Fortune Beach

A beach for solitude seekers

Fortune Beach occupies a sweet spot on Grand Bahama: close enough to Port Lucaya for a short taxi ride, yet far enough to avoid the cruise-day crowds. Unlike Taino Beach with its resort facilities and water sports vendors, Fortune Beach offers nothing but sand, sea, and sky — exactly what some visitors crave.

The beach stretches for roughly a mile, backed by casuarina pines and sea grape. On a typical day, you may share the sand with only a handful of other visitors, mostly locals and expats who know to come here for peace and quiet.

Swimming and snorkelling

The water at Fortune Beach is unusually shallow for a considerable distance, allowing visitors to wade far into the turquoise sea without needing to swim. The gentle slope and calm conditions make it safe for children and non-swimmers, while the lack of motorised water sports keeps the water tranquil.

Snorkelling is possible along the edges where seagrass beds and scattered coral attract small fish and rays. The experience is more about gentle exploration than dramatic reef encounters, but the clarity of the water rewards patient snorkelers.

Banana Bay and practical tips

Banana Bay restaurant sits at the eastern end of Fortune Beach, serving fresh conch salad, grilled seafood, steaks, and cold Bahamian beer. The open-air setting overlooks the water and provides a welcome option for lunch or sunset drinks. It is the only commercial establishment on the beach.

There are no public facilities, rentals, or lifeguards at Fortune Beach. Bring your own towels, sunscreen, and drinking water. The best access is by taxi or rental car; the beach is roughly five miles east of Port Lucaya Marketplace.

Getting there

Fortune Beach is located approximately five miles east of Port Lucaya Marketplace along the coastal road. Taxis from Port Lucaya or the cruise terminal can drop you at the beach access point. There is limited roadside parking for rental cars. No public transport serves the beach directly.

Frequently asked questions

Is Fortune Beach good for families?

Yes. The shallow, calm water and lack of motorised water sports make Fortune Beach safe for children. However, there are no lifeguards or facilities — bring your own supplies and supervise children closely.

Are there vendors at Fortune Beach?

No. Fortune Beach is undeveloped, with no vendors, rentals, or beach services. The only nearby dining is Banana Bay restaurant at the eastern end of the beach.

Why is it called Fortune Beach?

The name's origin is not definitively documented, but the beach has long been considered a fortunate discovery by those seeking a quiet alternative to Grand Bahama's busier strands.