bahamas travel video

Bahamas Travel Guide

Your ultimate bahamas travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in the bahamas. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahamas is a country in the Lucayan Archipelago of the Caribbean.

Consisting of 700 islands, it makes a dream (and popular) vacation. Stay at one of the many resorts and walk on white (and pink) sand beaches, dive and snorkel in underwater limestone caves, kayak in the ocean, swim with pigs, feast on great seafood, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. There are many things to see and do in the Bahamas.

This Bahamas travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Fast Facts about Bahamas

• Power voltage is 120 V at 60 Hz.
• The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar and 1 Bahamian Dollar is equal to 1 USD. U.S. Dollars are accepted in the Bahamas, though the change will usually be in Bahamian Dollars.
• The best way to get around is by bus.
• To enter, you will need a U.S. passport. A visa is not required if your stay is under 30 days.
•  BTC and aliv are the main mobile provider and a prepaid SIM card can be purchased through any of them. You can find a SIM card at the company’s official store, the airport, or local supermarkets.
• The sales tax rate is 12%.

Things to See and Do in Bahamas

• Thunderball Grotto:  Diving fans will love this underwater cave in Staniel Cay.Featured in two James Bond films (“Thunderball” and “Never Say Never Again”), this site has great marine life like angel fish, coral reefs, and yellow-tail snappers, making it perfect for diving or snorkeling.
• Lucayan National Park:  This 40-acre national park is a great day trip.With an underwater limestone cave system (one of the largest in the world), nature trails, and the spectacular Rock Island Beach, there is plenty to do here.
• Pig Beach:  See something different at this uninhabited island that features pigs.Swim with the pigs in the water and take some fun photos.
• Nassau Straw Market:  If shopping is your thing, head down to this popular flea market. Open daily between 7:30 AM to 5 PM, this market has great handmade crafts like straw hats, conch shell jewelry, wood carvings, and dolls, as well as souvenirs.
• Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre:  See pink flamingos, parrots, rabbits, Madagascar lemurs, and more at Ardastra. The only zoo in the Bahamas, it makes a great trip for the whole family.

Bahamas Travel Guides

• Exuma Cays – Dream Trip to the Bahamas
• Thunderball Grotto – James Bond in the Exuma Cays
• The Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find prices for budget hotels in the range of 80 to 200 Bahamian Dollars per night. Enjoy private rooms, free Wi-Fi, good locations, an outdoor pool, and free breakfast.

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels and resorts, expect to pay between 200 to 350 Bahamian Dollars per night. These hotels typically come with private rooms with ocean views, outdoor pools with lounge areas, a restaurant and bar, beach access, fitness areas, diving and snorkeling facilities, and more.

High-End:  Upscale hotels can range from 350 to 950 Bahamian Dollars and beyond.

Take in the best with top-of-the-line hospitality, private suites with flat screen TVs and balconies, multiple fine dining options serving a variety of cuisines, babysitting services, kid clubs, casinos, golf courses, spa services, and more. For those traveling without kids, you can also find many adult-only resorts.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation in The Bahamas

Food : Bahamian cuisine favors seafood (such as crab, lobster, and fish), tropical fruit, rice, potatoes, pigeon peas (a type of legume), and pork. Conch (sea snail) is considered the national dish.

Pigeon peas and rice is a popular side dish for meals, as is baked crab (with the crab baked inside of its shell and served with an egg). When out and about, you can look for street vendors that serve items like conch fritters (fried conch) or tropical fruit smoothies. 

The Bahamas also has a variety of restaurants where you can sample authentic Bahamian cuisine. Expect to pay around 20 Bahamian Dollars per meal for most restaurants, or about 70 Bahamian Dollars for more expensive places.

The Best Ways to Get Around Bahamas

Getting to bahamas:.

Getting to the Bahamas:  The Lynden Pindling International Airport is the main airport to fly into and is located in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. The Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport (found on the Grand Bahama Island in the northwest Bahamas) is another popular one.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to The Bahamas on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Boat/Ferries:  Boats are available in Nassau and Paradise Island regions daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Fares come at 3 Bahamian Dollars.

Bus:  Buses are a cheap way to get around, with a typical fare being 1.25 Bahamian Dollars. You can find a bus by going to a bus stop or waving one down.

Taxis:  Taxis are a good way to get around and are generally metered, especially in major areas like Nassau and Freeport. Take a taxi ride from the Lynden Pindling International Airport to downtown Nassau, for example, for about 30 Bahamian Dollars. Cash only.

Rent a car:  To rent a car, you need to be at least 25 years old and have a U.S. driver’s license. Some places may rent to you if you are under 25, but there will be additional charges. Prices start at around 80-100 Bahamian Dollars per day.

You can also compare rental car prices  prices here

When to go To Bahamas

• The best time to go depends on your budget and what you hope to do in the Bahamas. For the cheapest airline tickets, go in January. If you want to see the Bahamas in their peak, go between December and April. For cheaper rates on hotels and fewer tourists, you can go in the fall, though be warned that hurricane season is between June and November and the weather can be more humid than in the spring.

