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Bahamas Travel Guide: Dive Into Island Bliss and Turquoise Waters

Intro to Bahamas Travel Guide

Start planning your journey with our complete Bahamas Travel Guide — where powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and colorful island culture welcome you across 700 dreamy islands and cays in the heart of the Atlantic.

Bahamas tours offer more than beaches — discover hidden blue holes, swim with pigs, dance at Junkanoo parades, and uncover unforgettable things to do in the Bahamas on every shore and every tide.

Continent: North America (Caribbean region)
Country: The Bahamas
Area: 13,943 km² (comprised of 700+ islands and cays)
Population: ~400,000 (2024 est.)
Density: ~29 people/km²
Capital: Nassau (New Providence Island)
Regions/Subregions: New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco Islands, Exumas, Andros, Eleuthera, Bimini, Long Island, Cat Island, Berry Islands
Language(s): English (official), Bahamian Creole (spoken)
Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD), 1:1 with USD
Time Zone(s): Eastern Time (UTC–5; UTC–4 in summer)
Airports: NAS (Nassau), FPO (Freeport), MHH (Marsh Harbour), GGT (George Town), TCB (Treasure Cay), BIM (Bimini)
Climate: Tropical marine – warm, humid, with distinct wet and dry seasons
Known For: Pink sand beaches, turquoise waters, Exuma pigs, diving, Junkanoo festival, luxury resorts, island hopping

Visa-free entry for up to 90 days for travelers from the U.S., Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and many Caribbean and South American countries
Travelers must present proof of onward travel and accommodation
Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond stay
Visa required for select countries – check via Bahamas Immigration
No visa on arrival — apply in advance if required

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, COVID-19
Mosquito precautions are advised due to dengue and chikungunya risk
Nassau and Freeport have modern hospitals; outer islands have clinics with limited care
Emergency evacuations are possible to Florida or Nassau for serious cases
Visit CDC – The Bahamas for current advisories — get coverage here
Stay Informed with Official Updates: World Health Organization – International Travel and Health | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Global Travel Health

Refer to U.S. State Dept – Bahamas Travel Advisory
Current level: Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution due to crime in some areas of Nassau and Freeport
Most out-islands and resort zones are safe and peaceful
Seasonal hurricane threat: June to November – monitor weather forecasts
Stay Informed with Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice

New Year’s Day – January 1
Bahamas Independence Day – July 10
Emancipation Day – First Monday in August
Christmas Day – December 25
Boxing Day (Junkanoo) – December 26
Expect closures on major holidays, especially during Junkanoo celebrations

Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD); US Dollars accepted everywhere
ATMs available in major islands; bring cash to outer islands
Credit cards accepted at hotels and restaurants; cash preferred in smaller towns
Tipping: 10–15% standard, or check if gratuity is already added
Duty-Free Allowances (for returning travelers):
Alcohol: 1 liter
Tobacco: 200 cigarettes
U.S. citizens have special exemptions — check Bahamas Customs

Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) – Nassau, main international gateway
Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) – Freeport, Grand Bahama
Other regional airports:
MHH (Marsh Harbour, Abaco), GGT (George Town, Exumas), TCB (Treasure Cay), BIM (Bimini)
Inter-island flights via Bahamasair, Western Air, and charter providers

Taxis widely available in Nassau and Freeport (confirm fare before ride)
Left-side driving; rental cars available on most large islands
No Uber or rideshare services
Ferries and mail boats link islands – schedules vary
Domestic flights are common for island hopping
Golf carts and scooters are popular in places like Harbour Island and the Exumas

Mobile providers: BTC and ALIV — SIM cards available at airports and shops
Wi-Fi available in most hotels and cafes in Nassau and Freeport
Out-islands may have weaker signal and slower speeds
eSIM support available for newer phones; mobile data coverage good in major areas

Legal drinking age: 18
Dress modestly in towns and churches (cover swimwear)
Avoid beachwear in public spaces away from the coast
LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion outside tourist areas
Marijuana is illegal — possession is a criminal offense

Emergency Number: 919 or 911 (police, ambulance, fire)
Locate your embassy in The Bahamas
Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for boat tours, diving, and evacuation needs
Use a reliable travel insurance comparison site or affiliate provider

Tropical climate year-round
Dry season: December to April – best for travel
Wet season: May to November – includes hurricane season
Average temperatures: 24°C–32°C (75°F–90°F)
Best time to visit: December to April (low rain, peak season)
Forecast: Weather Forecast

Bahamas by Region – Where to Go

The Bahamas is divided into 16 main island groupings. Here’s a breakdown of where to explore, from iconic destinations to secluded gems:

New Providence

Nassau, Paradise Island
Home to the nation’s capital and largest airport, New Providence blends culture, nightlife, and luxury resorts. Visit the Queen’s Staircase, shop at Straw Market, or snorkel offshore reefs. Paradise Island’s Atlantis Resort is a world-famous family favorite.

