Is a Day Trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’re dreaming of swapping the Florida coastline for a Bahamian paradise, even for just a day, the Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Bahamas Day Trip 2025 is your perfect escape. It’s a surprisingly quick and accessible way to get a taste of island life—think turquoise waters, fresh conch salad, and a laid-back vibe—all without the commitment of a week-long vacation. While the day can feel a bit fast-paced, it’s an incredible adventure that proves you don’t need a long holiday to experience a different country.
Quick Facts: Bimini Day Trip at a Glance
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from FLL | ~50 Nautical Miles |
| Ferry Duration | ~2 Hours Each Way |
| Time on Island | 6-8 Hours |
| Average Cost (Per Person) | $250 – $400 (including ferry, food, cart) |
| Best Time to Go | March – May (Weekdays) |
| Passport Required? | Yes, a valid US passport book is mandatory. |
How to Get from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini
Getting to this slice of paradise is easier than you think. While a few flight options exist, the high-speed ferry is the undisputed champion for day-trippers, offering the best balance of cost, convenience, and experience.
The High-Speed Ferry: Your Ticket to Paradise
The primary way to make this journey is with the Balearia Caribbean high-speed ferry. This comfortable, modern vessel is designed specifically for this route and makes the crossing a breeze.
- Departure Point: Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale (Terminal 21). Be sure to arrive 1-2 hours before departure to allow ample time for check-in and boarding.
- Onboard Experience: Expect comfortable airline-style seating, a small café for snacks and drinks, a duty-free shop, and outdoor decks to catch the fresh sea breeze.
- The Day Pass Bonus: Most Balearia day trip tickets include a complimentary Day Pass to Hilton at Resorts World Bimini. This is your golden ticket to the resort’s private beaches, stunning infinity pools, and casino access.
Transportation Options Compared
| Option | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (Round Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balearia Ferry | ~2 hours | $200 – $275+ | Budget-conscious day-trippers, groups |
| Silver Airways | ~30 mins | $250 – $400+ | Those prone to seasickness, extending a trip |
| Tropic Ocean Seaplane | ~25 mins | $500+ | Luxury travelers, ultimate convenience |
Parking at Port Everglades
Convenient parking is available at the multi-story garage for Terminal 21. Plan for a daily rate of approximately $20-$25 per day. It’s safe, secure, and just a short walk from the ferry check-in.
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Bimini Day Trip
With about 6-8 hours on the island, you’ll want to make every moment count. Here’s a can’t-miss list to guide your adventure.
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Rent a Golf Cart and Explore Alice Town
This should be your first priority upon arrival! A golf cart is the quintessential way to explore North Bimini. Zip through the narrow streets of Alice Town, discover colorful local buildings, and get a feel for the island’s charm. Rentals cost around $75-$100 for the day. Just remember the golden rule: drive on the left side of the road!
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Relax at Resorts World Bimini
Your ferry ticket likely includes access to this beautiful resort, so take advantage of it! Lounge by one of the incredible infinity pools overlooking the turquoise ocean, grab a cocktail at the rooftop bar, or simply relax on their pristine private beach. It’s the easiest way to get that luxury resort feel on a day trip budget.
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Taste Fresh Conch Salad at Joe’s
You can’t visit the Bahamas without trying fresh conch salad. Head to a legendary local spot like Joe’s Conch Shack or Stuart’s Conch Stand. Watch as they prepare this zesty, delicious delicacy right in front of you. It’s an authentic Bahamian experience that your taste buds will thank you for.
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Swim in the Turquoise Water at Radio Beach
For a public beach experience, Radio Beach is the place to be. Known for its incredibly clear, calm water and soft white sand, it’s the picture-perfect spot for a swim. It’s less crowded than the resort beach and offers a more local, laid-back vibe.
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(Optional) Snorkel the SS Sapona Shipwreck
For the more adventurous, a snorkeling trip to the SS Sapona is unforgettable. This concrete-hulled ship, grounded during a 1926 hurricane, is now a thriving artificial reef teeming with marine life. Note: This requires booking a separate boat tour and can be tight on time, so plan ahead and confirm you can make it back for the ferry departure.
Sample 1-Day Bimini Itinerary
Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a simple timeline to help you visualize your perfect day in paradise.
- 7:00 AM: Arrive at Port Everglades, park your car, and check in for your ferry.
- 9:00 AM: The Balearia ferry departs for Bimini. Enjoy the ride!
