What Is the Best Island in The Bahamas for Families to Live?

Moving to the Bahamas means relocating to an enchanting paradise with sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and endless adventures for families. Whether you're seeking permanent residency or a temporary relocation, finding the perfect island getaway is critical to crafting unforgettable family memories.

Only a few of the 700 islands in this archipelago are suitable for expat families. Each Bahamian island has its unique charm, amenities, and opportunities, making it essential for expat families to choose wisely. 

As experienced real estate agents, we recognize the significance of selecting the best island for families with "essential" amenities and family-centric attractions. 

We work with families like you to understand your specific requirements and guide you as you navigate your choices. In this blog, our expert realtors will discuss some of the best islands in the Bahamas for families, highlighting their distinctive attributes and offerings.

New Providence/Nassau

School: ⭐⭐⭐

Cost of Living: $$

Average Home Price: $$$

Best Neighbourhoods for Families:  Treasure Cove, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Sandyport, Charlotteville

Nassau, the vibrant capital of The Bahamas, offers a perfect blend of tropical beauty and urban convenience with its rich history, cultural diversity, and bustling city life. 

Schools in Nassau

Nassau has many private and international schools tailored to the unique educational, psychological, social, and physical needs of expat kids. Some of the prestigious institutes include:

King's College School:  It's part of the global Inspired Group, with a chain of 110 schools across six continents.

Lyford Cay International School:  Established in 1962, it's renowned for its full spectrum of International Baccalaureate programs from preschool to grade 12.

Queen's College:  Famous for being the first Lighthouse school in the Caribbean, it provides quality education following the Bahamas National Curriculum.

St. Andrew's School:  Founded in 1948, it offers IB accreditation, facilitating students' holistic development and preparation for global citizenship.

Real Estate in Nassau 

New Providence/Nassau has many different kinds of communities and neighbourhoods with various amenities, home prices, and cost of living. From ultra-luxury and exclusive gated communities to un-gated neighbourhoods with an authentic Bahamian feel, everyone can find a suitable place that meets their needs and aspirations on New Providence Island. 

Nassau has plenty of amenities and action, regardless of where you buy your home. However, gated communities like Albany and Lyford Cay offer additional security and have stunning private beaches, golf courses, clubs, marinas, and schools. Two types of properties are more popular among expats in Nassau.

Canal-Based Communities:  If your family loves water-based activities and/or if you own a boat, the canal-based communities in New Providence are the best choice for you. Sandyport is famous for mid-size homes and townhouses, whereas Port-New Providence has a private beach, larger lots, and upscale condos.   

Beachfront Communities:  Communities like Goldwynn and Palm Cay offer the ultimate beachfront living experience in Nassau. Whether you're interested in luxury penthouse suites with panoramic ocean views and exclusive amenities or seek single-family units, homes, or condos, you can find them in Nassau.

Family-Oriented Activities

There are many things to do with kids on New Providence Island, from water sports to exploring natural parks and historic forts.

Water sports are everywhere in The Bahamas, including New Providence Island/Nassau. You can participate in sports like kayaking at Bonefish Pond National Park (free introductory lessons included) or hop on a catamaran for a sunset cruise. For a thrilling experience, feed the sharks in the azure waters of The Bahamas.

On weekends, head to Baha Bay at Baha Mar in Nassau for beachside fun at the water park, offering raft rides, slides, wave pools, and more. 

Food lovers can indulge in Bahamian delicacies at Arawak Cay, such as fresh, mouth-watering fried lobster, grilled shrimp, and conch-inspired dishes. Learning to make chocolates and cigars at Graycliff Restaurant can be fun for the whole family. You can also visit the Rum Cake Factory to taste freshly prepared rum cakes and learn how they make them. 

Experience the sweeping vistas of the Bahamian capital, Fort Fincastle, atop Bennet's Hill, or delve into history at Fort Charlotte with its underground dungeons and mesmerising panoramas of Nassau Harbor.

Families love to explore Nassau's historic forts and dungeons to learn about the pirates of Nassau. You'll discover the vivid tales of pirates at the Pirates of Nassau Museum, where you'll find a replica of the pirate ship Revenge and vivid depictions of pirate life. 

To escape to nature, visit Nassau's many natural parks, such as Lucayan National Park, Primeval Forest National Park, Clifton Heritage National Park, Ardastra Gardens, and more.

Grand Bahama

School: ⭐⭐

Cost of Living: $

Average Home Price: $

Best Neighbourhoods for Families: Fortune Bay, Bahama Reef, Lucaya

Nestled in the northernmost reaches of the Bahamas archipelago lies Grand Bahama, a perfect blend of natural wonders and modern amenities. The island is renowned for its ecological diversity, from jaw-dropping beaches to lush mangrove forests and underwater caves, offering a unique paradise for expat families. 

