Getting around Andros requires accepting its geography. The island is divided into North, Central, and South Andros by two wide tidal channels, the Middle Bight and the South Bight, that cut across the landmass and make overland travel between sections impossible. There are no bridges. Each section functions as its own isolated destination. Most visitors stay in one section for their entire trip.
Within Each Section
Rental Cars
Car rental is available in North Andros (near Nicholls Town and the airport) and in Central Andros (Fresh Creek area). Supply is extremely limited by US standards, a handful of vehicles, often from small local operators rather than national chains. Book ahead, especially during bonefishing and dive seasons (November through May).
Roads in the populated coastal areas are paved; roads into the interior quickly become unpaved tracks. A basic car is sufficient for the main settlements; a 4WD is useful if you plan to explore inland toward the pine forest or blue holes.
Remember to drive on the left.
Taxis
Taxis are available in the main settlements but there is no organized dispatch system and no rideshare services. Your lodge can usually arrange transport. Rates are not metered; agree on a fare before departing.
Bicycles and Golf Carts
Some lodges keep bicycles for guest use. The flat terrain around Fresh Creek and Nicholls Town is manageable by bike if the distances are short. Golf carts are less common on Andros than on the Exumas cays; the main island has enough road distance to make them impractical for most purposes.
Boat Access
A significant amount of local movement on Andros, particularly to reach bonefishing flats, blue holes in the creek systems, and remote beaches, is done by small boat. Lodge-based trips typically include a guide with a boat. For independent access to the interior creek systems and western flats, there is no substitute for a local operator with a skiff.
Between Sections
There are no roads or bridges between North, Central, and South Andros. Moving between sections requires either flying (back through Nassau and then to the destination airport) or taking a boat around the island. In practice, this is not something most visitors do during a single trip. Plan your itinerary around one section.
Practical Notes
- If your lodge is on a private cay or accessible only by water (Kamalame Cay, for example), the lodge will handle water transfers from the nearest mainland dock. Confirm logistics at booking.
- Andros has no public bus service.
- Fuel stations exist in Fresh Creek and Nicholls Town. In South Andros, fuel availability is more limited; confirm with your lodge before any extended driving.
- The paved road in North Andros runs from Nicholls Town south to Fresh Creek via Morgan's Bluff and several small settlements. Beyond Fresh Creek heading south, infrastructure becomes sparse.