This Stunning Island in the Bahamas Features Exclusive Hotels, Fresh Seafood, and the Highest Number of Blue Holes in the World

As the largest of the 30 inhabited Bahamian islands, Andros boasts 100 miles of pristine coastline, rich wildlife, and a complex underwater ecosystem located near the third-largest barrier reef globally. Despite its vastness, the island, which includes North Andros, Mangrove Cay, and South Andros, offers plenty of untouched areas without cruise ships or all-inclusives. Visitors can enjoy secluded beaches and flats, establishing the island as the bonefishing capital of the world.

Serving as the entrance to a deepwater basin known as the Tongue of the Ocean, diving in the expansive Andros Barrier Reef is among the top activities to enjoy in the Bahamas, alongside discovering the largest concentration of blue sinkholes in the area (and globally).

The vibrant capital of the island, North Andros, is home to a Seminole Indian community renowned for their woodworking and the hand-dyeing of Androsia fabric. Central Andros features historical landmarks such as the century-old St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the dive-friendly Blue Holes National Park.

Accommodations cater to all types of travelers, from private island retreats to celebrated fishing lodges. In fact, the hotels on Andros are just as appealing as the island itself: Both Kamalame Cay and Caerula Mar Club made it onto Dinogo's list of top Caribbean resorts in 2023.

If you plan your trip well, you can partake in annual events like June's All Andros Crab Festival and May’s Red Bays Snapper Tournament, where the local Seminole Indians compete in basket-weaving and fishing contests. “Andros is a truly remarkable destination. It’s a secluded spot on the western side of the Bahamas, perfect for enjoying fantastic fishing and delicious food,” shares Cheryl Bastian, owner of Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay. “The Androsians are warm and welcoming, eager for you to have a great stay.”

Here’s how to make the most of your time on Andros, including tips on where to stay, activities to try, and the optimal times to visit.

Top Hotels and Resorts 

Caerula Mar Club 

Nestled on the pristine shores of South Andros, the beachfront Caerula Mar Club boasts 18 warmly decorated rooms and four villas, catering to a small community of around 2,000 residents. Guests can enjoy two casual dining options on-site — Driff’s Beach Bar and Switcha — alongside Lusca, a fine dining venue inspired by Caribbean cuisine. This passion project was brought to life by HGTV's Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, who refer to the hotel as embodying “barefoot luxury.”

Kamalame Cay 

This 96-acre private island retreat features 22 accommodations, including a blend of cottages, bungalows, and Balinese-style beach houses. Guests are provided with golf carts for exploring the island and can enjoy various water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. Additionally, the property is prized for its excellent location near the Andros Barrier Reef. 

Small Hope Bay Lodge 

Situated in Central Andros, Small Hope Bay Lodge offers stunning views of the Andros Barrier Reef and exceptional diving experiences, including shark dives and night excursions. The 21 all-inclusive rooms are located directly on the beach, just 15 minutes away from wall dives and deep drop-offs. The lodge is also conveniently located six miles from the famous Cousteau and Captain Bill’s Blue Holes. 

Swain's Cay Lodge

Owned by Bahamians, Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay is a popular destination for bonefishing and water sports enthusiasts. Owner Cheryl Bastian is eager to arrange excursions, including picnic lunches and wildlife watching. For dining, the on-site Reefside Restaurant & Bar provides delightful beachside meals.

Tiamo Resort 

Accessible solely by seaplane or boat, this exclusive 14-room retreat on South Andros boasts luxurious accommodations and French-inspired cuisine. Raise a red flag, and a butler will arrive at your thatched-roof villa just steps from the beach. Set amid 125 acres of nature reserve, this eco-friendly resort offers activities like reef fishing, diving, and wakeboarding.

Top Activities

Experience exceptional scuba diving.

The Andros Barrier Reef, the third-longest in the world, is alive with colorful marine life, easily observable on dive trips extending over 130 miles. With numerous blue holes and caverns, exploring the abundant reef system and stunning underwater landscapes is a breeze. 

Engage in deep-sea and fly fishing. 

Regarded as the bonefish capital of the globe, Andros features a variety of natural flats, especially on the island's northern and western coasts. Whether you’re catching and releasing bonefish or targeting larger species like yellowfin tuna and barracuda, the experience is exhilarating. “Our fishing scene is robust, and passionate anglers return year after year for the thrill of catching bonefish, tarpon, and the elusive permit,” shares Bastian. 

Discover national parks.

Andros is home to five protected national parks, including the expansive West Side National Park, which covers over 1.5 million acres filled with dense mangroves and serves as a vital nursery habitat for the bonefishing ecosystem. Additionally, Blue Holes National Park spans 40,000 acres, featuring freshwater reservoirs and stunning blue holes. 

Explore the blue holes.

There are over 180 of these natural wonders on the island, with popular locations including Stargate Blue Hole, El Dorado, and Benjamin’s Blue Hole. Many hotels and diving centers also provide tours to these underwater marvels. 

Top Restaurants 

Shine’s Conch Shack

Owned by Ornald "Shine" Greene, a knowledgeable bonefishing guide, this beloved seaside shack is known for its inviting atmosphere. At times, you'll see fishermen bringing in their fresh catch directly to the restaurant. Be sure to try the conch or ceviche, perfectly paired with a chilled Kalik beer.

Brigadier's Restaurant  

This picturesque restaurant features over-water seating on a pier at Dream Villas in Central Andros. The menu offers a delightful mix of Bahamian and American dishes, including cracked conch and chicken fettuccine. Relish the calming sound of waves in this laid-back, outdoor setting known for its fresh seafood.

Millie’s Takeaway

To savor authentic South Androsian cuisine, visit Millie’s restaurant. Here, guests can indulge in conch burgers, Johnny cakes, and other Bahamian specialties. You can grab your meal to go and enjoy it on a nearby beach.

Best Time to Visit 

The ideal time to visit Andros for pleasant weather is from mid-December to April. However, this period coincides with high season, leading to larger crowds and increased prices. The summer months of June and July host major festivals, including the All Andros & Berry Islands Regatta and the All Andros Crab Fest.

How to Get There 

Airlines like Aztec Airways, Makers Air, Titan Air, and LeAir Charter provide weekly flights directly to Andros Town Airport (ASD) from Nassau, Bahamas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. For San Andros Airport (SAQ) in North Andros, book a flight with Western Air from Nassau or Aztec Airways from the U.S. LeAir services South Andros Airport (TZN).

How to Get Around

Rental cars and vans can be rented starting at $85 per day for cars and $120 for vans. Keep in mind that some rental companies may ask for a deposit. Andros lacks buses or public transport options, but taxis are easily accessible at each airport upon arrival.