Where to Stay in Bahamas

Sandyport Beach Resort:   When in Nassau, stay at this top-rated hotel. Just minutes from numerous beaches, including a lagoon beach, this resort is known for its relaxing vibe. Choose from a variety of rooms (standard to three-bedroom suite) and enjoy amenities like a basketball court and tennis court, three swimming pools (including a kiddie pool with water slides), diving and fishing facilities, and the hotel restaurant. The Sandyport Marina Village, perfect for shopping, is close by.

Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach :  Just a quick trip to Lucaya beach and the Taino Beach, come stay at this all-inclusive resort in Freeport. Featuring its own private beach, this resort has numerous things to do. Swim in the outdoor pool, visit the high-tech fitness center, play some tennis, take a Caribbean dance lesson, relax in the jacuzzi, and enjoy nightly live entertainment, among other things.

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas :  Adults 16 years and older will love this adults-only hotel in Paradise Island. An all-inclusive resort that features a 10,000 square foot harbor terrace that oversees beautiful harbor marinas, as well as the hotel’s private beach, this is sure to be a great getaway. The numerous amenities include the fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool with poolside bar, a game room, massage services, karaoke, bicycle rentals, and nightly entertainment.

What to Pack for Bahamas

• Swimsuit:  With so many beaches to explore, make sure to pack a swimsuit.
• Sunscreen:  Protect your skin from the beautiful sun with some sunscreen.
• Lightweight clothing:  As the weather is hot all year, bring some lightweight clothing to keep you comfortable.

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Bahamas Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Bahamas Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Bahamas Click Here

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to the Bahamas

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this travel editor–curated Bahamas guide.

• Best Hotels and Resorts
• Best Things to Do
• Best Restaurants

Best Times to Visit

How to get there, what islands to visit, getting around.

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas is an archipelago stretched out across 500 miles of the Atlantic Ocean. With turquoise waters , warm, salty breezes, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with fun-loving locals, it’s a well-favored Caribbean island destination — perhaps especially for those living along the eastern seaboard, which is connected to the Bahamas via abundant direct flights. Even if you are coming from farther away, this island chain is worth the journey. 

“We have always been known for our beautiful beaches and weather; I'm glad that more travelers want to experience something even more valuable than that — the Bahamian people,” Kya Nguyen told Travel + Leisure. Nguyen is a local tour guide who can trace her family’s island lineage back several generations. In fact, her last name has been linked to Blackbeard’s crew. 

“People also love and appreciate our nature and wildlife. Guests always remark on the curly tailed lizards, and my young pineapples are a favorite photo opp,” Nguyen added. Another sight Nguyen says to prioritize? "Junkanoo, a uniquely Bahamian street parade celebrating music, dance, and freedom. There are parades and events throughout the islands that hold a similar name — Jonkonnu in Jamaica, John Canoe in Belize. But there's only one Bahamian Junkanoo experience, and it's on Bay Street [in Nassau].”

From world-class resorts and famed spots like Pink Sand Beach to family-friendly accommodations at Atlantis on Paradise Island, every inch of the Bahamas is an inch to explore. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a trip to the Bahamas .

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Atlantis is one of the most popular resorts in the Bahamas and includes the 141-acre Aquaventure water park, a casino, a golf course, and more.
• Graycliff is a five-star dining experience set in an 18th-century mansion.
• Lucayan National Park boasts impressive wildlife and fun activities, including kayaking through its mangrove trees.
• Check out the Anchor Bay Fish Fry, held every Friday, for deliciously fried fish and other local dishes.
• Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island is the perfect Instagram spot, with pink sand made from seashells and microscopic organisms called foraminifera.

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Atlantis on paradise island.

Atlantis is one of the most popular resorts in the Bahamas — Prince William and Kate Middleton even spent the night here during their tour of the Caribbean. There are five different hotels on the massive property, so guests can choose the vibe that's right for them. 

Baha Mar on the island of New Providence is one of the beloved (and convenient) resort options for those flying into Nassau, as it's a short drive from the airport. The 1,000-acre luxury resort is home to three different luxury hotels, plus 15 acres of private beachfront for guests to enjoy, and a new waterpark. Baha Mar also has satellite properties on other islands, including Bimini and Harbour Island.

Kamalame Cay, Bahamas

T+L readers voted Kamalame Cay one of their favorite hotels in the 2022 World’s Best Awards, likely thanks to the property's sense of solitude. One reader noted that the 96-acre resort isn’t exactly easy to get to, but relaxing in a beachfront villa without another soul in sight makes the trek worthwhile.

Best Things to Do 

Hit the beach.

You will surely spend some time at the beach if you've come to the Bahamas. Luckily, all of the Bahamian islands have beautiful beaches to choose from. If we had to suggest a specific one, it would be the highly photogenic Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island. This three-mile stretch of soft, pink sand — which gets its color from seashells and microscopic organisms called foraminifera — is a place to go for total relaxation. Bring a book, or just plan on spending your time staring at your gorgeous surroundings in total awe. 

