Getting Around Bahamas 2025
Navigate Bahamas like a local with our transportation guide.
The Bahamas is a stunning Caribbean archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, renowned for pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. From the bustling capital of Nassau to the secluded Out Islands, this tropical paradise offers world-class diving, luxurious resorts, and authentic Bahamian culture.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Bahamas.
Public Transit
Jitneys (privately operated minibuses) serve Nassau on fixed routes for $1.50/ride. Service is comprehensive but schedules are informal and service ends around 7 PM. Not available on Out Islands.
Taxis
Taxis are the primary transport for tourists, operating on fixed government-regulated fares between key destinations. Plentiful at hotels, airports, and cruise port. No ride-hailing apps available.
Car Rental
Car rental is excellent value for exploring New Providence beyond Nassau and essential on Grand Bahama. Drive on the LEFT side of the road. Golf carts are the standard transport on smaller islands like Harbour Island.
Walking
Downtown Nassau and Paradise Island are walkable for short distances, but heat and humidity make long walks uncomfortable. Cable Beach areas require transport between points.
Getting There
How to arrive in Bahamas.
✈️ By Air
Lynden Pindling International Airport
Grand Bahama International Airport
Leonard M. Thompson International Airport
Exuma International Airport
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Bahamas.
🚌 Buses
Jitneys are privately owned buses operating on set routes in Nassau and Grand Bahama. Fare: $1.50 per ride (exact change required). Routes include downtown Nassau, Cable Beach, Paradise Island, and eastern/western districts. Service from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM on most routes. Flag down on street or designated stops.
🛺 Local Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare, water_taxi, golf_cart, bicycle
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Long-Distance Buses
Limited intercity bus service. Jitneys connect some areas within New Providence and Grand Bahama. Most inter-island travel requires flights or boats.
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Domestic Flights
Bahamasair and several charter airlines connect Nassau to Family Islands. Routes include Exuma ($150-250 round trip), Eleuthera ($120-200), Abaco ($180-280), Andros ($100-180), and others. Western Air and Southern Air also serve domestic routes. Book early for best prices.
Private Car/Driver
Driving in Bahamas
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Generally not recommended
Driving Side
Right-hand traffic
License Required
International Driving Permit recommended
Road Conditions
Varies by region. Main highways usually good, rural roads may be poor.
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Uber and Lyft do NOT operate in the Bahamas - use licensed taxis or arrange hotel transport
Always confirm the taxi fare before getting in - Nassau taxis use government-regulated fixed fares, not meters
Jitneys (local buses) run $1.50 per ride and require exact change - useful for budget travel between Nassau neighborhoods
Drive on the LEFT side of the road in the Bahamas - a British legacy that catches many American visitors off guard
Water taxis between Nassau and Paradise Island cost $6-10 and run regularly from 8 AM to 6 PM daily
Golf carts are the standard and most practical transport on Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, and Green Turtle Cay
Book domestic flights to Family Islands well in advance - small planes fill quickly and last-minute fares are much higher
The Bahamas Fast Ferry from Potter's Cay Dock connects Nassau to Eleuthera and Andros at $75-85 one-way
Useful Apps
Bahamian Taxi App
Local Nassau taxi booking app for pre-arranged rides - available on iOS and Android
Bahamas Ferries
Official Bahamas Ferries website/app for booking inter-island ferry services between Nassau and Family Islands
Bahamasair
The national carrier's booking platform for domestic flights to all major Family Islands
Navigate Bahamas Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
Download Transport Guide