Planning a trip to the Bahamas and wondering where the best places to visit are? The Bahamas, made up of around 700 islands, cays, and islets, boasts diverse ecosystems and stunning beaches admired worldwide. With its warm sub-tropical climate, the Bahamas is a beach lover’s paradise that attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. There’s so much to experience here that you’re likely to fall in love with it. But where should you start? What should you do? Let’s dive into some of the best things to do and places to visit in the Bahamas.
First, there’s Pig Beach, a world-renowned beach in Exuma. This beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters and resident pigs, is a must-see. The pigs on this uninhabited island are quite the attraction as they are fed by tourists and locals. If you’re interested, local tour operators offer group tours from Staniel Cay, Great Exuma, and nearby islands.
Another fascinating spot is Compass Cay, also located in the Exuma district. This island is the perfect place to swim with nurse sharks, which are harmless and very friendly. These curious creatures will swim around you, creating an unforgettable and heartwarming experience, making it one of the best activities in the Bahamas.
Bitter Guana Cay, also known as Iguana Island, is another unique destination. This small, uninhabited island in the Exumas is famous for its unspoiled white sand beach, home to the Bahamian Rock Iguanas. Many people visit to meet and feed these magnificent reptiles.
Dean’s Blue Hole on Long Island is another must-visit place. This large marine cavern, with a depth of 202 meters, is the world’s second deepest blue hole. The water clarity is exceptional, allowing visibility up to 35 meters, making it a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and freediving. While on Long Island, don’t miss its beautiful beaches, which are known for their tranquility, white sands, and clear waters.
Then, there’s Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island, which is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. The beach gets its unique rose-colored sand from finely pulverized coral and shells. It’s often touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, it can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to visit early in the day.
The Andros Barrier Reef is another highlight, being one of the largest barrier reefs globally. Located off the coast of Andros Island, it stretches about 200 km and is home to over 150 species of fish and coral. This reef is a top spot for snorkelers and divers exploring the underwater world.
Paradise Island, just off the shore of Nassau, is home to the Atlantis Resort. This ocean-themed resort features an impressive water park, a walk-in aquarium, pools, beaches, restaurants, and casinos. The main attraction here is Aquaventure, a 141-acre water park with high-speed slides, a river ride, and multiple swimming areas. The Mayan Temple, over six stories high, offers thrilling rides, including an 18-m near-vertical slide through a clear tunnel submerged in a shark-filled aquarium.
Additionally, the Marine Habitat at Atlantis showcases a series of lagoons with over 50,000 marine animals and is perfect for wandering around. Dolphin Cay is another attraction not to miss. It was the first rehabilitation center in the Bahamas and houses rescued bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and manta rays. Given its abundance of family-friendly attractions, Atlantis Paradise Island is one of the best places to visit in the Bahamas for families with children.
So whether you’re looking for adventurous activities, beautiful serene beaches, or family-friendly attractions, the Bahamas has something to offer for everyone.