Visiting The Bahamas was like a dream come for me! I imply, who doesn’t love lovely seashores and a laidback vibe? And now I need to share my favourite picks for the highest issues to do on this dreamy vacation spot.
With over 700 islands and cays to discover, there’s all the time one thing thrilling ready for you right here. Whether or not you need to chill out on gorgeous white sandy seashores, swim with lovable pigs, or uncover hidden treasures, the Bahamas has all of it.
So, seize your sunscreen, slip into your flip-flops, and prepare to examine off some critical gadgets out of your bucket record.
The Finest Actions, Sights & Issues to Do in The Bahamas
1. Snorkel (or Scuba Dive) Andros Nice Barrier Reef
Submerged shipwrecks, underwater blue holes and the third largest barrier reef on the planet make the waters round Andros Nice Barrier Reef among the finest and most scenic to scuba dive in. The underwater blue holes are residence to among the most colourful trumpetfish, parrotfish and speckled scorpionfish in these seas. Right here you’ll undoubtedly discover probably the most lovely array of marine life in your amazement.
2. Experience the Leap of Religion Water Slide on the Atlantis
Think about driving an virtually vertical water slide by way of a shark-infested tank!! Sure, on the 141-acre Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, you’re going to get to just do that and extra. There are a number of waterslides on premise, however for me it’s the sheer drop of the “Leap of Religion” that’s the most thrilling.
3. Eat the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay
Whereas there are many positive eating alternatives in all of the high-end resorts on the islands, if you wish to have probably the most genuine culinary experiences then it’s best to actually check out the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay, a brief strolling distance from the Western Esplanade of Nassau.
Right here you’ll discover a cluster of shacks that whip up among the finest conventional Bahamian barbeque. I ordered the cracked conch and it was delish!
TIP: If you happen to go on a Sunday the place might be buzzing with locals, and also you may get the prospect to be entertained by Bahamaian tunes. Don’t neglect to carry some money, since many distributors desire it over playing cards.
4. Go to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, and Conservation Heart
Positioned on the coronary heart of Nassau, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, and Conservation Heart includes over 4 acres of dense tropical gardens residence to a spectacular assortment of flowers, timber, and animal species (most of that are birds).
It additionally serves because the breeding floor for Bahama’s nationwide chicken (and what the zoo is understood for), the Caribbean flamingo.
From hand-feeding parrots to assembly the majestic Bahamian boa constrictor to watching the marching efficiency from the Caribbean flamingos, it should certainly be a panoramic expertise for the entire household!
5. Get Perception on the Bahamas Historic Society Museum
Each place has a narrative to inform, and the Bahamas has its fair proportion of wealthy historical past behind it. If you’re in search of an enriching expertise of the islands’ previous, you needn’t look additional than the Bahamas Historic Society Museum!
Girl Arthur, the spouse of then-governor Sir Raynor Arthur, based the museum in 1959. It homes a group of artifacts, memorabilia, images, and artwork, from totally different factors of the Bahamas historical past, together with ones relationship again to the island’s natives: the Lucayan individuals.
6. Discover Blue Holes Nationwide Park
If you’re keen on diving, you’ve most likely come across the time period ‘blue gap’ no less than as soon as, and there’s loads of that in Blue Holes Nationwide Park on the island of Andros.
Because the title implies, it’s identified for its many blue holes that comprise distinctive and unique cavefish and invertebrates inside its 40,000-acre space. And as you might have guessed, it’s a haven for divers trying to discover these underwater wonders!
Other than the blue holes and interesting marine life, pine timber and several other species of birds have additionally made the park their residence.
7. Loosen up on the Non-public Blue Lagoon Island (Salt Cay)
In relation to a calming and genuine Bahamian expertise, the privately-owned Blue Lagoon Island is the place to be.
From its breathtaking blue waters, hidden lagoons, pristine white sands, lovely vegetation, and quite a few wildlife, which incorporates dolphins and sea lions, it’s no surprise the island is without doubt one of the prime vacationer sights in The Bahamas.
