Complete Guide To This Bustling Bahamas City

Freeport is understood by totally different names: The Second Metropolis and The Industrial Capital. The previous refers to its title because the second-largest metropolis in The Bahamas, trailing only Nassau. The latter nickname refers to its position as a middle for worldwide enterprise owing to its strategic place on a significant transport route. These titles have earned Freeport some notoriety within the area, making it the most important metropolis within the Grand Bahama, the island on which it’s discovered.

And, like some other vacation spot in The Bahamas, Freeport additionally earns its stripes from tourism, with its gorgeous waterfront seashores drawing hundreds of thousands of vacationers yearly. Nonetheless, vacationers converse good issues about sights just like the Lucayan Nationwide Park, discovered only a brief drive from the town. Whether or not one is on the lookout for diving websites, snorkeling spots, purchasing areas, or eating spots, this text shares an entire checklist of the issues to do in Freeport to assist these planning a visit.

Issues To Do In Freeport, The Bahamas

The seashores in Freeport are among the many fundamental cause guests troop to this metropolis on the Grand Bahama. Nevertheless, there are a selection of sights and actions which are certain to maintain vacationers busy all through their go to. Under is a take a look at a number of the top things to do in or near Freeport.

1 Discover Lucayan Nationwide Park

Lucayan National Park is discovered about 17 miles east of Freeport, a drive that lasts about 20 minutes. Boasting an space of 40 acres, the nationwide park’s declare to fame is its underwater cave system, which is acknowledged as one of many largest on the earth.

Two of those caves are open for exploration, however one requires a particular allow to take action.

This web site can be house to numerous chicken life, with uncommon species just like the Bahamian Parrot and the Pink-legged Thrush calling this house. Guests can view these birds and extra whereas trekking the paths and boardwalks that run by the nationwide park.

• Tackle
  : Excessive Rock, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Sat & Solar: 9 am – 4 pm (closed the remainder of the week)

• Admission
  : $12 (adults); $6 (youngsters 12 and below); $9 (seniors 60+)

2 Store At The Port Lucaya Market

These on the lookout for the right place to buy in Freeport can be drawn to Port Lucaya Marketplace, the most important open-air market within the Bahamas. The market is made up of greater than 40 shops promoting every little thing from Bahamian crafts and souvenirs to designer merchandise.

Port Lucaya’s colourful and boisterous nature is taken a notch larger with stay leisure at The Market Sq..

Nonetheless, these on the lookout for native delicacies can head to one of many many eating spots within the market, serving the well-known conch dishes, seafood, and a lot extra. This enjoyable spot is made much more interesting by its location near Lucaya Seashore.

• Tackle
  : Sea Horse Rd, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Solar – Thu: 7 am – 12 am; Fri & Sat: 7 am – 2 am

3 Wander Round The Backyard Of The Groves

Nature lovers are all the time drawn to Garden of the Groves, a serene botanical backyard in Freeport with 12 acres of tropical crops from greater than 10,000 species. It’s additionally house to a wide range of birds, starting from hummingbirds to flycatchers, making this a pleasant spot for birdwatchers.

This licensed Wildlife Habitat might be explored through the paths that result in options like waterfalls and fountains, in addition to a chapel that hosts weddings.

There are additionally outlets, a café, a bar, and a playground for youths, making this an ideal household vacation spot.

• Tackle
  : HC3H+346, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : 9 am – 4 pm (each day)

• Admission
  : $17 (adults); $12 (kids 5 to 11 yrs)

4 Go to Rand Nature Heart

Rand Nature Center is one other serene location in Freeport, providing 100 acres of pure house made up of Bahamian wildlife. Guests can discover this location through the intensive path system that cuts by the totally different ecosystems, from the pine barrens to a freshwater wildlife pond.

Birdwatchers may even take pleasure in their go to as Rand Nature Heart is a well-liked birding hotspot within the space. In actual fact, the character middle receives an enormous inhabitants of birds from October to Could, which escape the winter within the north. There are additionally flamingoes, turtles, and raccoons at Rand.