Charter a boat

Get out and experience the azure waters surrounding the Bahamas by booking a day trip on a boat, or chartering a private vessel with a captain who will happily lead you on a dive or snorkel adventure. Deep-sea fishing excursions are also available via chartered boat.

Get a day pass to Atlantis

You don't have to be an overnight guest to experience the fun that Atlantis resort has to offer. All you need to do is purchase a day pass, and you'll have access to the thrilling 141-acre Aquaventure water park , which includes pools, beaches, a rapid river, and waterslides. If that's not enough, try your luck in the casino, play a round of golf, or have a meal at one of multiple on-site restaurants.

Explore a national park

Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island is another must-see spot. Here, visitors can kayak through mangroves or simply go for a stroll, spotting local flora and fauna.

Read More: 21 Best Things to Do in The Bahamas — Snorkeling, Island Hopping, and Rum Sipping Included

Best Restaurants 

For a five-star dining experience, book a table at Graycliff , an upscale restaurant set in an 18th-century mansion on West Hill Street in Nassau. Expect conch soup and lobster, plus plenty of freshly caught fish.   

Anchor Bay Fish Fry

For a more low-key dining experience, head to Anchor Bay in Governor's Harbour for its beloved fish fry. The event is held every Friday and includes plates of fried fish and other local delicacies. 

Travelers will have one more meal to dress up for at Dune , located at The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort. With a menu by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, expect delicious offerings like yellowfin tartare, shrimp satay, and roasted grouper with lime chili sauce. 

Peak season lasts from mid-December to mid-April, when the weather is at its most glorious. This is also when crowds descend on the islands, so you'll have to contend with higher prices and other tourists.

It never gets much colder than 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the Bahamas, so there's not really a "bad" time to visit. Do keep in mind that the Atlantic hurricane season stretches from June to November, though, which is worth considering when you're booking your trip.

The summer months are also rainy, but there will be fewer visitors and more affordable rates. Tourist numbers dip lowest in September and October, so plan a trip during these months if you want to visit the Bahamas when crowds are at their thinnest.

Read More: The Best Times to Visit The Bahamas for Fewer Crowds, Lower Prices, and More

Plenty of travelers fly into the Caribbean — there are 20 international airports across the islands, with regularly scheduled flights from around the world. Nassau is the most connected destination, while getting to the Out Islands can be a bit more complicated (though totally worth it). Your flight to the Out Islands will probably connect via Nassau. Private charters are a popular option, too.

Cruises might be the most common way to get to the Bahamas. Most cruise lines stop in the Bahamas along their Caribbean routes , and some brands even have private islands in the archipelago, including Disney Cruise Line ( Castaway Cay ); Carnival Cruise Line ( Half Moon Cay ); Norwegian Cruise Line ( Great Stirrup Cay ); Princess Cruises (Princess Cays); MSC Cruises ( Ocean Cay — MSC Marine Reserve ); and Royal Caribbean International ( Perfect Day at CocoCay ). Virgin Voyages has a private destination on Bimini called the Beach Club at Bimini , and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville brand has a Margaritaville at Sea cruise ship that sails from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island on a regular basis.

There are more than 700 islands in the Bahamas, and while visiting them all is a lofty goal, it's reasonable to see a few during one trip. “Visit one of the 30 other inhabited islands outside of Nassau," Nguyen says. "If you’ve only ever been to Nassau, you haven’t seen all the Bahamas has for you.”

Here are a few islands to consider for your itinerary. 

Grand Bahama: A visit to Grand Bahama means getting to experience the archipelago's best outdoor adventures. Snorkeling and diving guides lead aquatic adventures here, and land lovers can relax on famed beaches like Lucaya Beach and Gold Rock Beach. Grand Bahama is also home to Lucayan National Park, which means there is plenty of wildlife spotting to do, too. 

Harbour Island: Those looking for an enchanting and colorful experience need not look further than Harbour Island. This is where visitors will find Insta-famous, pastel-colored homes shaded by palm trees. There are gorgeous beaches here, too, Pink Sand Beach is certainly the most famous.

Exumas: Another Insta-famous destination, Exumas is where you'll find friendly pigs swimming in the sea, and they're eager for you to come and say hello. If you're sticking around on this island, dig your umbrella into the sand at Coco Plum Beach. 

New Providence Island : You can't really skip New Providence, as it’s home to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas and the most common gateway to the islands. Urban hustle and bustle meets serene island escapism in this city, and in all the right ways. Leave time to explore the museums and beaches, and spend a night on the town to feel the city's energy after dark.

Rental car: If you plan to stay on one island for a while, book a rental car so you can get around with ease. Options are abundant at the airport in Nassau, including known brands like Avis, Hertz, and Budget. See all the options here . 

Taxi: Taxi services will get you from point A to point B, and rates are fixed by the government , so it's easy to estimate your fare. Ride-shares like Uber and Lyft do not operate on the island. But, if you want to schedule a ride, try the local Let’s Go Bahama app .

Intra-island flights: There are both scheduled intra-island flights and chartered flights available throughout the Bahamas. Bahamasair offers routes between Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbor in Abacos, and Nassau to Great Exuma. Other airline options for getting around the islands include Flamingo Air and Western Air. See all flight options here .  