So whether or not you’re going on a strolling or Segway tour across the island, swimming with dolphins, taking within the many scenic websites round (don’t miss The Tower!), and extra, that is one bucket record expertise that won’t disappoint!
8. Stroll Alongside Cable Seaside
One of the vital widespread (if not the preferred) seashores in New Windfall Island, Cable Seaside is a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of heat white sands lined up by 5 luxurious resorts and loads of alternatives to chill out and have enjoyable.
Although the waters and the vibe from vacationers are actually inviting, a (quiet) stroll in and round Cable Seaside is one exercise that’s typically neglected.
If you’re planning to get pleasure from a quiet stroll alongside the seashore, I recommend going early within the morning simply because the solar rises. Inland, there’s additionally a pleasant little spot of nature alongside the Baha Mar Boulevard (south of the conference heart), full with picket pathways that result in a small lake.
9. Discover Clifton Heritage Park
Positioned on the western finish of New Windfall Island, Clifton Heritage Nationwide Park is understood for its historic and archaeological websites spanning 208 acres.
Among the notable websites embrace the remnants of the Nice Home, the Sacred House (also referred to as Genesis Backyard), underwater sculptures, and the James Bond wrecks!
10. Swim with the Nurse Sharks at Compass Cay
Very like the swimming pigs, this might be one other distinctive and fascinating wildlife exercise so as to add to your record of life experiences. Nurse sharks aren’t fairly as huge, or harmful, as their white shark cousins, and so that you get to really swim within the water with them with no cages or something separating the 2 of you! It’d sound scary however, I guarantee you, it’s extra thrilling in a constructive manner than something!
That is one other exercise that until you e book a non-public constitution, most excursions embrace many different stops too. Exuma Water Sports activities presents a full-day day tour that features the sunken aircraft wreck, Thunderball grotto and the swimming pigs.
11. Plunge Into Dean’s Blue Gap
What’s a Blue Gap? A “Blue Gap” is a sinkhole that’s not solely full of water however has a submerged entrance discovered beneath the floor. Whereas there are numerous blue holes on the planet, Dean’s Blue Gap stands out as a result of it’s the deepest identified to man. At 663 ft (202 meters), Dean’s Blue Gap is simply west of Clarence City on Lengthy Island and on good days, the water is so clear which you could see as much as 115 ft! It’s a fantastic website for divers keen to check their mettle.
You possibly can e book a tour to Dean’s Blue Gap by way of Robert’s Island Adventures.
12. Go Deep-Sea Fishing
Being surrounded by giant our bodies of water, together with the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahamas can be a haven for deep-sea fishing. Among the hottest spots embrace the Rum Cay and Bimini islands, the place you may catch giant ocean fish like marlin, wahoo, yellow tuna, and extra. Plus, the picturesque backdrop of the islands is just breathtaking.
So whether or not you simply need to expertise the fun of battling towards huge sport fish or in search of that greatest catch to examine off your bucket record, that is one expertise you’ll certainly bear in mind for years to return!
13. Eat Conch
Pronounced “conk”, this savory sea snail might sound weird to many vacationers nevertheless it’s really a neighborhood delicacy within the Bahamas (and you may simply get some at Arawak Cay!). The normal strategy to eat it’s in a “conch salad” the place it’s served uncooked with onions, candy peppers and citrus juices. If, nonetheless, you aren’t too positive about consuming uncooked snail then you may strive the “cracked” model that’s fried and buttered or the curried model. I ate one straight from the ocean!
14. Discover Elbow Cay (Don’t Miss the Elbow Reef Lighthouse!)
Elbow Cay is without doubt one of the Bahamas’ hidden gems, situated within the Abaco Islands a few miles north of Nassau. Although it is just eight miles lengthy, it doesn’t imply there’s not a lot to see and expertise on this charming island.
Beginning on the north a part of the cay, don’t miss the prospect to see one in every of its iconic landmarks: the red-and-white striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse! You may also enrich your self with the island’s historical past on the Wyannie Malone Museum or go to the island’s most important village of Hope City, the place you may pay your respects on the Cholera Cemetery.