• Tackle
  : E Settlers Approach, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Mon – Fri: 9 am – 4 pm; Sat: 9 am – 2 pm (closed on Solar)

• Admission
  : $12 (adults); $9 (seniors 60+); $6 (kids 12 and below)

5 Chill out At The Seashore

There’s no getting away from the truth that Freeport is a vacation spot for beachgoers, with quite a few world-class seashores for many who wish to spend time by the ocean. Listed below are a number of the top beaches in Freeport.

Taino Seashore

Taino Seashore is discovered about quarter-hour from Port Lucaya Market on the island’s south coast. This seashore is famend for its snorkeling spots, however guests can even take pleasure in kayaking and paddleboarding right here.

Associated: This Island Has The Best Snorkeling In The Bahamas

Xanadu Seashore

Discovered about 20 minutes from Port Lucaya Market, Xanadu Seashore is beloved by windsurfers because it affords a number of the greatest windsurfing situations. Guests can even take pleasure in kiteboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling at Xanadu.

Lucaya Seashore

Those that take pleasure in parasailing can head to Lucaya Seashore, discovered only a brief stroll from Port Lucaya Market. This seashore’s location near the market makes it one of the vital in style in Freeport, and it’s a great place to go swimming or just sunbathing.

6 Spend A Day At Peterson Cay Nationwide Park

Peterson Cay National Park is an island park discovered about 25 minutes outdoors of Freeport, and it’s solely accessible by boat. Spanning about 1.5 acres, it is usually surrounded by a 3.5-mile coral reef with quite a few marine species that decision this house, starting from colourful fish to stingrays.

A well-liked exercise at Peterson Cay is snorkeling, because of the gorgeous coral reef. A variety of tour operators set up snorkeling excursions to the nationwide park, however guests can even join kayaking experiences. The park can be outfitted with picnic spots, restrooms, and a snack bar.

7 Go Diving At Deadman’s Reef

Discovered on the western finish of The Grand Bahama Island, Deadman’s Reef affords guests an unforgettable snorkeling and diving expertise. This location’s marine life range isn’t any totally different from different sights on the island, with sea turtles, stingrays, and even dolphins making up the inhabitants.

Guests are notably drawn to the realm’s diving spots; there are designated diving areas which are protected for everybody. Kayaking and paddleboarding are additionally allowed at this location.

8 Discover Theo’s Wreck

Theo’s Wreck is one other in style dive web site close to Freeport, which is a sunken vessel that has created a man-made reef. Really, the vessel was deliberately sunk within the Nineteen Eighties, to create this reef that’s now beloved amongst diving fans.

• A number of corporations set up diving excursions to Theo’s Wreck, which is accessible by boat because it’s situated 1.5 miles off the coast of Grand Bahama Island.

9 The place To Eat In Freeport

Consuming out in Freeport includes native favorites, seafood, and nice views.

Breakfast/Lunch

Merport Bistro

• Tackle
  : 3 Merport Constructing One City Heart Freeport Grand Bahama, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Mon – Fri: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm (closed on Sat & Solar)

• Meals
  : Home Buttermilk Pancakes, Blueberry Swirl Pancakes, California Omelet, Native Stew Conch with Grits, Stew Fish

Zorbas Café & Pastries

• Tackle
  : Sea Horse Rd, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : 8 am – 10 pm (each day)

• Meals
  : Coconut French Toast, Tuna & Grits, Waffles, Fried Calamari, Grilled Octopus

Lunch/Dinner

The Stoned Crab Restaurant

• Tackle
  : Taino Seashore West Freeport Grand Bahama, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Wed – Sat: 1 pm – 9 pm; Solar: 11 am – 6 pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

• Meals
  : Seared Scallops, Shrimp Caesar, Spaghetti Bolognese, Beef Stir Fry, Grilled Lobster

Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience

• Tackle
  : Taino Seashore, Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : Solar – Fri: 12 pm – 6 pm (closed on Sat)

• Meals
  : Conch salad, Roast Conch, Roast Fish, Grilled Conch Burger, Lobster

Dinner/Drinks

Sabor Restaurant & Bar

• Tackle
  : Sea Horse Rd, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : 11 am – 4 pm, 5 pm – 9 pm (each day)

• Meals
  : Adaiah’s Cheese Steak & Lobster Sandwich, Thai Coconut Curry Seafood Pan, Lemon Peppered Grilled Grouper, Pasta

• Drinks
  : Cocktails: Absolute Stress, Almond Pleasure, Apple-Tini, Cosmopolitan, Soiled Bloody Mary, Margaritas, Mojitos

Flying Fish GastroBar

• Tackle
  : 1 Seahorse Highway Field F 42555, Freeport, Bahamas

• Hours
  : 12 pm – 9 pm (each day)

• Meals
  : Grilled Lamb ribs, Crispy Pork Stomach, Candy & Bitter Conch Bites, Piri Piri Shrimp, Charred Octopus

• Drinks
  : The Margarita, Mojito, Purple Rain, Flying Fish Punch, Mango Cilantro Margarita, Final Gin & Tonic

10 The place To Keep In Freeport

From luxurious resorts to beachfront Airbnbs, Freeport has a wide range of lodging for these visiting. Under are some suggestions.

Accommodations

The Marlin at Taino Beach Resort & Clubs

• Tackle
  : 30 Jolly Roger Dr, Freeport, The Bahamas, Freeport

• Worth
  : From $118

• Facilities
  : Personal seashore, tennis courtroom, pool, scorching tub, free parking, restaurant, bar, watersport amenities

Dolphin Cove

• Tackle
  : #14 Swan Drive, Freeport 99999

• Worth
  : From $170

• Facilities
  : Health middle, scorching tub, pool, spa, bar, restaurant, backyard

Pelican Bay Resort at Lucaya

• Tackle
  : Seahorse Highway On Lucayan Bay, 1, Freeport, Baham, Freeport

• Worth
  : From $172

• Facilities
  : Infinity pool, health middle, spa, pool bar, restaurant, laundry amenities, free parking

Associated: 10 Budget-Friendly Airbnbs To Book In The Bahamas

Trip Leases

Charming Studio In The Sky

• Tackle
  : Freeport, Bahamas

• Worth
  : From $92

• Facilities
  : Double mattress, washer, full kitchen, free parking

The Blue Haven Getaway

• Tackle
  : Freeport, Bahamas

• Worth
  : From $105

• Facilities
  : 1 bed room, 1 tub, workstation, kitchenette, seashore entry, personal yard, free parking

Luxurious Townhouse

• Tackle
  : Freeport, Bahamas

• Worth
  : From $396

• Facilities
  : 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, seashore entry, washer/dryer, 55-inch TV, indoor fire, full kitchen, personal patio, BBQ grill, shared pool

11 When To Go to Freeport

Freeport has a subtropical local weather with heat temperatures and sunshine all year long. The perfect months to go to are from December to April, because the climate is cooler and drier, excellent for spending time open air. Here is a take a look at what to anticipate in Freeport throughout totally different months.

December to April

These months mark the height vacationer season in Freeport, with snug temperatures and minimal rainfall. The common excessive temperature is round 77 levels Fahrenheit (25 levels Celsius), whereas the typical low is roughly 63 levels Fahrenheit (17 levels Celsius).

The dry season affords decrease humidity ranges and clear skies, making it a wonderful time for outside actions. Nevertheless, it’s costlier to go to Freeport right now owing to the upper vacationer numbers.

Associated: Here’s What Makes December A Surprisingly Good Time To Visit The Bahamas

Could to November

Temperatures in Freeport start to rise throughout these months, with common highs reaching 88 levels Fahrenheit (31 levels Celsius) and lows round 75 levels Fahrenheit (24 levels Celsius). The humidity ranges additionally improve, main as much as the wet season.

