The Islands of The Bahamas
Discover 700 unique islands
With a rich history of piracy, rum running and drug smuggling, who wouldn’t be intrigued by this vast expanse of islands, roughly 700 of them in fact. Despite its checkered past, The Bahamas of today offers something for everyone. Mild year-round temperatures and a sub-tropical landscape attract visitors to these easily accessible islands, especially during the winter months. Within a matter of a few hours, a New Yorker can be stepping onto a sunny beach in the capital of Nassau.
Nassau and Paradise Island, the most visited area of The Bahamas, offer a lively nightlife scene, a variety of dining options, history, and culture. Step outside of the booming city, and find yourself in one of the many quaint settlements throughout the country. The deeper you venture into the islands, the more authentic your experience will be.
New Providence
The island of New Providence and its neighboring Paradise Island is by far the most visited region of The Bahamas, seeing roughly 3.2 million foreign arrivals per year by both land and sea, which is approximately half of all of the visitors to The Bahamas. Visitors arrive via cruise ship, personal pleasure craft and yachts, and by private and commercial aircraft. No matter what your interest is, you will probably find it. There are fishing and dive charters, day trips to the Out Islands, nightlife, world-class restaurants and of course, beautiful beaches.
Atlantis on Paradise Island is probably the most well-known attraction, offering diversions for the entire family such as waterslides, an aquarium, casinos, and periodic big-name concerts and comedy shows. It’s perched on the edge of the famous Cabbage Beach which offers jetskiing and parasailing for the adrenaline seekers. Downtown Nassau offers a variety of options for the history buff and culinary adventurer. It’s also a great jumping off point for day trips to the Out Islands by boat. The quieter Cable Beach area is home to Sandals Resort with their adjoining private island, and several other all-inclusive resorts. The historically residential side of Western New Providence has recently begun to attract both visitors and locals with variety of ethnic restaurant choices from traditional roadside Bahamian fare to upscale Thai and Asian-fusion. Less frequented beaches dot the northern and southern shores, and boutique hotels offer a posh and private retreat for the more affluent traveler. If you’re looking for an easy day escape, Rose Island and Blue Lagoon Island are a short boat ride from Downtown Nassau.
Grand Bahama
Although Freeport may have seen the height of its glory in 1960’s when it was home to a booming financial sector and shipping ports, it has still been able to maintain a lively feel since then. Freeport has casinos, nightlife and world-class dining competitive to Nassau. Where it differs from Nassau is the ability to escape into nature as soon as you venture outside the city. Discover national parks, secluded beaches, quaint fishing settlements, and below the surface – spectacular snorkeling and diving.
The Abacos
A haven for sailors and sports fishermen, The Abacos see regular visitors from neighboring Florida since it’s an easy weekend getaway, and increasingly popular are those on a winter long hiatus. Marsh Harbour, the third largest city in the country, offers all the amenities you might need. But as with all of the islands of the Abacos, there is a stoically maintained laid-back, barefoot vibe. Use Marsh Harbour as a starting point to explore the many islands and cays throughout the Abacos, each with their own unique charm.
Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells
With direct flights from the US, Eleuthera is one of the most accessible Out Islands, but feels a world away. The 110-mile-long island has charming settlements, natural sights and remote beaches. Skip over to Harbour Island by water taxi and cruise around in a golf cart while admiring the colorful colonial cottages along the picturesque harbor. Dine at some of the best restaurants in the country, overlooking the 3 mile stretch of Pink Sands Beach. Traditionally a fishing and lobstering village, Spanish Wells has seen major growth in recent years as the younger generation has caught onto tourism. Newly opened restaurants, bars and boutique accommodations make Spanish Wells the new “in” place to vacation.
The Exumas
If you want to get lost in the beauty of The Bahamas, head to The Exumas. Use Georgetown as your starting point to explore these beautiful and rugged islands. Fly into Staniel Cay to visit the famous swimming pigs, snorkel Thunderball Grotto and pet the friendly nurse sharks at neighboring Compass Cay. The best way to explore these islands is by boat, but don’t worry, boat rentals and excursions are readily available to show you around.
Bimini
Historically a far-removed outpost known exclusively as the Big Game Fishing Capital of The Bahamas, Bimini has recently seen a burst in economic development with the opening of Resorts World Bimini. The resort has a sizable marina that can accommodate mega-yachts, a casino and numerous dining options. Bimini is frequented by boaters from South Florida as well as a high speed cruise ship that runs several times per week bringing thousands of visitors. It’s home to the supposed Lost City of Atlantis, a popular dive site.
Andros
Andros is dotted with quaint fishing lodges that attract bonefishermen from across the globe and is a playground for the avid fisher- and huntsman. It’s home to the most blue holes in the country.
The Berry Islands
The Berry Islands are the perfect romantic escape for honeymooners and those looking for a relaxing holiday with no shortage of pristine, secluded beaches.
The Southern Bahamas
LONG ISLAND, CAT ISLAND, INAGUA, RUM CAY, SAN SALVADOR, MAYAGUANA, ACKLINS & CROOKED ISLAND
Due to their remoteness and sparse populations these islands tend to have a certain rustic charm and have become increasingly popular for visitors looking for an unconventional escape. Their proximity to the US allows visitors to get there relatively hassle-free. These places are for the more adventurous explorer looking to have an authentic experience of the real Bahamas. Travelers may be seeking natural attractions, historical sites, or simply pursuing peace and quiet on an untouched beach. Oftentimes the sense of disconnectedness is the primary lure. The residents are some of the friendliest and most welcoming in the country. Long Island is home to the famous Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s second largest known blue hole. Cat Island is known for historical landmarks, diving sites, and Mt. Alvernia – the highest point in The Bahamas. Inagua draws avian enthusiasts with its wide variety of birds, and most notably is home to the largest breeding colony of West Indian pink flamingos in the world.