Things To Do
in Bahamas
The Bahamas is a tropical archipelago of about 700 islands and 2,400 cays, located in the Atlantic just off the coast of Florida. Its turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs create a quintessential Caribbean escape. Nassau, on New Providence Island, serves as the cultural and economic hub, while countless outlying islands offer secluded beaches and nature adventures.
Bahamian hospitality, conch-rich cuisine, and year-round warm weather make it a perennial favorite for sun seekers and divers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport and take a taxi to your hotel. Check in and freshen up before starting your Bahamian adventure. Stroll along the scenic Cable Beach to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, sampling local dishes such as conch fritters or cracked conch. Afterward, spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or trying out water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. Alternatively, explore the nearby area to discover local shops and markets.
As the sun sets, head to a beachfront bar for a refreshing cocktail while enjoying live music. Dine at a local restaurant featuring Bahamian cuisine, where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood. Take a tranquil evening stroll along the beach under the stars.
Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel, then venture to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas to admire local art. Afterward, step back in time at the Pirates Museum, where interactive exhibits tell tales of infamous pirates.
Spend the afternoon visiting the historic sites of Nassau, including Fort Fincastle and Queen's Staircase, which offer stunning views of the island. Stop for lunch at a local café, enjoying delicious Bahamian specialties. Continue exploring the rich history and culture of the city with a visit to the Junkanoo Expo.
Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant in downtown Nassau, where you can savor a mix of Caribbean flavors. Afterward, seek out a vibrant local nightlife spot for dancing and entertainment. Wrap up the evening by trying some local rums at a bar or distillery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Cappuccino or coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (city) | $8-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $150-300 |
| 🍺Beer in bar | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters
- Rich Bahamian culture and delicious seafood
- Higher prices on popular islands
- Limited infrastructure on some remote islands
- "Wha gwan?" - What’s going on? / How are you?
- "Good morning." - Good morning.
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "How much is this?" - How much is this?
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Bahamas
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural façades, statues, and the harbor backdrop create classic political-era photography.
Panoramic view of Nassau and the harbor from elevated vantage points; great sunrise shots.
Powdery pink sands and crystal-clear water provide dreamy beach photography.
One of the world’s deepest blue holes with a dramatic cenote-like appearance and dramatic reef backdrop.
A natural split between the Atlantic and Caribbean sides, offering contrasting blue gradients.
Food in Bahamas
Bahamas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, golden fritters made from minced conch meat and spices, often served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Conch meat pounded tender and fried until crisp, typically accompanied by fries or plantains.
Bahamas-style lobster, commonly grilled or prepared in a garlic-lime butter—especially popular during lobster season.
A simple, fluffy cornmeal flatbread that pairs well with savory dishes.
A smoky, flavorful side dish featuring pigeon peas or kidney beans with rice and seasoning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively waterfront rows offering conch, fried fish, cracked conch, and other Bahamian staples right by the harbor.
Cultural hub for crafts, fresh fruit stalls, and bite-sized snacks while you shop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bahamians are friendly; a polite greeting, a smile, and eye contact go a long way.
Casual yet neat attire is common; keep beachwear for the beach or poolside. Public displays of anger or confrontation are frowned upon in public spaces.
Offer a thank you with a handshake after introductions; avoid photos without permission in private homes.
Safety
Tipping in Bahamas
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 15-20% of the bill; taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also appreciate small tips. Many larger hotels add service charges, so check the bill first.
Bahamas uses Bahamian dollars (BSD) pegged 1:1 to USD. Credit cards are widely accepted in Nassau and Paradise Island; cash is preferred in market stalls and smaller islands. Some remote locations may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent short showers. Atlantic storms and hurricane activity peak, so pack lightweight rain gear and a light waterproof shell. Water visibility is often excellent for snorkeling, and marine life is abundant.
Pleasant, dry-season climate with warm days and cooler evenings. Crowds increase around holidays; water remains comfortable for swimming and diving. Great time for outdoor exploration and city sightseeing.
Milder temperatures and blooming landscapes. Shoulder-season crowds mean better prices. Ideal for outdoor activities, snorkeling, and island-hopping without peak-season crowds.
Bahamas at Night
Hiking in Bahamas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic stairs with shaded paths leading to Fort Fincastle; a gentle urban hike with city views.
A modest hike to the highest point on New Providence Island offering vantage points over Nassau.
Mangrove boardwalks and nature trails through coastal ecosystems and limestone caves.
Scenic coastal trails and lookout points with dramatic blue-hole landscapes nearby.
Airports
How to reach Bahamas by plane.
Main international gateway to Nassau and the Bahamas; frequent direct flights from North America and Europe.
Primary gateway for Grand Bahama Island; serves regional and some international flights.
Serves the Exumas with regional connections and some charter flights from Nassau.
Primary access to Abaco Island; connects with Nassau and other Bahamian hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest group; strong cultural influence in music, food, and traditions.
Significant presence of residents and visitors from Caribbean nations, the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class light-tackle fishing in the flats, especially near Andros and the Abacos.
High seas and coastal sailing culture; regattas are common around the islands.
Reef diving, blue holes, and underwater caves are major attractions across several islands.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bahamian restaurants offer vegetable sides, bean dishes, and fruit-forward meals. When dining out, ask for vegetable-based roasts or sides and request sauces on the side to avoid meat-based gravies.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bahamas.