There’s additionally a preferred browsing spot on the island’s heart, exterior the Abaco Inn. In fact, the gorgeous seashores across the coastlines are price a go to, particularly Tahiti Seaside on the southern a part of the cay.
15. See the Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera Island
Initially a pure arch bridge that has lengthy been destroyed by hurricanes, the now man-made Glass Window Bridge on the island chain of Eleuthera (50 miles east of Nassau) is a sight to behold. With solely a width of 30 ft, it is usually dubbed because the ‘narrowest place on Earth.’
It acquired its title from an art work named ‘Glass Home windows, Bahamas’ by Winslow Homer (a panorama artist) in 1885, who was additionally one of many lucky individuals to have seen the unique land bridge and put it in portray kind.
What makes this place a must-see is that you’re going to get to see a distinction of colours between two our bodies of water: the dark-blue colour of the Atlantic Ocean on one facet and the bright-turquoise waters of the Bight of Eleuthera on the opposite.
There’s additionally a spot beneath the bridge referred to as the ‘Slim Passage’ the place you will note the 2 our bodies of water come collectively.
16. Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park is a surprising stretch of water that’s the world’s first land and sea park, in addition to an ecological protect and wildlife refuge identified for its magnificent marine setting.
Preserve your eyes peeled for some fascinating critters on land, just like the uncommon Bahamian rock iguanas and the native rodent-like hutias. Nonetheless, probably the most thrilling half is beneath the ocean, the place you get to see totally different marine life akin to angelfish, reef sharks, Nassau groupers, and extra.
The totally different cays that make up the nationwide park provide numerous actions, with scuba diving and snorkeling being the preferred. Sights you shouldn’t miss out on embrace the Submerged Aircraft and Sea Aquarium, and lots of extra.
17. Play a Spherical at Exuma’s Greg Norman Championship Course
If you’re into {golfing} or need to expertise it no less than as soon as (or extra), why not go for a spherical or two on the 18-hole championship golf course on the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort & Spa?
Designed by golf legend Greg Norman, the 18-hole golf course presents gorgeous views of the shoreline and is without doubt one of the most scenic golf programs within the Caribbean.
For the extra skilled golfer, six signature holes will certainly check your abilities, particularly those on the rocky a part of the peninsula.
18. Be Amongst the Vegetation on the Backyard of the Groves
Backyard of the Groves is a botanical backyard in Freeport, situated on the jap finish of Midshipman Street. It additionally stays probably the most widespread vacationer locations within the Bahamas.
Whereas the backyard is finest identified for its many native and unique wildlife and cascading waterfalls, you’ll additionally discover fairly a number of surprises inside its 12-acre space.
Considered one of these is the gorgeous hilltop chapel surrounded by nature, which is a favourite place for weddings and, in fact, prayer and meditation. There’s additionally the Grand Bahama Labyrinth, which is a reproduction of an historic sacred Christian pathway.
19. Go Bonefishing
Strive your hand at fly-fishing for the elusive bonefish within the place that’s world-renowned for bonefishing. When discovered, the difficult fish can put up a combat which makes it on each anglers bucket record. You possibly can expertise it on a half-day tour with Island Routes or give Bonefish Stevie a name.
20. Strive Snuba Diving
Nope, that’s not a typo! Snuba diving is alleged to be a mix of the phrases snorkeling and scuba diving. It brings the most effective of each worlds: the liberty of getting no heavy tools to hold round whereas nonetheless attending to breathe oxygen as you swim and dive.
It entails a protracted hose with which to breathe in related to air cylinders floating on a raft. Plus, you don’t should be a fantastic swimmer or perhaps a certification to get began on this distinctive expertise!
21. Stroll the Pink Sands Seaside on Harbor Island
You hear individuals speak of sunbathing on pristine white sandy seashores world wide however have you ever ever been to a pink sandy seaside? Within the Bahamas, you may have each choices. There are the white sand seashores which can be very a lot a dime a dozen right here after which there are the uncommon pink sandy seashores.
