Princess Cays: A Bahamian Resort with Lots to Offer
As one of the top cruise destinations, the Island of Eleuthera, and in particular the private resort of Princess Cays can only be described as outstanding and spectacular. The half a mile of white sand beach strip that is Princess Cays is beautiful in many ways. It is located some 80 miles from the Bahamian capital Nassau. The resort is owned by Princess Cruises which uses it for its Caribbean-bound cruise trips, but as a Carnival Cruise Lines’ subsidiary Carnival ships visit the island as well. It is a preserved natural paradise that also has unique amenities. Its observation tower offers one of the best views you can have in the entire Bahamas.
Table of Contents
- Princess Cays: A Bahamian Resort with Lots to Offer
- Top 15 Things to Do in Princess Cays, Bahamas
- 1. Embrace the Sun and Sand on the Beach
- 2. Experience the Thrills of Dune Buggy Adventure
- 3. Go Under the Sea with the Stingray Encounter
- 4. Engage in Some of Your Favorite Water Sports
- 5. Try Your Luck at Surf Fishing
- 6. Discover the Secrets of the Sea on Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise
- 7. Explore the Caye Up Close on an Island Bike
- 8. Clear-Bottom Kayaking Lets You Fly Over the Surf
- 9. Get The Full Coastal Cruise Experience
- 10. Prepare for Adventure Aboard the Hobie Wave Sailboat
- 11. Take a Banana Boat Cruise to Ride the Waves of Fun
- 12. Enjoy Your Private Bungalow Retreat
- 13. Treat Yourself to an Island Picnic
- 14. Sip on an Exotic Cocktail (or Mocktail)
- 15. Browse the Bazaar
- How to Get to Princess Cays
Top 15 Things to Do in Princess Cays, Bahamas
There are more than 40 acres that provide immense opportunities for having fun. The beach and the clubhouses around are open to your barbeque ideas; you can combine this with a drink or two from the bars or just shop around in the well-stocked shops, but let’s look at the options in more detail.
1. Embrace the Sun and Sand on the Beach
A walk around the resort is great way of having fun. Enjoy the stunning views from both the observation house and from the walkways joining the resort’s facilities. Beach activities too are plentiful, you can choose from the traditional lazing in the sun to running around and enjoying a jog or playing volleyball in the resort’s awesome beaches.
Related: Great Stirrup Cay Excursions and Activities: The Charm of Berry Islands and the Bahamas
2. Experience the Thrills of Dune Buggy Adventure
After relaxing on the beach, ramp it up a bit with one of the more exciting things to do in Princess Cays. As part of several affordable Caribbean vacations, book a Dune Buggy Heritage Adventure tour. This gets you out of the way for a bit and allows you to check out some activities that most people do not experience. Explore the Lighthouse Beach, the Anglican Church of the Assumption ruins or the Bannerman town that is rumored to be haunted.
3. Go Under the Sea with the Stingray Encounter
The Stingray Beach Encounter is far and away one of the most boast-worthy things to do in Princess Cays. If you’ve never touched a stingray before, you’ll be astonished at how smooth and silky their skin is—and it’s a great photo opportunity!
Almost as soon as you step into the water, the stingrays will surround you in search of food. Learn about their survival techniques and other habits as you feed and stroke these extraordinary creatures. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about other Bahamian marine life, including conch and sea stars.
The beauty of the Caribbean is breathtaking all on its own, but don’t miss the chance to experience it alongside some of the fascinating creatures who call it home. You’ll be glad you did!
Related: Half Moon Cay Excursions and Activities: A Naturalists Paradise
4. Engage in Some of Your Favorite Water Sports
If the word sports strikes fear in your vacationer’s heart, don’t worry. There are plenty of low-key things to do in Princess Cays. Select a water noodle, aqua chair, or float and just bob along on the surf. There are also oceanviewing sea boards that allow you to catch a glimpse of the world beneath the waves.
To get the blood moving, climb aboard an ocean kayak or strap on some snorkel gear. Couples might want to try a paddle wheeler – like riding a bike, but on the ocean. For something more unusual, consider an aqua bike or a stand-up paddleboard rental.
Find out why Princess Cays reigns supreme among cruise line private resorts by checking out the vast lineup of water toys available for rental.
5. Try Your Luck at Surf Fishing
As Princess Cays is located on the southern tip of Eleuthera, it’s the ideal spot to cast a line. Even amateur anglers are sure to enjoy fishing in this unique environment.
Surrounded by gorgeous mangrove forests, sapphire-blue seas, and crystalline sand, you’ll use a spinning reel to catch native species including tuna, bonefish, tarpon, and grouper. Don’t worry about depleting the fish population—this is a catch-and-release activity, designed only to hone your skills and promote enjoyment.
Be sure to snap plenty of photos of you with your catch! You’ll want to show off your prowess to the folks back home.
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6. Discover the Secrets of the Sea on Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise
If you prefer a more toned down and scenic water activity, consider the Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise. You will be able to explore the marine wildlife without ever leaving the boat or getting wet because you simply observe them through the bottom of the boat.
