What is the closest point between Florida and the Bahamas?

Bimini is the westernmost island of the Bahamas, situated about 80 km (53 mi) east of Miami, Florida, making it the closest point in the Bahamas to the US mainland.



The closest point between the state of Florida and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas is the island of Bimini, which lies just 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Miami. Because of this extreme proximity, Bimini is a favorite destination for South Florida boaters, who can cross the Gulf Stream in as little as two hours in a high-speed vessel or 45 minutes by plane. Bimini actually consists of two main islands—North and South Bimini—and is famous for its history as a Prohibition-era rum-running hub and as a favorite retreat for Ernest Hemingway. Its location makes it the gateway to the Bahamas for those traveling from the United States. Other nearby islands like Grand Bahama are slightly further away, at approximately 60 miles from the Florida coast, but Bimini remains the absolute closest neighbor to the American mainland.

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Ferry from Florida to Bahamas The Fort Lauderdale to Freeport ferry route is provided by 1 operator and runs all year round. The ferry crossing from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport takes approximately 3 hours on ferries servicing this route.

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Yes, as a United States citizen, you must present a valid passport book with at least two blank visa pages when flying in and out of the Bahamas. There are no exceptions to this rule. Passport cards, birth certificates, etc., are not accepted when air travel. So, you have to have your US passport for the Bahamas.

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Things every first-time tourist needs to know:
  • English is actually the official language of the Bahamas, so it'll be spoken everywhere you go.
  • There's no need to get your currency exchanged, US currency is accepted. ...
  • Tips are king. ...
  • Cars don't drive on the right side of the road, they drive on the left.


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If you are departing or returning to the U.S. by air from any international destination, a passport is required by all travelers regardless of age. Canadians must present a passport to visit The Bahamas, which must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of expected departure from that country.

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The Bahamas achieved independence from Britain July 10, 1973, and is now a fully self-governing member of the Commonwealth and a member of the United Nations, the Caribbean Community and the Organisation of American States.

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Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.

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Marco Island sits along the Gulf of Mexico and is the largest barrier island within Florida's Ten Thousand Islands area. A 2-hour drive west of Miami, it's surrounded by brilliant emerald waters and soft white sands, with more than 6 miles of beaches within just 24 square miles.

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