Getting Around Long Island, Bahamas: Transportation Options for Visitors
INTRODUCTION
Long Island is one of the largest and most scenic islands in The Bahamas, stretching approximately 80 miles (130 km) from Cape Santa Maria in the north to Gordon's in the south. Because attractions, beaches, resorts, and settlements are spread along the island, understanding transportation is essential for making the most of your visit. Fortunately, Long Island is straightforward to navigate, with a single main road connecting most communities and two airports providing convenient access from Nassau and beyond.
Most visitors choose to rent a car, giving them the flexibility to explore destinations such as Dean's Blue Hole, Cape Santa Maria Beach, Clarence Town, Salt Pond, Stella Maris, and Hamilton's Cave at their own pace.
This transportation guide focuses specifically on getting to and around Long Island while complementing the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide, where you'll find information about attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
GETTING TO LONG ISLAND
Visitors can reach Long Island by air or sea.
The island is served by two airports:
Both airports offer scheduled domestic connections with Nassau, while Stella Maris can also accommodate certain international arrivals with Customs and Immigration services.
DEADMAN'S CAY AIRPORT (LGI)
Deadman's Cay Airport is the primary gateway for visitors staying near:
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Clarence Town
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Salt Pond
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Dean's Blue Hole
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Cape Santa Maria
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Southern Long Island
Facilities include:
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Rental car pickup
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Taxi services
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Airport parking
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Domestic flights
The airport is located along Queen's Highway, making it easy to begin exploring immediately after arrival.
STELLA MARIS AIRPORT (SML)
Stella Maris Airport provides convenient access to:
Some car rental companies can deliver vehicles directly to the airport for arriving passengers.
RENTING A CAR
For most travelers, renting a car is the best way to explore Long Island.
Unlike larger destinations, there is no extensive public transportation network, and attractions are often many miles apart.
Several locally operated rental companies serve the island, including:
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Ophelia's Car Rental – Deadman's Cay (cars, jeeps, and minivans)
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Lee's Taxi Service & Car Rentals – airport delivery available to Deadman's Cay and Stella Maris Airports
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Bahamas Car Rentals – based at Stella Maris Airport with airport pickup and island-wide service
Many companies provide:
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Airport pickup
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Airport drop-off
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Resort delivery
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Multi-day rentals
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Air-conditioned vehicles
Reservations are recommended during peak travel seasons.
DRIVING ON LONG ISLAND
Driving is generally relaxed and uncomplicated.
The island is connected by Queen's Highway, which runs nearly the entire length of Long Island from north to south.
Visitors should remember:
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Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
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Watch for curves, wildlife, and pedestrians.
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Fuel stations become less frequent outside larger settlements.
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Download maps in advance, as mobile coverage can vary in remote areas.
Because traffic is light, driving is often one of the highlights of exploring Long Island.
TAXIS
Taxi services are available, particularly around:
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Deadman's Cay Airport
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Stella Maris Airport
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Clarence Town
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Resorts
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Popular attractions
Fares are generally agreed upon before departure, so it's advisable to confirm the price with the driver in advance. Official taxis operate under government licensing.
Taxis are ideal for:
FERRY AND BOAT TRANSPORT
Long Island can also be reached by sea.
Options include:
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Mail boat services from Nassau (limited schedules)
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Seasonal ferry connections with Exuma
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Private yachts and cruising vessels arriving through approved ports of entry such as Flying Fish Marina and Salt Pond Public Dock.
Private boaters should complete Customs and Immigration procedures at an authorized port of entry.
WALKING AND CYCLING
Walking is practical within individual settlements such as:
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Clarence Town
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Salt Pond
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Stella Maris
However, distances between attractions are considerable, making walking unsuitable for most sightseeing.
Cycling is possible for experienced riders but requires preparation due to heat, limited shade, and long distances.
TRANSPORTATION TIPS
To make travel easier:
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Reserve rental vehicles before arrival.
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Fill the fuel tank when passing larger communities.
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Carry drinking water during long drives.
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Allow extra travel time for scenic stops.
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Keep cash available for smaller businesses and taxis.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Best Transportation Option
Rental car
Driving Side
Left
Main Road
Queen's Highway
Airports
Best For
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Families
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Couples
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Photographers
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Divers
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Beach explorers
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Road trips
FAQ SECTION
Is renting a car necessary on Long Island?
For most visitors, yes. A rental car offers the easiest way to explore beaches, attractions, and settlements spread across the island.
What airports serve Long Island?
Deadman's Cay Airport (LGI) and Stella Maris Airport (SML).
Where can I rent a car?
Local providers include Ophelia's Car Rental, Lee's Taxi Service & Car Rentals, and Bahamas Car Rentals.
Can I use taxis instead of renting a car?
Yes, although taxis are best suited for airport transfers and shorter trips. Renting a car offers greater flexibility.
Are roads easy to drive?
Yes. Queen's Highway connects most major settlements and attractions, and traffic is generally light.
How do I reach Long Island by boat?
Visitors can arrive via private yacht, seasonal ferry services, or certain mail boat routes from other Bahamian islands.
EXPLORE MORE LONG ISLAND GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
Transportation on Long Island revolves around Queen's Highway, linking the island's principal communities, including Stella Maris, Clarence Town, Salt Pond, and Deadman's Cay. Easy road access allows visitors to combine scenic drives with stops at Dean's Blue Hole, Cape Santa Maria Beach, Hamilton's Cave, Columbus Point, and numerous restaurants, marinas, and beaches. Together with its two airports and boating facilities, Long Island offers convenient access to one of The Bahamas' most diverse Family Island destinations.
CONCLUSION
Long Island's transportation network is simple but effective, making it easy for visitors to explore the island independently. With two airports, reliable local car rental companies, taxi services, and a single scenic highway connecting most attractions, getting around is straightforward and enjoyable.
Whether you're planning a beach holiday, diving adventure, fishing trip, or cultural tour, renting a car provides the greatest flexibility to experience everything Long Island has to offer. Continue with the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide to discover where to stay, what to see, and how to plan the perfect island itinerary.
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Updated as of July 2026.