The Perfect Long Island, Bahamas Itinerary: How to Spend 3, 5, or 7 Days
INTRODUCTION
Long Island is one of The Bahamas' most rewarding destinations for independent travelers. Unlike islands centered around resorts or cruise ports, Long Island invites visitors to slow down and explore dramatic coastlines, quiet beaches, blue holes, historic churches, caves, and authentic island communities. Whether you have a long weekend or a full week, planning your route helps you make the most of the island's 80-mile (130 km) length.
This itinerary guide offers suggested travel plans for 3, 5, and 7 days while leaving plenty of flexibility to enjoy Long Island at your own pace. It complements the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide, where you'll find detailed information on accommodations, transportation, attractions, and visitor planning.
WHO THIS ITINERARY IS FOR
These itineraries are ideal for:
3-DAY LONG ISLAND ITINERARY
DAY 1 – ARRIVE & EXPLORE THE NORTH
After arriving at Stella Maris Airport or Deadman's Cay Airport, pick up your rental car and begin exploring.
Suggested stops:
Finish the evening with dinner overlooking the water.
DAY 2 – DEAN'S BLUE HOLE & CLARENCE TOWN
Spend the morning visiting one of Long Island's best-known natural attractions.
Highlights include:
This combination offers both natural beauty and cultural history.
DAY 3 – HAMILTON'S CAVE & DEPARTURE
Before leaving the island, consider visiting:
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Hamilton's Cave
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Local settlements
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Scenic viewpoints
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Beach picnic
Depending on your departure airport, allow sufficient time to drive back for your flight.
5-DAY LONG ISLAND ITINERARY
A five-day stay allows time to experience both the island's famous attractions and its quieter corners.
DAY 1
Arrival and Cape Santa Maria.
DAY 2
Dean's Blue Hole and Clarence Town.
DAY 3
Hamilton's Cave and a scenic drive along Queen's Highway.
DAY 4
Choose one activity:
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Bonefishing
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Deep-sea fishing
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Snorkeling
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Diving
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Boat excursion
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Kayaking
Long Island is renowned for its fishing and marine adventures.
DAY 5
Spend your final day relaxing on one of the island's quieter beaches before departing.
7-DAY LONG ISLAND ITINERARY
A full week lets you experience Long Island without rushing.
DAY 1
Arrival and beach relaxation.
DAY 2
Cape Santa Maria and nearby coastline.
DAY 3
Dean's Blue Hole.
DAY 4
Clarence Town, the Twin Churches, and local history.
DAY 5
Hamilton's Cave and surrounding settlements.
DAY 6
Fishing charter, snorkeling excursion, or boating adventure.
DAY 7
Scenic drive, local shopping, photography stops, and departure.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES TO ADD
Depending on your interests, consider adding:
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Scuba diving
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Free diving
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Birdwatching
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Offshore reef fishing
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Bonefishing
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Paddleboarding
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Beach photography
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Stargazing
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Guided island tour
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Local restaurants
WHERE TO STAY DURING YOUR TRIP
Many visitors split their stay between the north and south of the island.
Popular accommodation areas include:
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Stella Maris
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Cape Santa Maria
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Clarence Town
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Deadman's Cay
This reduces driving time and allows easier access to attractions across Long Island.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Recommended Trip Length
5–7 days
Transportation
Rental car recommended.
Best Time
Year-round, with generally drier conditions from December through April.
Best For
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Couples
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Families
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Divers
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Anglers
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Nature lovers
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Photographers
FAQ SECTION
How many days should I spend on Long Island?
Five to seven days provides enough time to explore the island comfortably while enjoying its beaches and outdoor activities.
Is three days enough?
Yes. Three days allows visitors to experience Dean's Blue Hole, Cape Santa Maria, Clarence Town, and Hamilton's Cave.
Do I need a rental car?
Yes. A rental car is the best way to explore Long Island because attractions are spread along the island.
Where should I stay?
Many visitors stay around Stella Maris, Cape Santa Maria, Clarence Town, or Deadman's Cay depending on their itinerary.
Can I visit Dean's Blue Hole in one day?
Yes. Dean's Blue Hole is easily visited as part of a full-day itinerary from most accommodations.
Is a week too long?
No. A seven-day itinerary allows time for beaches, fishing, boating, diving, and exploring the island without feeling rushed.
EXPLORE MORE LONG ISLAND GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
Long Island stretches from Stella Maris and Cape Santa Maria in the north to Clarence Town, Deadman's Cay, and the island's southern beaches. Along the way, visitors can discover natural wonders such as Dean's Blue Hole, explore Hamilton's Cave, admire the famous Twin Churches, and enjoy world-class fishing, diving, snorkeling, and secluded beaches. This diversity makes Long Island one of The Bahamas' most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
CONCLUSION
Whether you have three days or a full week, Long Island rewards travelers who take the time to explore beyond its famous landmarks. A flexible itinerary allows you to combine beaches, marine adventures, history, scenic drives, and authentic Bahamian communities into one unforgettable Out Island experience.
For more information on accommodations, transportation, attractions, and planning your visit, continue exploring the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide
Long Island, The Bahamas, Stella Maris, Cape Santa Maria, Clarence Town, Deadman's Cay, Dean's Blue Hole, Hamilton's Cave, Twin Churches, Father Jerome Hawes, Queen's Highway, Columbus Point, snorkeling, scuba diving, bonefishing, deep-sea fishing, road trip, beaches, Out Islands