Looking for the best places to stay in Eleuthera for families? Eleuthera is one of the most beautiful and peaceful islands in the Bahamas, stretching over 100 miles of pink sand beaches, quiet coves, and charming settlements. If you’re planning a trip with kids, choosing the right base is key—especially with such a long and narrow island.
Before we dive in, have you seen our ranked family travel lists for Bahamas:
Best Family Stays in Bahamas (Ranked)
Best Things to Do in Bahamas with Kids (Ranked)
Best Family Beaches in Bahamas (Ranked)
Here are some snorkeling guides for Eleuthera:
Snorkeling Rainbow Bay
Best snorkeling in Eleuthera for families
This guide will walk you through the best places to stay in Eleuthera for families, including what makes each one special and what to expect when traveling with kids.
Governor’s Harbour: The Heart of Eleuthera
Best for: Families who want convenience, beach access, and restaurants.
Governor’s Harbour is one of the best places to stay in Eleuthera for families who want a balance of relaxation and convenience. Located near the center of the island, this charming town is both walkable and well-stocked. You’ll find grocery stores, bakeries, ice cream shops, and even a local fish fry on Friday nights that’s a big hit with both tourists and locals.
Families love the nearby French Leave Beach, a wide stretch of pink sand with calm waves—perfect for younger kids. The beach is often uncrowded and feels safe, with clear shallow waters for splashing and wading. Twin Coves Beach is another family favorite, especially for gentle snorkeling and tidepool exploring.
Vacation rentals in Governor’s Harbour often include private homes with kitchens, pools, and easy beach access, giving families space and flexibility. If you’re flying into Governor’s Harbour Airport, you’ll have a quick drive into town and easy access to explore north or south along the island.
Governor’s Harbour sits roughly in the center of Eleuthera and offers a nice blend of island charm and modern amenities. Families love:
- Easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, and beaches
- Calm, swimmable waters at French Leave Beach
- Close proximity to Twin Coves, a family-friendly snorkeling spot
Governor’s Harbour is also a great home base for day trips up or down the island.
North Eleuthera & Spanish Wells: Best for Boating & Island Hopping
Best for: Active families who want to explore nearby islands.
If your family is looking for adventure, North Eleuthera and Spanish Wells are fantastic bases. North Eleuthera is a gateway to two of the most iconic destinations in the Bahamas: Harbour Island and Spanish Well. While Harbour Island is better known for its resorts and boutique hotels, Spanish Wells is a quiet, family-friendly island accessible by a short ferry ride or water taxi.
On Spanish Wells, families can rent golf carts to explore the island’s beaches, playgrounds, and seafood shacks. The beaches here are shallow and calm—ideal for toddlers and beginner swimmers. The small-town feel and low traffic make it feel especially safe for kids. You’ll also find plenty of options for boat tours, fishing charters, and excursions to swim with sea turtles or explore hidden sandbars.
Back on the mainland in North Eleuthera, don’t miss Preacher’s Cave or Lover’s Beach. This area offers a mix of outdoor adventure and peaceful island living, making it one of the best places to stay in Eleuthera for families who love to explore.
Staying in North Eleuthera gives you access to:
- Spanish Wells (via ferry) — a walkable, golf-cart-friendly island with shallow beaches
- Harbour Island — famous for pink sand and upscale dining
- Day trips to Lover’s Beach, Preacher’s Cave, and boat tours to swim with turtles
It’s a bit more remote, but perfect for families looking for adventure and calm waters.
South Eleuthera: Quiet Escapes for Nature-Loving Families
Best for: Families looking for privacy and nature.
For families who value seclusion, nature, and quiet beaches, South Eleuthera—including Rock Sound, Tarpum Bay, and Cape Eleuthera—offers an entirely different experience. This region is less developed than the north and center, which means fewer crowds and more untouched natural beauty.
In Rock Sound, you’ll find Ocean Hole, a kid-friendly inland blue hole surrounded by limestone cliffs. It’s a great spot for a swim and a picnic. South Eleuthera also offers access to Lighthouse Beach, one of the most breathtaking and remote beaches in the Bahamas. Though harder to reach, its powdery white sand and turquoise waters are worth the journey—especially for older kids who can manage the hike or ride in.
The beaches in the south are often completely empty, giving kids room to roam, shell-hunt, and play without distraction. Accommodations here are more limited but often include beachfront cottages and off-grid homes perfect for families seeking digital detox and outdoor fun.
South Eleuthera (including Rock Sound and Tarpum Bay) is quieter and less developed, ideal if you want to truly unplug. You’ll find:
- Empty beaches for shelling and sandcastles
- Friendly local towns with fewer crowds
- Proximity to Ocean Hole and Lighthouse Beach
Accommodations tend to be more limited, so plan ahead.
Which Region Should You Choose?
- For first-time visitors: Governor’s Harbour is best for convenience.
- For active families and boat lovers: Spanish Wells or North Eleuthera.
- For peace and seclusion: South Eleuthera.
Final Tips for Visiting Eleuthera with Kids
- Rent a car — the island is long, and public transport is limited.
- Stock up on snacks and supplies in larger towns like Governor’s Harbour or Rock Sound.
- Look for vacation rentals with kitchens, shade, and walkable beach access.
Eleuthera offers families a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy some of the most beautiful and uncrowded beaches in the Bahamas.
Planning your Bahamas family trip? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the islands:
- Bahamas with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Snorkeling around Nassau for Families
- Best Snorkeling in Exumas
- Easy Family Trails in Nassau
Check out our ranked family travel lists for Bahamas:
- Best Things to Do in Bahamas with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in Bahamas (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in Bahamas (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on Bahamas.
