A Cruise Day Guide to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Some islands in this region are known for their secluded beaches, some for their mega resorts, and others for their history and culture — this one provides all three. And while Freeport offers great casinos and plenty of shopping, it still has more untouched natural land than other developed islands. So you can sip on a fruity rum drink, listen to some calypso or soca music, and put your feet in the sand.

Restaurants

Breakfast: Banana Bay – Located on Fortune Beach, Banana Bay offers a light breakfast of authentic Bahamian dishes in a laid-back atmosphere. You won’t find many tourists at this spot, perhaps because it’s off the beaten path of Freeport, but the endless ocean views — and the house-made banana bread — make it worth the trek.

Lunch: Garden of the Groves – This local favorite is set in a U.S. Wildlife Federation-certified habitat that’s home to lush vegetation and interesting wildlife. The fact that the café serves up delicious salads and sandwiches is really just a bonus, since you won’t be able to take your eyes off the cascading waterfall or the baby ducks that casually stroll by.

Dinner: Taino by the Sea – This oceanfront outdoor restaurant couldn’t exist anywhere but in the Bahamas — dishes include local specialties, such as coconut peas ’n rice and cracked conch, and Bahamian music plays in the background.

Stop by Port Lucaya Marketplace before you head back to the ship. - Photo by Yevgen Belich

Drinks: Port Lucaya Marketplace – The best time to check out this colorful cluster of huts is after dinner when the bars open up and entertainers come out to perform in The Market Square. Grab a rum punch at Bahama Mamas!

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Activities

For Everyone: Junkanoo Beach Club – Of all the beaches in Freeport, Junkanoo is the easiest to get to from the cruise ships, yet it doesn’t get unbearably crowded. For just $5, you’ll get access to the white sandy beach, a beach chair, an umbrella, kayaks, and pedal boats.

Nature enthusiasts should head straight to Lucayan National Park. - Photo by Albo / Shutterstock

For Couples: Lucayan National Park – Freeport is known for its underwater caves, and Lucayan National Park is one of the few places that allows visitors to tour them. The 40-acre park is also home to thousands of pine trees, mangroves, and ferns, as well as dozens of rare flower species, including orchids. The park’s most dazzling attraction is Gold Rock Beach, a beautiful secluded strand ideal for a romantic sunset stroll.

For Families: Grand Lucayan Resort – Freeport’s most popular resort offers day passes that — at $75 for adults and $65 for children — are a great option for families. The pass gives you access to the Grand Lucayan’s spectacular property, pools, beaches, and lounge chairs. Towels are not included, so remember to bring one from the ship — and to bring it back when you leave the hotel. Also, note that if the resort is at full capacity, Grand Lucayan may not be able to honor the day passes, so be sure to call several days before arriving in port.

A diver explores a shipwreck off the coast of Freeport. - Photo by Shane Gross

For the Adventurous: UNEXSO – Located in Port Lucaya Marketplace, the Underwater Explorers Society offers a wide range of diving excursions and dolphin experiences, including shipwreck and dolphin dives. Our favorite option is the Discover Scuba Program because it turns non-divers into divers in only a few hours. The package includes an introductory diving lesson in the pool and, before you know it, you’re 30 meters deep admiring the reef.