Your gateway to the closest Bahamas paradise — just 2 hours from Florida!
Population
2,000 locals
Best For
Families & Fishing
Currency
USD accepted
Language
English
Look, I've taken my family to Bimini over 20 times, and there's a reason we keep going back. It's the PERFECT starter island for families — close enough that nobody gets cranky, cheap enough that you don't feel guilty, and fun enough that everyone's happy. Here's why Bimini rocks:
"Bimini is where my kids learned to love the ocean. It's small enough that they can't get lost, the locals are incredibly friendly, and Radio Beach is so calm that even my 11-year-old can snorkel safely. Plus, being just 2 hours away means we can do long weekends without the airport hassle!"
After 20+ trips, I've got the Fort Lauderdale to Bimini ferry down to a science. Here's everything you need to know:
Operated by Balearia Caribbean
| Season | Days | Departure | Arrival | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Round | Wed, Fri, Sun | 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM | From $99 |
| Summer | Daily! | 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM | From $119 |
| Return Ferry: Departs Bimini at 6:00 PM (8:00 PM in summer) | ||||
Book round-trip and save 10%! Also, Wednesday departures are always $20-30 cheaper than Friday. We've saved hundreds by being flexible with our dates. Kids under 2 ride free but still need a ticket!
Check real-time availability and grab your tickets!
Search Ferry TimesWe've tried every beach on both North and South Bimini. Here are the winners:
This is THE family beach. Crystal clear water, zero waves, and shallow enough that Sophia (11) can walk out 100 yards. Free to access and never crowded!
The fancy option. Day passes are $75/adult but include beach chairs, umbrellas, and access to the pools. Worth it for a splurge day!
The Atlantic side beach with actual waves! Great for boogie boarding but watch the kids closely. Best at low tide.
Bring from home: Reef-safe sunscreen (limited selection on island), snorkel gear (rentals are $40/day), and a cooler with drinks. There's a small grocery store near the ferry dock where you can grab ice and snacks!
Beyond the beaches, Bimini packs a lot into its tiny 7-mile frame. Here's what we never miss:
The hammerhead experience is INSANE! Safe for kids 10+ and worth every penny of the $190.
Local artist built this from recycled materials. Kids love the treasure hunt aspect. $10 entry.
Bonefish capital of the world! Half-day charters from $400. Tyler's caught 20+ bones here.
Rent for $80/day and see the whole island. Kids LOVE driving around (slowly!).
Mysterious underwater "road" - snorkel or dive. Some say it's Atlantis (it's not, but fun!).
Summer boat trips to swim with wild dolphins. Magical but pricey at $200/person.
Ernest Hemingway spent summers here from 1935-1937, and you can still feel his presence. Check out:
We've stayed everywhere from budget motels to the big resort. Here's the honest breakdown:
"We've done both the resort and the local hotels. Honestly? The kids have just as much fun at the cheaper places because Bimini is all about the ocean and outdoor adventures. Save your money for activities and food!"
Bimini's food scene is small but mighty. After 20+ trips, these are our go-to spots:
RIGHT off the ferry dock! Conch fritters are legendary, and they make a mean fish sandwich. Kids love the conch salad (it's like ceviche). Cash only, about $15/person.
Hit up Butler & Sands grocery store near the dock for breakfast stuff and snacks. A box of cereal and milk saves you $60 vs hotel breakfast for a family of 5!
Many places are cash-only. There's ONE ATM on the island and it charges $5. Bring at least $200 cash.
The no-see-ums at sunset are BRUTAL. Bring DEET spray or you'll be miserable. Trust me on this.
Taxi from ferry to Radio Beach: $5/person. Golf cart rental: $80/day. Walking in the heat with kids: Priceless misery.
You're technically international! Turn on airplane mode or get hit with roaming charges. WiFi at most hotels works... sometimes.
Everything costs 2x mainland prices. That sunscreen you forgot? $25. Pack everything you might need!
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Hit the beach early, nap through the rain, beach again at 3 PM!
After 20+ trips spread across all seasons, here's my take:
"Bimini isn't fancy. It's not Instagram-perfect like some Caribbean islands. But that's exactly why we love it. It's real, it's affordable, and it's absolutely perfect for families. My kids have grown up on Radio Beach. They've caught their first fish here, learned to snorkel here, and made friends with local kids here.
When people ask me about our favorite vacation spot, they expect me to say Hawaii or Europe. Nope. It's tiny little Bimini, just 2 hours away. Sometimes the best adventures are the closest ones."
Start with a weekend trip — I promise you'll be planning your next one on the ferry ride home!
Check Ferry Availability