Surfing in Bahamas

Surfing in the Bahamas - Quick Facts

LOCATION: Caribbean, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean
POPULATION: Approximately 400,000
NATIONALITY: Bahamian
LANGUAGE: English
CURRENCY: Bahamian dollar (BSD)
Planning a surf trip to the Bahamas? It's a solid choice, especially when you consider the geography—over 700 islands and cays, offering extensive exploration opportunities. Communication won't be an issue; English is the official language.
In case “Cay” is a new term for you, a Cay (pronounced “key”) is a low bank or reef of coral, rock and sand.
In general, The Bahamas are a secure and welcoming destination. For optimal surf conditions, aim for the winter months, November through March. Water temperatures are appealing, ranging from a comfortable 75°F in winter to 84°F in summer. Wave variety is a given, accommodating everyone from beginners to advanced surfers. In essence, the Bahamas serves well for a balanced trip of surfing and relaxation, complemented by scenic views. I hope this helps in your trip planning. This really is one of those ultimate tropical surf destinations.

The Bahamas is a stunning surf destination with warm waters, scenic coastlines, and a variety of breaks. However, surfing here comes with challenges, including inconsistent swells and remote locations.

Surfing in the Bahamas has plenty of positives. The warm, crystal-clear waters make for a comfortable surf experience year-round, with no need for a wetsuit. Winter (November to March) brings consistent swells, offering great waves for those who time their trip well. Unlike busier surf hotspots, the Bahamas has relatively uncrowded breaks, meaning you might have a wave all to yourself. With over 700 islands and cays, there are endless opportunities to explore new spots. The breathtaking scenery—turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant reefs—makes every surf session unforgettable. Additionally, the islands offer a mix of reef and beach breaks, catering to both beginners and experienced surfers.

Despite its beauty, the Bahamas isn't a perfect surf destination. The surf can be inconsistent, especially in summer, as it depends on storms and hurricanes, making conditions unpredictable. Many of the best waves are on remote islands, which can be costly and difficult to reach. These locations also have limited amenities and accommodation options, requiring extra planning. Additionally, many of the best breaks are reef breaks, posing risks for inexperienced surfers. Shallow waters and sharp coral mean surfers need caution and strong wave-reading skills.

The Good
Warm, clear waters with year-round surfing
Uncrowded waves and plenty of hidden spots
Stunning scenery with white sand beaches and coral reefs
A mix of reef and beach breaks for all skill levels

The Bad and the Ugly
Inconsistent surf, especially in summer
Remote locations that are hard and expensive to reach
Sharp coral and shallow reef breaks pose risks for beginners

Bahamas Surfing Conditions

Bahamas Swell Size (ft)

Bahamas Water Temperature

Top Surf Spots in the Bahamas

French Bay

Location: Eleuthera Island
Wave Type: Reef break
Best Time to Surf: Winter months (November to March)
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
Overview: French Bay is a hidden gem on Eleuthera Island, offering powerful and hollow waves. The reef break provides long, fast rides, but the shallow coral can be dangerous for beginners. The remote location ensures a peaceful surfing experience with few crowds.
Surfing at French Bay

Great Guana Cay

Location: Abaco Islands
Wave Type: Beach break
Best Time to Surf: Winter months (November to March)
Skill Level: All levels
Overview: Great Guana Cay is a versatile surf spot with waves suitable for all skill levels. The beach break offers fun, rolling waves, making it a great spot for beginners and longboarders. The island’s laid-back vibe and stunning beaches add to the overall experience.
Surfing at Great Guana Cay

Surfers Beach

Location: New Providence Island (near Nassau)
Wave Type: Reef break
Best Time to Surf: Winter months (November to March)
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
Overview: As the name suggests, Surfers Beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The reef break produces consistent waves, but the shallow coral can be tricky. Its proximity to Nassau makes it one of the more accessible surf spots in the Bahamas.

Surfing at Surfers Beach, Bahamas

Don’t hold back, if you know any surf spots in the Bahamas then please share and add to our map.

Bahamas surf trip quick tips

Want a successful surf trip? Follow these quick tips while you are there.

Bring Your Own Gear: Surf shops are rare, especially on the outer islands, so bring your own board and equipment.

Respect the Locals: The surfing community in the Bahamas is small and tight-knit. Always show respect and follow surf etiquette. This is a given for every surf location – make sure you stick to it.

Check the Forecast: Swells in the Bahamas are often wind-driven, so keep an eye on weather patterns and surf forecasts.

Protect the Reefs: The coral reefs are fragile and vital to the marine ecosystem. Avoid standing on or damaging the coral while surfing.

What about when it’s flat?

The Bahamas is not just a surfing destination. There are many other things to see and do in the Bahamas. Here are just a few ideas:

• Visit one of the many national parks or nature reserves.
• Go snorkeling or diving in the clear blue waters.
• Explore the many historical sites and museums.
• Relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.
• Enjoy the nightlife in Nassau.
• No matter what you're looking for, you're sure to find it in the Bahamas!

Getting to the Bahamas

The Bahamas is a popular tourist destination and is well-connected to the rest of the world. The main airport is Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), located in Nassau. There are direct flights to Nassau from many major cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean.

You can also reach the Bahamas by sea, as there are many cruise ships that stop in Nassau and other Bahamian ports. Don’t arrive by cruise ship – it’s practically the most polluting form of travel out there.

For visa’s, take a look at the requirements on the the Bahamas High Commission London website.