Ferry: There are several ferry and water taxi services available throughout the Bahamas to transport guests from one island to another. For example, Green Turtle Ferry services the Abaco Islands, with scheduled service between Green Turtle Cay, New Plymouth, and Treasure Cay on Great Abaco, while Bahamas Ferries offers connections between Long Island and Georgetown, Exuma, or Nassau. See all ferry options here . 

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Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in the Bahamas

By Mariette Williams

Just a one-hour flight from Miami , the Bahamas is a popular spot for first-time travelers to the Caribbean or seasoned travelers who want to venture to the tranquil, less visited Out Islands. I’ve been visiting the Bahamas for two decades, first with my husband and eventually with our two kids. Over the years, I’ve rushed in the annual Junkanoo parade, eaten the island's specialty conch fritters , and visited nearly deserted beaches—discovering something new with each visit.

Though the Bahamas is made up of over 700 islands, most hotels and restaurants are concentrated on just a few. New Providence is home to 70 percent of the population, and its capital, Nassau, is the epicenter of the country’s tourism and entertainment. But venture beyond Nassau and you’ll find pink sand beaches on Harbour Island, a 600-foot-deep blue hole on Long Island, and swimming pigs on Exumas’ Big Major Cay.

With gorgeous stretches of sand, a mix of charming hotels and sprawling resorts, and a top-notch food scene, here are the best places to go in the Bahamas.

Bon Vivants Bar and Cafe has a 30-page cocktail menu

The maximalist restaurant serves unpretentious food—think empanadas and jerk chicken bao

Where to eat

Like its neighboring islands, the Bahamas specializes in fresh seafood, particularly conch. If your stay includes Nassau, head to Fish Fry at Arawak Cay , a cluster of restaurants and beachside shacks serving up conch fritters, fried snapper, and grilled shrimp—go-to's are Twin Brothers and Goldie’s Conch House. Don’t leave without ordering Sky Juice (also known as Gully Wash), a refreshing mix of gin, coconut water, and a splash of sweetened condensed milk.

In downtown Nassau, Graycliff Hotel’s appeal is its historic roots. Built in 1740, the private home is now a boutique hotel and restaurant. But we're here to talk about the food: There’s a show-stopping wine cellar with over 250,000 bottles and white-gloved lunch and dinner service of traditional Bahamian dishes like snapper and conch soup.

Bon Vivants Bar and Cafe is another can't-miss spot. Opened in 2019, this spot has a Caribbean maximalist vibe with wall-to-wall tropical jungle print wallpaper and over 400 bottles of spirits on display. Located in Nassau’s Sandyport neighborhood, the bar has a 30-page cocktail menu and serves mostly finger foods—think empanadas and jerk chicken bao buns—listed alongside wine pairings.

On Harbour Island, Rockhouse Restaurant shares a moniker with its hotel and has a coveted terrace with stunning bay views. Local stone crab claws and spinach pasta with prawns round out the menu, but the waterfront restaurant is known for its sunset-hued Goombay Smash—a mix of spiced and coconut rums, brandy, and pineapple and orange juices.

Dean’s Blue Hole on Long Island is the second-deepest blue hole in the world, with a 660-foot depth.

Best things to do in the Bahamas

The Educulture Junkanoo Museum and Junkanoo World in Nassau are two museums essential for understanding the country’s most exciting cultural celebration. The end-of-year parade commemorates the three days of rest given to enslaved Africans and has evolved into a midnight extravaganza complete with floats, intricate costumes, dance troupes, and 100-member instrumental bands. Both museums have past Junkanoo costumes on display, and the local owners are often on the premises to share their stories.

Along with the pastel Victorian homes, other relics from slavery and British colonial rule still exist in New Providence. Located off Bay Street in Nassau, Pompey Square—named after an enslaved African who led a successful revolt—marks the site where enslaved Africans were unloaded from ships. Today, the square serves as a live music venue and open-air craft market. Adjacent to the market, make sure to stop at The Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation to check out its rotating exhibits that tell the story of slavery in the Bahamas.

Continue the history lesson at the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas . Established in 1966, its contemporary installations are displayed beside vibrant landscape paintings and sculptures, and the gallery also has guided tours and interactive activities for kids. Once you're ready for some fresh Bahamian air, head to Fort Fincastle . Built in 1793 to protect Nassau from pirates, it's set on Bennet Hill—the highest spot on New Providence—and has sweeping views of Nassau and Paradise Island. Just steps away, the Queen's Staircase is a 66-step stairwell named after Queen Victoria that was hand-chiseled out of limestone by hundreds of enslaved Africans.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Pig’s Beach on Big Major Cay is popular with adventure seekers. The uninhabited island is home to a herd of wild pigs who gather in the shallow waters for fresh fruit and photo ops. Divers and snorkelers also flock to Dean’s Blue Hole on Long Island, and at 660 feet deep, it’s the second deepest blue hole in the world.

If you’re visiting Grand Bahama, the 40-acre Lucayan National Park , home to one of the largest underground cave systems in the world, is a must-visit. If this is on your itinerary, it’s recommended to only explore the caves with a tour guide.

