Port Lucaya Lighthouse
A vibrant marketplace and harbor area offering shopping, dining, and scenic lighthouse views, with nearby resorts providing beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Port Lucaya Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant marketplace and harbor area offering shopping, dining, and scenic lighthouse views, with nearby resorts providing beach access.
"While some praise the resort's beauty and staff, others warn of severe issues like mold and broken AC."
💰 Day Trip Savings
Fast ferries offer day trip options to the Bahamas, often with resort all-inclusive upgrades available.
⚠️ Resort Room Check
Thoroughly inspect your room for mold or water damage upon arrival; some guests reported significant issues.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Port Lucaya Marketplace
Freeport, Grand Bahama Island
A vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a taste of local Bahamian culture and crafts.
Lighthouse Views
Harbor area
Iconic lighthouse offering picturesque harbor and ocean vistas, a popular spot for photos and a symbol of the area.
Resort Beachfront
Adjacent to Wyndham Fortuna Resort
Enjoy the beautiful Bahamian beaches with clear blue waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Day Trip Potential
Resort Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Day Trip Savings
Fast ferries offer day trip options to the Bahamas, often with resort all-inclusive upgrades available.
⚠️ Resort Room Check
Thoroughly inspect your room for mold or water damage upon arrival; some guests reported significant issues.
🔒 Secure Valuables
Be cautious with personal belongings; one guest reported a security box being tampered with.
🍽️ Dining Variety
While some dining is limited, try the Wave salad or ask for an Angus hamburger at the beach bar.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Day Trip Savings
Fast ferries offer day trip options to the Bahamas, often with resort all-inclusive upgrades available.
⚠️ Resort Room Check
Thoroughly inspect your room for mold or water damage upon arrival; some guests reported significant issues.
🔒 Secure Valuables
Be cautious with personal belongings; one guest reported a security box being tampered with.
🍽️ Dining Variety
While some dining is limited, try the Wave salad or ask for an Angus hamburger at the beach bar.
🌊 Ocean Swimming
If pools are an issue, the ocean offers a beautiful alternative for swimming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for accommodations near Port Lucaya are highly polarized. While some guests praise the beautiful beaches, friendly staff, and enjoyable amenities, a significant number report severe issues such as persistent mold, plumbing failures, and non-functional air conditioning, leading to discomfort and health concerns.
"The hotel is amazing. Food, services, clean room, staff willing to help, beautiful beach and swimming pool. The lunch is a fast food at the beach bar. But I recommend the Wave salad. It is delicious. Not meet, but you can ask for the Angus hamburger, so you get the meet inside. I had a great time on my week vacation. Just be careful with your stuff. As soon as I entered my room, I put my passport inside the security box, I entered my code and I close it. When I got out to take my first meal, I saw a guy coming but when he saw me, he turned around going back to the place he was coming from. He had a hat. He was suspicious for me. When I came back, maybe 20min after, the security box was opened. My passport was there, but I don’t know what went on in there. I closed again. I lost my pants belt. I didn’t claimed, because I wasn’t sure if I left it in the other room they put me in first. But if someone found it, they should know it was mine. Never heard about and I didn’t bother to ask. It wasn’t a big value anyway. About the security box, I still was doubting. But, just be careful. Keep your passport with you all the time."
Lary Torres
"Beware of booking this hotel. I reserved three nights but could only stay one due to the terrible conditions.
Upon arrival, I immediately noticed a strong mold smell in the room, the carpet was wet, and there was a dehumidifier running — a clear red flag. Within 10 minutes, I went to the front desk to report the issue. They moved me to another room, but it was just as bad, with the same mold smell.
By the next morning, I woke up with a sore throat. On top of that, the plumbing didn’t work properly and we had to wait for a plumber, meaning we were exposed to mold and sewage odors.
Locals even mentioned that the building is supposed to be condemned because it’s unhealthy, yet the hotel is still taking bookings. I was told the manager, Mrs. Cartwright, would contact me about these problems, but I never received a call — and it’s now been over 1 week. I also emailed them requesting a refund, but no one ever responded.
This place should not even be open. For your health and safety — do not stay here."
sacha fierce
"Worst resort I’ve ever been too. All-inclusive was a lie. The 4 star rating is a lie. Terrible service, food and alcohol. Resort was empty for a reason. Please read the negative reviews on Trip Advisor before spending your hard earned money going here. The views and weather were the only good thing."
