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Spanish Wells

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City
—°
Spanish Wells (Bahamas)
ℹ️

Practical info — Spanish Wells

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Rent a golf cart, which is the primary mode of transportation on this small, quiet island.
  • Respect the conservative local culture; cover up your swimwear when walking around town.
  • Book a fishing charter; the island is famous for its commercial and sport fishing fleet.
  • Enjoy the completely safe and crime-free environment, a well-known hallmark of the community.

🍽 Food

🍽
Fresh Lobster

Spanish Wells is the lobster capital of the Bahamas; try it grilled at the local seafood spots.

🍽
Stone Crab Claws

Available seasonally at local seafood restaurants.

🍽
Bahamian Bread

Buy freshly baked, slightly sweet homemade bread from local bakeshops.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Spanish Wells Supermarket

Well-stocked with imported goods and local produce.

🛍
Fishing Gear

Local shops offer excellent angling gear and nautical souvenirs.

🧘
The North Beach

A shallow, incredibly calm stretch of sand first-rate for wading and walking.

🧘
The Bridge to Russell Island

A peaceful spot to stand and watch the boats passing underneath.

Spanish Wells is situated on St. George's Cay, off the northern tip of Eleuthera, and is renowned as the lobster fishing capital of the Bahamas. Its name originated from the Spanish galleons that stopped here to refill their fresh water supplies from local wells before departing for Europe. The residents are primarily descendants of the Eleutherian Adventurers and British Loyalists who arrived after the American Revolutionary War. The settlement is distinguished by its meticulous upkeep, pastel-colored cottages, and deep-rooted maritime heritage. Unlike many Bahamian islands, the economy is driven by a highly successful commercial fishing industry rather than tourism alone. The community is considered one of the wealthiest and most self-sufficient in the region. Narrow streets are navigated mainly by golf carts, contributing to the island's unique and tranquil atmosphere. Geographically, it is linked by a bridge to Russell Island, which is known for its citrus groves and lush vegetation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232323242628292929272524
Rain mm373340601231501251431581156739

Geography

Population
1,500 (2026)
Coordinates
25.54100, -76.75500

Facts

  • It is the main hub for the Bahamian spiny lobster (crawfish) industry.
  • The name refers to the fresh water wells used by 17th-century Spanish sailors.
  • Most inhabitants are descendants of the original Eleutherian Adventurers.
  • A bridge connects St. George's Cay to the nearby Russell Island.
  • The settlement has one of the highest per capita incomes in the Bahamas.
  • Golf carts are the primary vehicles used for transportation on the island.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Frequently asked questions

How do you get around?
Golf carts are the primary mode of transport and can be rented everywhere.
What is the place known for?
It is the hub of Bahamian lobster fishing and is very well-maintained.
Is alcohol available there?
Yes, there are liquor stores and bars, unlike some neighboring islands.
How do you get there?
By water taxi from North Eleuthera (near ELH airport).
Are the beaches good?
The north shore has miles of shallow sandbars, handy for wading.
Spanish Wells: where is it located?
Spanish Wells is located in Bahamas.
Spanish Wells: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
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