ELEUTHERA ISLAND
The island of Eleuthera is a relatively undiscovered paradise on the eastern edge of The Bahamas located approximately 200 miles off the coast of Florida and about 50 miles from Nassau. Stretching 110 miles long and averaging only a mile in width, the island boasts some of the world’s most spectacular turquoise water, unspoiled and secluded white and pink sand beaches, in addition to rocky cliffs, mysterious caves, ancient coral reefs, and rolling hills of pineapple plantations. The eastern side of the island faces the Atlantic Ocean while the western side faces the Great Bahama Bank.
Eleuthera is a peaceful laid back island, sparsely populated with only about 11,000 residents, known for being extremely friendly and welcoming. Most of the settlements are small communities, filled with colorful vernacular buildings. The principal settlements are Governor's Harbour (the administrative capital), Rock Sound, Tarpum Bay, Harbour Island with its unusual pink sandy beaches, and Spanish Wells. Eleuthera, the origin of the Bahamas, was founded in 1648. Much of the architecture and way of life was influenced by British Loyalists who settled here in the 1700s, although most of the island is still undeveloped. The Bahamas became independent from Britain in 1973.
Since then, the island has attracted industrialists and royalty (Princess Diana vacationed here when she was pregnant with Prince William) as well as celebrities including Robert De Niro, Lenny Kravitz, Mariah Carey, and George Clooney, each seeking a private and secluded Caribbean destination. One can roam for miles on a beach without another person in sight.
With a name that derives from the Greek word for freedom, the simple life on Eleuthera lends itself to exploration of its natural and untamed tropical environment, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, diving, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach. Natural attractions include the Glass Window Bridge, Hatchet Bay caves and Surfer's Beach in the north, and Ocean Hole and Lighthouse Beach at the south end. Evenings might be spent at the local fish fry enjoying freshly caught lobster and grouper, and stargazing into the night sky.
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