Bahamas Things To Do

The Islands of the Bahamas are among the most beautiful places on earth to visit. The water ranges from pale aqua to deep sapphire, the spectrum changing hourly as the sun shines brightly from the sky. Approximately 700 islands, spread over nearly 100,000 square miles of ocean, constitute The Bahamas. Out Islands (or Family Islands) refer to all of the islands except New Providence, home to Nassau and Paradise Island, and Grand Bahama, home to Freeport/Lucaya.

Great for: golf, casinos, snorkeling, and swimming with dolphins
Location: Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Atlantic Ocean
Population: 255,000
Size: 5,358 sq miles
Capital city: Nassau
Airports: Exuma International Airport, George Town, GGT
Grand Bahama International Airport, Freeport, FPO
Linden Pindling International Airport, Nassau, NAS
Language: English
Currency: Bahamian dollar (BSD) - check exchange rate
Time Zone: EST, daylight saving time is observed
Area code: 242

Did you know?
Grand Bahama Island is the headquarters of UNEXSO, the Underwater Explorers Society, providing numerous scuba opportunities.

Home to the capital city Nassau and the resort area of Paradise Island, New Providence is the most visited island. Work up a sweat at the International Bazaar, a 10-acre shopaholic's dream, where you can purchase anything from local knick-knacks to $200-an-ounce French perfume. Or observe the ways of Mother Nature as you and your sweetie swim, dive, and mingle with the dolphins in the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. If you are more of a land-lover, travel via horseback through the many trails of this flora and fauna-filled island or along the beach at sunset to set the perfect mood.

Visit the Lucayan National Park, home to Ben's Cave, the longest, underwater surveyed cave system leading to the ocean. Catch the 'big one' - Andros is well known for fishing and so is Bimini. Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells charm travelers with colonial villages and pineapple plantations. Long Island is known for broad beaches on its west coast and rocky cliffs on the east. Cat Island's deserted beaches make for a total escape. The Abacos and their string of cays are known for their sheltered waters and easy boating. The Exumas, a collection of 365 cays, have a lot to offer both above and below the surface of the water. The Bahamas sure have a lot to offer.

Landmarks

Nature & Wildlife

Diving & Snorkeling

Golf, shopping, casinos, exciting nightlife, hiking in a nature preserve, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and swimming with dolphins are all features of the Bahamas. The emerald green, crystal clear water and sugar white beaches are not only beautiful, but are also ideal for a whole spectrum of activities.

Landmarks in the Bahamas:

Fort Charlotte, Nassau - Fort Charlotte is the largest fort in the Bahamas. It was built in 1788 and features a traditional moat and dungeons. It also boasts one of the best views of Nassau.

Fort Fincastle and the Water Tower - Fort Fincastle, Nassau is located atop the Queen’s Staircase. The structure was completed in 1793 and it served as a lookout post for looters trying to sneak in through the harbor. It later served as a lighthouse. The fort's 126-ft-tall water tower is recorded as being the highest point on the island.
 
Junkanoo Expo - This is the newest attraction at Nassau's waterfront. The first Museum of it's kind showcasing large, colorful, intricately deigned artistic creations from recently passed Junkanoo parades, held annually on December 26th and New Year's Day. The Expo complex also includes a souvenir boutique, with Junkanoo paintings and a variety of Junkanoo craft.

Balcony House, Nassau - The original design of this wooden house was a transplant of late 18th century southeast American architecture. The present design and furnishings, recently restored between 1992 and 1993, have sought to recapture the ambience of this historic period.

Changing of the Guards Ceremony - A fortnightly tradition of pomp and pageantry marking the changing of the Guard at Government House, the residence of the Governor General, personal representative of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The internationally renowned Royal Bahamas Police Force Band proudly performs. (Government House Grounds, Baillou Hill Road, Nassau)

Nature & Wildlife in the Bahamas:

Crystal Cay - The Crystal Cay Marine Park in Nassau is notably one of the world's finest underwater parks. The park was built around an existing reef, and visitors can explore exhibits both above and below the surface.

Garden of The Groves, Freeport - Considered as one of the finest botanical Gardens in the Caribbean, the Garden of the Groves has more than 10,000 species of flowers, shrubs, trees, and exotic plant life. Along its shaded, winding paths are several waterfalls and exotic native birds. It is an ideal spot for those simply seeking a serene setting for quiet reflection. Its old-fashioned chapel is also the perfect place for a romantic, tropical wedding. Winding paths, duck ponds and cascading waterfalls provide the perfect backdrop for those keepsake photos. Floral patterns of gardenias, bougainvillea, and hibiscus to name a few, make beautiful bouquets that will certainly complement whatever is worn on that special occasion.

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park - This Park on the Exumas, inaugurated in 1958, is the first of its kind anywhere on the planet. It comprises 176 square miles of outstanding anchorages and a stunning marine environment. It was the Caribbean's first marine fishery reserve. 

Inagua National Park - This park on Great Inagua Island is internationally famous as the site of the world's largest colony of wild West Indian flamingos. In Bahamian dialect these birds are called "fillymingos" and/or "flamingas".

Hydroflora Gardens - This unusual garden, located in Freeport, offers visitors a fascinating look into the science and technique of “hydroponics”- growing plants without soil. The tropical and sub-tropical flowers and plants produced on this five-acre compound are as beautiful as their growth process is interesting. Among the unusual exhibits are several of what is called "Bible" plants and a sunken garden.

Lucayan National Park - The Lucayan National Park covers over 40 acres and four distinct ecological zones. Along with its abundance of plant and animal species, the park is also home to Ben's Cave, the longest, underwater surveyed cave system leading to the ocean.

Diving in the Bahamas:

Underwater Explorers Society (UNEXSO) - Skin Diver Magazine has rated the Underwater Explorers Society, established in 1965, “the most sophisticated and best equipped dive facility in the world”. Only at UNEXSO can you dive in the open water with dolphins, experience the adrenaline rush on a heart pounding shark dive, and view the splendor of an intact freighter lying in 100 feet of crystal clear water. In addition to diving for certified divers, UNEXSO offers snorkeling adventures, dolphin encounters and learn-to-dive programs.

Good to know: Reservations are required and rates vary depending on the activity. It is best to call 800.992.DIVE before leaving for your trip to inquire about availability.

• All Americans are required to present a passport to enter and re-enter the United States.
• Non-U.S. citizens, please contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country to which you are traveling to determine your entry/visa requirements.
• Passport, visa and travel advisory information may be found at the U.S. Department of State's Bahamas pages. Although most travel to international destinations is completed without incident, Caribbean-TravelDeals.com urges passengers to review travel prohibitions, warnings, announcements and advisories prior to booking.