Grand Bahama

Freeport, Lucaya, Gold Rock Beach
This northern island offers eco-parks, mangroves, and duty-free shopping. Kayak in Lucayan National Park or dive among reef caves and shipwrecks.

The Exumas

Great Exuma, Staniel Cay, Pig Beach
A chain of sapphire islands known for their sandbars and wild swimming pigs. Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park offers pristine snorkeling and marine life.

Eleuthera & Harbour Island

Governor’s Harbour, Pink Sands Beach, Glass Window Bridge
Laid-back and scenic, Eleuthera is known for dramatic cliffs and coastal roads. Harbour Island boasts pastel colonial homes and one of the world’s most beautiful pink sand beaches.

Abaco Islands

Marsh Harbour, Elbow Cay, Hope Town
A sailor’s paradise with protected harbors and charming villages. Perfect for boating, fishing, and island hopping.

Andros Island

Fresh Creek, Blue Holes National Park
The largest but least developed island — ideal for diving blue holes, bonefishing, and birdwatching. Authentic, wild, and uncrowded.

Bimini

North Bimini, Alice Town
Just 50 miles from Florida, Bimini is steeped in Hemingway lore. Expect sportfishing, shark dives, and dolphin encounters.

Cat Island

Mount Alvernia, Fernandez Bay
A soulful escape with Bahamian traditions, hiking trails, and tranquil beaches. Hike to the Hermitage atop the country’s highest point.

Long Island

Dean’s Blue Hole, Cape Santa Maria
Less touristy but stunning — visit the world’s second deepest blue hole, or kayak through limestone cliffs and calm bays.

The Berry Islands

Great Harbour Cay
Tiny islets with sandbars and secluded resorts. Great for yachting and romantic getaways.

Other regions include Ragged Island, Crooked Island, Acklins, Mayaguana, Inagua, and San Salvador — offering remote, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Top Places to Visit in the Bahamas

Cultural Capitals

Nassau: Colonial architecture, museums, Fort Charlotte, and lively festivals.
Harbour Island: Chic island lifestyle with colorful colonial streets and upscale dining.
Bimini: Hemingway’s former hangout, full of folklore and laid-back charm.

Nature Escapes

Andros Blue Holes: Hundreds of sinkholes and underwater cave systems.
Lucayan National Park (Grand Bahama): Explore mangrove trails and Gold Rock Beach.
Long Island: Bonefishing, hidden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Historic Sites

Fort Fincastle (Nassau): Panoramic views and pirate history.
Dunmore Town (Harbour Island): Bahamian heritage in pastel perfection.
San Salvador: Allegedly the first landfall of Columbus, home to ruins and monuments.

Islands & Beaches

Pig Beach (Exuma): Swim with the famous pigs of Big Major Cay.
Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island): A 3-mile blush-toned marvel.
Tropic of Cancer Beach (Little Exuma): Remote, untouched, postcard-perfect.

How to Choose Where to Go in the Bahamas

With hundreds of islands, choosing depends on your travel goals:

First-Timers & Families: Nassau and Paradise Island offer easy access, major resorts, and kid-friendly activities.
Beach Lovers: Head to Exumas, Eleuthera, or Long Island for powder-soft sand and remote shorelines.
Adventure Seekers: Dive Andros’ blue holes, kayak Grand Bahama’s mangroves, or kiteboard in Bimini.
Romantic Getaways: Opt for the Berry Islands, Cat Island, or Harbour Island’s boutique charm.
Cultural Exploration: Discover Junkanoo, island traditions, and local fare in Nassau, Bimini, and Eleuthera.

For an ideal island combo: Pair Nassau (culture and nightlife) with Exuma (beaches and adventure).

How to Get Around the Bahamas

Domestic Flights

Inter-island flights are frequent and essential. Bahamasair, Western Air, and Flamingo Air connect Nassau to most major islands.

Ferries

The Bahamas Fast Ferries (Baleària & Bahamas Ferries) run from Nassau to Harbour Island, Eleuthera, and Grand Bahama.

Boats & Charters

Charter boats, catamarans, and sailing tours are perfect for hopping through the Exumas, Abacos, and Berries.

Local Transport

Taxis are common on main islands (though unmetered). Rental cars and scooters are available, especially on Eleuthera and Long Island. Golf carts dominate Harbour Island.

