Eleuthera

Renowned for its natural beauty and historical relevance, Eleuthera is a fascinating island within the Bahamas’ Commonwealth. This island is a part of the Great Bahama Banks together with a group of smaller islands. Celebrated for its unique topography and vibrant culture, Eleuthera epitomizes the appeal of the Caribbean.

Originating from the Greek adjective ἐλεύθερoς (eleútheros), the name “Eleuthera” denotes “free,” so fairly reflecting an island offering a sense of emancipation and refuge. Called Cigateo in the 17th century, it reflects its long history of habitation and exploration. Eleuthera, which is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) east of Nassau, stretches an amazing 180 kilometers (110 miles) in length and has a narrow width of only 1.6 kilometers (1.0 mile) at its most narrow point. With the island just 30 feet in width, the Glass Window Bridge—often known as the narrowest point on Earth—showcases most clearly the narrowness.

The topography of the island is varied and quite beautiful. Eleuthera’s eastern coast runs beside the Great Bahama Bank; its western coast faces the vast Atlantic Ocean. From large, undulating pink sand beaches to significant formations of ancient coral reefs, this duality creates a range of landscapes. With its highest elevation—200 feet (61 meters)—the island offers panoramic views of the nearby oceans. The topography of Eleuthera includes caverns and several geological formations that add to its appeal.

A collection of smaller islands, Eleuthera consists of Harbour Island, Windermere Island, Man Island, and Current Island. Along with a coastline of 336 kilometers (210 miles), their overall area is 457.4 square kilometers. There are many chances for adventure and discovery along this long coast.

With 13 known species of indigenous amphibians and reptiles—three of which were listed as endangered in 2000—the island boasts a rich biodiversity. A 25-acre ecological haven, the Leon Levy Native Plant Reserve shows Eleuthera’s commitment to preservation. The reserve boasts an environmental education center meant to raise knowledge of the unique flora and fauna of the island.

Rich in marine life, the seas surrounding Eleuthera abound in sharks and rays. The local ban of long-line fishing, which has helped to preserve ecological balance in these waters, helps to explain the great marine biodiversity in part.

Eleuthera’s population has been gradually rising over the years. The official count in 2000 was 7,999; by 2010 it had increased to 8,202. The estimated population as of 2017 was roughly 11,000, scattered over several towns. This growth marks the island’s appeal as a tourist destination and home for its residents.

Maritime and aerial means of access allow one to reach Eleuthera. Three airports service the island: Rock Sound Airport in the south, Governor’s Harbour Airport in the middle with services to Nassau, and North Eleuthera Airport in the north. These airports enable visitors and residents to the rest of the Bahamas and beyond easy access.

On Eleuthera, the main road is the 177-kilometer (110-mile) Queens Highway across the island. Transportation and business depend on this road; in 2009 the Bahamian government set aside US$13 million for road repairs.

Important for maritime activities are Eleuthera’s ports and marinas, including Governor’s Harbour, Current Island, Harbour Island, North Eleuthera, Rock Sound, and Spanish Wells. Improvements to the docks at Current Island in 2011 enhanced vehicle access, so highlighting ongoing projects of development.

A $30 million improvement project for the famed Glass Window Bridge was announced in 2021. Built 18 meters (60 feet) west of the current bridge, the new bridge emphasizes Eleuthera’s commitment to infrastructure improvement and safety.