About 40 kilometres east of Freeport, Lucayan National Park packs six distinct ecosystems into 40 acres: ocean holes, tidal creeks, mangrove forests, rocky coppice, pine forest, and beach. The underwater cave system is the headline attraction — experienced divers can enter the caves through two ocean holes, while non-divers can explore the upper dry chambers on a boardwalk that winds through the mangroves.
The tidal creek can be explored by kayak — rentals are available nearby — and the mangroves are excellent for birds, including herons, ospreys, and a variety of waders. Gold Rock Beach at the park's southern end is one of the finest beaches on Grand Bahama: a long crescent of pale sand, usually uncrowded, backed by dunes and pine forest. Combine Lucayan with a stop at the small community of Freetown on the way back for conch fritters at a local stand.