LISA ZABLOTNY
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fast ferry services like Balearia Caribbean offer day trips from Florida to Grand Bahama Island, making it accessible for a short visit.
Port Lucaya Marketplace is walkable, and taxis or resort shuttles are available for transport to nearby attractions and resorts.
Yes, cruise lines often include stops at Grand Bahama Island, with excursions available to Port Lucaya and nearby resorts.
Taxis are readily available from Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) to Port Lucaya and resorts. Negotiate fares beforehand.
Some resorts offer shuttle services to the marketplace and other points of interest. Inquire with your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Port Lucaya Marketplace is generally free. Costs are associated with shopping, dining, and any specific activities or tours.
Hours can vary, but the marketplace is typically open daily, with shops and restaurants extending into the evening. It's best to check current hours closer to your visit.
The lighthouse itself is a landmark, and access to its immediate vicinity is usually free. There are no specific tickets required to view it from the outside.
All-inclusive day passes at resorts like Wyndham Fortuna typically include access to facilities, food, and drinks for the duration of the day. Prices can vary.
Yes, booking excursions, including resort day passes, in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Port Lucaya offers shopping for local crafts and souvenirs, diverse dining options, live music, and opportunities for boat tours and water sports.
Yes, families can enjoy the marketplace atmosphere, beach access, and resort amenities. Some resorts offer kid-friendly activities.
The beaches are known for their clear blue waters and soft sand, offering a relaxing environment for sunbathing and swimming.
The lighthouse, harbor views, and the vibrant marketplace provide excellent backdrops for photography.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. Beachwear is suitable for the resort areas and beaches.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a mix of Bahamian cuisine, seafood, and international options at the various restaurants and bars in the marketplace and resorts.
While some restaurants can be pricey, casual eateries and beach bars often offer more affordable choices. Look for local spots.
The Wave salad is recommended, and you can also request an Angus hamburger.
Reviews are mixed; some find the all-inclusive food limited or not up to par, while others enjoy specific dishes.
Options may vary by restaurant. It's advisable to check menus in advance or ask staff about vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The Port Lucaya Lighthouse, the harbor with docked boats, and the colorful marketplace stalls offer great photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The lighthouse is a picturesque landmark, especially during sunrise or sunset, offering a classic Bahamian scene.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in the Bahamas. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Experiment with shots from the harbor looking towards the lighthouse, or capture the bustling activity within the marketplace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing accommodation or a day pass, look for resorts that explicitly mention family-friendly amenities or activities. While the marketplace itself is engaging, ensuring access to safe and fun beach or pool areas will be key to a successful family outing. Be mindful of the mixed reviews regarding resort conditions, and perhaps prioritize resorts known for better upkeep if staying overnight.
💰 Budget Travelers
If considering a resort day pass, compare prices carefully and ensure it aligns with your budget and what you hope to experience. Sometimes, simply enjoying the public beach areas and the free-to-enter marketplace can provide a fulfilling Bahamian experience without significant expense.
couples
For a more intimate experience, consider exploring quieter sections of the beach or enjoying sunset views from a waterfront restaurant. While some reviews highlight potential issues with resorts, focusing on the natural beauty of the beaches and the vibrant atmosphere of the marketplace can still lead to a memorable trip for couples.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Resort Stays
Several reviews strongly advise caution, with some guests even suggesting the building might be unhealthy or should be condemned. The lack of response from management regarding complaints and refund requests is also a recurring concern. If you choose to stay, be prepared to be vigilant about room conditions and to potentially seek alternative accommodations if issues arise.
For those seeking a day trip experience, all-inclusive day passes can offer a more controlled way to enjoy the resort's facilities without the commitment of an overnight stay. However, it's still wise to be aware of the potential for issues, even for a single day.
The Charm of the Lighthouse
While specific details about its history or public access for climbing might be limited, its presence adds character to the waterfront. It serves as a visual anchor for the area, often appearing in photos alongside the boats and the bustling marketplace.
For photographers and those who appreciate coastal scenery, the lighthouse provides a charming subject. Its proximity to the harbor and potential for scenic shots makes it a worthwhile point of interest during a visit to Port Lucaya.
Day Trip Adventures
Many day-trippers opt for all-inclusive day passes at local resorts. These passes typically grant access to the resort's amenities, including pools, beaches, and dining facilities, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy the island's offerings.
When planning a day trip, consider booking these passes in advance, especially during busier periods. This ensures availability and allows you to maximize your time on the island, enjoying the sun, sea, and local atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit