Bimini Cruise Port, Bahamas: Top Amenities, Local Spots, Hidden Gems

Bimini, located in the western Bahamas, is a beautiful destination made up of two main islands: North Bimini and South Bimini. Just 55 miles (92 km) east of Miami, it’s a popular spot for cruise passengers and day-trippers from Florida. These islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and rich culture.

Does your cruise itinerary in the Bahamas or Caribbean islands include Bimini’s Cruise Port? Or are you planning to hop over from Miami or Fort Lauderdale for the day? Whatever the case, Bimini has much to offer travelers who spend a day on the island.

How can you spend a memorable day on this beautiful Bahamian island in a limited time?

This article uncovers Bimini’s charm by exploring its luxurious amenities, local hotspots, and hidden gems. Do you want to spend your day lounging on stunning white-sand beaches? Or go snorkeling, diving, or exploring shipwrecks? Maybe you’re interested in indulging in local cuisine or visiting historical landmarks.

Please read on to discover Bimini’s top attractions, best beaches, local hotspots, and hidden gems.

Where is Bimini Cruise Port?

Bimini Cruise Port, officially known as Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port, is located on North Bimini Island, approximately 55 miles (92 km) from Miami, Florida. The cruise terminal is in the Bahamas’ Resorts World Bimini, north of Bailey Town and Alice Town. North Bimini and South Bimini are separate islands that together form the most westerly point in the Bahamas and are about 130 miles (210 km) from the Bahamas’ capital island, Nassau.

What Cruise Ships Dock at Bimini Port?

Resorts World Bimini owns and operates the Cruise Pier in Bimini. It is a popular cruise ship destination in the Western Bahamas. Major cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises often include Bimini on their cruise packages. These cruise lines offer various shore excursions, allowing passengers to explore the island’s attractions and activities.

Bimini Cruise Port features deep waters suitable for large vessels, although it can only accommodate one ship at a time.

Arriving at Bimini Cruise Port

Bimini cruise port
Image: Larry Syverson, Flickr

Arriving at Bimini Cruise Port feels like entering a tropical paradise. Vibrant turquoise waters, lush greenery, and palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze welcome you to the island’s pier or airport. Also, an island band plays music at the port and a large map of the two islands is at the Cruise Port Marina.

When leaving the pier, you have instant access to a wide range of amenities and a public beach.

Facilities at Bimini Cruise Port

Bimini Cruise Port is a modern terminal that opened in 2021. It features a range of facilities, including duty-free shopping, dining options, and transportation services. Resorts World Bimini offers day passes for cruise passengers or day trippers. The passes give you access to unparalleled luxurious amenities such as pools, a casino, beach loungers, and dining options. 

Other Ways to Get to Bimini

Bimini Islands are popular destinations for day trips and extended vacations. The islands are a short flight or ferry ride from Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Many day trips from Florida’s Eastern coast give you seven or eight hours on the island.

North Bimini Airport

One of the most thrilling ways to reach Bimini is by seaplane. Tropic Ocean Airways offers seaplane flights from the Miami Seaplane Base and Fort Lauderdale, landing at the floating dock at Resorts World Bimini. This location serves as a designated port of entry to the Bahamas, where you’ll clear immigration and customs.

South Bimini Airport

South Bimini Airport (BIM) is the main airport serving the islands. This airport offers regular daily flights from Fort Lauderdale and Miami, making it a convenient option for those planning a day trip to Bimini or a longer stay. The flight time is approximately 25 minutes from Miami and 40 minutes from Fort Lauderdale.

Ferry from Fort Lauderdale

ferry from Miami to Bimini
Image: Larry Syverson, Flickr

Ferries from the U.S. mainland are a convenient and cost-effective way to spend the day on North or South Bimini. Balearia Caribbean operates a fast ferry service from Fort Lauderdale, with a journey time of approximately two hours. This service provides an easy and enjoyable option for those looking to explore the beautiful islands of Bimini.

Transport to Bimini Cruise Port from the airport

A ferry is the only option to get from the South Bimini Airport to the Cruise Terminal. The ferry ride takes about ten minutes from the South Ferry Dock to the port on the island’s north side.