Probably the most well-known is Pink Sands Seaside that may be discovered on Harbor Island. That is three miles of image excellent pink sand fading off into aqua blue waters. This phenomenal pink colour comes from a microorganism referred to as foraminifera and minuscule items of coral and shells which can be washed ashore. You actually should see it to consider it!
22. See Iguanas
Do you know that these Northern Bahamian Rock Iguanas can solely be discovered on Exuma Island? They is probably not as fluffy and cute and pleasant as our domesticated pet buddies, however they’re nonetheless endearing to see out and about. Particularly as they’re endangered, you could need to put some warning into what you’ll feed them.
PS: this tour from Nassau will take you there: Exuma Swimming Pigs, Sharks and Extra
23. Do a Tasting at John Watling’s Distillery
A brief stroll from Downtown Nassau to the historic 1789 Buena Vista Property at Delany Avenue will take you to one of many prime (rum) distilleries within the Bahamas, the John Watling’s Distillery.
From tasting their premium-quality rums, cocktails, and different drinks of their English-style tavern to studying a couple of little bit of Bahamian historical past and the founding of the model to exploring the property and its artwork galleries, it should certainly be an immersive expertise that it’s best to strive within the Bahamas!
A enjoyable truth in regards to the property is that it was featured on the opening scene of the 2006 James Bond movie On line casino Royale starring Daniel Craig. There’s additionally signage the place the actor landed after leaping the property’s wall.
24. Take the Trails By means of Leon Levy Native Plant Protect
The Leon Levy Native Plant Protect is a nationwide park in Governor’s Harbor at Eleuthera that research and propagates totally different plant species native and endemic in The Bahamas.
There are tons of trails you may comply with contained in the park, which can take you to totally different plant (and wildlife) species starting from mangroves to medicinal crops to decorative crops to edible ones. You’ll find the paths and the record of crops on every path right here.
25. Discover Lucayan Nationwide Park
Lucayan Nationwide Park is slightly misplaced in a land riddled with white sandy seashores (and a few pink ones). Nonetheless, this 40-acre jungle makes for the proper getaway for birdwatchers who nonetheless need to get pleasure from island life. The wild and exquisite panorama has mangrove swamps, seashores, boardwalks and pine forests that play host to some unimaginable creatures. Additionally it is residence to among the longest underwater cave programs on the planet.
26. Gamble at Atlantis Paradise Island On line casino
If you’re in search of some enjoyable and thrilling video games that can check your talent and luck, then come play on the Atlantis Paradise Island On line casino!
Take your choose on any of its video games and casinos: from the state-of-the-art Atlantis On line casino to an adults-only poolscape (unique for company of The Cove) to having fun with a drink or two whereas taking part in on the Sea Glass.
There are additionally different actions to get pleasure from, like seeing and interacting with dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Cay, pampering your self on the Mandara Spa, and a lot extra!
27. Store at Port Lucaya Market
When visiting Freeport within the Grand Bahama Island, don’t miss the Port Lucaya Market. Also referred to as “The Jewel of Grand Bahama Island,” this open-air market is a haven for customers of all types.
Whether or not you might be looking for gadgets akin to garments or souvenirs, thrilling your style buds at one in every of their eating places, and even dancing to the sound of music throughout an evening of partying, you’ll have a good time at Port Lucaya Market!
28. Stroll Up (& Down) Queen’s Staircase
Also referred to as the 66 steps, it’s a notable landmark situated within the Fort Fincastle Historic Advanced close to Bennet’s Hill in Downtown Nassau. Between 1793 and 1794, slaves hewed out the limestone rock to make the steps, with water cascading down from the perimeters to a pool under.
The steps have been named in honor of Queen Victoria through the nineteenth century, who ended slavery within the British Empire. Coincidentally, the variety of steps within the stairs was equal to the variety of years Queen Victoria reigned.
29. Eat Rum Cake
Who doesn’t love an excellent cake now and again? At Mother’s Bakery the cake isn’t just good, it’s spectacular! And whereas they’ve a few choices to select from, why not go Caribbean type and get the to-die-for rum cake that crumbles to the contact and melts in your mouth? I can promise that you just received’t be disenchanted by its unimaginable flavors.