Eleuthera Island is another stop on the never-ending list of natural beauty hot spots that dot the islands. Here, travelers can check out a collection of natural pools called the Queen’s Bath that were carved by natural rock formations. The hot tub-like pools are reachable via a steep hike, but because of the surrounding jagged rocks, it’s recommended to only venture to the pools during low tide.

The Cove at Atlantis Paradise Island is an all-suite property with living rooms overlooking the water.

Where to stay

New Providence has plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from. The 1,000-acre Baha Mar includes three different hotels (Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood) all set on a prime strip of Cable Beach. The resort complex amenities include a waterpark, golf course, and over 45 restaurants and lounges. You’ll have to cross a bridge from Providence Island to get to Atlantis, Paradise Island , but you’ll spot the iconic coral towers long before you arrive. The mammoth beachfront resort is a self-contained entertainment ecosystem with five different hotels, a casino, 40 restaurants and lounges (many are celebrity chef restaurants), 14 pools, and an iconic water park. The resort complex can be overstimulating, but booking a stay at The Cove or The Reef properties provides a quieter getaway while still maintaining access to the vast amenities.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

For something a little more secluded try The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort. The upscale 107-guestroom hotel has a golf course, butler service, and direct beach access. The property also has a Versailles-inspired garden, and DUNE —the latter serves some of the best seafood on the island.

The Cove, Eleuthera is another quiet haven for travelers, where stylish villas and suites open up onto the serene turquoise waters. The natural, untamed island is also home to thriving pineapple farms, friendly locals, and slinky white sand beaches.

One of the Bahama's best hideaways is Pink Sands Harbor Island, a 70-year-old tropical sanctuary set on an island only three miles long. With only 25 charming cottages and villas on a swath of pink sand beach, the hotel is a respite for travelers wanting barefoot luxury.

And if you're looking for something even more out of the way, Kamalame Cay located off of Andros Island has 22 oceanfront cottages and villas, and the hotel can only be reached by flight from Andros or by private seaplane. Inside, the breezy living spaces have exposed beam ceilings, natural wood floors and furniture, and whitewashed walls adorned with nautical-themed art.

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Bahamas Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Vacation

Looking for an unforgettable island vacation? Here are our top Bahamas travel tips.

From the moment you start flying around the Bahamas, you’re already start falling in love. I have looked out of the airplane window many times, but the play of shapes and colors, shades and light effects when you travel to this group of islands is a work of art of nature and truly breathtaking.

The 700 islands of varying sizes and population, made up of coral reefs, nestle naturally in the brilliant turquoise-blue of the Atlantic Ocean.

Also check out: Best Beach Bars in The Abacos, Bahamas

Exploring the capital of the Bahamas: Nassau

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is located on New Providence Island . Almost every Bahamas trip starts here, as the main airport Nassau Lynden Pindling is also located here.

What is there to discover in Nassau?

Wonderful colorful houses adorn the streets of the city.

Very close to the Bahamas Historical Society Museum , where you can learn about the history of the Bahamas, on Elisabeth Avenue is The Queen’s Staircase , an important landmark of the city.

The 66 steps carved in limestone lead up to the water tower on Bennett`s Hill . Especially in the morning you can walk up here in peace and in the midday heat the walls surrounding the staircase provide some shade. A really special place and very idyllic because of the waterfall that flows right next to the stairs. Once at the top, there is also a viewpoint nearby with great views over the city.

At the beach of Nassau you can really find typical Caribbean beach feeling. At the huts around the Tiki Bikini Hut at Junkanoo Beach many locals meet during the day and in the evening. Caribbean music is playing and the atmosphere is mega relaxed.

Walking along Junkanoo Beach , you come to the famous Fish Fry , a collection of restaurants where you can eat the best “ Conch Fritters ” or “ Conch Salads ” on the island, among many other typical island dishes. Conch means sea snail and is a delicacy in the Bahamas.

The Oh Andros restaurant in particular was recommended to us by locals on the beach, but Trudy’s also offers a warm welcome.

Also below the docks, across the bridge that leads from Nassau to Paradise Island, there are a number of stalls offering very tasty food for fair prices. Which is more than can be said for the touristy places on Paradise Island. Here, you rather have the feeling that they double the price everywhere.

Straw Market, Nassau

In the heart of Nassau there is the famous and very touristy Straw Market . The wood carvings offered there are wonderful and the straw bags and straw work are also enchanting.

But you can really hardly go through in peace without being spoken to very violently from all sides. I think it is a big misunderstanding that a traveler who wants to buy something is only interested in the price.

He wants to look but first and foremost in peace and get involved with the preciousness’s and only then make a choice, which is so very difficult.

Music and festivals in the Bahamas

Just like the famous beach, the most famous music style in the Bahamas is called Junkanoo . It goes back to African influences. It is said that an African tribal leader brought Junkanoo with him when he came to the Bahamas as a slave.

Every year starting on December 26, the Junkanoo Festival or Junkanoo Carnival is celebrated. There is a parade on that day and on January 1 with colorfully costumed dance groups, lots of music and unusual sounds, such as cowbells, goatskin drums or whistles.

From June to August, there is even a Junkanoo Summer Festival every weekend. This colorful and joyful festival is not to be missed.

If you travel outside these times, you can visit Junkanoo World to get an impression of the wonderful costumes and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this typical festival.

Culture in the Bahamas

When you talk intensively with the islanders, you learn a lot about what is close to your heart. The typical food, the view of the sea, the family, the music and the religion. There are an incredible number of churches in the Bahamas and most of the believers are Baptists. Beachguard Anna, for example, tells me that their culture is very similar to that of Trinidad, which historically dates back to the time of the slave trade.

The Bahamas flag has been around for 50 years, ever since the Bahamas became independent. It tells the story of the yellow of the sun, the blue of the sea and the dark skin of the people who live there.

The Bahamas are located off the coast of Florida, which is why they are the vacation paradise of many US Americans.

What I noticed: Many of the tourists have a very arrogant attitude towards the islanders and employees, which is why they in turn seem somewhat jaded towards tourists at first. But as soon as they realize that you are not one of those tourists who are only looking for artificiality and luxury on the islands, but are genuinely interested in the people and their culture, they are incredibly warm and open.

Waterworld in the Bahamas

Our cab driver John, for example, is very enthusiastic about Long Island and recommends it for our next trip. Cat Island is also wonderful.

Did you know that you can swim with pigs in the Bahamas ?

We didn’t and instead went to the Blue Project on Paradise Island with its rays, sea turtles, sawfish and sharks. For adrenaline action there is also the famous Aquaventure waterpark of the huge Atlantis Hotel.

For $135 USD, you can spend a whole day there even without booking a hotel and experience the many slides in the dark from the Maya Temple, the “ Challenger ” slide with timer or the “ Leap of Faith ” free-fall slide through the shark tank .

The opposite of this man-made action world is Cabbage Beach , also on Paradise Island. It’s a fantastic place for an evening stroll on the beach. Even after sunset, the warm sea still gently laps your feet and you want to keep walking until it gets dark.

It was a short trip to the Bahamas, which we have added to our Florida round trip . And makes you want more…especially I want to see more of the sea.

Next time we stay longer and discover a few more beautiful places there.

I love to laugh, live and give! Values are important to me. People, countries and cultures fascinate me endlessly. And children make my heart beat faster.

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Videos: Bahamas Travel and Vacation Videos – Bahamas-Travel.info

Videos: Bahamas Travel and Vacation Videos – Bahamas-Travel.infoBahamas Travel Videos

Millions of tourists visit The Bahamas every year and many of them take back memories in the form of vacation videos. Maybe, because just about anywhere you point your camera in The Bahamas, you’ll get a picture perfect view. Even Aunt Millicent looks great sitting on a beach in Abaco at sunset. We have gathered together some of the best Bahamas vacation and travel videos we could find, including some we made ourselves, and put them all here on this page for your viewing pleasure. Bookmark this page to stay tuned, we update this page often.

This is an amateur video taken at the Bahamas International Cultural Festival.

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Best of Nassau Bahamas in 4 Days Solo Travel

Launching your 4 days in Nassau Bahamas solo travel adventure could not be easier without this incredible Nassau itinerary. Have the opportunity to lounge on white, expansive beaches, enjoying activities in crystal clear waters, indulging in local cuisine and tropical cocktails while absorbing the warm, local hospitality. Markets, tastings, and tours await you in Nassau with this Nassau 4 day itinerary that has all you need to book and go. Let’s dive in!

As you’ll notice from the tips throughout , this Nassau itinerary is intentionally written for the first time Bahamas solo traveler and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been traveling solo FOREVER). Yet, anyone can use this Nassau itinerary it to plan and book a 4 day Nassau adventure.

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This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

All You Need for This 4 Day Bahamas Itinerary

Ultimate nassau bahamas travel guide video, 5 must dos in nassau video, nassau travel packing essentials, day 1 – fish fry, wildlife & rum tasting, day 2 – under the sea & paradise island, day 3 – sea turtles, brews & casinos, day 4 – junkanoo beach, food tour & shopping, download this nassau 4 day itinerary in a pdf.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book these perfect four days in Nassau. I even give you my suggested Nassau downtown hotel as a wonderful, sustainable and budget friendly option for Nassau solo travel.

As Nassau is a pricey vacation destination, I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in this Nassau, Bahamas travel itinerary and get the best Nassau travel deals.

Cheap Flights to Nassau

One-Way Private To/From Airport Transfer

Roundtrip Shared Airport Transfer

Jitney Schedule

Suggested Downtown / Budget Nassau Hotel

Best Nassau Downtown Hotels & Resorts

Suggested Downtown Nassau Hostel

Best Paradise Island Hotels & Resorts

Suggested Paradise Island Budget Hotel

Nassau Bites and Sites Food & Cultural Tour

Green Cay Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Morning SCUBA / SNUBA Adventure

Why You Don’t Need a Nassau Rental Car on This Itinerary

Being an island, you’ll find that renting a car is popular. However, you don’t need to rent a car in Nassau to get around, especially on this Nassau itinerary. If you don’t know how to drive on the left-hand side of the road, renting a car should be avoided.