- 11:00 AM: Arrive in Bimini and clear the quick customs process.
- 11:30 AM: Pick up your pre-booked golf cart and start your adventure.
- 12:00 PM: Head straight for an authentic lunch at Joe’s Conch Shack.
- 1:30 PM: Explore the charming streets of Alice Town and see the colorful Dolphin House Museum.
- 3:00 PM: Drive up to Resorts World. Take a dip in the infinity pool or relax on their beautiful beach.
- 5:30 PM: Return your golf cart and make your way back to the ferry terminal.
- 6:30 PM / 7:00 PM: Ferry departs for Fort Lauderdale. Time to relax and look at your photos!
- 8:30 PM / 9:00 PM: Arrive back in Fort Lauderdale.
Where to Eat in Bimini
From rustic beach shacks to upscale resort dining, Bimini has something for every palate and budget.
- Joe’s Conch Shack ($): An absolute must-visit. It doesn’t get any fresher than this. Casual, delicious, and located right on the water. Cash only!
- Edith’s Pizza ($$): A beloved local spot in Alice Town, famous for its unique pizzas served on sweet, fluffy Bimini-bread crust.
- The Tides at Hilton Resorts World ($$$): For a more refined meal, The Tides offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on seafood and international dishes, all with a gorgeous view of the marina.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a checklist of essentials for your Bimini adventure:
- Valid US Passport Book (This is non-negotiable! Passport cards won’t work.)
- Sunscreen (Reef-safe is highly encouraged)
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel
- A change of dry clothes for the ferry ride home
- Cash (USD is accepted everywhere; small bills are best for local spots)
- Credit Card for the resort and larger shops
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Seasickness medication like Dramamine, just in case
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Wondering how much the ferry to Bimini costs and what to budget for the day? Here’s a realistic breakdown to help you plan.
| Expense Item | Low End | High End |
|---|---|---|
| Round-Trip Ferry Ticket | $200 | $275 |
| Port Fees & Taxes | $65 | $75 |
| Golf Cart Rental (split 2-4 ways) | $25 | $50 |
| Lunch & Drinks | $30 | $75 |
| Souvenirs / Extras | $20 | $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $340 | $525 |
Insider Tips for the Perfect Bimini Day Trip
- Book Everything in Advance: Ferry tickets and golf carts are known to sell out, especially on weekends and during peak season. Book online at least a week ahead.
- Rent Your Golf Cart First: This is the key to maximizing your limited time. Make it the first thing you do after clearing customs.
- Embrace “Island Time”: Life moves at a slower pace in the Bahamas. Service might be more relaxed than you’re used to. Take a deep breath and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
- Bring Cash: While the resort is card-friendly, many of the best local spots—like conch shacks, small souvenir shops, and bars in Alice Town—are cash-only.
- Double-Check the Ferry Schedule: Departure times can vary by season. Confirm your return departure time as soon as you disembark in the morning to avoid any surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, absolutely. The high-speed ferry takes only 2 hours each way, making it a very popular and feasible day trip. This schedule typically gives you about 6-8 hours to explore, swim, and eat on the island.
How much is the ferry ride from Ft. Lauderdale to Bimini?
For 2025, the round-trip ferry ticket itself generally costs between $198 and $250 per person. However, it’s critical to budget for mandatory port taxes and fees, which will add another $60-$70 to the final price.
How long does it take from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini?
The ferry journey itself is very quick, taking approximately 2 hours each way. The total time commitment for the day—from arriving at the Fort Lauderdale port in the morning to returning at night—is about 12-14 hours.
Do you need a passport to go from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini?
Yes, a valid U.S. passport book is required for all travelers, including infants. This is the most important thing to remember. A passport card, driver’s license, or birth certificate is not sufficient for international sea travel to the Bahamas. No passport book, no trip.
TLDR: Your Quick Guide to a Bimini Day Trip
In a hurry? Here are the absolute must-knows for your 2025 trip:
- Passport Required: You MUST have a valid US Passport Book. No exceptions.
- Book in Advance: Reserve your ferry ticket and golf cart online before you go.
- Go by Ferry: The Balearia Caribbean ferry from Port Everglades is the best option.
- Budget: Plan for around $350-$500 per person for the entire day.
- Top Activities: Rent a golf cart, eat fresh conch salad, and relax at Resorts World’s pools.
- Remember: Drive on the left and bring cash for local spots!