Travel Budget & Costs in the Bahamas

Budget: $80–$130/day — budget guesthouses, street food, beach days
Mid-range: $180–$300/day — boutique hotels, island tours, domestic flights
Luxury: $400–$800+/day — 5-star resorts, yacht charters, private excursions

Sample Prices:

Fish fry dinner: $10–$18
Domestic flight: $80–$150 one-way
Resort night: $250–$600
Snorkel trip: $50–$100
Boat charter: $400–$1,000+

Savings Tips:
Travel during shoulder season (May–June or Sept–early Dec), stay in guesthouses, and eat where locals do (like Arawak Cay in Nassau).

Best Time to Visit the Bahamas

High Season (Dec–Apr)

Cool, dry, and breezy — peak for tourists and cruises. Book early for holidays and events like Junkanoo (Dec 26 & Jan 1).

Shoulder Season (May–June)

Warm, fewer crowds, and better deals. Occasional brief rain showers.

Low Season (July–Oct)

Hot and humid with hurricane risk — but great for discounts. Many resorts offer deals and upgrades.

Must-See Experiences in the Bahamas

Swim with pigs in Exuma — One of the Caribbean’s most iconic and surreal activities.
Snorkel Thunderball Grotto — A James Bond-famous cave filled with fish and glowing water.
Explore Lucayan National Park — Kayak through mangroves and visit Gold Rock Beach.
Eat conch salad on the beach — Fresh and fiery, it’s the Bahamas on a plate.
Discover blue holes on Andros — Mysterious and magical, ideal for divers and nature lovers.
Cruise to sandbars and sea turtles — Paddle around hidden cays with friendly marine life.
Celebrate Junkanoo — Street parades with vibrant costumes, music, and dance.
Watch flamingos at Inagua National Park — A birdwatcher’s paradise.
Relax on Pink Sands Beach — Soft blush-colored sand and turquoise sea.

Book immersive Bahamas tours and experience unforgettable things to do in the Bahamas — from swimming pigs and coral caves to island feasts and flamingo safaris.

Best Travel Itineraries in the Bahamas

5-Day Quick Escape

2 days in Nassau/Paradise Island
3 days in Exuma (day trip to Pig Beach & Thunderball Grotto)

7-Day Island Hopping

Nassau → Harbour Island → Eleuthera
Combine pink sands, quaint towns, and natural wonders

10-Day Adventure & Culture Trip

Nassau (2) → Andros (3) → Long Island (2) → Exuma (3)
Ideal for off-grid travelers, divers, and photographers

Local Cuisine & Culinary Experiences

Conch Salad: Ceviche-style raw conch mixed with citrus, onion, and pepper.
Cracked Conch: Breaded and fried — like seafood meets soul food.
Bahamian Stew Fish: Spicy tomato-based dish served with grits or johnnycake.
Rock Lobster: Grilled or curried, served fresh and sweet.
Peas & Rice: A national side dish found with nearly every meal.
Sky Juice: Coconut water, condensed milk, and gin — island-style punch.
Goombay Punch & Kalik Beer: Local favorites for casual sipping.

Try Arawak Cay Fish Fry in Nassau or join a local food tour in Exuma for the real flavors of the islands.

Travel Safety & Cultural Etiquette in the Bahamas

Safety: The Bahamas is generally safe, but use common sense in urban areas like Nassau after dark.
Weather: Hurricane season runs from June to November. Always check local forecasts before boating or flying.
Transport: Use official taxis or pre-arranged rides.
Etiquette:
- Greet with “Good day” or “Good evening”
- Dress modestly when not on the beach
- Tipping is expected (10–15% in restaurants)

Support local businesses and artisans — especially on family islands where tourism is the main livelihood.

Where to Go Next – Pair the Bahamas with These Destinations

Florida, USA: Just 50 miles from Bimini or an hour’s flight from Nassau — perfect for twin-city breaks.
Cuba: Combine Bahamian beaches with Havana’s old-world charm.
Turks & Caicos: Short hop across turquoise waters for upscale beaches and diving.
Jamaica: Easy regional flights for reggae rhythms and waterfall hikes.
Dominican Republic: Fly direct to Punta Cana or Santo Domingo for another island perspective.

Explore more:

Final Planning Checklist for the Bahamas

Choose 1–2 island groups based on your travel style and time
Book flights early — inter-island and international routes fill fast
Confirm boat tours or excursions in advance (especially Pig Beach and snorkeling trips)
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray
Download offline maps — Wi-Fi is limited on smaller islands
Get local currency (Bahamian dollar, pegged to USD) or use U.S. cash
Pack light but include sun gear, water shoes, and modest clothing for towns
Prepare for both luxury resort fees and off-grid adventures
Respect marine life and follow snorkeling/diving guidelines

Explore the Bahamas with confidence using our trusted tips, local insights, and region-by-region planning tools.

For more expert travel tips, practical strategies, and trusted tools — visit our Homepage and get inspired for your next trip.