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Bahamas
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Visit Bahamas
The Bahamas, an archipelago of around 700 islands and more than 2,000 cays, offers a tropical paradise that is surprisingly accessible, located just off the coast of Florida. Known for its breathtaking beauty, the Bahamas boasts some of the clearest waters on the planet, with visibility extending up to 200 feet on a sunny day. This makes it a premier destination for water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. Each island has its own unique charm, from the bustling markets and vibrant culture of Nassau on New Providence Island to the tranquil pink sands of Harbour Island and the untouched natural beauty of the Exumas.
A visit to the Bahamas isn't complete without exploring the rich cultural heritage and the warm, welcoming nature of its people. Nassau, the capital city, offers a blend of international sophistication and colonial charm. Here, visitors can explore historical sites like the 18th-century Fort Charlotte or the Queen's Staircase, a 102-foot limestone staircase carved by slaves in the late 1700s. The city is also a hub for traditional Bahamian crafts and cuisine, with numerous markets selling everything from hand-woven straw hats to conch fritters and Bahama Mama cocktails.
For those seeking a more secluded escape, the Out Islands, such as Eleuthera, Cat Island, and Andros, provide a serene getaway. These islands are less developed and boast miles of pristine beaches, untouched coral reefs, and dense mangrove forests. Activities like bonefishing in the flats of Andros, exploring the underwater cave systems of Eleuthera, or simply relaxing on a secluded beach are just a few of the ways to enjoy the natural beauty of these islands. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Bahamas offers an unforgettable experience that caters to all tastes and interests.
Bahamas Monthly Weather Conditions
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DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
68°F
77°F
12
February
68°F
77°F
12
March
68°F
77°F
12
April
72°F
82°F
12
May
75°F
82°F
12
June
77°F
84°F
12
July
77°F
86°F
12
August
82°F
88°F
12
September
77°F
84°F
12
October
75°F
84°F
12
November
73°F
77°F
12
December
68°F
77°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Bahamas
Nickname:
The Islands of The Bahamas
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Nassau
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
7.25 million
Primary Export:
Lobsters
Busiest Travel Months:
December, March, January
Quietest Travel Months:
September, October, August
Find your Next Adventure in Bahamas
Explore Bahamas
Iconic Landmarks
Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island
This mega-resort is perhaps the most famous landmark in the Bahamas. It features a vast water park, aquarium, entertainment complex, and multiple luxury hotels. Atlantis is known for its iconic architecture and the massive marine habitat that houses over 50,000 sea creatures.
Queen's Staircase, Nassau
Also known as the 66 steps, the Queen's Staircase was carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century and is named in honor of Queen Victoria. It is a historical landmark that provides a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau city.
Fort Fincastle, Nassau
Built in 1793, this fort was constructed to protect Nassau from pirates and invaders. It offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea, making it a popular spot for tourists.
The Cloisters, Paradise Island
This is a beautiful and serene garden that features the remnants of a 14th-century French monastery, which was brought to the Bahamas from France and reassembled stone by stone. It's a popular site for weddings and photo shoots.
Pig Beach, Exuma
Officially known as Big Major Cay, this uninhabited island is famous for its population of swimming pigs. Tourists flock here to swim with the pigs and snap unique photos, making it one of the most unusual and iconic attractions in the Bahamas.
Blue Lagoon Island
Also known as Salt Cay, Blue Lagoon Island offers a quintessential Bahamian experience with its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and a variety of marine life. It's a great spot for water sports, dolphin encounters, and relaxing beach days.
Cultural Experiences
Junkanoo Festival
Junkanoo is the most famous cultural event in the Bahamas, celebrated with grand parades on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day. This festival features elaborate costumes, lively music, and vibrant dancing. The streets of Nassau become a canvas of colors and sounds, as groups compete with their floats, costumes, and choreographies to the rhythm of cowbells, drums, and whistles.
Bahamian Cuisine
Sampling the local cuisine is a must when visiting the Bahamas. Traditional dishes such as conch salad, conch fritters, rock lobsters, and Bahamian stew fish reflect the rich culinary heritage influenced by African, British, and Caribbean flavors. A visit to the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau offers a lively atmosphere to taste these local specialties.
Historic Nassau
Exploring the capital city, Nassau, provides a deep dive into the colonial history and architecture of the Bahamas. Key sites include the Government House, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Queen’s Staircase. The Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation gives insights into the somber parts of Bahamian history.
People-to-People Experience
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism offers a People-to-People program where visitors can meet with local Bahamians who share their lifestyle, traditions, and customs. This program can include home visits, attending a church service, or even a meal at a local’s home.
Bahamian Music and Dance
Experiencing local music and dance is a joyous way to connect with Bahamian culture. Styles like rake-and-scrape music, which uses traditional instruments such as the saw and the goatskin drum, are integral to Bahamian celebrations. Calypso and soca also feature prominently, especially during festivals.
