DON’T WORRY- BEACH HAPPY

If beaches are your thing, you’ll have that right at your doorstep at our Eleuthera beachfront hotel. The calm, shimmering Caribbean waters of Alabaster Bay are wondrous to behold – and heavenly to feel. We admit a slight bias, but we’re sincere when we say Cocodimama truly has one of the best beaches on the island. That’s saying something because Eleuthera has some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. 

One unique feature that a lot of Eleuthera beaches have is pink sand. 

Sometimes, these are called “blushing beaches.” The color is caused by microscopic marine life with tiny rose-hued shells. The shells eventually are ground up by wave action, mixing fine particles of pink calcium carbonate that transfer onto larger shells and grains of sand. 

Additional first-rate beaches on Eleuthera include:

• Preacher’s Beach. Just minutes from North Eleuthera, wind your way down a grassy path of wild sea grapes to find a perfect spot in the powdery sand overlooking water that is an almost other-worldly color of aquamarine. Bonus: You’ll be close to Preacher’s Cave and Sapphire Hole, an arrestingly beautiful ocean hole popular with cliff jumpers. 

• Surfer’s Beach. As the name suggests, this beach is a surf-lovers paradise. Unlike many other popular surfing destinations around the world, this one is less traveled. You’ll get those incredible waves without the crazy crowds.

• French Leave Beach. One of a handful of pink sand beaches on Eleuthera, French Leave Beach is just outside of Governor’s Harbour. 

• Lighthouse Beach. Another pink sand beach, this one is located near the southern part of the island, near Cape Eleuthera. There’s also a picturesque old lighthouse, stately perched on the promontory. 

Ten Bay Beach. This gorgeous, secluded beach is on the Caribbean side, and boasts miles of soft, fine-grain sand and very shallow water for a ways out past the shoreline.

MEET THE “LOCALS”

The waters outside Cocodimama’s beachfront hotel are filled with playful rays, rainbow schools of fish, and the occasional pod of playful dolphins. You’ll have your pick of snorkel spots, and there are plenty of scuba shops for those who want to venture further. 

In addition to the plethora of vibrantly-tinted fish and coral, there are also a number of shipwrecks that can be explored on a scuba diving excursion. Every shipwreck has a tale to tell – and there are at least 45 of them just off Eleuthera’s shores. Most are found in the Devil’s Backbone area. It’s surrounded by massive, shallow, rocky reefs – which became notorious for wrecking ships. 

And the best part is, you can dive-year round!

Other areas to explore: 

• Pineapple Dock – Shipwreck home to a myriad of fish
• Sea Fan Gardens – Home of “Baron the barracuda”
• Gaulding’s Cay – Soft corals, sea anemones, and bonefish
• Oleander Reef – Flocks of tropical fish including grunts and tangs
• Blue Hole – Scattered corals and low reef around an underwater entrance
• Bird Cay – Watch fish feed & conchs crawl along the ocean floor
• Glass Window Bridge – An old bridge with dark blue Atlantic waters on one side and calm, cool-blue Caribbean sea water on the other. Fish on either side have claimed the underside of the bridge as their home. 
• Muttonfish Point – Mutton snappers make their homesteads in the coral here.

Current Cut – The best rollercoaster ride ever takes you through a tidal cut teeming with sea life.
Paradise Beach – A barrier reef system filled with parrot fish, schooling jacks, and other tropical beauties.

GET THE “HOOK UP”

Channel your inner angler! From fly fishing in the serene flats to deep-sea expeditions chasing larger game fish. 

The shallow flats that surround Eleuthera are a fly fisher’s dream. Reef and bottom fishing is amazing too. Just drop a line in near the reefs and snag a snapper, grouper, or other colorful coral-dweller. For those who want a more immersive experience steeped in Bahamian tradition, there’s also spearfishing and conch diving. (Spearfishing in particular helps protect the environment, as fishers aim primarily for lionfish and other invasive – but delicious – species.) 

There are a variety of Eleuthera fishing excursions you can embark on without a guide, and our staff at Cocodimama can tip you off to the best spots. For reef and deep sea fishing, we recommend connecting with one of the many boat charter excursion companies on the island. (We’ll give you a list.)