7. Explore the Caye Up Close on an Island Bike
Anyone can take in the unforgettable scenery, but why not get further acquainted with this special place by taking an island bike ride? Of all the things to do in Princess Cays, this one allows you to experience island life the way a local would.
Stop by the town’s most popular destinations, accompanied by warm tropical breezes along the way. Highlights include the Straw Market, Salt Pond, and the Princess Cays Wishing Well. In between, you’ll enjoy sights of rolling hills, pink sand beaches, and, of course, the glorious Caribbean.
Those of you who are in good physical condition should be sure to make the island bike ride a part of your itinerary.
Related: 10 Fun Things to Do in Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
8. Clear-Bottom Kayaking Lets You Fly Over the Surf
Even if you’ve kayaked before, there’s no substitute for the clear-bottomed type. You’ll feel as if you’re truly a part of the ocean yourself, surrounded by the flora and fauna of this exotic environment.
As you paddle through the lagoon, expect to be joined by crawfish, jellyfish, sea urchins, conch, and other tropical fish. In a clear-bottom kayak, you can observe and be entertained by all of these creatures without ever getting wet! Don’t forget to look up once or twice – the mangroves are home to numerous bird species as well.
When you’ve taken a ride in a clear-bottom kayak, you’re ensuring that you’ll never forget your trip to Princess Cays.
9. Get The Full Coastal Cruise Experience
There are so many great things to do in Princess Cays that you might forget to explore the rest of the area. Taking a coastal cruise will eliminate that risk.
The island of Eleuthera is stunning from any vantage point, but this one is unique. From the water, you can take in every bit of the rich foliage, the slope of the hills, and the beauty of the shoreline. This “birthplace of the Bahamas” has to be seen from the sea in order to be truly appreciated—don’t miss it.
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10. Prepare for Adventure Aboard the Hobie Wave Sailboat
Ready for something a little more exhilarating? The Hobie Wave sailboat is ready to welcome you aboard. Of all the things to do in Princess Cays, this is one of the most pulse-pounding activities you’ll find.
Experienced sailors will relish the feel of the wind in their hair and the salt on their faces as they soar atop the waves. The Hobie Wave is fairly easy to maneuver, but be forewarned that it goes at quite a clip, even when the breeze feels gentle. Stop by the rental hut so you can find out for yourself.
Related: 10 Things to Do in Harvest Caye, Belize
11. Take a Banana Boat Cruise to Ride the Waves of Fun
If you’d like to mimic the feel of a whitewater rafting ride on the calmer Caribbean waters, head out on a Banana Boat Cruise and get your adrenalin going. Though this inflatable craft moves at top speeds, the ride affords you glorious views of Eleuthera Island and you can fly along the coast with a few of your adventure-loving friends.
Related: 10 Captivating Things to Do in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic
12. Enjoy Your Private Bungalow Retreat
Rent an Adults Sanctuary Bungalow to enjoy the air conditioning and escape from others on the beach. The bungalows have full amenities so that you can receive your favorite island cocktails from a dedicated waiter who will serve your bungalow as needed.
13. Treat Yourself to an Island Picnic
Everyone has to eat, making a picnic lunch one of the near-mandatory things to do in Princess Cays.
Visit the Grill Crazy BBQ Grill for some finger-licking fare after a morning spent exploring Princess Cays. For a quieter venue, look for Sea Breeze Grill on the south side. This is another buffet restaurant with sheltered outdoor seating, located over the bridge.
At both places, you’ll be treated to island favorites like jerk chicken and rice and beans. Landlubber fare such as hot dogs and cheeseburgers are also available. Don’t forget to stop by the fresh fruit stand for a sweet treat to complement your meal.
14. Sip on an Exotic Cocktail (or Mocktail)
While we doubt that you’ll run out of things to do in Princess Cays, be sure to take some time to kick back and unwind. No visit to the Bahamas would be complete without a stop at an outdoor bar.
Wet your whistles at Bahia Bar on North Beach, or stop by Coconut Bar, which is closer to Grill Crazy BBQ. In the South Beach area, you’ll find the Reef Runner Bar, where you can slake your thirst after a day in paradise. If you’re hanging around in the middle section of the resort, look to the Banana Beach Bar for refreshment.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
15. Browse the Bazaar
If shopping is your vibe, you won’t run out of things to do in Princess Cays. Look for natural handmade soaps, leather products, and artwork while you’re visiting. Honeymooners should consider buying a china dinnerware set so that they’ll always remember this trip during special occasions. Even if you aren’t a big shopper, take the time to drop by and pick up a souvenir or two.
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How to Get to Princess Cays
Princess Cruises has lining up several trips offering itineraries to the Caribbean islands or Bahamas and particularly Princess Cays. The cruise line has many 4, 5 and 9-day voyages that give passengers the joy of delighting in the Bahamian splendor. Carnival Cruise Line’s ships have even more busy schedules to the island. Guests can pick from the 4, 7 and 14-day cruise trips that include time in Princess Cays. You have the awesome opportunity of being part of this; just check the widget below and book your cruise now!