Map of Bimini

Locate all the top attractions, beaches, and resorts on this detailed map of Bimini. Use it to plan your perfect day on the island.

Discovering Bimini

bimini islands
Aerial view of the Bimini Islands featuring North Bimini, South Bimini, and East Bimini. Image: JesseG, Wikimedia Commons

Bimini is a picturesque island chain in the Bahamas famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. The islands only have small communities of local inhabitants. They live in Port Royal (South Bimini), Bailey Town, and Alice Town on North Bimini. The main roads connecting the communities are King’s Highway and Queen’s Highway.

The name Bimini means “the twins” or “two islands” in the ancient Lucayan language. Bimini consists of two main islands—North Bimini and South Bimini.

North Bimini Island

The beautiful 7-mile North Bimini is a low-lying island with gorgeous beaches along its coast. The island is only 700 feet (200 m) wide. This part of Bimini has the Cruise Port and most of the luxury resorts.

South Bimini Island

South Bimini is the quieter of the two islands and is known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. It’s home to the Bimini Sands Resort and Marina, Bimini Biological Field Station (Shark Lab), and a network of nature trails. The island offers serene beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

East Bimini Island

There is no official designation of an “East Bimini.” Sometimes, the larger, triangular-shaped part of North Bimini is referred to as a separate area, but it is not considered a distinct island. This part of Bimini is characterized by its untouched landscape and tranquil environment. It has secluded beaches, dense mangroves, and excellent spots for bird-watching.

In this article, I’ll only refer to North and South Bimini, including attractions on the north side of North Bimini.

Getting from the Cruise Port to Bimini Attractions

Bimini shuttle
Bimini free shuttle. Image: Larry Syverson, Flickr

Bimini doesn’t have any public transport system. However, you have three transportation options when on the island for a day. These are:

Free shuttle: A free tram takes tourists to the main attractions and beaches in North Bimini.

Golf cart hire: Hiring a golf cart is the most convenient way to explore the island. This gives you the freedom to go beach hopping and find hidden gems on this paradise island. Just remember to drive on the left.

Taxi: Taxis are widely available at Bimini Cruise Port and the airport. To get to North Bimini from South Bimini Airport, take a taxi to the South Ferry Dock. Then a water taxi will take you to the ferry port in Alice Town—a journey of around ten minutes.

Free Things to Do in Bimini

Bimini offers a wealth of attractions that will keep you busy for the entire day in port. The good news is that plenty of free activities cater to diverse interests, from stunning beaches to markets, nature trails, and historical sites.

Here’s a guide to some of the top spots you can explore without spending a Bahamian cent. 

Alice Town Beach

Alice Town Beach
Image: Pietro, cc-by-sa-2.0, Wikimedia Commons

The stunning beach at Alice Town is the best way to spend a free beach day in Bimini. The long shoreline of white sand is a stretch of three contiguous beaches—Blister Beach, Spook Hill, and Radio Beach. The pristine beach is lined with palm trees and lush vegetation, providing plenty of shade and a tropical environment.

Alice Town Beach is an urban beach conveniently located near bars, restaurants, and restrooms. Also, the beach has water sports rentals for paddle boarding, snorkeling, surfing, and beach sports. This expansive beach always has peaceful, relaxing spots on busy cruise days.

Alice Town Beach Bimini
Image: Pietro, cc-by-sa-2.0, Wikimedia Commons
  • Distance to the cruise port: 2.2 miles (3.5 km)
  • Best feature: Free access to the public beach

Bimini Craft Centre and Straw Market

Bimini Craft Centre and Straw Market
Image: Pietro, cc-by-sa-2.0, Wikimedia Commons

The Bimini Craft Centre and Straw Market is the perfect spot to explore local crafts and find unique souvenirs. Comprising 17 booths, the vibrant market stalls offer handicrafts like straw hats, bags, t-shirts, trinkets, and other crafts. It’s an excellent place to meet local artisans and appreciate their creativity.

