From pink-sand beaches to vibrant Junkanoo festivals, The Bahamas is the ultimate island escape. Nestled in the Caribbean just southeast of Florida, this tropical paradise is made up of over 700 islands and cays, each offering its own flavour of sun-soaked charm.
Whether you’re sipping a cocktail on a white-sand beach, diving into the third-largest barrier reef in the world, or exploring colourful colonial towns, the Bahamas delivers on beauty, culture, and adventure. Rich in Afro-Caribbean heritage, British colonial history, and a laid-back rhythm of life, it’s no wonder this archipelago is on many travellers’ bucket lists.
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📍 Top Places to Visit:
- Nassau – The lively capital offering a mix of colonial history, shopping, and gorgeous beaches.
- Paradise Island – Home to the famous Atlantis Resort, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
- Exumas – Known for swimming pigs, sapphire waters, and secluded island escapes.
- Harbour Island – Famous for its pink sand beaches and chic island charm.
- Grand Bahama Island – Great for nature lovers, with national parks, mangroves, and dolphin encounters.
- Andros – A diver’s paradise with the world’s third-largest barrier reef.
- Eleuthera – Peaceful and scenic, ideal for couples and quiet getaways.
- Blue Holes National Park – Unique underwater sinkholes and nature trails.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
- December to April – Peak season with warm, dry weather — perfect for beach holidays.
- May to November – More affordable and less crowded, though it’s also hurricane season (especially August to October).
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is 1:1 with USD. US dollars are widely accepted.
- The Bahamas can be pricey, especially in tourist hubs – consider staying on less-developed islands or booking all-inclusive packages for better value.
- Street food and local eateries (called “fish frys”) offer cheaper, delicious meals.
- Ferries or domestic flights between islands can add up – plan ahead if island-hopping.
🧳Good For:
Honeymooners and romantic getaways.
Beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Luxury travellers seeking high-end resorts.
Divers and snorkelers wanting world-class reef experiences.
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
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Conch Salad – Fresh conch (a type of shellfish) diced and marinated with citrus, peppers, and onions.
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Cracked Conch – Deep-fried and served with spicy dipping sauce.
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Rock Lobster – Often grilled and butter-drenched, a local delicacy.
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Peas n’ Rice – A traditional side dish of pigeon peas cooked with rice and spices.
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Guava Duff – Rolled guava pastry drenched in sweet rum sauce.
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Johnny Cake – A dense Bahamian bread, perfect as a snack or breakfast bite.
✈️ How to Get There:
Major Airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau.
Direct flights are available from London (seasonal), New York, Miami, and other major North American cities.
Ferries and domestic flights connect the main islands if you’re planning to explore beyond Nassau or Paradise Island.
🚍 Getting Around:
Taxis are common but can be expensive; always agree on a price beforehand.
Jitneys (shared minibuses) operate in Nassau and are a cheap way to get around.
Rental cars and scooters are available on many islands – remember, they drive on the left!
Ferries and water taxis operate between nearby islands.
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette
- Language: English is the official language.
- Bahamians are warm and friendly – a smile and polite greeting go a long way.
- Tipping is expected (around 15%); some restaurants include it in the bill.
- Swimwear is for the beach – cover up when walking around towns or shops.
- Sundays are important family and church days; expect a slower pace and some closures.
My Bahamas Highlights
I visited the Bahamas in the month of April for four unforgettable nights after a trip to Cuba, and I can honestly say – it blew me away. I stayed on Paradise Island in Nassau, and it really did feel like paradise. The white sand, turquoise sea, and laid-back island vibes were everything I hoped for (and more).
I based myself at the Comfort Suites Hotel, right across from the famous Atlantis Resort. The best part? Our stay included free access to Atlantis Waterpark – a childhood dream come true! I spent hours floating along lazy rivers, slipping down waterslides, and exploring the resort’s many pools and aquariums.
One of my favourite spots was Cabbage Beach – just steps away from the hotel. With its powdery white sand and peaceful atmosphere, it was the perfect place to unwind and watch the sun set over the water.
But the real highlight of my trip was the day tour to Pig Beach. While I didn’t make it to the famous one in Exuma (next time!), I took a boat trip to a closer location where I still got to swim with the pigs and it was just as magical as it sounds. The tour also included snorkelling stops in crystal-clear water, a delicious lunch on board, and plenty of time to soak up the views.
The Bahamas isn’t the cheapest place I’ve visited, so be prepared to spend a little more, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. From the beaches to the boat tours, it was a dream trip, and I’d love to return one day to explore more of the islands.
You’ll find a selection of top-rated tours and experiences in The Bahamas below – from swimming with pigs in the Exumas to food tastings, island-hopping boat cruises, and snorkelling adventures.
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