Bahamas island hopping

[BeachBum]

I'm looking at heading out to the Bahamas for 3-4 days this summer to do some island hopping. Does anyone have any recommendations of what islands to hit? We're looking for nothing too lavish, just somewhere to relax (not looking to spend too much money). We'd be up for camping on the islands if there's anywhere to do that. Also, are there any good guides or references about the islands? I know about the Bahamas and Caribbean Pilots Guide, and plan on getting that. Thanks a lot.

 

[cvsfly]

That's your best source of info. I've heard of people camping before, but not sure where it's OK or not. Stay away from Freeport, Nassau.....Binimi. Going on the cheap is (remotely) possible with advanced planning and no expectations. Food is going to be expensive as is desecent/nicely situated accomodations. Package/economy deals are probably best found at the mega tourist areas like Freeport and Nassau, but like I said I would try to see the real Bahamas in the Out Islands. What do you like to do? Fish, snorkel, dive, sports, drink, etc. Get specific and maybe I could give you an idea. Being on a budget, does that limit your flight range? Aircraft rental or owner?

 

[cvsfly]

Also try www.bahamas.com , www.bahamas-on-line.com, www.oii.net If you are only going for 3-4 days and want to relax, pick one place to "island hop" to and stay. My boss' idea of island hoping is exactly that.... one night here ...one there. Not very relaxing (at least for me...just a tease). He thinks he is scoping out everything the Bahamas has to offer doing that, but he is missing the whole point. True "island hoping' would best be experienced by boat. By plane you are limited by airport services and ground transportation (both lacking in many places...so you will pay accordingly). The true beauty of the islands can only be experienced by getting out on (or under) the water, preferrably by boat.....so that will cost some money, too. Enjoy!

 

[BeachBum]

We're doing it mainly to give us somewhere to fly. We'll be renting from Daytona and probably willing to fly a total of 10 hours or so. I'm not sure how much leeway that give us to go to some different islands. As for activities, probably just looking to do some fishing, some relaxing on the beach, a little drinking, and just lounging around. Airport services shouldn't be too much of an issue, as long as we have somewhere to top off the tanks once or twice.

 

[CorpLearDriver]

We're doing it mainly to give us somewhere to fly. We'll be renting from Daytona and probably willing to fly a total of 10 hours or so. I'm not sure how much leeway that give us to go to some different islands. As for activities, probably just looking to do some fishing, some relaxing on the beach, a little drinking, and just lounging around. Airport services shouldn't be too much of an issue, as long as we have somewhere to top off the tanks once or twice.

Plan your fuel stops in advance as not all destinations have fuel available. The Guide you mentioned will be your best source of information. I recommend picking up a Bahamas Islands Kit at Banyon Parts Mart @ FXE, but it'll cost you $20. The kit has all the forms in it you'll need. You could probably piece it all together for nothing, so you are really paying for the convenience. Returning to the US be aware of the hours that various customs offices open and close and make sure you give notice at least one hour prior to arrival. Enjoy your stay.

 

[ocpistolpete]

i was just in st maarten, pilots let you fly free on inter island hoppers with a pilot license!!!
st barths was beautiful but $$$$$$$ $15 for a drink!!!!
better find a liquor store first

Peter