Freeport

Freeport is the main town on Grand Bahama Island, with clear water and long stretches of sand. Lucayan National Park has an underwater cave system and Gold Rock Beach, which is quieter than the resort beaches closer to town. The Garden of the Groves, a 12-acre botanical garden, has walking paths through native plants and a small chapel. Port Lucaya Marketplace is the main shopping and dining area, with straw vendors and waterfront restaurants. Conch salad, chopped and seasoned right in front of you, is the local specialty. Grilled lobster and cracked conch are on most menus. Straw bags and Androsian batik fabric make good souvenirs. The Bahamian dollar trades at par with the US dollar, and American money is accepted everywhere. Shared vans are the cheapest way to get around, and taxis are easy to find. Sundays are quiet for shopping, so plan market visits for weekday mornings.