Welcome to the ultimate guide to the Bahamas, a tropical paradise that’s more than just sun, sand, and sea. The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. From the bustling streets of Nassau to the secluded beaches of the Out Islands, each destination has its own unique charm and allure.
Our guide to Bahamas best hotels: 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas
- ✨ 5-Star: Graycliff Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas - All Inclusive - Adults Only
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina
- 💸 Cheap: Bell Channel Inn Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: King & Queen Suite #8
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
- 🏩 For Couples: Pink Sands Resort
In this article, we’ll dive into the best islands to visit, explore the safest areas for tourists, and uncover the hidden gems that make the Bahamas a truly special destination.
Quick Bahamas Area Guide: ☀️
- 🏙️ For Urban Exploration and Culture: Nassau
- 🏖️ For Luxury Resorts and Family Fun: Paradise Island
- 🐷 For Pristine Beaches and Unique Wildlife: Exuma Islands
- 🏄♀️ For Nature and Watersports: Grand Bahama Island
- 🌺 For Pink Sand Beaches and Relaxation: Eleuthera
- ⛵ For Sailing and Colonial Charm: The Abaco Islands
1. Nassau – Capital City and Gateway to the Bahamas 🏙️
🏛️ Historic charm: Nassau’s rich history is palpable as you wander through its colorful streets. I love strolling down Bay Street, where colonial architecture meets duty-free shopping. The straw market is a must-visit; pick up some beautiful handmade souvenirs here. Don’t miss the Queen’s Staircase, a stunning 18th-century landmark carved out of solid limestone.
🏖️ Beach bliss: For beach lovers, Cable Beach is the spot to be. With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to soak up the Bahamian sun.
🍽️ Foodie heaven: Here are some of my favorite spots:
- Fish Fry at Arawak Cay: For authentic Bahamian cuisine
- Graycliff Restaurant: A fine dining experience in a historic setting
- Café Matisse: Italian fare with a Caribbean twist
- The Poop Deck: Fresh seafood with stunning harbor views
🎉 Night owl: After dark, Nassau comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. I recommend checking out the casinos at Atlantis on nearby Paradise Island or dancing the night away at one of the beachfront bars.
🚌 Easy access: Jitneys (local buses) are cheap and frequent, while taxis are readily available. For a unique experience, hop on a water taxi to Paradise Island – it’s just a quick ride across the harbor.
🏝️ Island hopping: Nassau’s proximity to other islands makes it an ideal base for island-hopping adventures. From here, you can easily explore the pink sand beaches of Harbour Island, the swimming pigs of Exuma, or the secluded cays of the Berry Islands.
Best accommodation in Nassau: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau – This vibrant place offers a tropical paradise experience with multiple pools, a water park, and various dining options. Travelers can delight in spacious rooms with island-inspired decor and modern amenities.
- Graycliff Hotel – A historic 5-star hotel known for its elegant colonial architecture and world-class dining experiences. The property showcases a renowned restaurant, an extensive wine cellar, and a cigar company on-site.
- The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas – This luxurious place offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication and tropical charm. Travelers can indulge in pristine beaches, a Versailles-inspired garden, and top-notch amenities including a spa and golf course,
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Comfort Suites Paradise Island – This all-suite hotel provides spacious accommodations and complimentary access to the facilities at Atlantis Resort. Guests are treated to a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and modern fitness center.
- Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas - All Inclusive - Adults Only – An adults-only, all-inclusive place offering a serene atmosphere with stunning harbor views. The property boasts multiple dining options, a large pool, and various activities for a complete island experience.
- A Stone's Throw Away – This charming bed and breakfast offers a tranquil escape with its colonial-style architecture and personalized service. Visitors can savor panoramic views, a refreshing pool, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling tourist areas.
🛏️ Best hostels
- King & Queen Suite #8 – This cozy suite provides a home-away-from-home experience with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The accommodation features a private space with the convenience of self-catering facilities.
- Viking Hill Oceanfront Hostel & Resort – This unique property offers budget-friendly accommodations with stunning ocean views. Travelers can enjoy a communal atmosphere, outdoor spaces, and easy access to nearby attractions.
- King & Queen Suite #7 – Another comfortable suite option providing a private retreat and essential amenities. The space is designed for relaxation and serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
2. Paradise Island – Best Island to Stay in the Bahamas for Luxury Resorts and Family-Friendly Attractions 🏖️
👨👩👧👦 Family fun: What’s best about Paradise Island is its array of family-friendly attractions. The Aquaventure water park at Atlantis is a must-visit, featuring thrilling water slides and a lazy river. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the Marine Habitat, home to over 50,000 aquatic animals.
🏖️ Beach bliss: Like many beautiful islands in the Bahamas, Paradise Island boasts stunning beaches. Cabbage Beach, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, is one of the best spots for sunbathing and swimming.