If you stay at the suggested downtown hotel or other downtown location, you can rely on walking, taxis or the public bus (The Jitney) to save money from taxis, and water taxis for most of your transportation needs.

Discover Nassau visually while learning the 15 things to know before you go to Nassau , from getting there, getting around, the best time to go, where to stay, top things to do in Nassau, Nassau budget tips, and more to plan your first time travel to Nassau.

If you’re a first-time traveler to The Bahamas, also use my ultimate Bahamas Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

Book Your Flight to Nassau Early to Save Money

Yep, you will get to do all of these must do Nassau activities in this Nassau Bahamas 4 Day Itinerary. Watch this Nassau video and get inspired to start booking your solo trip to Nassau.

Want more Nassau video inspiration, check out the Top 10 Things to Do in Nassau .

Here some ideal Nassau travel essentials to make your Bahamas solo travel easier, if not more eco-friendly.

Your 4 Days in Nassau

On New Providence Island, Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas, a country comprising of 700 islands that span 100,000 square miles across the Caribbean Sea. Since its founding by the British in 1670, Nassau has been burnt down, rebuilt, renamed and colonized, been the center of wars, pirates, slavery, international trade, and tourism.

The “gateway to The Bahamas”, New Providence and Paradise Island offer not just world-class resorts, award-winning beaches, colorful marine wildlife, and epic outdoor and water sports. Part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Nassau also holds art, culture, history, cuisine, festivals, shopping, and friendly locals.

Get ready to explore Nassau and realize why it is the ideal vacation destination for tropical paradise, relaxation, and diversity of exciting activities.

This 4 Day Itinerary Pro Tips

This itinerary assumes:

• Staying near downtown, as in my suggested Nassau downtown hotel to capture activities by foot and reduce taxi costs.
• Arriving no later than 11am to be able to start same day.
• Traveling in the peak season for longest daylight hours and the best weather for walking and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Walking considerably on concrete, dirt paths and beaches. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is ideal.

After checking in, or checking bags, at your hotel, walk to Arawak Cay to enjoy a fish fry lunch and daiquiri.

Pop into Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Center to observe the colorful birds, animals and fauna, followed by a stroll through the Botanical Gardens for shade and greenery.

Wrap it up with a visit to John Watling’s Distillery for rum tasting or signature cocktails on the patio at sunset.

Now you’re ready to head back to the hotel for a brief change and casual dinner out at Tiki Bikini Hut on Junkanoo Beach just steps from your hotel.

Nassau Pro Tip

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Nassau. Locals know how to drive on the left-hand side, but many tourists don’t. Also, locals may not always stop for pedestrians. Practice caution walking along and crossing streets.

Enjoy a complimentary shuttle pick up at your hotel from Stuart Cove Dive Shop to whisk you away for your morning SCUBA, or SNUBA, aquatic adventure.

Finishing by noon, take advantage of the shuttle and bypass going back to your hotel and opt for a free ride to Paradise Island instead.

Depart the shuttle at the Paradise Island Beach Club where you can grab a savory seafood lunch and local Sands beer at the outdoor friendly and fun Cabbage Beach Bistro before you walk steps down the public entrance to vast white, sandy Cabbage Beach for a nice siesta.

Before sundown, take a stroll back towards Marina Village with a stop to marvel at The Cloisters , the remnants of a 14th-century Augustinian monastery imported from Europe by William Randolph, and flowers overlooking the water.

Finish your walk at Marina Village for dinner, or shop to bide your time until you can get free evening entry to Marine Habitat at Atlantis and dine within the Atlantis complex.

Since you received a free ride to Paradise Island, you can splurge for a taxi back to your hotel.

Start day 3 in Nassau with a short morning lounge on Junkanoo Beach before walking to Harbour Central Marina and meet your Green Cay Snorkel with Sea Turtles excursion group for a couple of hours of boating and snorkeling with sea turtles and colorful fish you will never forget.

Epic Bahamian marine adventures build up an appetite. Luckily, you’ll arrive back at the marina at lunch time and a short walk to The Green Parrot for lunch on their waterfront, outdoor patio.

Don’t fill up on drinks, however. Save that for locally-made craft brews over a board game at Rip Ty’d Taproom a few minutes’ walk away.

Leave for Rum Cake Factory for tasting and buying gifts, followed by East Bay shopping downtown as you make your way back to your hotel.

Have the energy for a night out? Then call the taxi and head to Baha Mar Resort for a night of music, dining, drinks and trying your luck at the casino tables.

Enjoy another morning of relaxation at Junkanoo to save up your energy for the day’s walking.

Leave in time to meet your Nassau Bites and Sites Food & Cultural Tour group downtown for a 3 hour yummy food tour while learning about Nassau.

When finished on your gastro and cultural tour downtown, see if you have the energy to walk up Queen’s Staircase to walk around Fort Fincastle and see the views from Bennet’s Hill, Nassau’s highest point. Note: for safety reasons, visit only during the day time.

