Getting to Acklins & Crooked Island: Flights, Airports & Island Transfers
INTRODUCTION
Acklins & Crooked Island are among the most remote and least-developed islands in The Bahamas, making the journey part of the experience. Unlike Nassau or Grand Bahama, there are no international airports serving the islands directly. Most visitors arrive by connecting through Nassau before flying to either Spring Point Airport (AXP) on Acklins or Colonel Hill Airport (CRI) on Crooked Island. From there, local transportation and ferry services allow travelers to explore the wider atoll, including Long Cay and the surrounding communities.
Understanding the available transportation options helps visitors plan a smoother trip, especially since flight schedules are less frequent than those serving larger Bahamian islands. Whether you're traveling for bonefishing, diving, birdwatching, or simply to experience one of the country's quietest Out Islands, good planning is essential. Before finalizing your itinerary, explore the Ultimate Acklins & Crooked Travel Guide for accommodation recommendations, attractions, and local experiences.
FLYING TO ACKLINS & CROOKED ISLAND
The fastest and most common way to reach the islands is by domestic flight from Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau.
Visitors typically fly to one of two regional airports:
Both airports receive scheduled domestic service from Nassau, providing convenient access to the southern Out Islands.
ARRIVING THROUGH NASSAU
International travelers generally begin their journey by flying into Nassau, the main gateway to The Bahamas.
From Nassau, travelers can connect to:
Because these are regional routes, it's advisable to allow sufficient connection time and avoid scheduling tight same-day international departures. Flight frequencies are lower than on major tourist routes and may vary seasonally.
SPRING POINT AIRPORT (AXP)
Spring Point Airport serves the island of Acklins and is the primary arrival point for visitors staying near Spring Point, Lovely Bay, Salina Point, or the western side of the island.
The airport offers:
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Scheduled domestic flights from Nassau
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Access to fishing lodges
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Rental vehicle arrangements through local providers
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Connections to nearby ferry services
Spring Point is also a practical starting point for exploring the Bight of Acklins and nearby Long Cay.
COLONEL HILL AIRPORT (CRI)
Located on Crooked Island, Colonel Hill Airport provides convenient access to:
Visitors staying primarily on Crooked Island often choose this airport to minimize transfer time after arrival.
TRAVELING BETWEEN ACKLINS & CROOKED ISLAND
Although separated by the Bight of Acklins, the two islands are connected by regular local ferry services.
The ferry allows visitors to:
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Explore both islands during one trip
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Visit neighboring settlements
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Reach additional accommodations
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Enjoy day trips between islands
Schedules are limited compared with larger Bahamian ferry routes, so it's recommended to confirm departure times in advance with local operators or your accommodation.
GETTING AROUND AFTER YOU ARRIVE
Transportation options on Acklins & Crooked Island are simple but effective.
Visitors commonly use:
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Rental vehicles
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Accommodation-arranged transfers
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Local taxis (limited availability)
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Guided tour transportation
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Boat transfers
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Ferry connections
Many fishing lodges and guesthouses also provide airport pickup for guests when arranged before arrival.
Because services are limited, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
SHOULD YOU RENT A VEHICLE?
For travelers planning to explore beaches, historical sites, or multiple settlements independently, renting a vehicle is highly recommended.
Having your own transportation makes it easier to visit:
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Lovely Bay
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Spring Point
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Salina Point
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Colonel Hill
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Landrail Point
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Turtle Sound
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Coastal beaches
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Fishing access points
Visitors planning guided fishing trips may not require a rental vehicle, as many operators include transportation.
PRIVATE CHARTERS
Private charter flights are another option for visitors seeking greater flexibility.
Charters may be suitable for:
Private operators can often fly directly between Out Islands, reducing travel time compared with connecting through Nassau.
TRAVEL TIPS BEFORE YOU GO
To make your journey smoother:
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Book domestic flights well in advance.
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Confirm inter-island ferry schedules before traveling.
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Arrange airport transfers with your accommodation.
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Allow flexibility in your itinerary, especially during periods of changing weather.
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Carry essentials with you, as shopping options are limited compared with larger islands.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Transportation
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International arrivals typically connect through Nassau.
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Domestic flights serve Spring Point Airport (AXP) and Colonel Hill Airport (CRI).
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Local ferries connect Acklins and Crooked Island.
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Rental vehicles and accommodation transfers are available with advance arrangements.
Accessibility
Both airports are small regional facilities with straightforward arrivals and departures. Visitors should expect fewer amenities than at larger international airports.
Best Time to Travel
Flights operate year-round, though weather and seasonal demand may influence schedules. Winter and spring are popular times for outdoor activities.
Family Suitability
Families comfortable with slower-paced travel and remote destinations will find the journey manageable with advance planning.
Cost Expectations
Transportation costs vary depending on domestic airfare, vehicle rentals, ferry use, and optional charter flights.
FAQ SECTION
How do you get to Acklins & Crooked Island?
Most visitors fly into Nassau first, then take a domestic flight to either Spring Point Airport (AXP) or Colonel Hill Airport (CRI).
Is there an international airport on Acklins or Crooked Island?
No. Both islands are served by regional domestic airports.
What airport serves Acklins?
Spring Point Airport (AXP) is the primary airport on Acklins.
What airport serves Crooked Island?
Colonel Hill Airport (CRI) serves Crooked Island.
Can you visit both islands during one trip?
Yes. Ferry services connect Acklins and Crooked Island, making it practical to explore both during a multi-day stay.
Are rental cars available?
Yes. Rental vehicles can be arranged through local providers and some accommodations, although availability is limited.
Why should I plan transportation in advance?
Because flight schedules, ferry services, rental vehicles, and transfers are more limited than on larger Bahamian islands, early planning helps ensure a smoother trip.
EXPLORE MORE ACKLINS & CROOKED ISLAND GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
Acklins, Crooked Island, and Long Cay form a remote atoll surrounding the Bight of Acklins, one of the largest shallow marine lagoons in The Bahamas. Accessible primarily through Spring Point Airport and Colonel Hill Airport, the islands offer convenient access to exceptional bonefishing flats, coral reefs, historic settlements, secluded beaches, and island-hopping opportunities. Their close geographic relationship allows visitors to experience multiple islands within one trip while exploring one of the country's most authentic Out Island destinations.
CONCLUSION
Getting to Acklins & Crooked Island is straightforward with a little planning. Most travelers connect through Nassau before flying to either Spring Point or Colonel Hill, then continue exploring the islands by road, boat, or local ferry. While transportation options are simpler than those on larger Bahamian islands, the reward is access to one of the country's most peaceful destinations. To continue planning your visit, explore the Ultimate Acklins & Crooked Travel Guide for accommodations, attractions, and local travel ideas.
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Updated as of July 2026.