Grand Cruise Ship staying in port dock of Freeport, The Bahamas

Things to do in  Freeport

Fun and duty-free

Easily accessible from the coast of Florida, Freeport is the only urban settlement on Grand Bahama Island—the perfect place to experience a combination of Caribbean soul and modern comforts. The best things to do in Freeport can be found in nature, namely the white sand beaches and palm-fringed coastlines lapped by turquoise water. Adventures have a nearly endless list of options, from snorkeling with stingrays to kayaking through national parks, while folks looking for a break from the beach can experience the town’s cultural attractions via a sightseeing tour.

Top 11 attractions in Freeport

Port Lucaya Marketplace

star-457
A commercial hub spread across 9.5 acres (3.8 hectares), the Port Lucaya Marketplace is one of Freeport’s most popular attractions. After browsing dozens of handicraft vendors and specialty stores, unwind at one of the restaurants or bars, then head to Count Basie Square—the heart of the market—for live Bahamian music.More

Deadman's Reef (Paradise Cove)

star-4.5213
Just off Paradise Cove on Grand Bahama’s southwest coast, Deadman’s Reef is one of the area’s top snorkeling spots. The shallow waters are teeming with coral, colorful reef fish, turtles, rays, and more, and are ideal for all levels.More

Lucayan National Park

star-5102
The 40-acre (16-hectare) Lucayan National Park is home to some of the most spectacular secluded beaches in all of The Bahamas, as well as one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world. Nature trails and boardwalks lead through mangrove, pine, and palm forests, home to a wealth of animals and vegetation.More

Garden of the Groves

star-4.529
This 12-acre (5-hectare) park was dedicated in 1973 to the Groves who founded Freeport. Walk the idyllic botanical garden to take in the lush plant life, native animals (including macaws, alligators, and iguanas), and, of course, snap plenty of Edenic photos.More

Peterson Cay National Park

star-417
Located off the south shore of Grand Bahama, Peterson Cay island is home to the smallest national park in the Bahamas, which covers only 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares). Though compact, the cay is home to one of the most beautiful reefs in the Bahamas, offer abundant snorkeling and diving opportunities.More

Bahamian Brewery

star-45
There’s just something about being on tropical islands that calls for an ice cold beverage, and Bahamian Brewery is where to find them when visiting Grand Bahama. Opened in Freeport in 2007, this wildly popular craft brewery has rapidly grown to become synonymous with sipping beer in the Bahamas. Their flagship drink, Sands, is ubiquitous throughout the island chain to the point where many would unofficially call it the national beer.While taking a tour through the Bahamian Brewery, hear the backstory of how it was founded and why small details, like the glass used for bottling, all add up to create tropical beers that are lauded throughout the islands. When touring the nearly 20-acre grounds, you’ll witness the 25 different steps that go into making the beer, and hear how the company is committed to sustainability and supporting the local community. At the end of the tour, belly up to the tasting room bar to sample the eight beers on tap, from the rich, bold, Strong Back Stout, to the grapefruit flavored Radler.More
#7
Freeport Cruise Port

Freeport Cruise Port

star-00
Grand Bahama Island’s Freeport Cruise Port at Lucayan Harbour is a popular and convenient jumping-off point for cruisers to experience the Bahamas’ famous white-sand beaches and water sports. In contrast with the other Bahamian cruise port in the capital city of Nassau on New Providence Island, this laid-back launch pad for Caribbean fun is less about the bustle and more about the beach break.More
#8
Cooper's Castle

Cooper's Castle

star-00
Visit the lavish home of Bahamian entrepreneur Havard Cooper, who went from penniless to self-proclaimed prince of Grand Bahama by bringing fast food franchises to the island. Cooper built the now famous Cooper's Castle in the 1980s, its blue-and-white exterior like something from a children’s book, and today it dominates the southern skyline, perched atop the island’s highest point. The castle sits on 46 acres and the grounds include an orange grove and a mausoleum where Cooper’s wife is interred.More
#9
Freeport Perfume Factory