⛵ Island hopping: Paradise Island is a great base for exploring other islands in the Bahamas. Consider day trips to nearby islands like:
- Rose Island for a secluded beach experience
- New Providence Island to explore the capital, Nassau
- Eleuthera Island for its famous beaches
🏄♂️ Adventure awaits: For those looking to visit more of the Bahamas, Paradise Island offers easy access to various excursions:
- Snorkeling and diving trips to explore underwater reefs
- Boat tours to see the famous swimming pigs of Exuma
- Fishing charters for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts
🚕 Easy navigation: Most hotels offer shuttle services, and taxis are readily available. For a unique experience, try the water taxi between Paradise Island and Nassau.
Best accommodation in Paradise Island: 🏨
⭐ Top hotels
- Riu Palace Paradise Island - Adults Only - All Inclusive This 5-star hotel in Nassau offers luxurious accommodations, multiple dining options, and a variety of activities, including a water park and nightly entertainment.
- Hotel Paradise Island Located on Paradise Island, this hotel features elegant rooms, a private beach, and several on-site restaurants, perfect for a high-end getaway.
- Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau This resort offers a laid-back atmosphere with modern amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, multiple dining options, and easy access to the beach.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- The Royal at Atlantis Located on Paradise Lagoon Beach, this resort includes a water park, casino, and golf course, providing plenty of entertainment for guests.
- Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas An adults-only all-inclusive place on Nassau Harbor, offering affordable luxury with a private harbor beach, various dining options, and a short walk distance to Cabbage Beach.
- The Reef at Atlantis Featuring luxury oceanfront suites, this place includes an exclusive adults-only outdoor pool area and a private beach, ideal for extended stays.
🛏️ Best hostels
- British Colonial Hilton Nassau This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a beach, and easy access to local attractions, making it perfect for a family vacation.
- Best Western Plus Bay View Suites Offering spacious suites and lush gardens, this hotel provides a romantic setting with plenty of privacy and friendly staff.
3. Exuma Islands – Pristine Beaches and Swimming Pigs 🐷
🏖️ Beach bliss: Exuma’s got some of the most beautiful stretches of sand I’ve ever seen. Tropic of Cancer Beach on Little Exuma is a must-visit. It’s secluded, pristine, and the water? Crystal clear doesn’t even begin to describe it.
🤿 Underwater wonder: For the best snorkeling spots, head to Thunderball Grotto. It’s where they filmed scenes for the James Bond movie “Thunderball,” and the underwater life is spectacular.
🐷 Famous residents: Now, you can’t talk about Exuma without mentioning the swimming pigs. These friendly porkers on Big Major Cay are probably the most famous residents of the Bahamas. Just remember, they’re wild animals, so respect their space.
🚤 Island hopping: Here are some spots I recommend checking out:
- Stocking Island: Great for beachcombing and fresh conch salad at Chat ‘N’ Chill
- Staniel Cay: Home to the swimming pigs and a great base for island hopping
- Compass Cay: Where you can swim with nurse sharks (if you’re brave enough!)
- Norman’s Cay: Perfect for snorkeling around a sunken plane wreck
🍴 Local flavors: Try the local catch of the day at the Fish Fry in George Town. The conch fritters here are to die for! For a more upscale dining experience, I recommend Catch a Fire Bar & Grill – the sunset views are unbeatable.
🚗 Getting around: Exuma is pretty spread out, so renting a car is your best bet for exploring Great Exuma. For the outer cays, you’ll need to hop on a boat tour or water taxi.
⏱️ Time management: If you’re short on time, consider staying in George Town. It’s centrally located and makes a great base for day trips to the surrounding cays.
Best accommodation in Exuma Islands: 🏨
- Exuma Palms Resort – This beachfront place offers a serene escape with stunning ocean views and direct beach access. Guests can unwind in comfortable accommodations and take advantage of on-site water sports activities.
- Peace and Plenty Resort – A historic hotel blending colonial charm with modern amenities, featuring a private beach and marina. Visitors can relax by the pool, dine at the on-site restaurant, or explore nearby attractions.
- Sheer Bliss BeachView Apt #1 – This cozy apartment offers a home-like atmosphere with beautiful beach views and self-catering facilities. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen and proximity to local attractions.
4. Grand Bahama Island – Nature Lovers’ Paradise and Watersports Hub 🏄♀️
🌿 Natural wonders: The crown jewel of Grand Bahama’s natural attractions is Lucayan National Park. This 40-acre park is home to one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems and showcases all six of the island’s ecosystems. Don’t miss Gold Rock Beach within the park – it’s often secluded and stunning at low tide.
🏊♂️ Water activities: Grand Bahama is a watersports hub, offering some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Bahamas. The island’s clear waters are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking through mangrove swamps, dolphin experiences, fishing (both deep-sea and bonefishing), and even swimming with pigs.
🦜 Nature tours: For those who prefer to stay on land, the island offers plenty of eco-adventures. Explore the c a 100-acre natural beauty in downtown Freeport, take an ATV tour through native vegetation, or visit the Garden of the Groves, a 12-acre botanical garden.
🏖️ Beach life: Like every island in the Bahamas, Grand Bahama boasts beautiful beaches. Some of the best include:
- Xanadu Beach
- Taino Beach
- Fortune Beach
- Barbary Beach
🍴 Local flavors: The island is known for its fresh seafood, especially conch salad and Bahamian crawfish.
