Freeport (Bahamas)

Freeport is a city on Grand Bahama. With a population of 27,000 in 2000, it was the second most populous city in The Bahamas. It is a free trade zone built on swamp land and scrub land.

The city was severely damaged by Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

Climate
Freeport has a tropical rainforest climate, specifically with hot humid conditions that vary only a little throughout the year. Seldom do temperatures drop below 16 °C (60 °F). Average temperatures are around 27 °C (80 °F), with water temperature varying between 22 and 26 °C (72 and 78 °F). The winters are usually mild and dry (with the exception of some rainfall due to cold fronts), while the summers are usually hot and wet.

By boat
There are many cruises departing from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) that offer cheap tickets to Freeport and Nassau.
 * There are numerous marinas for arrivals by private boats.
 * There are numerous marinas for arrivals by private boats.

The port and the airport of Freeport are not near the city so you will have to pay US$5 ban to reach the city centre.

Get around
The Bahamas is expensive; expect to pay approximately 10% or 15% more than in USA for the same things. American dollars are accepted everywhere, and if you pay in cash, many sellers will not charge you tax.

The drivers for the taxis which are available at all the major tourist stops discuss a flat rate before the trip, depending on how far you are going and the number of passengers. There are many tour bus services available to give you a tour of the city of Freeport and highlight its features. Rental cars are also available. If navigating for yourself, be aware that many maps are based on the development plan for Freeport and include roads that are still unfinished. If your destination is signposted, then the signs normally indicate the most practical route.

See
Although Freeport may not have as many attractions or tourists as Nassau, there are many activities and places to see for those that are willing to explore.

Places worth visiting:


 * Fish fries - Although there are many local fish fries, the most popular is located on Taino Beach and held every Wednesday evening/night.
 * Beaches - Freeport has a ridiculous number of amazing white-sand beaches. Some of the more popular ones are located at Our Lucaya, although for those looking for their own private location, it is well worth the trip to check out some of the others. The further you travel, the less other tourists you will see. Recommended locations - Coral Beach, Williams Town Beach, Xanadu Beach, Taino Beach, Barbarry Beach, Plane-crash Beach, Gold Rock Beach etc. In general, the entire south side of Grand Bahama Island is beach, while the north side is mainly mangroves and swamps.
 * Fish fries - Although there are many local fish fries, the most popular is located on Taino Beach and held every Wednesday evening/night.
 * Beaches - Freeport has a ridiculous number of amazing white-sand beaches. Some of the more popular ones are located at Our Lucaya, although for those looking for their own private location, it is well worth the trip to check out some of the others. The further you travel, the less other tourists you will see. Recommended locations - Coral Beach, Williams Town Beach, Xanadu Beach, Taino Beach, Barbarry Beach, Plane-crash Beach, Gold Rock Beach etc. In general, the entire south side of Grand Bahama Island is beach, while the north side is mainly mangroves and swamps.
 * Beaches - Freeport has a ridiculous number of amazing white-sand beaches. Some of the more popular ones are located at Our Lucaya, although for those looking for their own private location, it is well worth the trip to check out some of the others. The further you travel, the less other tourists you will see. Recommended locations - Coral Beach, Williams Town Beach, Xanadu Beach, Taino Beach, Barbarry Beach, Plane-crash Beach, Gold Rock Beach etc. In general, the entire south side of Grand Bahama Island is beach, while the north side is mainly mangroves and swamps.

On the water - Various ocean relate activities provide a completely different perspective than what you will tend to find on land. For those who love swimming, either snorkeling or scuba diving the coral reefs are a must. The amount of tropical fish you will encounter is amazing. As well, various dive shops offer other interesting dives such as exploring ship wrecks, diving with sharks or dolphins, as well as exploring under water caverns in the limestone caves.

The rest of the island - For those more adventurous a trip either out to Maclean's Town or to West End is well worth while. If you are willing to explore you may be surprised by what little restaurants, shops, beaches, and hang out places you may discover. It will also give you a better understanding of the 'true' Bahamas, in contrast to what you will find in Port Lucaya.

Do


Other water-related activities include parasailing, jet skiing, glass bottom boat tours, as well as Booze Cruises.

Eat
In Port Lucaya Market are many international restaurants. The cheapest hamburger is US$5: a decent lunch will cost you US$20 approximately.



Elsewhere can be found:



Drink
Some alcohols are cheaper than in USA or at least are duty free.

Freeport nightlife may not be as vibrant as Nassau nightlife, but it still has a lot to offer.

Sleep
The hotels are really expensive, and there are no cheap accommodations; it is better to book a hotel (4 or 5 stars) before travel or to rent a cabin in cruise.

Freeport has a wide variety of sleeping accommodations to cater to whatever your trip specifically needs. From all inclusive resorts to hotels.