If you rather, you could opt to stay downtown and wrap up the last of your shopping at The Straw Market (closes at 5pm), before wandering back to the hotel to change for a last night out of dining near your hotel and a cocktail at the Sky Bar atop Margaritaville Resort .

Now that you know all of the amazing things you can realistically see and do in Nassau and Paradise Island in 4 days, why not have this itinerary at your fingertips on your trip?

An international solo female traveler since 1995, you know this Nassau Itinerary is from my actual, self-created and traveled Nassau solo trip, not a crappy, AI-generated itinerary with stock photos and misinformation. I’ve done all of the work for you so you know it’s an itinerary you can trust.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, older traveler, or budget traveler, this Nassau Itinerary is a steal .

So, why spend more time researching and planning? Grab this Nassau itinerary as a PDF . Formatted for sleek use on all devices , it not only gives you the 4 day itinerary, it also gives a full Nassau travel guide. Check out all you get, with clickable links, taking out all of the guesswork so you can go ahead and book your Bahamas solo trip:

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Is It Safe to Travel to the Bahamas? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A string of gang-related murders in the local community prompted the U.S. embassy in the island nation to issue a security alert.

By Shannon Sims

Drawn by clear turquoise waters and miles of white-sand beaches, around seven million travelers visit the Bahamas each year, but a new warning about increased violence on the island nation has raised alarm over the safety of visiting there.

On Jan. 24, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, issued a security alert advising U.S. citizens “to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets.”

The startling alert was unusual for the Bahamas. In addition to security alerts and other notices released by its embassies, the State Department issues travel advisories for countries to provide the suggested vigilance visitors should take. Currently, the Bahamas has a Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) warning.

Many tourism-reliant countries, including Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, currently have Level 2 warnings, and most travelers experience safe and enjoyable vacations. The tourism industry in the Bahamas contributes around 70 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, and employs half the country’s work force.

Here’s what you need to know about the security alert and traveling to the Bahamas.

What prompted the alert in the Bahamas?

According to the State Department, “retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders,” and it is primarily affecting the local population, particularly on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, where the cities of Nassau and Freeport are. The warnings mention that the violent crime has been occurring in both tourist and nontourist areas.

What does Level 2 mean?

To help advise Americans traveling to particular countries, the State Department employs a scale from 1 to 4 to indicate the local security situation, starting with the safest, Level 1. The levels can vary within a country, with certain areas considered a greater security risk than others.

According to the department’s website , Level 2 means, “Exercise increased caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.”

Many parts of the world are under Level 2 advisory, for reasons ranging from street crime to concerns over terrorism. The majority of visitors to those countries do not experience any danger — many are not even aware of the heightened risk indicated by the levels.

Level 3, by contrast, advises Americans to “reconsider” or “avoid” travel (countries such as Egypt, Nigeria and Pakistan are now at Level 3). Level 4 means “Do not travel” and emphasizes that “during an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance.” Currently, Russia and Ukraine are among the countries with a Level 4 rating.

What about the rest of the region?

Currently, Turks and Caicos and Cuba are also Level 2 because of concerns over crime. Many areas of Mexico are under elevated warnings ranging from Level 2 (Mexico City) to Level 4 (Colima). On Jan. 23, Jamaica was raised to Level 3 because of crime and uneven medical care, with the State Department warning that “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

Aren’t there sharks in the Bahamas, too?

On Jan. 15, a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a shark while participating in a “shark experience” at a hotel on Paradise Island, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force. He was reported to be in stable condition. Last month, an American woman died by shark attack while paddle-boarding in the Bahamas, the police said.

However, shark attacks are extremely rare in the Bahamas: The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File indicates that there have only been 29 unprovoked attacks in the country since the 16th century.

How can I stay safe on my trip?

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau offers some guidance for staying safe , advising travelers to use “extreme caution” in the eastern part of New Providence Island — where Nassau is — especially “when walking or driving at night.” Specifically, the Over the Hill neighborhood , south of Shirley Street, should be avoided.

Travelers are also advised to take typical precautions and use common sense: to remain aware of their surroundings (leaving jewelry and electronics at home), to create a personal security plan, not to answer the door if you don’t know who it is and, if things go wrong, not to physically resist any robbery attempt. The U.S. government suggests staying especially vigilant if you’re staying at a short-term-rental property without a security presence, and women traveling alone may want to take special precautions .

Before traveling, consider obtaining traveler’s insurance, including a medical evacuation policy. Most foreign hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Another way to stay informed is to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . The free program sends travelers updated information on security situations by email or text message, and makes it easier for a U.S. Embassy to contact you should an emergency arise.

Ultimately, travel comes down to a question of one’s personal comfort. If you interpret a Level 2 warning as sufficient reason to cancel your trip, there’s no shame in making a choice that eases your mind.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story misstated that gang violence prompted the State Department to raise its travel advisory level for the Bahamas. The advisory was already at Level 2. The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a security alert for the Bahamas, but the State Department did not raise the travel advisory in response to the violence.

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