Conveniently located near the public dock in Alice Town, this market also features a variety of local foods and snacks. These stalls serve authentic Bahamian flavors, including traditional Bimini Bread. The lively place is a must-visit spot if you want to experience Bimini’s cultural charm.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 2.2 miles (3.5 km)
  • Best feature: Local crafts, souvenirs, and free WiFi

Bimini Museum

Bimini Museum
Image: Pietro, cc-by-sa-2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Bimini Museum, located near the crafts center, is ideal for history buffs. It’s free to enter, and you can dive deep into Bimini’s rich history and culture. It features exhibits on local heritage, notable figures, and noteworthy events that have shaped the island. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Bimini’s past, from the ancient Lucayans to modern times.

Visitors can explore various artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this vibrant island community. One notable feature is its collection of Ernest Hemingway memorabilia, highlighting his connection to Bimini.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 2 miles (3.2 km)
  • Unique feature: Extensive Ernest Hemingway memorabilia collection

Bimini Nature Trail

Bimini Nature Trail

The Bimini Nature Trail lets you experience the island’s lush landscapes and diverse wildlife up close. This picturesque trail on South Bimini is perfect for a tranquil, serene experience on the island. Hiking through woodlands, you can encounter a variety of native plants and animals, like the Bimini boa, iguanas, and various tropical bird species.

The nature trail is well-maintained, with informational signs along the way. Additionally, you can enhance the experience by booking a professional guide to learn fun facts about the islands’ history and ecology. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap beautiful birds and bug spray to avoid the nuisance of mosquitos.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
  • Unique feature: Informational signs about native flora and fauna

Visit the Fountain of Youth

Fountain of Youth Bimini

A day trip to the Fountain of Youth lets you learn about an intriguing legend while admiring the South Island’s natural beauty. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce De Leon wanted to find the fountain that was said to possess rejuvenating powers. Surrounded by lush greenery, the Fountain of Youth is a small freshwater well on the road to South Bimini Airport.

Unfortunately, the Spanish explorer and Governor of Puerto Rico never found the fountain’s location. It’s free to visit, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the woodlands to appreciate the island’s flora and fauna.

  • Distance to the South Ferry Dock: 1 mile (1.6 km)
  • Unique Feature: Historical significance tied to rejuvenation legends 

Healing Hole

Healing Hole Bimini

The Healing Hole is a natural wonder located within mangroves in North Bimini. This freshwater pool is at the end of winding tunnels. During outgoing tides, the pool fills with mineral-rich fresh water, primarily magnesium and calcium. Bathing in the pool is reported to have many health benefits.

Whether the water has magical powers or not, you’ll feel relaxed and refreshed after the serene boat ride through mangrove channels and a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Visiting this unique, peaceful site may let you experience its rejuvenating effects.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 1.2 miles (2 km) and a short boat trip through mangrove cay
  • Unique Feature: Reputed therapeutic waters in a serene mangrove setting

Explore Alice Town

Alice Town
Governor house, Alice Town. Image: Bmyre33, Wikimedia Commons

Alice Town—the largest settlement on the island—offers visitors an authentic taste of Bimini’s local culture and daily life. The town is brimming with vibrant shops, cozy restaurants, and historic landmarks. Walking through its streets provides a unique opportunity to engage with friendly locals, sample Bahamian cuisine, and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 2 miles (3.2 km)
  • Unique Feature: Central hub of local culture and history with shops, bars, and restaurants 

Top Attractions near Bimini Cruise Port

The crystal-clear, turquoise waters around Bimini offer plenty of water-based activities. Many cruise passengers and day-trippers from Florida love to go snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and reef fishing. Additionally, Bimini has some of the best diving sites in the Bahamas, where you can explore shipwrecks and unique underwater stone formations.

Let’s explore some must-see destinations to discover hidden gems on Bimini.

Snorkeling and diving excursions

snorkeling in Bimini

Bimini is a snorkeler’s paradise, thanks to its vibrant reefs containing almost every form of coral. In addition, you can find easily accessible canyons, blue holes, fish-covered wrecks, and abundant marine life. Several tour operators organize snorkeling excursions specifically for cruise line passengers if you’re only on the island for several hours.

