The other truly unique experience on Eleuthera comes from visiting the Glass Window, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Bight of Eleuthera are separated by just 30 feet of narrow road. 

Have your captain drop anchor and come ashore to hike to maximize the experience of the spectacular view of deep blue waters on one side and bright, shimmering turquoise on the other, while visiting Eleuthera on a crewed yacht charter.