Freeport Perfume Factory

star-00
Find a unique tropical scent or blend your own at Freeport's Perfume Factory. Located in a replica of a Bahamian mansion, the Perfume Factory offer a free, short tour that shows how they blend and bottle their fragrances, and then offers guests the chance to try their hands at perfume making. They offer myriad professionally blended fragrances for sale with tropical themed names like Bahama Mama and Conch Salad, as well as a variety of other products like body lotions and aftershaves.More
#10
Port Lucaya Marina

Port Lucaya Marina

star-00
Lucaya Harbor serves as the official point of entry for Grand Bahama Island. This modern coastal suburb of Freeport appeals with its walkable collection of shops and restaurants, many centered on the open-air Port Lucaya Marketplace, which regularly features live music in Count Basie Square.More
#11
Rand Nature Centre

Rand Nature Centre

star-00
The Rand Nature Centre sits on 100 acres (40 hectares) of beautifully preserved land—home to hundreds of bird species, including a large number of wintering northern songbirds. In addition to the plentiful birds, the center has an extensive network of trails winding past pine barrens, coppices, wildlife ponds, and a native plant arboretum.More

All about Freeport

When to visit

The best time to experience Freeport is during the winter months, from December to April. This period offers the perfect blend of pleasant weather and minimal rainfall—and it happens to coincide with the annual Junkanoo Festival in late December, a vibrant celebration of Bahamian culture featuring colorful parades, lively music, and dazzling costumes. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider the shoulder seasons of November or early May when the crowds are thinner, but the weather remains delightful.

Getting around

Public buses, known as jitneys, are an economical way to travel between neighborhoods and attractions around Freeport. Taxis and rideshares are readily available for more convenience and flexibility, especially when exploring the greater island. If you plan to explore the Grand Bahama Island extensively, renting a car is a good choice, as it provides greater freedom to visit hidden gems and secluded natural wonders.

Traveler tips

While Freeport boasts pristine beaches of its own, consider venturing to nearby Gold Rock Beach within Lucayan National Park. This stunning beach features crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, and unique tidal pools ripe for exploration. And don’t forget to sample some local flavors at the Port Lucaya Marketplace, like conch fritters or cracked conch—often with a side of live music.

Attractions
11
Tours
22
Reviews
762
EN
25770c8e-9ad7-44ed-abe2-c6c4ac694011
geo_hub

People Also Ask

Is Freeport, Bahamas worth visiting?

Yes, it’s worth visiting for its stunning beaches, water and outdoor activities, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a fan of Caribbean cuisine, or simply want to spend an entire vacation lounging on the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Freeport.

...More
What is Freeport, Bahamas known for?

It’s known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, water sports (namely snorkeling and scuba diving), and the lively atmosphere at the Port Lucaya Marketplace—famous for its shops, dining, and entertainment.

...More
How do you spend a day in Freeport, Bahamas?

Start your day with a relaxing morning at a pristine stretch of sand like Taino Beach. Then explore the vibrant Port Lucaya Marketplace for some souvenirs and conch fritters. In the afternoon, devote some sunny hours to swimming, snorkeling, or taking a boat tour to nearby islands. Since there are plenty of things to do in Freeport, it’s easy to plan a day or more here.

...More
Do US citizens need a passport for Freeport, Bahamas?

Yes, US citizens need a valid passport when traveling here, as the Bahamas are not a US territory. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.

...More
Which is nicer: Nassau or Freeport?

The “nicer” choice depends on your preferences. Nassau offers a more bustling and diverse city experience, while Freeport is known for its quieter, laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty.

...More
Is it safe to swim in Freeport, Bahamas?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Freeport, Bahamas. The beaches are well-maintained, and lifeguards often patrol popular swimming areas. However, it's always wise to exercise caution and pay attention to local advice and water conditions.

...More
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the top things to do in Freeport?
Q:
What are the top activities in Freeport?
Q:
What are the top things to do near Freeport?