Guided snorkeling tours often provide all the necessary equipment and expert guidance. This way, you feel safe and can enjoy the experience regardless of your snorkeling skill levels.

Depending on the tour operator, snorkeling excursions can include the following:

  • Exploring a WWII aircraft wreck
  • Snorkeling and swimming at the SS Sapona wreck
  • Interacting with stingrays and other marine life in vibrant coral reefs

Reef snorkeling with sharks

Image: Albert kok, Wikimedia Commons

If you are a certified scuba diver, Bimini offers incredible opportunities to explore its vibrant, deep waters. The waters surrounding the island are home to the best dive sites in the Bahamas. Here is a list of Bimini’s diving hotspots:

  • The SS Sapona grounded on Turtle Rocks reef
  • The Bimini Barge on the northwestern edge of the Great Bahama Bank
  • Tuna Alley
  • Victory Reef
  • Rainbow Reef
  • The Strip
  • Little Caverns
  • The Continental Shelf deep dive to explore the heart of the Gulf Stream

Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center is one of the most famous diving shops on the island.

Dive at the Bimini Wall (Bimini Road)

diving in Bimini

Also called The Road to Atlantis, the Bimini Wall is one of the most extraordinary underwater experiences for divers. The mysterious underwater rock formation looks like a constructed harbor or seawall. It’s formed of rectangular limestone blocks, believed by some to be remnants of the lost city of Atlantis.

The wall descends steeply, providing a dramatic backdrop for exploring diverse marine life and coral formations. When diving, you can expect to see a variety of sea creatures, including colorful fish, rays, and, occasionally, baby sharks. The Bimini Wall’s unique geological features and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.

The Bimini Road is located at the northern end of North Bimini. You can reach the diving site by booking a diving excursion. However, it’s possible to get to the site on jet skis and snorkel to marvel at the unusual formations.

  • Distance to the cruise port: Varies by dive site
  • Unique Feature: Mysterious underwater rock formation believed to be linked to the legend of Atlantis

Swim with hammerhead sharks

Swim with hammerhead sharks Bimini
Image: Stevelaycock21, Flickr

Bimini is one of the best places on the planet to swim with hammerhead sharks. Guided tours take you to known locations where hammerheads gather. Expert divers bait the waters to attract these elusive giants. Once they are comfortable, you get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to dive to the ocean floor and marvel at these majestic yet reclusive sharks.

The best time to see hammerhead sharks in Bimini is from December through April. During the dive, you may also encounter bull sharks, blacknose sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and tiger sharks. The hammerhead site is only a five-minute boat ride from the island’s sheltered (lee) side. Dives usually occur in 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) of water.

If swimming with sharks seems too petrifying, most scuba diving shops offer excursions to swim with wild dolphins.

Snorkel or dive at the SS Sapona Wreck

SS Sapona Wreck Bimini
Image: Compsciscubadive, Wikimedia Commons

Diving or snorkeling at the SS Sapona is one of the most popular excursions in Bimini. The wreck site is 4 miles (6.4 km) from Port Royal, South Bimini, and is in 15 feet of water. At the wreck, you dive or snorkel to explore its structure, which is also home to colorful fish, corals, and other sea creatures.

The SS Sapona was used as a liquor warehouse during prohibition, but it ran aground in 1926. In addition to exploring the ship’s interior, you may encounter barracuda, snappers, angelfish, eels, and bar jacks.

Exploring the intriguing underwater museum is a must-visit if you want the most enjoyable diving or snorkeling experiences on Bimini.

  • Distance to the cruise port: Varies by excursion
  • Unique Feature: Prohibition-era shipwreck turned vibrant artificial reef

Reef fishing

Deep sea fishing Bimini

Reef fishing in Bimini is an exciting activity for anglers of all levels. The island’s surrounding reefs are teeming with various fish species.

By taking a boat to the reefs and dropping a lot of chum, you can usually reel in king mackerel, snapper, grouper, and barracuda. Local charters offer guided fishing trips, providing all the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a successful outing.

Many reef fishing excursions in Bimini include snorkeling and swimming opportunities to explore the stunning marine environment up close. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day on the water, combining sport with the natural beauty of the Bahamas. 

