Discover the Bahamas: A Tropical Paradise of 700+ Islands
Welcome to the Bahamas
The Bahamas isn’t just one destination—it’s more than 700 islands and over 2,000 cays scattered like emeralds across the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Each island has its own identity, charm, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, luxurious resorts, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Bahamas offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every type of traveler.
This guide takes you deep into the heart of the Bahamas. From famous hubs like Nassau and Paradise Island to the remote Out Islands, you’ll discover where to go, what to do, and how to make your tropical dream come true.
Nassau & Paradise Island
Nassau, the capital city, is the vibrant soul of the Bahamas. Located on New Providence Island, it blends modern resort life with rich colonial history and colorful Bahamian culture.
Top Attractions:
- Queen’s Staircase: Climb the 66 steps carved by slaves in the 1700s.
- Pirates of Nassau Museum: Immerse yourself in the swashbuckling history of Caribbean piracy.
- Straw Market: Perfect for handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Bay Street: A mix of duty-free shopping and pastel-colored colonial buildings.
Paradise Island, connected to Nassau by two bridges, is home to:
- Atlantis Paradise Island Resort: A mega-resort with water parks, marine habitats, a casino, and world-class beaches like Cabbage Beach.
- The Dig: Explore an elaborate aquarium modeled after the mythical city of Atlantis.
Best For: Families, luxury travelers, casino lovers, beach enthusiasts.
Exuma Islands (The Exumas)
The Exumas are a chain of 365 cays and islands—one for every day of the year. Known for their sapphire-blue waters and secluded beaches, the Exumas are a must-see for nature lovers and adventurers.
Highlights:
- Pig Beach (Big Major Cay): Swim with the world-famous pigs.
- Thunderball Grotto: A snorkelers’ paradise featured in James Bond movies.
- Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: A protected area with thriving coral reefs and rare wildlife.
- Staniel Cay Yacht Club: A popular stop for sailors and celebrities.
Best For: Snorkeling, swimming pigs, yachting, luxury retreats.
Eleuthera & Harbour Island
Eleuthera, a long, thin island stretching over 100 miles, is known for its pink sand beaches, pine forests, and charming villages.
Top Spots:
- Glass Window Bridge: A dramatic natural bridge where the deep blue Atlantic meets the turquoise Caribbean.
- Pink Sands Beach: On Harbour Island, just off Eleuthera, this world-famous beach shimmers in soft pink tones.
- Governor’s Harbour: A laid-back town with colonial charm and local food.
Best For: Romantic escapes, honeymooners, photographers, slow travel.
Andros Island
Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas—but one of the least developed. It’s ideal for nature lovers and eco-adventurers.
Natural Wonders:
- Blue Holes: More than 200 inland underwater sinkholes, perfect for diving.
- Andros Barrier Reef: The third-largest reef system in the world.
- Androsia Batik Factory: Learn about traditional Bahamian textiles.
- Bonefishing: Andros is known as the Bonefishing Capital of the World.
Best For: Diving, fishing, eco-tourism, secluded adventures.
Bimini Islands
Just 50 miles from Miami, Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to the U.S. and a historic favorite of Ernest Hemingway.
Don’t Miss:
- SS Sapona Shipwreck: An eerie yet beautiful dive and snorkel site.
- Bimini Road: Believed by some to be part of the lost city of Atlantis.
- Shark Dives: Swim with hammerheads and reef sharks in protected waters.
Best For: Weekend getaways, divers, thrill-seekers.
The Abacos
The Abacos are known for their sailing culture, pastel-hued villages, and calm waters. Despite being hit hard by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, the Abacos have been rebuilding and welcoming back travelers.
Top Attractions:
- Elbow Cay & Hope Town: Picture-perfect villages with colonial charm and candy-striped lighthouse.
- Green Turtle Cay: Tranquil beaches and warm, welcoming locals.
- Treasure Cay Beach: Often ranked among the top 10 beaches in the world.
Best For: Sailing, island-hopping, family travel.
Long Island
Split by the Tropic , Long Island has two personalities: the calm, Caribbean side and the rugged Atlantic coast.
Must-Sees:
- Dean’s Blue Hole: One of the deepest blue holes in the world—great for free diving and photography.
- Cape Santa Maria Beach: A serene beach with white sands and crystal water.
- Columbus Monument: Where Christopher Columbus reportedly first landed in the Bahamas.
Best For: Nature, diving, photography, hidden gem seekers.
Cat Island
Cat Island is tranquil, spiritual, and rich in folklore.
What to Do:
- Mount Alvernia (Como Hill): The highest point in the Bahamas with a monastery on top.
- Rake ‘n’ Scrape Music: Experience authentic Bahamian music with saws, goatskin drums, and more.
- Local Home Stays: Stay in family-owned guesthouses for an immersive experience.
Best For: Culture, peace, hiking, local immersion.
Other Notable Islands
- Mayaguana: The least developed inhabited island—ideal for complete solitude.
- Crooked Island: Amazing bonefishing and birdwatching.
- Acklins & Ragged Island: Pristine, untouched nature.
- San Salvador: Historic landing site of Columbus, now great for diving.
- Great Inagua: Known for its flamingo sanctuary and salt production.
Bahamian Culture & Cuisine
The Bahamas is more than turquoise water—it’s a cultural mosaic of African, British, and Caribbean influences.
What to Experience:
- Junkanoo Festival: A colorful street parade with music and dancing, held on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
- Goombay Summer Festival: Celebrates Bahamian culture through food, dance, and storytelling.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Conch Salad: Freshly caught and served ceviche-style.
- Cracked Conch: Deep-fried and delicious.
- Peas ‘n’ Rice: A staple side dish in most Bahamian meals.
- Sky Juice: Coconut water mixed with condensed milk and gin.
Where to Stay: Recommended Accommodations
Amazing Beach Resort:
Whether you’re looking for luxury or local charm, there’s something for everyone:
Nassau & Paradise Island
- The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
- Atlantis Paradise Island
- Warwick Paradise Island (Adults Only)
Exumas
- Grand Isle Resort & Spa
- Fowl Cay Resort
- Sandals Emerald Bay (All-Inclusive)
Eleuthera & Harbour Island
- The Dunmore
- Pink Sands Resort
Cat Island & Out Islands
- Fernandez Bay Village
- Greenwood Beach Resort
Best Tours & Activities
Want to enhance your trip with unforgettable experiences? Try these excursions:
- Swim with pigs in the Exumas→
- Nassau Historical Walking Tour→ r
- Blue Hole Diving Adventure – Andros→
- Harbour Island Pink Sand Beach Day Trip→
How to Get There
By Air:
Major international airports:
- Nassau (NAS)
- Freeport (FPO)
- Exuma International (GGT)
- Marsh Harbour (MHH)
- North Eleuthera (ELH)
Direct flights from Miami, New York, Toronto, Atlanta, and more.
By Cruise:
Many major cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC) include stops in Nassau, Bimini, or private islands like CocoCay and Half Moon Cay.
Final Tips Before You Go
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (1:1 with USD)
- Language: English
- Driving: Left side of the road
- Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season)
- Visa: Not required for EU/US citizens for stays up to 90 days
Start Planning Your Bucket List Trip to the Bahamas
The Bahamas is more than just a vacation. It’s a collection of breathtaking islands, vibrant culture, and world-class relaxation and adventure. From swimming pigs and pink beaches to coral reefs and peaceful retreats, your dream getaway awaits.