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Long Island (Bahamas)
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Long Island is one of the most geographically diverse islands in the Bahamas, extending 130 kilometers through the south-central portion of the archipelago. A distinctive feature of the island is that the Tropic of Cancer passes directly through it, marking a significant climatic boundary. The island is world-famous for Dean's Blue Hole, which reaches a depth of 202 meters, making it one of the deepest marine blue holes on Earth and a premier destination for international freediving competitions. Geographically, the island presents a stark contrast: the eastern coast features rugged limestone cliffs and turbulent Atlantic waters, while the western coast has calm, shallow seas and sandy beaches. Historically, Long Island was a major center for salt production and livestock farming, the latter of which remains part of the local culture today. Architectural highlights include the twin churches of Clarence Town, both designed by Father Jerome. The island also contains extensive cave systems, such as Hamilton's Cave, which has yielded prehistoric Lucayan Indian artifacts.
- Location: Bahamas
- Nearby: Cecil (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 25 | 18 | 17 | 36 | 65 | 62 | 53 | 59 | 72 | 83 | 54 | 30 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this lengthy island typically requires a domestic flight from Nassau into one of its two local airports, or arriving by ferry. Once on the island, renting a car is almost essential to properly explore its long layout and reach the dispersed natural attractions.
Best season
The convenient period for a visit generally spans from mid-December to mid-April, offering a highly agreeable climate with minimal rainfall. Traveling during these months avoids the intense summer heat and the higher risks associated with the regional hurricane season.
Terrain & paths
The island presents a distinct contrast, featuring remarkably steep and craggy cliffs on its eastern shore against the Atlantic, while the western side gently slopes into shallow, calm beaches. This varying landscape provides a mix of challenging rocky edges and easily accessible sandy coastal flats.
What to bring
A well-rounded packing list should include both sturdy footwear for exploring the rough eastern cliffs and standard beach attire for the western shores. Sun protection, snorkel gear for exploring underwater sinkholes, and a reliable physical map or offline GPS are highly advised.
Parking
Parking is generally informal and easily found near most main points of interest, beaches, and local settlements along the primary north-south road. When stopping at remote coastal sites, simply pull completely off the narrow road to allow the sparse local traffic to pass safely.
Safety
Travelers must exercise caution on unpaved side roads which can be treacherous for standard rental cars, and should be highly vigilant near unguarded coastal drops. Furthermore, swimming or diving in deep natural features like the blue holes requires proper experience and ideally local guidance.
Time needed
To truly appreciate the diverse landscapes, dramatic coasts, and natural sinkholes, visitors typically plan a stay of at least three to five days. This extended duration allows for a relaxed pace as you drive the length of the island and fully explore its contrasting eastern and western edges.
Geography
Facts
- Dean's Blue Hole is 202 meters deep, a world-record for blue holes.
- The Tropic of Cancer passes directly through the island's territory.
- The island spans a total length of approximately 130 kilometers.
- Hamilton's Cave is among the largest cave systems in the Bahamas.
- Clarence Town features two unique churches built by Father Jerome.
- Christopher Columbus named the island 'Santa Maria de la Concepción' in 1492.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Dean’s Blue Hole?
One of the world's deepest blue holes (202m), a paradise for free divers.
How does the north differ from the south?
The north has rugged cliffs, while the south has gentle, white sand beaches.
Are there historical buildings?
Yes, several old churches and ruins of plantations from the colonial era.
How do you get to Long Island?
Flights from Nassau land at Stella Maris or Deadman’s Cay.
Is it a good place for fishing?
Yes, it is world-famous for bonefishing and deep-sea fishing.
Long Island (Bahamas): where is it located?
Long Island (Bahamas) is located in Bahamas.
Long Island (Bahamas): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Long Island (Bahamas): why is it worth visiting?
Long Island is one of the most geographically diverse islands in the Bahamas, extending 130 kilometers through the south-central portion of the archipelago.
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Nearby cities
Clarence Town
The picturesque capital of Long Island.
🗺️
McKann's
A settlement in the middle of Long Island.
Deadman's Cay
A large settlement on Long Island with an airport.
Cecil
A small residential settlement on Long Island.
Simms
A settlement in the northern part of Long Island.
Port St. George
A planned but never fully realized settlement on Long Island.
Dunmore
A small settlement on Long Island.
🗺️
Hard Bargain
A small settlement in southern Long Island.
Mortimer's
A settlement at the northern tip of Long Island.
Gordon's
The southernmost settlement on Long Island.
History & landmarks
More places
Livestock Farming on Long Island
Long Island is known for its goat and sheep farming, which is an important part of the local agriculture and cuisine.
Long Island Museum
A museum dedicated to the rich history and culture of Long Island.
Lucayan Indian Burial Ground
A significant archaeological site where the remains of the original inhabitants of The Bahamas were found.
Deadman's Cay Agri Depot
A transfer point for agricultural goods in southern Long Island.
Long Island's Atlantic Cliffs
The eastern coast of Long Island is marked by dramatic cliffs that drop steeply into the Atlantic Ocean.
St. Peter's and St. Paul's Catholic Church
One of Father Jerome's twin churches in Clarence Town.
Long Island Salt Works
A salt operation continuing the island's traditional production.
Addersley's Castle
The ruins of a house on Long Island, erroneously called a 'castle', dating back to the plantation era.