Craft Markets and Art Galleries
Visiting local craft markets and art galleries can provide insight into the artistic heritage of the Bahamas. The Straw Market in Nassau is famous for handmade Bahamian crafts, including straw hats, bags, and dolls. Art galleries like the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas and the D’Aguilar Art Foundation feature works by Bahamian artists, offering a glimpse into the contemporary art scene influenced by the islands’ culture and landscapes.
Outdoor Adventures
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The Bahamas offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. Explore the Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest barrier reef in the world, or dive into the famous Blue Hole. The clear waters and abundant marine life make for an unforgettable underwater experience.
Swimming with Pigs
A unique and increasingly popular activity in the Bahamas is swimming with the famous Exuma pigs.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Paddle through the serene waters of the Exumas, where you can explore hidden coves, mangrove forests, and private beaches. Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to see the islands from a different perspective and get up close to wildlife.
Sailing and Boating
With over 700 islands and cays, sailing in the Bahamas is a must-do activity. Charter a sailboat or join a guided tour to hop between islands, snorkel in secluded bays, and enjoy the stunning Caribbean scenery.
Fishing
The Bahamas is a top destination for sport fishing, offering deep-sea, reef, and fly fishing opportunities. Anglers can target a variety of species, including marlin, tuna, and the elusive bonefish, especially in the flats of the Out Islands.
Hiking and Nature Tours
For those who want to explore on land, the Bahamas has several national parks and nature reserves that offer hiking trails. The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve on Eleuthera is a popular spot for bird watching and learning about local flora. Grand Bahama's Lucayan National Park offers trails through pine forests, mangroves, and even features underwater caves.
Off the Beaten Path
Cat Island Hermitage
Located on the highest point in the Bahamas, Cat Island is home to The Hermitage, a small monastery built by Monsignor John Hawes, also known as Father Jerome. The journey to this tiny, peaceful retreat offers breathtaking views and a chance to see a more secluded part of the Bahamas.
Andros Blue Holes
Andros Island is dotted with fascinating blue holes, which are deep, water-filled cave systems that are a haven for divers and snorkelers.
Rum Cay
This remote island is a paradise for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots. With its unspoiled beaches and the ruins of a 19th-century plantation, Rum Cay offers excellent opportunities for diving, fishing, and exploring historical sites in solitude.
Saddleback Cay
A private island in the Exumas, Saddleback Cay is known for its natural beauty and isolation. It's ideal for a day trip where you can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching without the crowds found on larger islands.
Inagua National Park
Home to over 80,000 West Indian Flamingos, Inagua National Park is a must-visit for bird watchers and nature lovers. The park, located on the island of Great Inagua, is one of the most remote wildlife refuges in the Bahamas and offers a chance to see a variety of other wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Ragged Island
Known for its tranquil environment and friendly locals, Ragged Island is the perfect getaway for those looking to experience authentic Bahamian village life. Fishing, sailing, and simply relaxing are the main activities here, with beautiful, untouched landscapes as your backdrop.
Bahamas Fun Facts
The Bahamas, an archipelago consisting of around 700 islands and cays, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are ten fun facts about this captivating destination:
- Pig Beach
One of the most unusual attractions in the Bahamas is Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, where you can find swimming pigs. No one is entirely sure how the pigs got there, but they are now one of the most famous residents of the islands.
- Pink Sands Beach
Located on Harbour Island, Pink Sands Beach is famous for its stunning pink sand that gets its color from crushed coral. This beach is often listed as one of the most beautiful in the world.
- Underwater Cave Systems
The Bahamas is home to one of the world's largest network of underwater cave systems. These caves have provided significant archaeological findings, including the preserved remains of the Lucayan people, the original inhabitants of the Bahamas.
- The Bahamas were once a pirate haven
In the early 18th century, the islands served as a base for famous pirates, including Blackbeard and Calico Jack. Nassau was particularly known as a pirate paradise.
- The world’s third-largest wine cellar
Located at the Graycliff Hotel in Nassau, this wine cellar is one of the largest private collections in the world, housing over 250,000 bottles from over 400 vintners in 15 countries.
- The Islands of The Bahamas
While commonly referred to as the Bahamas, the country's official name is the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
- The Bahama Parrot
The national bird of the Bahamas, the Bahama parrot, is found in the wild only in the Bahamas. Interestingly, these parrots are unique as they nest in the ground, unlike most other parrots.
- Cultural Festival - Junkanoo
Junkanoo is a famous Bahamian street parade with music, dance, and costumes of Akan origin. It occurs every Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day (January 1). This festival is a significant part of Bahamian culture and attracts many tourists.
- The Bahamas gained independence relatively recently
The Bahamas became independent from the United Kingdom on July 10, 1973. Before that, it was a British colony for over 300 years.
- Atlantis Paradise Island
This ocean-themed resort island features what is reputed to be the largest open-air marine habitat in the world, with over 50,000 aquatic animals from over 250 marine species. The resort is a major draw for tourists worldwide.
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