Book Exciting Water Activities for Your Day on the Island

water activities

The beautiful blue waters around the island offer a plethora of activities for water sports enthusiasts. Vendors along the beautiful palm-lined beaches in Alice Town and Bailey Town offer everything from gentle kayaking to paddle boarding, jet skiing, and parasailing.

Here is a list of fun, active water activities available at many beaches you can arrange for your day in Bimini:

  • Kayaking: Paddle through serene mangroves, discover hidden coves and marvel at marine life near the island’s pristine beaches.
  • Paddle boarding: Enjoy paddling the calm, shallow waters around the island.
  • Jet Skiing: Experience the thrill of speeding through Bimini’s crystal-clear, warm waters.
  • Parasailing: Soar above the island for breathtaking aerial views of Bimini’s coastline.
  • Water Bikes: Pedal-powered water bikes are a fun and unique way for couples to explore the coastline.

Fisherman’s Village and Kayak Beach

Bimini Bay Marina is a scenic and bustling hub with a lively atmosphere. It is located directly opposite the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini, a luxurious hotel and resort on North Bimini Island. The marina area is ideal for yacht-watching and enjoying waterfront views, providing a perfect spot to experience Bimini’s vibrant maritime culture and local boating activities.

The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini offers upscale accommodations and various amenities. For a more luxurious experience, visitors can purchase a day pass to use the resort’s facilities, which include a lagoon-style pool, several restaurants, and a full-service spa. This allows day-trippers and cruise passengers to enjoy the high-end amenities of the resort while exploring the beautiful island of Bimini.

Shopping near Bimini Cruise Port

Shopping near Bimini Cruise Port

Bimini has plenty of market stalls, luxury stores, and quaint boutiques for shopping.

Fisherman’s Village is close to the resort at the cruise pier. Here, you can find various stalls and small shops offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to local artwork. Stalls also sell Bahamian delicacies, including rum cakes, conch fritters, and other traditional snacks.

Alice Town, the central hub near the port, features several quaint boutiques and gift shops along its streets. Here, you can find a variety of island-themed souvenirs, local delicacies, and clothing. Walking through the town lets you enjoy its lively atmosphere and perhaps stop by a local eatery to sample Bahamian cuisine.

Bimini Casino

Bimini has a vibrant casino scene in the Resorts World Bimini Casino. Here, you can try your luck playing Blackjack, Craps, Baccarat, Roulette, and over 160 slot machines. The casino opens at 10 a.m., so it’s ideal for rolling the dice at any time during your day on the island.

The Resorts World Bimini Casino is also known for its fine dining and entertainment within the resort, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a delicious meal lunch during your cruise day. The resort also includes a spa and cocktail bar.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 1 mile (1.6 km)
  • Unique Feature: Friendly competition to high-stakes gambling with stunning ocean views

Dolphin House Museum

Dolphin House Museum Bimini
Image: Carolan Ross, Flickr

The Dolphin House Museum in Bimini is a unique and colorful landmark at the southern end of Alice Town. Created by local artist Ashley Saunders, this museum is built from recycled materials and highlights Bahamian culture and creativity. Eclectic architecture, mosaics, sculptures, and artifacts reflect the island’s rich heritage.

The charming three-story building is also Ashley Saunders residence. The museum’s interior and exterior walls are covered in colorful tiles, shells, bottles, coins, and various other found objects. The museum has an eclectic charm and is one of the unique museums you are likely to visit. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 2.3 miles (3.7 km)
  • Unique Feature: Built entirely from recycled materials by local artist Ashley Saunders

Bimini Cuisine: Foods to Try on a Cruise Day

bimini bread
Bimini bread. Image: Carl Lender, Flickr

Spending a cruise day in Bimini allows you to try local Bahamian cuisine. Most restaurants and street food stalls serve delicious fresh seafood, including conch fritters, lobster, stewed fish, steamed crawfish, and baked stuffed crab. Other Bimini delicacies include sweet Bimini bread, fried plantains, rum cake, and Johnny cake.