For added reminiscences, if mama herself is there, get a selfie collectively (I did!). FYI: Mother’s Bakery is correct subsequent door to Santana’s.
30. Spend the Afternoon on Stocking Island
Stocking Island is a five-minute ferry trip from Nassau, and despite the fact that the island is evenly inhabited, it’s residence to some fascinating locations and experiences in The Bahamas.
If you’re trying to spend a day right here, the proper place to go to is the Chat ‘N’ Chill Bar & Restaurant, situated at a sandbar seaside referred to as the Spit. Their Sunday Pig Roast is unquestionably a must-try!
Reverse the Chat ‘N’ Chill, there’s additionally an inlet often called the Hurricane Gap, which includes a blue gap that’s excellent for snorkelers and divers.
31. See the Swimming Pigs
Someplace on the market within the Outer Exuma Islands is Large Main Cay, a small island dominated by pigs—that’s proper, precise pigs! It’s in reality one of many greatest sights on this island. The pigs will swim out to your boat as you method the island and relying on how pleasant they’re on the day they’ll grasp round, swim with you guys and have a few of your lunch as effectively.
If you’re pressed for time, there’s a nearer piggy island referred to as White Bay. I booked the half-day tour there with Exuma Water Sports activities and it was GREAT! You possibly can examine is right here: Pig Seaside: The Bahama’s Swimming Pigs of Exuma Island. For the complete day tour that features a nurse shark swim take a look at this tour (FYI it begins from Nassau): Well-known Swimming Pigs Tour Bahamas or From Nassau: Exuma Swimming Pigs, Sharks and Extra
32. See Versailles Gardens & The Cloisters
The Versailles Terraced Gardens is without doubt one of the highlights of The Ocean Membership resort at Paradise Island, stretching over 75 ft vast in a multi-terraced panorama set in an oblong design.
Serving because the centerpiece of the gardens is the French Cloister. It’s a 14th-century Augustinian monastery that has been dismantled and imported from Europe after which reassembled stone by stone right here.
Not solely is the entire panorama Instagrammable, however it is usually excellent for events akin to weddings and galas!
33. Go on a Stingray Journey
If you’re in search of one thing extra totally different aside from swimming with dolphins or nurse sharks, then it’s best to strive occurring a stingray journey as a substitute!
On the Nice Harbour Cay, The Berry Islands, you’ll discover the non-public island referred to as Stingray Metropolis. Right here, you’re going to get to study so much about (Bahamian) stingrays and how one can deal with them, in addition to an opportunity to swim, pet, and even feed them.
Excursions:
34. Discover Thunderball Grotto
Having acquired its title from a James Bond film, and having been the filming location to a choice of Hollywood films, Thunderball Grotto is a beautiful spot within the waters of Exuma Islands. It is probably not a looker from the skin, however you actually shouldn’t decide the entire thing by its covers. When you attain the within space of the quirky island, you’ll see for your self simply how particular it’s. There are caves, holes, and underwater areas to swim by way of, and never solely will there be spots the place you’ll be greeted by beaming solar rays, you’ll additionally end up surrounded by a whole lot of colourful fishes.
Except you e book a non-public constitution, most excursions to Thunderball Grotto embrace many different stops too (bonus!). Exuma Water Sports activities presents a full-day day tour that features the sunken aircraft wreck, swimming pigs, a sand bar and nurse sharks.
35. Tiki Bikini Hut
There are many spectacular bars to go round in The Bahamas, and Tiki Bikini Hut is one in every of them.
Positioned at Junkanoo Seaside, near Downtown Nassau and the cruise line docks, you may benefit from the upbeat ambiance whereas having some drinks and meals (strive the conch fritters!) after a protracted day of adventuring. And for the reason that seats lengthen out to the seaside, you may benefit from the views of the ocean and the cruise ships as effectively.