TRAVEL BY BICEP POWER

See the island from a different perspective – and get a workout. Eleuthera is a haven for water enthusiasts, with kayaking and paddleboarding among the most popular. From tranquil coves to vibrant coral reefs, Eleuthera offers an unforgettable aquatic experience for those of all skill levels.

To venture out a little further, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe closer to the site you want to explore. For a tranquil expedition, we recommend calm water lagoons, such as those near Preacher’s Cave and the Glass Window Bridge. Glide through the water at a leisurely pace and take in the mesmerizing views of the island’s rugged beauty. 

More experienced paddlers are in for a thrill with ocean kayaking off the eastern shores. Follow the coastline as you go, and see majestic cliffs and rock formations as you pass turtles, rays, and even the occasional dolphin. On the western coast of Eleuthera are mazes of mangrove forests teeming with marine life – and offer more shade for a cooler excursion.

Paddleboarders can more easily get to more secluded snorkeling spots than swimmers – so grab your snorkel gear and head to the coral reefs. You’ll have the unique experience of taking in surreal scenery from both above and below.

FRIENDLY COMPETITION

Our beachfront hotel has a sand volleyball pit, and perfect, shallow water for playing spikeball or cornhole while you’re ankle-deep in the waves. There’s also , frisbee tossing, speedminton, beach bocce ball, ring toss, and more! 

Parties at Cocodimama have also had fun with group-organized activities like:

• Sandcastle contests
• Beach bingo
• Musical towels
• Coconut racing
• Bottle Bash (a flying disc game)
• Kite-flying
• Water gun fights
• Bucket Ball (like beer pong, but with buckets & sea water instead of red Solo cups and beer)
• Tug-of-War
• Shell scavenger hunts

DO IT ALL

Eleuthera serves as the perfect starting point for a captivating island-hopping adventure. The island is 100 miles long and surrounded by hundreds of smaller islands, cays, and atolls – each with its own allure. “Island hopping” from one to the next, typically by boat charter, is an unforgettable tropical odyssey – and the best way to take in more of the natural beauty of The Bahamas. 

Some of the most popular destinations for island-hopping around Eleuthera: 

• Harbour Island – a Splash of Pink Elegance

A short boat ride from Eleuethera’s northern coastline is picture-perfect Harbour Island – famous for its vibrant pink sand beaches. Meander through the island’s charming streets, lined with pastel-colored cottages, boutiques, and art galleries. Embark on a golf cart tour to discover hidden beaches, or relax under a swaying palm while enjoying fresh seafood delicacies at local beachfront restaurants. 

• Spanish Wells – a Fishing Haven

East of Eleuthera, Spanish Wells beckons with its quaint fishing village vibe and pristine beaches. A traditional fishing community, this island is the ideal spot to indulge in water sports and fishing activities. Snorkel in clear waters and explore the vibrant underwater world below. (You might even have a chance to swim with a curious sea turtle or two.) 

• Exuma Cays: Tropical Paradise Extravaganza 

South of Eleuthera are the renowned Exuma Cays, a dreamlike destination with incredible lagoons and gorgeous beaches. Dive into Thunderball Grotto, made famous by a James Bond film, or swim with docile nurse sharks at Compass Cay Marina. 

• Cat Island: Serenity & Seclusion

To the west of Eleuthera is Cat Island, an unspoiled paradise and home to the mystical Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas. Learn the history of The Hermitage, a historic hilltop monastery.

FIND YOUR UNCHARTED

Eleuthera is an island of hidden wonders. Step into an underground realm filled with mystery and intrigue when you delve into the underground caves of Eleuthera. Each cave has its own unique formations and histories waiting to be told. 