Schools in Grand Bahama

Lucaya International School (LIS), established in 1998 as a 12-acre purpose-built campus, offers a dynamic academic program. Combining American, British, and international curricula, LIS adopts global educational practices and offers intercultural education. 

It is accredited by prestigious organisations like CIS, NEASC, NAIS, and NAECOB, to ensure high-quality standards and a well-rounded educational experience.

Real Estate in Grand Bahama

Grand Bahama has both gated and ungated communities. Freeport, the Bahamas' second largest city, offers a diverse selection of budget-friendly housing choices, from cosy condominium complexes to family-centric neighbourhoods.

You can find beach-facing houses and Caribbean-style bungalows in Fortune Bay with amenities like pools and tennis courts.

Grand Bahama beckons real estate investors with its quintessential Bahamian lifestyle. Thanks to notably lower property prices, it is more affordable than the capital.

Family-Oriented Activities 

The most famous tourist attraction in Grand Bahama is the Lucayan National Park. Discover the intricate network of underwater caves, stroll along winding nature trails, and enjoy picnics amidst lush mangrove forests. Kids will enjoy observing the park's diverse wildlife as they learn about the island's rich ecological heritage.

Another similar option is the Garden of the Groves, which beckons with its lush vegetation and exotic flora. Admire its colourful blooms, butterflies, birds, and fish ponds.

Explore the vibrant Port Lucaya Marketplace in the evenings for family fun. Shop for local crafts, savour delicious Bahamian cuisine and enjoy live music and entertainment. Kids would love carousel rides, face painting, and karaoke competitions.

Dolphin encounters are a must in Grand Bahama. Join the Reef Oasis Dive Club for thrilling adventures with Caribbean reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, oceanic whitetip sharks, tiger sharks, and more. Witness these sharks up close and watch the dive master feed them with a pole. 

Get your historical facts and figures straight at the Grand Bahama Museum for a fascinating glimpse into the past. Families can explore interactive exhibits, artefacts, and displays showcasing the island's Lucayan Indian roots, colonial history, and maritime traditions.

Other exciting places to visit include the Perfume Factory and the Rand Nature Centre, which also has a museum. 

Another fun family activity can be attending cooking classes by local chefs. Many families learn to prepare traditional dishes like conch fritters, Bahamian stew fish, and coconut-infused desserts, gaining insight into the island's culinary heritage and flavours.

Grand Bahama is an excellent place to enjoy the vibrant Bahamian culture through local festivals and events held throughout the year. Families can join in celebrations like Junkanoo parades, reggae concerts, and seafood festivals, immersing themselves in the island's music, dance, and culinary traditions.

Eleuthera

School: ⭐⭐

Cost of Living: $

Average Home Price: $

Best Neighbourhoods for Families:  Jack's Bay Club, Freetown

Eleuthera is a hidden gem, for now, boasting serene charm and a laid-back island lifestyle. With its rose-tinted and white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage, Eleuthera offers a tranquil escape for families looking to unwind amidst breathtaking natural beauty. 

Located nearly 70 miles east of Nassau and featuring three airports, Eleuthera is a more affordable living option than New Providence. 

While home and grocery prices remain lower, real estate prices are rising, fueled by tourist interest in attractions like Hatchet Bay, Devil's Backbone Reef, and pristine French Leave Beach.

Schools in Eleuthera

The Island School offers educational programs from pre-K to PhD levels, emphasising outdoor learning and athletics. It includes the Early Learning Center for ages 3 to 11 and Deep Creek Middle School for grades 7-9 (as short semesters and summer terms). 

Moreover, The Cape Eleuthera Institute focuses on research, education, and conservation, offering students hands-on experiences in marine ecosystems.

Real Estate in Eleuthera

Eleuthera offers diverse waterfront properties, ranging from quaint cottages and cosy condos to spacious family homes and empty lots. With an average price of $340 sq/ft and lowest beginning at $20k up to $45M, you'll find a suitable home amid secluded communities or the vibrant atmosphere of towns.

Family-Oriented Activities

Amid the island's less crowded beaches bordered by casuarina trees, families can enjoy snorkelling and water adventures at its calm beaches. Wherever you look, rolling green hills, stunning sea-to-sea vistas, dramatic cliffs and secluded coves will welcome you in Eleuthera.