Regardless of the warmth and humidity, these months can nonetheless be an acceptable time to go to Freeport because the vacationer crowds begin to dissipate and costs grow to be extra reasonably priced. Nevertheless, guests ought to be ready for infrequent rain showers and the opportunity of hurricanes, notably between June and November.

The hurricane season in the Bahamas sometimes runs from June to November, with the best danger of storms occurring between August and October. Whereas hurricanes should not frequent in Freeport, it is vital for guests to remain on prime of climate updates and observe any security pointers offered by native authorities. Vacationers who select to go to throughout this era can profit from decrease costs and fewer crowds, however they need to additionally take into account buying journey insurance coverage for added safety.

12 Getting Round Freeport

Vacationers flying into Freeport will arrive on the Grand Bahama Worldwide Airport, situated simply 3 miles from the town middle. This airport receives each day flights from main cities equivalent to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Nassau.

To discover the town and its environment, vacationers can use the next technique of transportation.

Taxi

Taxis are a preferred and handy method to get round Freeport. They are often discovered on the airport, motels, and in style vacationer spots. Fares are sometimes primarily based on zones quite than meters, with costs beginning at round $5 for brief journeys throughout the metropolis. It’s advisable to verify the fare with the driving force earlier than beginning the journey.

Automotive Rental

For many who choose extra flexibility and independence, renting a automotive is a superb choice. A number of automotive rental businesses function in Freeport, providing a wide range of autos to swimsuit totally different wants and budgets. Driving in Freeport is on the left aspect of the highway, and a sound driver’s license from the customer’s house nation is required.

Public Bus

Freeport’s public bus system gives an reasonably priced method to discover the town and its environment. The buses function from 7 am to sundown, however there’s no mounted schedule.

• Buses run on a number of routes on Grand Bahama, with fares beginning at $1.50 per journey.

Associated: 10 Tips For Booking A Flight From New York To The Bahamas

Ferry

For these seeking to go to close by islands or take pleasure in a scenic journey alongside the coast, ferries can be found for transportation. The Bahamas Ferries firm affords providers between Freeport and a number of other different islands within the Bahamas, together with Nassau and Abaco.

• Costs range relying on the vacation spot and sort of ticket, with one-way fares beginning at round $40.

Bicycle

A number of bike rental outlets can be found in Freeport, providing a spread of bicycles for various ability ranges and preferences.

• Costs for bike leases begin at round $15 per day.

13 Spending The Excellent Day In Freeport, Bahamas

Begin the right day in Freeport with a stroll at Lucaya Seashore earlier than having breakfast at a beachside eatery. After the meal, head to the Lucayan Nationwide Park for a morning exploring the positioning’s trails and probably the underwater caves on a diving expedition.

Afterward, go to Taino Seashore and luxuriate in a seafood lunch at one of many beachside eating places like Tony Macaroni’s Conch Expertise. Then, sunbathe on the seashore or take pleasure in some water actions like paddleboarding. Spend the remainder of the afternoon strolling by Backyard Of The Groves earlier than having fun with a night of purchasing and eating at Port Lucaya Market.

Lastly, catch a stay efficiency at Market Sq. within the market to wind down the day.

FAQ

Q: Do you want a automotive in Freeport Bahamas?

These visiting Freeport for a number of days do not want a automotive, they’ll merely use public transportation or taxis to get round. Nevertheless, these staying some time and intend to discover extra of the Grand Bahama Island, will discover it extra handy to lease a automotive.

Q: Is Uber accessible in Freeport Bahamas?

No, Uber isn’t available in Freeport, or different components of the Bahamas.

Q: Can one use US {dollars} within the Bahamas?

Sure, the US greenback is broadly accepted within the Bahamas, although $100 USD may not go terribly far.