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Here is a quick step by step in order of importance.
1. Select your preffered place to stay. Boutique hotel or a private rental home. (for bigger groups, we recommend getting a house or two that are close to each other). Accomodations (https://www.hopetownguide.com/stay#:~:text=THINGS%20TO%20DO-,WHERE%20TO%20STAY)
2. Book your accomodations first.
3. Book your golf cart and rental boat if needed. This is highly recommended but they do book up MONTHS in advance. (if your rental home does not come with a dock slip- you'll need to book a spot at one of the marinas). Golf Carts (https://www.hopetownguide.com/exploring)- Boat Rentals(https://www.hopetownguide.com/boatrental)
4. Book your flights. There is the major airlines but there's also the smaller ones that tend to be easier with groups. Airlines(https://www.hopetownguide.com/travel)
5. Book your dinner reservations especially if you're with a big group and if you're coming during a busy time of year. (busiest during US and international holidays) Restaurants(https://www.hopetownguide.com/restaurants-takeouts-deliveries)
6. Book any fishing charters, boat trips/excursions, private chefs, baby sitters etc. Fishing Charters(https://www.hopetownguide.com/fishingandboatcharters)
7. Touch base with the resort or the Property Manager for the house you're staying at. Let them know what time you plan to arrive and on what ferry. Be sure to keep them updated on any travel delays so they know when to meet you. Also- keep the golf cart company posted on any delays so they can meet you when you arrive.
1. Get a taxi right outside the airport (there's always taxis waiting) and tell them you need to go to the Hope Town Ferry. We have some phone numbers of drivers that we use if you want to pre-arrange transport. If you want to stop and do some grocery shopping, the taxi will hold your luggage and either wait or come back to pick you up when you're done shopping.
2. You pay as you board the ferry. No need to pre-purchase tickets.
3. The ferry makes 3 official stops in Hope Town Harbour. First is the Lower Public Dock, Second is the Upper Public Dock(also known as the "Post Office Dock". Third is the "Lodge Dock". Other special request stops is the "Lighthouse Dock", The Hope Town Inn and Marina dock.
(NOTE: The ferry will stop to the North End Public Dock but that needs to be pre-arranged due to tides etc.) Taxis and Ferry Schedule
(https://www.hopetownguide.com/travel)
• The Bahamain dollar is 1-1 with USD and both are accepted everywhere.
• There is 1 ATM on Elbow Cay but is often not working.
• We recommend bringing some cash with you to pay taxi, ferry, private chefs, babysitters and tipping etc. There are also some outdoor markets and conch salad stands that only take cash. We do recommend you stop to them if you see one. You can get some really good suff.
• There is no public water system on the island so most houses collect rain water. The water is usually filtered from the tap and safe to drink but that all depends on the place you're staying at. That's a good question for your property manager.
• There is limited water on the island depending on the time of year and the rainfall. Please conserve water so you don't run out. The water can be refilled but that can be expensive.
• There is a drinking water depot on the island that you can pre-arrange a delivery for your stay. They offer several size jugs to choose from. The depot is called Celestial Water Depot.
• There is a clinic located in Hope Town if you have any minor issues.
• There is a doctor and hospital in Marsh Harbour for more serious issues.
• In the event of something major, the Hope Town Fire Department has trained EMT's and a fire and rescue boat to quickly get you to Marsh Harbour where they will have an ambulance arranged to meet you when you arrive there.
• If it's something life threatening they will usually get you on a private charter flight to the US or Nassau. You're insurance may cover this but it could be at your expense.
• The Fire Department team are very efficient and will be to you within a few minutes. We reccomend having their numbers on hand just in case. 1-242-801-9991 or 1-242-801-9992
The gate is locked for general traffic. The roads are so narrow so this is to cut down on vehicles in the town area.
• You will have to park and walk through town.
• If you're staying in town, North End or have a dissability, you may be able to get a temporary key from the council office inside the Library building in town by the Upper Public Dock.
• Some rental homes have a gate key for renters to use but that's a question for the person you rented from.
• Some golf cart companies do not allow their carts through town at all so check with them first.
• The small grocery and liquor stores are usually well stocked but limited. It may be a good idea to make a stop in Marsh Harbour to Maxwell's or Abaco Grocery. If you don't have time, you'll find pretty much everything you need on Elbow Cay. Prices will be higher but saves you time if you're in a hurry to get here.
• Another option is to pre-order provisions ahead of time and have them delivered and put away before you get to yoru house. We highly recommend this so you can get right to the relaxing. Here is a company we use all the time. Provisioning(https://formfacade.com/public/106085502182644697561/all/form/1FAIpQLSciNNtHX4SGErGb-F7NVGHOdFCFyb1sP8enPs3yIdqBxdtxSg)
Most often, we are asked what are our favorite things to do in Hope Town. The creator of the Hope Town Guide is a descendant of the original Loyalists and has done nearly every activity, dined in every restaurant, visited every attraction, and spent time at every corner of the island.
• We have created a full page on stuff to do! Click Here(https://www.hopetownguide.com/todo)
• Also check out the Calendar of Events to see what's going on while you're in town. Click Here(https://www.hopetownguide.com/calendar-of-events)
Packing for a trip to Hope Town is easy because the island is known for its laid-back, beach-focused lifestyle. Most visitors spend their time exploring beaches, boating around Elbow Cay, and enjoying casual restaurants, so lightweight and comfortable items are best.
Essential Items:
Start with the basics for travel to The Bahamas:
• A valid passport
• Credit card and some cash for small businesses
• Travel insurance information
• Prescription medications
Clothing for Hope Town:
Hope Town has a very relaxed dress code. Shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are acceptable almost everywhere.
Recommended clothing includes:
• Several lightweight shirts or t-shirts
• Shorts or casual summer clothing
• 2–3 swimsuits
• Flip-flops or sandals
• A casual outfit for dinner
• A light sweater or hoodie for breezy evenings
Beach and Sun Protection
The Bahamian sun can be strong year-round, so sun protection is essential.
Be sure to bring:
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Polarized sunglasses
• A wide-brim hat or cap
• Reusable water bottle
• Beach bag
Optional but Useful Items
These items can make your visit more comfortable, especially if you plan to spend time on the water:
• Snorkel gear
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Dry bag for boat trips
• Small backpack for beach days
Things Visitors Often Forget
A few small items can make a big difference during your stay in Hope Town:
• Bug spray (for mosquitoes and sand flies)
• Portable phone charger
• Ziplock bags for electronics
• Lightweight quick-dry towel
Packing Tip
Many visitors travel around Hope Town by golf cart or boat, so soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are easier to carry and store than large hard suitcases.
Frequently Asked Questions
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