In Alice Town, you’ll find several beachfront shacks serving delicious food. The two resorts also have high-quality offerings, with the Hilton’s Beach 360 and the Big Game’s Sharkies. You can dine outside at these establishments and enjoy gourmet food, drinks, and spectacular Bahamian views.

Best Beach Resorts Near Bimini Cruise Port

Buying a day pass at one of Bimini’s resorts lets you enjoy an unparalleled luxurious stay on the paradise island. Bimini’s two main luxury resorts are Big Game Club Resort & Marina and Resorts World Bimini.

Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina

Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Image: Ines Hegedus-Garcia, Flickr

Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina is a boutique resort in Alice Town, North Bimini.

Access to the resort includes a freshwater swimming pool, hammocks, cabanas, restaurants, and bars. Alice Town Beach is a 3-minute walk away. It also features the Bimini Seafood Company & Conch Bar, Sharkies Bar & Grill, Hemingway’s Poolside Rum Club, the Outfitter Shop & Liquor Store, and Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center. 

From the resort, you can also book the following excursions and services:

  • Scuba diving safaris, including hammerhead and wild dolphin safaris
  • Deep-sea fishing charters
  • Snorkeling tours
  • Outdoor shark aquarium and shark cage

All the amenities and attractions in Alice Town are near the resort.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 2.2 miles (3.5 km)
  • Unique Feature: Full-service marina with world-class fishing and diving opportunities

Resorts World Bimini

Resorts World
Image: Carolan Ross, Flickr

Resorts World Bimini offers luxurious accommodations and a wide array of amenities. The Hilton in Bimini is just a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. Access to the beach club includes a private beach, hammocks, large lagoon pools, personal cabanas, beach chairs, and umbrellas. Additionally, the Resorts World Bimini has a cocktail bar and several restaurants.

Other attractions at Resorts World Bimini include the following:

  • Free shuttle from the cruise port in Bimini
  • Access to the rooftop pool
  • Swim-up bar at the lagoon pool
  • Beach amenities like chairs, umbrellas, restrooms, and showers
  • Access to water sports rentals
  • Serenity Spa
  • World-class Casino

Resorts World Bimini spans a 4.5-acre area with all the facilities and amenities you need to spend a luxurious day in the Bahamas.

  • Distance to the cruise port: 10-minute walk or free shuttle
  • Unique Feature: Multiple pools and full resort facilities

Best Beaches in Bimini

Beaches in Bimini
Image: Nicolerich123, Wikimedia Commons

Bimini is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Bahamas. From the white sands of Radio Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Paradise Cove, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to soak up the Bahamian sun and enjoy the turquoise waters.

Here are some of the best beaches in Bimini 

Bimini Public Beach

Bimini Public Beach

Bimini Public Beach is within walking distance from the island’s cruise port. This gorgeous beach features soft, white sand, clear, turquoise blue waters, and a gentle slope into the shallow waters. Access to the beach is free, and beach amenities include umbrella and beach chair rentals for a fee.

The public beach at Bimini Cruise Port is ideal if you don’t want to venture far from the ship. It has public restrooms and food trucks; additional amenities are available at the nearby Resorts World Bimini. It’s a popular beach that can get busy on cruise days.

  • Distance from the cruise port: 5-minute walk
  • Beach facilities: Beach rentals, restrooms, beachfront bars

Radio Beach

Radio Beach bimini

Radio Beach is stunning and one of the most popular free beaches in Bimini, close to Alice Town. It’s known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This exceedingly clean beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. You can rent umbrellas and chairs, and public restrooms are available.

Located in Alice Town, Radio Beach is near restaurants and bars. Also, local food shacks on the beach serve delicious conch fritters and jerk fish. Due to its popularity, it gets busy on cruise days. However, it’s ideal if you want a lively beach atmosphere. For a more relaxing experience, you can walk to the nearby Blister Beach or Spook Hill.

It’s good to note that there’s a steep incline into the water. You can enjoy excellent snorkeling at Radio Beach, a short walk from Dolphin House.

