ISLAND
Where to Stay in the Bahamas Out Islands
Being in the Out Islands of the Bahamas offers a completely different perspective on the destination, one that feels quieter, more private, and far more connected to the natural surroundings. Spread across more than 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas offers an incredible variety. We spend a lot of time helping clients navigate the best hotels in the Out Islands of the Bahamas, guiding them toward the right fit based on how they like to travel. Whether it’s the charm of Harbour Island, the seclusion of Exuma, or the laid-back rhythm of Eleuthera, each island offers a distinct experience. For many, the journey begins with a stay in Nassau and Paradise Island, before continuing on to one of the Out Islands for a more relaxed and immersive escape.
While Nassau offers ease and energy, the Out Islands are where the Bahamas begins to feel more personal. Smaller hotels, private villas, and low-density development create a sense of space that’s increasingly hard to find. Days are shaped by the water, from boating and beach hopping to simply settling into a quiet stretch of sand with very few others around. It’s less about structured activity and more about the overall feeling of being there.
Getting to the Out Islands requires a bit more planning, often involving short flights or boat transfers, but the payoff is significant. The shift in pace is immediate, and the experience feels intentionally removed from the more traditional resort areas.
We’ll help you choose the right island, coordinate the logistics, and bring the entire trip together in a way that feels seamless from start to finish.
THE OUT ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS
Luxury Hotels
Start by exploring the Out Islands of the Bahamas Travel Tips & Insider Insight below, and we’ll help you plan the right combination of islands for your trip.
CORAL SANDS RESORT
VIBE
barefoot luxury, laid-back, chic
PERFECT FOR
couples, girlfriends getaways, beach walkers
WHY WE LOVE IT
Coral Sands blends a relaxed, residential feel with one of the most beautiful stretches of pink sand on Harbour Island. The design is clean and understated, with a mix of rooms, bungalows, and private homes that make it easy to settle in. It feels low-key in the best way, with a strong sense of place and just enough polish to elevate the experience without taking away from the island’s natural charm.
WELLNESS
Wellness here is more about the setting than a structured program, with long beach walks, ocean swims, and a slower pace that naturally encourages you to unwind. In-room spa treatments and yoga can be arranged, but most of the reset comes from simply being on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
VIBE
secluded, scenic, total relaxation
PERFECT FOR
multi-generational families, beach walkers, small social groups
WHY WE LOVE IT
Grand Isle Resort is a popular hotel with private villas, offering spacious, residential-style villas set along a quiet stretch of beach in Exuma. It is an easy place to settle in and stay awhile. The multi-bedroom layouts, full kitchens, and outdoor living spaces are ideal for families or small groups, while the overall setting feels relaxed and uncrowded. It’s a great base for exploring Exuma, with access to boating, sandbars, and some of the clearest water in the Bahamas, all without the feel of a large, busy resort.
WELLNESS
Indulge your body and renew your sense of well-being at our SeaStar Spa, in the comfort of your villa, on the beach or at the pool.
VIBE
hip, secluded, barefoot luxury
PERFECT FOR
small social groups, wellness weekends, foodie travel
WHY WE LOVE IT
Kamalame Cay feels like a true private island escape, accessible only by boat or seaplane, with a level of privacy and seclusion that’s hard to match. The villas and cottages are spread out along the shoreline and within lush gardens, creating a relaxed, residential feel with plenty of space to unwind. It’s a great fit for those looking to disconnect, with beautiful beaches, thoughtful service, and a slower pace that makes it easy to settle in and stay present.
WELLNESS
The Bahamas’ only overwater spa, The Spa at Kamalame Cay is the perfect refuge from the fast-paced, high-stress world of today – a place to concentrate on restoring and rejuvenating body, mind, and soul.
VIBE
barefoot luxury, secluded, chic
PERFECT FOR
couples, honeymooners, privacy
WHY WE LOVE IT
The Cove Eleuthera feels like a true escape, set between two quiet coves with some of the most beautiful, swimmable water on the island. The setting is the highlight, with soft sand, turquoise water, and a layout that feels spread out and private. It’s refined without being overdone, making it an easy place to unplug and settle into a slower rhythm.
WELLNESS
Wellness here is rooted in the setting, with calm, protected beaches ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and time in the water. Yoga and spa treatments can be arranged, but the overall experience is defined by the quiet surroundings, fresh air, and unhurried pace.
Out Islands of the Bahamas Travel Tips & Insider Insight
The Out Islands of the Bahamas offer a completely different experience from Nassau and Paradise Island, with a focus on space, privacy, and a slower pace. Understanding how to move between islands and set expectations is key to planning a successful trip.
- Most travelers arrive via Nassau, making it easy to combine time in the more energetic Nassau and Paradise Island with a quieter Out Island stay.
- For a memorable meal, Bar 480 at the Briland Club is a favorite, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beachfront setting. For other fun dining ideas, visit our Harbour Island Travel Guide.
- A visit to Exuma’s swimming pigs is a must visit. While it’s become one of the Bahamas’ most well-known experiences, it’s still worth seeing when done thoughtfully with the right guide.
- Each island has its own personality. Harbour Island is known for its pink sand beaches and charming village feel, while Exuma is more remote and water-focused, and Eleuthera offers a mix of both.
We have deep, firsthand knowledge of the best islands, hotels, and logistics across the Bahamas, and will recommend the right combination while handling all bookings and details.
