Freeport Landmarks and Monuments

(Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas)

The most well-known landmarks in Freeport tend to be cultural icons, like a popular beachside bar or major shopping destinations, rather than grand buildings and fortresses.

Since nothing of historic importance ever happened on Grand Bahama, it is been up to the tourism developers to create the sights and attractions that linger in visitors' memories. Ask anyone who's seen the sun rise at the Margarita Villa Sand Bar and they'll attest to this monument to island life.

International Bazaar

Address: International Bazaar, Freeport, Bahamas, BS
Grand Bahama's original shopping megalopolis may have lost a lot of its lustre, but there is still enough on offer to make it well worth a visit. The International Bazaar is sited next to Ranfurly Circle and remains a labyrinthine mini-city in its own right, with dozens of shops from around the globe on its 4-acre / 1.5-hectare site. While you are there, stop by the neighbouring Straw Market. It is completely Caribbean-flavoured and has some of the best Bahamian buys on the island. Other Bazaar highlights include a number of Japanese torii gates, the China Arts and Handicrafts outlet, and the Smoker's World store, where incense holders and ebony sculptures can be purchased.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 19:00
Admission: free

Margarita Villa Sand Bar

Address: Millionaire's Row, Mather Town Beach, Freeport, Bahamas, BS
Tel: +1 242 373 4525
Known to the islanders as a 'jump-up' place for the nightly potential of a spontaneous party, the Margarita Villa Sand Bar (formerly named Le Beach Shack) is nothing short of a Grand Bahama institution, and certainly a major local landmark. Two outside decks, sand all over the floor and a beachfront location make this bar the hottest drinking spot on the island. Weekly bonfires, live DJs and a great mix of locals and tourists will lure you back again and again. The Margarita Villa Sand Bar is easy to find, being located just off the Spanish Main Road (Millionaire's Row).
Open hours: 11:00 to whenever the owner decides to call it a day (usually around 01:00)
Admission: free

Casino at Bahamia

Address: Bahamia Resort and Casino, West Sunrise Highway, Freeport, Bahamas, BS
Tel: +1 242 352 7811
Arguably the most popular nighttime entertainment venue on the island, this casino models itself on Las Vegas equivalents. The 1,850-square-metre / 20,000-square-feet of gaming space is state-of-the-art. Card games, slot machines and a sports book ensure plenty of ways to try your luck. The Casino at Bahamia is located in the recently remodelled Bahamia Resort, one of the nicer hotels in Freeport, where all-inclusive package deals are available, including snorkelling excursions and evening entertainment.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 03:00
Admission: free

Port Lucaya Marketplace

Address: Port Lucaya Marketplace, Seahorse Road, Port Lucaya, Bahamas, BS
In the 1990s, the nearby Port Lucaya Marketplace overtook the International Bazaar as the hot spot to spend your time and money. The 6-acre / 2.5-hectare complex is very well maintained and built to emulate the 19th-century building style of Old Bahamas. Some of the island's best restaurants and eateries (more than 30) and shops (over 50) reside here, as well as a marina and regular free music and dance entertainment at the stylish Count Basie Square. Gamblers will find that the Isle of Capri Casino is just a matter of steps away.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 20:00
Admission: free