Bahamas Travel & Tourism

Vacationers looking for a one-of-a-kind trip to soothe a need for fun in the sun need look no further than the Bahamas. This small country of islands has a versatile array of activities to entertain visitors seeking relaxation, cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. While those looking for a laid-back vacation often choose to stay at one of the country’s many resorts, travelers with wanderlust can indulge their adventurous side by diving in the Andros or exploring the one of the many Bahamas’ National Trust Parks. Those interested in a cruise-ship retreat can explore the trendy locales of Nassau in Paradise Island while those looking to escape from it all can head underwater to Exuma Cays land and Sea Park.

Thrill-seeking visitors can find a number of ways to entertain themselves at Andros. As the Bahamas’ largest island, Andros offers a spectacularly preserved 2,300 square miles of dramatic landscape nearly untouched by the rampant development of other islands. Divers flock to the island to explore the Tongue of the Ocean—an abyss reaching a depth of 6,000 feet—and the Andros Barrier Reef—the world’s third largest barrier reef. The island’s resorts are home to ecotourism packages that allow guests to enjoy the surrounding environment without leaving a permanent mark on the fragile landscape. Guests who would like to learn about the native wildlife of the Bahamas can flock to one of many National Parks on Andros. West Side National Park ranks as the largest National Park in the country, encompassing one million acres of mangrove habitat. Visitors who explore the park can enjoy a view the rare bonefish, sea turtles, saw fish, West Indian Flamingos and Andros Rock Iguana. Those seeking a unique diving experience can explore Blue Holes National Park, which contain rare fish and even Lucayan artifacts.

Those who are seeking a bit of a more pampered retreat can head over to Nassau, located on Paradise Island. This island is home to some of the Bahamas’ whitest beaches, and is located just 180 miles from southern Florida, making it a popular vacation destination for East Coasters. Guests can stay at one of many world-class resorts, enjoy gaming at Vegas-style casinos, taste fine dining and indulge in duty-free shopping at one of the island’s many malls. Travelers can relax on the stunning shoreline, enjoy a plethora of water sports or treat themselves to a round of golf before enjoying a spa day. Those who would like to learn about the British-Spanish-West African culture can explore the island’s stunning downtown architecture. Guests can tour the Bahamas Historical Society Museum and enjoy the stunning architecture at the Christ Church Cathedral, or tour the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas to enjoy works by local artists. Couples looking for a memorable time can enjoy an afternoon of horseback riding on the beach before enjoying an evening of wine and dining at the historic Graycliff Restaurant.

Travelers who just can’t stay out of the water can enjoy the undersea adventures at the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. Visitors can explore the stunning Stromatolite reefs, keep their eyes peeled for the native Hutia or enjoy the spectacle of the native seabirds. Those who are interested in seeing what the underwater park has to offer can take a snorkeling tour while visitors who would prefer to keep their feet on dry land can enjoy a walking trail tour. Divers and history buffs alike can experience the wonders of San Salvador Island. The island features four monuments that distinguish the spot where Columbus first made his landing, or stroll through the ruins of plantations built by Loyalists who fled the American Revolution in the late eighteenth century. Guests can learn more about the island’s storied history, shop for San Salvador’s famous wood carvings or dine in spectacular restaurants such as the Drift Wood Bar. Divers can explore a number of shipwrecks around the island’s rugged coasts or enjoy wall diving at Devil’s Claw and cave diving at Double Cave.