Know before you go

Yes. Visitors need a valid passport with at least six months of validity (passport cards are not accepted) and a return or onward ticket. Requirements can change, so check the Bahamas Immigration Department before you travel.

US dollars are accepted everywhere and are equal in value to the Bahamian dollar.

Most places take major cards, though small businesses may prefer cash and some add a fee. AMEX and Discover are less common.

Yes. Royal Bank of Canada is the island's only bank and has an ATM, directly behind Valentines Resort. Bring some cash as a backup. See Island Services.

The same as in the US.

US plans may roam at high rates. Ask your carrier before you go, or use Wi-Fi.

Yes, two clinics. The Harbour Island Community Clinic is the government clinic (242-333-2227). Briland Premier Medical Center, run by Dr. Justin Albury, is a private family clinic that costs more but is a fuller clinic (242-699-5451). A serious emergency means a medical evacuation off the island to Eleuthera and beyond. The clinics can help coordinate it, but it is a big undertaking, so travel insurance is smart. See Island Services.

Harbour Island Markets is a higher-end grocery with good options for special diets. Piggly Wiggly is the standard grocery for pantry staples, and Parkview is a convenience store that stays open late. See Island Services.

Yes, but you need an import permit in hand before you travel. Dogs also need an international veterinary health certificate issued shortly before arrival. Read the government's pet import rules and the BAHFSA requirements for cats and dogs, then apply for the permit through the government. If you would rather not do it yourself, an independent service such as Bahamas Pet Permit will handle the application for a fee. There is no full veterinary clinic on the island, so plan for your pet's medical needs before you arrive.

Light layers, sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), a hat, a swimsuit, bug spray and some cash. See Weather & When to Go for more, and what to wear to dinner.

Yes. See Island Services.

The town water is not technically safe to drink. Many private homes have their own reverse osmosis systems, as does Valentines Resort & Marina, so always ask where you are staying whether the tap water is safe. If you need bottled water, you can buy it at any of the grocery stores, and Valentines Provisions sells water bottles too.

Drones are allowed, but they are regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas. All drones must be registered, drones over 249 grams need a UAS certificate or certification from your home country, and geofencing must be enabled. Start with the CAA's drone registration page and its drone FAQs before you bring one.