  • Distance from the cruise port: 2.4 miles (3.9 km)
  • Beach facilities: Beach rentals, restrooms, beach restaurant 

Honeymoon Harbour Beach

Honeymoon Harbour Beach Bimini
Image: Ines Hegedus-Garcia, Flickr

Honeymoon Harbour Beach is a secluded paradise known for its soft ivory-white sands and crystal-clear waters. Located on Gun Cay, this beach is famous for its friendly stingrays that often swim close to shore. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling and interacting with marine life in a tranquil setting.

stingray in Honeymoon Harbour Beach
A stingray on honeymoon harbour beach. Image: Ines Hegedus-Garcia, Flickr

The docile stingrays at Honeymoon Harbour Beach are used to humans and enjoy being fed. The shallow waters around Gun Cay mean the rays don’t feel trapped, as it’s too shallow for swimming. You can also see colorful starfish, conch, and occasionally a nurse shark.

Image: Ines Hegedus-Garcia, Flickr

Day excursions to Honeymoon Beach involve a 20-minute catamaran trip and around three hours on the cay.

  • Distance from the cruise port: Accessible by boat or catamaran
  • Beach facilities: None; bring your own supplies 

Porgy Bay Beach

Porgy Bay Beach

Porgy Bay Beach is a secluded stretch of white sand offering a peaceful retreat near the cruise port. The small, quaint beach has pristine sands and calm, shallow waters. It’s ideal for couples wanting to enjoy a romantic getaway. This beach provides a serene environment away from the more crowded spots.

Activities at the beach include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and picnicking in a relaxing atmosphere.

  • Distance from the cruise port: 1 mile (1.6 km)
  • Beach facilities: Limited; bring your own supplies 

Tiki Hut Beach 

Tiki Hut Beach 

Tiki Hut Beach is a vibrant spot and one of the most popular beaches in South Bimini. The idyllic beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand with clear blue waters lapping at the shore. Thatch palms and tropical shrubs line the shoreline, providing shade and a tropical ambiance.

The two-mile stretch of beach is popular with locals and tourists. Its vibrant environment, with occasional live music and events, makes it an excellent spot for relaxing and enjoying Bimini’s lively beach culture.

  • Distance from the cruise port: 3 miles (4.8 km) from South Ferry Dock on South Bimini
  • Beach facilities: Tiki huts, beach rentals, food and drink vendors

Bimini Islands: FAQs:

How long is the cruise from Miami to Bimini?

The cruise from Miami to Bimini typically takes about two to three hours, depending on sea conditions. Although some services are called the Miami Ferry, they depart from Fort Lauderdale. This short journey makes Bimini an ideal destination for a quick getaway.

What is the tipping policy in Bimini?

Gratuities are usually included in restaurant bills. Therefore, there is no need to tip separately. However, if you receive exceptional service and would like to show your appreciation, staff always welcomes a small additional tip.

Can you go to Bimini for the day?

Bimini is a popular destination for day trips from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Regular ferries and flights offer convenient travel options, allowing you to enjoy the island’s attractions in a single day.

Can you walk to a beach from Bimini Cruise Port?

Several beautiful beaches are within walking distance of the Bimini Cruise Port. The closest is Bimini Public Beach. Spook Hill Beach is a 20-minute walk south of the cruise pier.

When is the best time to visit Bimini?

The best time to visit the Bahamas is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is pleasant during this period, with warm temperatures, low humidity, and little chance of rainfall. This season offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities, relaxing at the beach, and enjoying water sports.

What is the local currency in Bimini?

The Bahamian dollar ($ BSD) is the official currency in Bimini. It’s pegged to the U.S. dollar at a 1:1 value, making it easy to calculate prices on the island. However, most locations accept U.S. dollars.

What side of the road should I drive on in Bimini, Bahamas?

In Bimini, as in the rest of the Bahamas, you should drive on the left side of the road. This can be tricky if you’re used to driving on the right. Also, the streets are narrow, and many lack markings, making it tricky to stay on the correct side. Therefore, stay alert if you’ve hired a golf cart for transportation.

Why is Bimini so expensive?

Bimini is relatively expensive due to the cost of importing goods and services. The island’s popularity as a luxury travel destination also drives up prices, especially for accommodations, attractions, and dining.

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Adam Stewart
Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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