img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100.12453300125%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}There are few places as dreamy as The Bahamas, especially as much of the US will soon see chilly temperatures continuously dwindling until it’s time for Spring Break.
While there’s nothing wrong with leaf-peeping in lush mountain landscapes, come wintertime, travelers begin scoping out paradise beaches.
Truth be told, most vacationers will opt for Nassau when it comes to booking an unforgettable trip to the Bahamas, but this Caribbean hotspot is home to approximately 700 islands.
Even other islands with world-class stays are overshadowed by globally-renowned Atlantis, but American Airlines is destined to change that this winter.
Slated to launch the only US flight to the stunning island of Bimini, travelers wishing to go beyond Nassau can soon fly direct without the hassle of layovers.
Why Choose Bimini Over Nassau
It probably goes without saying that Nassau is the Bahamas’ most popular destination. Often overlooked are numerous postcard islands since many of them require a layover, cutting time from your picture-perfect beach days ahead.
One of them is Bimini, since there are currently no direct flights from the US at all.
Best of all, despite being a small cluster of map-dot islands, diminutive size doesn’t equate to crowds.
Bimini is home to North Bimini, South Bimini, and the surrounding Paradise Cays. The northern side boasts an expansive stretch of coastline most visitors scope out, known as Bailey Town.
This region is lined with savory seafood shacks like Joe’s Conch Stand, thrilling excursions like the chance to swim with sharks, and the most popular way to reach Bimini currently, the cruise port.
But the real selling point for vacationers is proximity. Bimini is closer to Miami than both Key West and Havana, Cuba.
Set almost directly across the vibrant blue waters off-shore of Miami’s metropolis lies Bimini roughly 50 nautical miles away, hence it’s a popular fishing getaway for day-trippers.
With less curation, more authentic vibes, and pristine beaches that visitors tend to find more relaxing than Nassau, it’s easy to see why American Airlines is taking a chance with their groundbreaking route to this unsung gem.
Fly Nonstop This Winter From Miami (MIA)
Being so close to Miami already, even if you connect from another city, it’s a hop, skip, and a jump across the Atlantic to get here.
Kidding about those idioms — that would be a scary flight bouncing around over the ocean…
What will surely be smooth and seamless flights are already on sale on American’s official app and website, stating the initial launch set for February 14, 2026 has a flight time of 1 hour.
That’s hard to believe considering the ‘stone’s throw’ location, so it’s likely American is simply covering their tracks, which airlines tend to do, in case there are any unforeseen hiccups delaying the flight.
The journey will commence on Embraer 175 aircraft, the “shawty” of the fleet. It’s slated for a weekly schedule of Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, becoming American’s 7th destination in The Bahamas.
The first flight will be a doozy on your wallet, so you might want to ask your fishing buddies to tag along in your boat that week, as one-way flights go for a staggering $447 for such a quick journey.
However, fares are much more reasonable later in the week at $269. You’ll arrive in Bimini (BIM) on South Bimini, an even quieter side of this dynamic du,o for what’s already known as a tranquil Caribbean hideaway.
What Else Is New In Bimini?
The South Bimini airport is undergoing an extensive $80 million overhaul. It’s expected to be completed by ‘early 2026′.
This makeover has likely attracted American Airlines to test out the waters for the Bimini market in anticipation of the lavish Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences that has partially opened already.
Though, the full resort will be open in 2027 according to numerous reports.
This, of course, is in addition to an already impressive row of resorts anchored in Bimini:
- Bimini Cove Resort & Marina (South Bimini)
- Resorts World Bimini Beach (North Bimini)
- Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina (North Bimini)
Sam SearsSam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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