🇧🇸 The Bahamas

Paradise Islands - 700 Islands of Wonder

Capital

Nassau

Population

400,000

Language

English

Currency

Bahamian Dollar (BSD)

Best Time

Dec - May

Flight Time (US)

1-3 hours

Flight Time (Toronto)

3-4 hours

Flight Time (London)

9-10 hours

Flight Time (Paris)

9-10 hours

Discover The Bahamas

The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands and 2,400 cays stretching across 100,000 square miles of the Atlantic Ocean. From the bustling streets of Nassau to the famous swimming pigs of Exuma and the pink sand beaches of Harbour Island, this island nation offers endless variety and unforgettable experiences.

Known for crystal-clear turquoise waters, world-class diving, luxury resorts, and vibrant Junkanoo culture, The Bahamas is the closest Caribbean destination to the United States. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, these paradise islands deliver beyond imagination.

Award-Winning Excellence

2025 World Travel Awards

The Bahamas has been crowned Caribbean's Leading Luxury Island Destination 2025 and Caribbean's Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2025. The nation won an impressive 19 World Travel Awards in 2025, showcasing excellence across hospitality, entertainment, and tourism infrastructure.

19
Total Awards Won
700+
Islands & Cays
#1
Luxury Island Destination

Notable Award-Winning Properties & Services

  • The Bahamas - Caribbean's Leading Luxury Island Destination 2025 & Caribbean's Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2025
  • Bahamasair - Caribbean's Leading Airline 2025 (with Up and Away winning Caribbean's Leading Inflight Magazine)
  • Nassau - Caribbean's Leading Business Travel Destination 2025
  • Atlantis Paradise Island - Caribbean's Leading Conference Hotel 2025 & Bahamas' Leading Resort 2025
  • Atlantis Casino - Caribbean's Leading Entertainment Venue 2025
  • Baha Bay at Baha Mar - Caribbean's Leading Water Park 2025
  • Rosewood Baha Mar - Bahamas' Leading Luxury Resort 2025
  • Sandals Royal Bahamian - Bahamas' Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025
  • Graycliff Hotel - Bahamas' Leading Hotel 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

  • Atlantis Paradise Island - Mega-resort with world-class water parks, marine habitats, casino, and award-winning facilities
  • Swimming Pigs of Exuma - World-famous pigs at Big Major Cay who swim out to greet visitors
  • Harbour Island Pink Sand Beach - Three miles of stunning pink sand created by crushed coral and shells
  • Thunderball Grotto - Underwater cave system featured in James Bond films, perfect for snorkeling
  • Dean's Blue Hole - World's second-deepest blue hole (663 feet) on Long Island
  • Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park - 176 square miles of protected marine reserve with pristine reefs
  • Nassau's Downtown - Colonial architecture, straw markets, rum distilleries, and vibrant local culture
  • Blue Lagoon Island - Swim with dolphins and sea lions just off Paradise Island
  • Andros Barrier Reef - Third-largest barrier reef in the world, perfect for diving and snorkeling
  • Queen's Staircase - 65-step limestone staircase carved by slaves in the late 18th century
  • Junkanoo Beach - Popular public beach in Nassau with local food vendors and water sports
  • Baha Bay Water Park - Award-winning water park at Baha Mar with slides, pools, and lazy river

Island-Hopping Adventures

Nassau & Paradise Island

The capital city offers historic sites, shopping, dining, Atlantis resort, and convenient access to all major islands. Perfect base for first-time visitors.

The Exumas

365 cays with swimming pigs, Thunderball Grotto, swimming with sharks, and some of the clearest water on Earth. Luxury and adventure combined.

Harbour Island

Famous for pink sand beaches, charming Dunmore Town, upscale resorts, and New England-style colonial architecture.

Grand Bahama Island

Freeport offers duty-free shopping, golf courses, nature tours through Lucayan National Park, and accessible family-friendly beaches.

Andros

Largest island with the world's third-largest barrier reef, blue holes, bonefishing, and untouched natural beauty for eco-adventurers.

Bahamian Culture & Cuisine

Bahamian culture centers around Junkanoo, an exuberant street parade featuring elaborate costumes, goatskin drums, and cowbells. The main parades occur on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, but you can experience Junkanoo year-round at cultural centers.

Bahamian cuisine features fresh seafood with conch as the national symbol. Must-try dishes include conch fritters, conch salad, cracked conch, rock lobster, and the famous Bahamian fish fry at Arawak Cay. Wash it down with a Kalik beer or Bahama Mama cocktail.

Travel Tips

  • Entry Requirements: US citizens need valid passport. No visa required for stays under 90 days
  • Getting There: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. Multiple US gateways with flights under 3 hours
  • Inter-Island Travel: Bahamasair, ferries, and water taxis connect major islands. Private charters available
  • Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD) pegged 1:1 with USD. US dollars widely accepted everywhere
  • Getting Around: Taxis, rental cars (drive on left), jitneys (local buses), and resort shuttles
  • Best Time to Visit: December to May for perfect weather. Summer offers lower rates but higher humidity
  • Island Selection: Nassau/Paradise Island for first-timers, Exumas for adventure, Harbour Island for romance
  • Tipping: 15% standard. Many restaurants add automatic gratuity
  • What to Pack: Light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, snorkel gear (or rent)
  • Safety: Generally safe for tourists. Use caution in Nassau's downtown area after dark

Bahamas Travel Deals

Exclusive packages and offers for Bahamas vacations

Save 50%

Atlantis Paradise Island

7 nights resort • Water park access • Aquarium entry • Casino credit

$1,599 $3,199
Book on Expedia →
Save 45%

Exuma Swimming Pigs Adventure

5 nights resort • Swimming pigs tour • Thunderball Grotto • Beach picnic

$1,899 $3,449
Book on Expedia →
Save 42%

Nassau All-Inclusive

6 nights beachfront • All meals & drinks • Snorkeling • Island hopping

$1,449 $2,499
Book on Expedia →

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