Some of the best Eleuthera cave exploration includes:

• Hatchet Bay Cave. Located near the town of Hatchet Bay, this subterranean wonder is one of the island’s most accessible caves. Venture through its dark passages (bring a flashlight and sturdy hiking shoes!) and marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the caves chambers. 
• Preacher’s Cave. Steeped in history, Preacher’s Cave holds a significant place in Eleuthera’s past. It served as a refuge for the Eleutheran Adventurers, the first European settlers to arrive in the Bahamas in the 17th century. Puritan Christians, the group was seeking religious freedom from Bermuda – and shipwrecked off the Eleuthera coast on the Devil’s Backbone reef. Upon coming ashore, they sought shelter in the cave. They shaped an altar from a large boulder – which still stands – and held their religious services there as they forged a new life for themselves. 
• Ocean Hole. Ok, so this isn’t technically “a cave.” But it’s got an incredible saltwater lake connected to the sea via underground passages. You can dive into its inviting waters and snorkel alongside tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. (Legend is that wishes made while swimming in Ocean Hole always come true.)

NO PIER PRESSURE

For a straight rush of adrenaline, there’s nothing more thrilling than cliff jumping from the peaks of Eleuthera’s rugged coastline. Leap off dramatic rocky crags and plunge into the deep, crystal-clear waters below. 

(Just keep the small kids behind. These activities are best reserved for adults and older teens.) 

Popular Eleuthera cliff jumping spots: 

• Glass Window Bridge. This site is mostly known for its stunning views where the dark churn of the Atlantic Ocean meets the gentle lapping of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. But it’s an amazing spot for daring cliff jumpers. 
• Queen’s Bath. This natural tide pool formed by eroded rocks is a unique spot to cliff jump into a picturesque pool carved by the sea.
• Sapphire Blue Hole. A few minutes from Preacher’s Cave, Sapphire Blue Hole has a very ethereal feel to it. Appropriately named for its striking blue color, the water is clear, crisp, and salty. The jump is a 25-foot drop, with a rope ladder to assist those climbing out.

FANTASTIC BEASTS

After a horseback ride on Eleuthera beaches, you’ll be inspired to create a wind-blown romance novel cover. The captivating coastline and fiery sunsets make these equine excursions an enthralling experience you won’t soon forget – whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned pro. 

Visitors have their choice of guided seaside gallops or traversing the inland tropical trails. Horseback riding in Eleuthera promises to be an extraordinary adventure that will leave you delighted and dreaming of “next time.”

TASTES OF THE ISLAND

Island dining can be quick-and-tasty or exquisitely transcendent. Guests at our Eleuthera beachfront hotel have their pick of places to eat: Whether that’s with hired chefs/cooks/caterers who utilize our fully-equipped commercial kitchen or any of the wonderful local restaurants in close proximity to our resort. On select nights, we have beach bonfires, outdoor barbeque parties, and live music, DJs, and karaoke.

Top local take-out restaurants near the resort include Da Perk (coffee and sandwich shop), The Buccaneer Club (salads, burgers, and wraps), and Mate and Jenny’s (pizza and authentic Bahamian meals).

The Sunset Inn Restaurant and Bar – an island-style restaurant serving seafood and Bahamian fare – can be good for either take-out or sit-down. If you dine onsite, you’ll have an incredible view overlooking the Exuma Sound. 

On Friday nights, the Fish Fry at Anchor Bay on Governor’s Harbour offers some of the best local seafood on the island – with a side of live music and dancing.

For a more upscale sit-down dining experience, check out the 1648 An Island Restaurant, for waterfront dining (beachside or poolside), freshly-caught Bahamian seafood, locally grown produce, choice steak selections, delectable pasta dishes, and cocktails infused with tropical flavor.  

The Sunset Cove & Rainbow Room Restaurant has amazing local seafood, expertly-prepared steaks, and wood-fired pizza – with live music on select nights. 

Tippy’s Restaurant and Beachside Bar is a local favorite for fantastic fare, specializing in international cuisine – American, Bahamian, Asian, Italian, French, and more. Live band music on select days. 

For an authentic farm- and ocean-to-table restaurant experience, make reservations at La Bougainvillea. Menu changes depending on seasonal availability of certain ingredients. And don’t skip Pascal’s Restaurant at Sky Beach Club! This fine dining spot offers international cuisine and daily specials inspired by recent fresh catches. Live music on select days.