Food and water are safe to consume on Grand Bahama, and tropical diseases are not prevalent.
Be sure to use lots of suntan lotion to protect against sunburn, especially in the summer months.
Private clinics include Lucayan Medical Centre East (phone 242-373-7400) and Sunrise Medical Centre (phone 242-373-3333). Emergency care is available at Rand Memorial Hospital (phone 242-352-6735). For an ambulance, phone 242-352-2689.
For the latest information, contact your country's health-advisory agency.
Handicapped access is somewhat better on Grand Bahama Island than other Bahama locations, probably because everything is newer. There are fewer stairs, more ramps and more attention to the needs of travelers with disabilities. Contact the Bahamas Tourist Board about special needs or concerns (phone 242-352-8044).
Grand Bahama emphasizes environmental awareness, and you will frequently encounter the advice "Leave your footprints, take with you memories and pictures." Do not disturb living creatures in their natural habitats.
Do wear a T-shirt to prevent the characteristic snorkeler's sunburn: burned shoulders and back.
Be sure to take insect repellent, because mosquitoes and horseflies lie in wait along the boardwalk in Lucayan National Park. It's also a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants if you're visiting the park: Many of the plants on the overgrown trails are poisonous, including the poison wood plant—distinguished by black spots on its leaves. It causes a painful, itchy rash similar to poison oak or poison ivy.
Do not underestimate the sun's rays. Guard against sunburn by wearing a sunscreen or a hat to shade your face.
Do not hesitate to ask the locals to repeat a sentence for you. Even though English is the native language, sometimes locals will slip into an island dialect.
Do not wear bathing suits, go shirtless or go barefoot in restaurants or bars, especially in the evening.