Out Islands (Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Abacos)

The Out Islands, or Family Islands, represent the Bahamas in its most authentic and tranquil form. This region encompasses Eleuthera, Harbour Island, and the Abacos, each offering a distinct flavor but sharing a common lack of mass tourism crowds. Geography here is defined by long, slender islands and protected sounds perfect for sailing. Eleuthera is known for its rolling hills and pineapple fields, while the Abacos function as the boating capital of the Bahamas, with calm waters protected by a chain of barrier cays. For families, this is the destination to unplug and reconnect.

Harbour Island is a standout for families with young children, primarily due to its world-famous Pink Sands Beach. The pale coral sand remains cool to the touch even at midday, and the offshore reef keeps the surf gentle. Transportation on "Briland" (as locals call it) is almost exclusively by golf cart, a novelty that kids adore. Just a short water taxi ride away lies the vast expanse of Eleuthera, home to the Glass Window Bridge, where you can stand on a narrow strip of rock separating the dark, churning Atlantic Ocean from the calm turquoise Bight of Eleuthera. It is a dramatic geography lesson that leaves a lasting impression.

In the Abacos, the vibe is nautical and village-centric. Hope Town on Elbow Cay is famous for its candy-striped lighthouse, one of the last manually operated kerosene lighthouses in the world. Families can climb the winding stairs for a view over the harbor. Green Turtle Cay offers similar charm with the added bonus of swimming with turtles in the wild at Coco Bay. The water in the Sea of Abaco is shallow and clear, making it ideal for novice snorkelers to spot starfish and sea biscuits.

Accommodation in the Out Islands leans toward rental cottages and boutique hotels rather than mega-resorts. This allows families to shop at local grocery stores and cook meals together, or dine at small, family-run restaurants serving fresh lobster and peas 'n' rice. Logistics require a bit more planning—often involving small commuter flights or ferries—but the reward is a safe, friendly environment where children can roam more freely than in the cities. It is a place where the entertainment isn't manufactured, but found in the rhythms of the tide and the warmth of the local community.