Freeport (Bahamas): See
Although Freeport may not have as many attractions or tourists as Nassau, there are many activities and places to see for those that are willing to explore.
Places worth visiting:
1 Lucayan National Park. Home of Gold Rock Beach, this spectacular park was the filming site of Pirates of the Caribbean II and III. Although mostly underground, the park also contains one of the cavern entrances to the limestone cave system, one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world. (updated Apr 2018)
2 Garden of the Groves. Former private garden of city founder Wallace Groves, this tropical paradise is well worth your time. (updated Jul 2021)
3 Rand Nature Center, ☏ +1 242-352-5438. Outside downtown Freeport. Open 9AM - 4PM Monday to Friday (Closed on Saturday & Sunday) This national park is named for James Rand and was established as the first nature education center to preserve the habitat of Grand Bahama. Admission $5 adults, $3 children 5-12, children under 5 free.
4 Coral Vita, Magellan Close. Facility propagating corals for reef restoration offering tours of the facility for visitors. (updated Mar 2024)
Fish fries - Although there are many local fish fries, the most popular is located on Taino Beach and held every Wednesday evening/night.
Beaches - Freeport has a ridiculous number of amazing white-sand beaches. Some of the more popular ones are located at Our Lucaya, although for those looking for their own private location, it is well worth the trip to check out some of the others. The further you travel, the less other tourists you will see. Recommended locations - Coral Beach, Williams Town Beach, Xanadu Beach, Taino Beach, Barbarry Beach, Plane-crash Beach, Gold Rock Beach etc. In general, the entire south side of Grand Bahama Island is beach, while the north side is mainly mangroves and swamps.
On the water - Various ocean relate activities provide a completely different perspective than what you will tend to find on land. For those who love swimming, either snorkeling or scuba diving the coral reefs are a must. The amount of tropical fish you will encounter is amazing. As well, various dive shops offer other interesting dives such as exploring ship wrecks, diving with sharks or dolphins, as well as exploring under water caverns in the limestone caves.
The rest of the island - For those more adventurous a trip either out to Maclean's Town or to West End is well worth while. If you are willing to explore you may be surprised by what little restaurants, shops, beaches, and hang out places you may discover. It will also give you a better understanding of the 'true' Bahamas, in contrast to what you will find in Port Lucaya.