Bimini, Bahamas is a tropical paradise that cruisers are finding better with each visit. From diving and snorkeling, to beach hopping and fishing, this “newish” cruise port has more to offer than most realize.
This Bimini, Bahamas cruise port guide will tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful place so you can make the most of your time in Bimini.
What’s in this article:
- Where Exactly Is Bimini?
- How Big is Bimini?
- A Little History
- The Island Chain is New to Cruise Ships
- What Makes This Island a Rare Gem in the Bahamas?
- Getting Around
- 12 Best Things to Do in Bimini Bahamas
- FAQ on Beautiful Bimini
- Conclusion
Where Exactly Is Bimini?
The small island chain is about 50-54 miles directly east of Miami, Florida. It’s the westernmost district of the Bahamas. Mainland United States is actually closer to Bimini than the capital city, Nassau, which is over 130 miles to the southeast.
How Big is Bimini?
Bimini is only about 9 square miles in totality. Two main islands make up most of the island chain: North Bimini and South Bimini. North Bimini is 7 miles long and only about 750 feet wide. South Bimini is about 3 miles long and about half a mile wide.
The water around the islands is very shallow at 20-30 feet in most places, while just to the west the deep waters of the Gulf Stream bring in a rich variety of marine life.
A Little History
Known by locals as “The Gateway to the Bahamas,” Bimini was first settled by indigenous Lucayan people. The name “Bimini” means “small islands” in the Lucayan language.
The island gained worldwide fame thanks to author Ernest Hemingway, who drew inspiration for novels like Old Man and the Sea and Islands in the Stream during his time here. Bimini is still known today as the Big Game Fishing Capital of the World.
The Island Chain is New to Cruise Ships
Bimini welcomed its first cruise ship on July 4th, 2021, at the newly built Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port on North Bimini. So, it’s still a fairly new cruise port stop.
The port can handle large vessels, including Oasis-class ships, but only one cruise ship can dock at a time.
What Makes This Island a Rare Gem in the Bahamas?
With only about 2,000 full-time residents, Bimini still feels like a quiet, authentic Bahamian island. You won’t find heavy commercialization here. The beaches are beautiful and uncrowded, and the streets are filled with more golf carts and bicycles than cars.
Getting Around
There are no bridges between North and South Bimini, so small ferries run between the two islands. Renting a golf cart is the most popular way to explore. It usually costs around $60 for the full day.
Drive on the left side of the road. Queen’s Highway is the main road on North Bimini. Most cruise ships offer excursions to Resorts World Bimini. A free tram runs from the pier, stopping at Fisherman’s Village, the resort, and beach areas.
12 Best Things to Do in Bimini Bahamas
1. Explore Fisherman’s Village
One of the newest and most convenient additions near the cruise port is Fisherman’s Village. This open-air marketplace features local shops, Amici’s Pizzeria & Gelateria, and The Healing Hole which is a rum bar with live music and Bahamian food. It’s an easy first stop right after disembarking.
2. Visit The Beach Club at Bimini
Virgin Voyages passengers enjoy free access to The Beach Club, which includes two pools, live music, cabanas, and a buffet lunch. Passengers from other cruise lines can purchase day passes (food and drinks extra). The free tram drops you right there.
3. See the Mysterious Bimini Wall (Bimini Road)
Dive or snorkel to this underwater rock formation that has sparked legends of the lost city of Atlantis. The limestone slabs sit about 18 feet underwater and stretch for roughly half a mile.
4. Relax on the Best Beaches of Bimini
Bimini offers beautiful, uncrowded beaches. Popular spots include:
- Radio Beach – Most popular with amenities and food vendors
- Tiki Hut Beach – Long, secluded beach on South Bimini
- Spook Hill – Calm shallow waters and soft sand
- Blister Beach (Bimini Bay Beach) – Excellent for snorkeling
- Resorts World Bimini Beach – Resort-style beach area
5. Go on a Shark Dive with Bimini Bull Run
Get up close and personal with Caribbean bull sharks in crystal-clear water. It’s not for everyone but hey, it’s a cruise. Why not try something thrilling.
6. Snorkel or Dive the S.S. Sapona Wreck
This historic concrete shipwreck from 1926 sits in just 15 feet of water, making it perfect for both snorkelers and divers. The wreck is surrounded by colorful marine life.
7. Dive Rainbow Reef and Tuna Alley
These two world-class dive sites near North Cat Cay offer vibrant coral, abundant fish, and dramatic underwater walls.
8. Explore Victory Reef
A beautiful reef great for drift diving, home to turtles, lobsters, nurse sharks, and plenty of colorful fish.
9. Tour the Dolphin House Museum
This unique museum, built almost entirely from recycled materials by local artist Ashley Saunders, is full of beautiful mosaics and eclectic art. Admission is around $10.
10. Visit the Legendary Fountain of Youth
See the ancient limestone well that locals claim is the Fountain of Youth sought by explorer Juan Ponce de León.
11. Visit Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
A historic resort since 1947, this is a favorite spot for serious fishermen, but also offers dining, a pool, and dive excursions.
12. Go Deep Sea Fishing or Take a Boat Charter
Bimini is famous for world-class sport fishing. Charter a boat for half-day or full-day trips for fishing, snorkeling, or island hopping.
FAQ on Beautiful Bimini
What are the most popular activities on Bimini?
The most popular activities include beach time at The Beach Club or Radio Beach, shark dives, snorkeling the Sapona wreck or Bimini Road, visiting Dolphin House Museum, and sport fishing.
What cruise ships can dock at the Bimini Pier?
The port can handle large ships, including Oasis-class vessels. Popular lines that visit include Virgin Voyages, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, and MSC. Only one ship can dock at a time.
When is the best time of year to visit Bimini?
Bimini is great year-round. December–April is drier and slightly cooler, while May–October offers warmer water ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Is Bimini a private island for Virgin Voyages?
No, but Virgin has an exclusive partnership giving their passengers free access to The Beach Club with pools, lunch, and amenities.
Do you need a passport to visit Bimini?
Yes, a valid passport is required for all travelers.
Note: This article was updated in April 2026.
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