Surfer's Beach is a popular spot for exploring the beautiful underwater world of Eleuthera with snorkelling adventures. You can also plan a picnic for your kids at Gaulding Cay Beach. It's Eleuthra's hidden gem with calm, shallow waters perfect for young children.

Lighthouse Beach is another interesting place to dip your toes in the soft, blush-hued sand. It offers breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters of Exuma Sound and the Atlantic as a backdrop. 

Glass Window Bridge is another excellent place to visit in Eleuthera. We bet you'll be mesmerised by the stunning contrast between the dark blue Atlantic Ocean and the calm Bight of Eleuthera, separated by a 30-foot-wide strip of rocks. 

On weekends, plan a day trip to Harbour Island only a short boat ride away, known for its pink sand beaches, charming colonial architecture, and, of course, celebrity sightings. A-listers flock to it for its remoteness and privacy. 

Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve is an excellent place to learn about Eleuthera's native flora and fauna.

Visiting Eleuthera's Island Farm is another exciting and educational activity for kids. You can tour the farm, feed animals, and learn about sustainable agriculture practices as you relish freshly produced cinnamon rolls, Bahamian bread, and sauces and grab fresh vegetables to return to your Bahamian home. 

Visiting the quaint village of Gregory Town, known for its vibrant local culture, colourful houses, and friendly atmosphere, is a treat. You can try some delicious Bahamian cuisine at local restaurants there.

Paradise Island

School: ⭐⭐⭐

Cost of Living: More $$$

Average home price: $$$

Best neighbourhoods for families: Ocean Club Estate, Reef at Atlantis

Located just off the northeast shore of Nassau, Paradise Island emerges as a crown jewel of the Bahamas. Its miles-long white-powdered beaches and stunning ocean views make it a perfect destination for families. The island is connected to New Providence by two bridges, which also give families quick access to all the schools on New Providence Island. 

From luxurious accommodations to top-tier dining and entertainment options, Paradise Island offers families the ultimate Bahamian luxury, providing an unforgettable experience. 

The island is a gateway to glitzy resorts, rejuvenating spas, vibrant nightlife, a professional golf course, state-of-the-art marine facilities, exquisite dining options, and many kid-friendly activities.

Luxury Real Estate

Paradise Island features exclusive enclaves with world-class amenities. The entire island is not only a lucrative tourist destination but also the epitome of luxury living for anyone looking to buy high-end property in The Bahamas. 

Ocean Club Estate It's a community with over a hundred lots and beachfront, oceanfront, and marina-facing views. A stunning golf course, marina, and gated community boasting spacious harbourfront homes and 88 condos with top-notch amenities. 

The Reef At Atlantis The Reef at Atlantis is a luxury condo hotel on Paradise Island. You can stay in your unit for a maximum of 90 days and then use it to generate rental income. The awe-inspiring Atlantis Resort, Waterpark, Bars, and Casino are its most prominent attractions, especially for families with children!

Family-Oriented Activities

Paradise Island offers some of the Bahamas' most beautiful beaches, including Paradise Beach, Cove Beach, Cabbage Beach, and Arawak Beach. These beaches are perfect for lounging under the sun and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Try kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and other water sports. Some may also offer free lessons. Alternatively, you can book a charter boat or sunset cruise to explore the nearby islands and cays with your family. 

On weekends, head to Aquaventure, a 141-acre Atlantis-themed water park featuring thrilling water slides, a mile-long river ride, two dozen swimming areas, and a water-play fort for kids. 

You can also explore marine habitats at Atlantis Bahamas, home to lagoons, caves, coral formations, and underwater ruins teeming with exotic marine life. It's an excellent place for non-disruptive interaction with sharks, rays, barracuda, and more in Earth's largest open-air marine habitat.

For a friendly encounter with dolphins, visit Dolphin Cay, a 14-acre facility at Atlantis showcasing Bottlenose Dolphins and sea lions in a well-maintained marine habitat. Each visit to meet and greet these majestic creatures creates cherished memories and supports animal rescue efforts through the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation.

Living on Paradise Island doesn't mean you can only enjoy water activities. For a peaceful retreat above water, visit Versailles Gardens and Cloisters, a healing place and personal sanctuary. Its French-inspired architecture, manicured lawns, and historic cloisters offer a peek into the island's sophisticated charm.

Beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, life in The Bahamas offers a rich experience for families. There are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and quality family time.

From top-notch schools to exciting options for fun and learning, the Bahamian Islands have something for every family. 

Partner with Era Dupuch Real Estate and let their expertise and local knowledge help you navigate your options and choose the best island in The Bahamas for your family. 

Posted by Helen Dupuch on
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