36. Wyannie Malone Historic Museum
The Wyannie Malone Historic Museum is one other must-see place in Elbow Cay, the place you’ll have an enriching expertise in regards to the Bahamas’ heritage by way of historic photographs, manuscripts, artifacts, and lots of different vintage gadgets.
Through the month of March, the museum sponsors Heritage Day for the neighborhood, which highlights occasions of the Bahamas’ historical past by way of skits, songs, and dance.
37. Experience in a Private Underwater Sub
Aside from the 700 islands, the Bahamas has about 2,400 cays (coral reefs). These reefs are residence to among the most colourful and spectacular marine life identified to man. One of the vital distinctive methods to discover a few of these reefs is in a private underwater Sub, which appears to be like like a moped with a helmet.
Your underwater expertise will start with a fast lesson on how one can pilot a submarine. You’ll then head out to one of many wonderful coral reefs to feed the fish, discover the dwelling coral and take lovely footage/movies of the underwater world of the Bahamas. You possibly can e book your underwater SUB right here and don’t neglect to carry your GoPro so you will get photographs like these:
38. Keep at Membership Med on Columbus Isle
If you’re in search of pure luxurious, pristine white sand seashores and world-class scuba diving, Membership Med Columbus Isle undoubtedly delivers. The secluded, all-inclusive resort is tucked away on the island of San Salvador removed from the bustle of vacationers.
Listed here are just some the reason why it’s best to strongly take into account holidays within the Bahamas with Membership Med on Columbus Isle:
- It has a beautiful white sand seaside that stretches alongside Bonefish Bay
- The bungalows are every painted a distinct colour of the rainbow and have quaint wraparound porches
- The superior Spa is completely rejuvenating with many providers to select from
From the service to the delicacies and even the setting at Membership Med on Columbus Isle…every part is simply world class. It’s going to make your Bahamas go to completely stress-free and splendid.
The Bahamas is certainly one in every of each vacationer and vacationers’ dream locations, with its picturesque magnificence, wealthy historical past, and enjoyable, stress-free vibe. If the white sands of its many seashores or its crystal-like turquoise waters are usually not sufficient to attract you in, the numerous distinctive experiences and issues to do within the Bahamas actually will.
So preserve these adventures coming and begin making reminiscences by way of your bucket record, one checkmark at a time!
Important Ideas for Visiting The Bahamas
Getting There: Nassau Airport is a significant hub and most airways will fly into it. You possibly can simply examine for the most effective fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘least expensive month’ because the departure to seek out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. From the airport to town heart, you should utilize the take a bus, taxi or hire a automotive.
The place to Keep in The Bahamas: It’s finest to remain close to town heart, public transportation or the realm that you’ll be spending probably the most time in. Membership Med Columbus Isle is a superb selection within the Cockburn City district. For one thing on the cheaper facet, strive Pelican Bay Lodge situated in Freeport. For a lodge with slightly extra extravagance, e book a room on the The Cove Eleuthera. Or search some nice offers on inns of your selection at Reserving.com. If you happen to’re in search of extra of a house ambiance (or are touring with a bunch of individuals), head over to VRBO that has homes, residences and even only a room for hire in each value vary.
Getting Round: Driving in a brand new vacation spot is usually a little bit of a problem, however when you select to hire a automotive, RentalCars.com has nice offers. If you’re not renting a automotive, there are many different choices. Taxis can be found all around the metropolis. For a extra price range pleasant possibility, you may take the jitney buses which can be found for among the islands however renting a automotive is probably the most handy and probably the most price range pleasant possibility.
Finest Excursions in The Bahamas: You’ll find among the prime excursions at Get Your Information or Viator, and listed here are among the prime ones. excursions:
Insurance coverage: It’s all the time a good suggestion to journey totally insured so you might be protected in case of journey cancellations or medical emergencies. You possibly can take a look at pricing at Travelex Insurance coverage.
Common Adapter: Your American plugged tools will want an adapter. I take advantage of the Celtic Common Adapter, which has introduced me world wide with no issues.
This put up could comprise affiliate hyperlinks. If you happen to make a purchase order by way of my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog operating—at no further value to you. For extra data learn my full disclosure.
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