🏛️ Cultural experiences: While Grand Bahama is perfect for nature lovers, it also offers cultural attractions. Visit the Port Lucaya Marketplace for shopping and dining, attend the Grand Bahama Restaurant Fest in August for a taste of local cuisine, or experience a native fish fry at Smith’s Point on Wednesday evenings.
Best accommodation in Grand Bahama Islands : 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Pelican Bay Hotel – This upscale hotel offers a blend of Caribbean charm and modern amenities. Guests can relax in spacious rooms, enjoy multiple dining options, and take advantage of the property’s three swimming pools.
- Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort – An all-inclusive place featuring a private beach, multiple pools, and a golf course. Visitors can indulge in various dining options, spa treatments, and water sports activities.
- Dolphin Cove – This intimate place offers a tranquil setting with comfortable accommodations and a private beach. Travelers can enjoy water activities, relax by the pool, or explore nearby attractions.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Bell Channel Inn Hotel – A budget-friendly option providing comfortable rooms and a convenient location. The hotel features an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and easy access to local attractions.
- Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham, A Trademark All Inclusive – This all-inclusive hotel boasts a private beach, multiple restaurants, and a range of activities. Guests can participate in water sports, enjoy nightly entertainment, or unwind at the spa.
- Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina – A waterfront hotel offering comfortable accommodations and marina access. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor pool, on-site dining, and proximity to local attractions and water activities.
5. Eleuthera – Pink Sand Beaches and Laid-Back Island Vibes 🌺
🌸 Pink paradise: Eleuthera is famous for its pink sand beaches, a result of tiny red organisms called foraminifera mixing with the white sand. The most renowned beaches include French Leave Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Twin Cove Beach.
🏄♂️ Beach activities: Whether you’re into surfing, snorkeling, or just lounging on the sand, Eleuthera’s beaches have something for everyone. Surfer’s Beach, located 2 miles from Gregory Town, is a hot spot for wave riders.
🥘 Local flavors: Eleuthera offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants. Some popular spots include Tippy’s, The Rainbow Inn, and 1648 Bar and Grille.
🏛️ Cultural experiences: While Eleuthera is perfect for beach lovers, it also offers cultural attractions:
- Visit the Glass Window Bridge, a natural wonder where the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea meet
- Explore Preacher’s Cave, a historical landmark with ties to the island’s early settlers
- Attend the annual Pineapple Festival in Gregory Town, celebrating the island’s agricultural heritage
Best accommodation in Eleuthera: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Eleuthera Retreat - Villa & Cottages on pink sand beachfront – This charming retreat offers beachfront villas and cottages with direct access to a pristine pink sand beach. Guests can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, stunning ocean views, and well-appointed accommodations.
- Pink Sands Resort – A luxurious resort set on a picturesque beach, offering a blend of Bahamian charm and modern amenities. Visitors can indulge in gourmet dining, relax at the spa, or explore the lush tropical gardens.
- VALENTINES RESORT & MARINA – This upscale resort combines luxury accommodations with a full-service marina. Travelers can enjoy water sports, fine dining, and elegant suites with stunning views of the harbor.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Bay Inn Estates – A cozy inn offering comfortable accommodations and a laid-back atmosphere. Guests can appreciate the property’s proximity to local attractions and its friendly, personalized service.
- Mika's Resort – This intimate resort provides a secluded getaway with well-appointed rooms and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, outdoor pool, and easy access to nearby beaches.
6. The Abaco Islands – Sailing Haven and Quaint Colonial Towns ⛵
⛵ Sailor’s dream: What’s best about the Abacos is their reputation as a sailing haven. The Sea of Abaco, protected by the main island and barrier cays, offers calm waters perfect for both novice and experienced sailors. Cruise Abaco, located at Great Abaco Beach Resort, provides excellent bareboat charters and a unique “Captained by Day, Bareboat by Night” concept for those wanting to combine guidance with independence.
🏘️ Colonial charm: The Abaco Islands are dotted with quaint colonial towns that transport you back in time. New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay, with its colorful architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets, is a perfect example of the islands’ colonial heritage. These settlements, sized for golf carts rather than cars, offer a relaxed, old-world atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere in the Bahamas.
🚤 Island hopping: With over 350 islands and cays in the Abacos, island hopping is a must. Some great islands to visit include:
- Elbow Cay, home to the iconic candy-striped Hope Town Lighthouse
- Man-O-War Cay, known for its boat-building tradition
- Great Guana Cay, famous for its stunning beaches and Sunday pig roasts
🏖️ Beach bliss: The Abacos boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. Treasure Cay Beach, a 3.5-mile stretch of powdery white sand, is often ranked among the world’s top beaches. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
🐠 Natural wonders: Nature lovers will appreciate the five national parks in the Abacos, including Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park and Abaco National Park. These protected areas offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, bird watching, and hiking.
FAQs about trips to Bahamas ❔
Which island is best to stay in the Bahamas?
The best island to stay in the Bahamas depends on your preferences, but Nassau on New Providence Island is often recommended for first-time visitors. It offers a mix of beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, nightlife, and easy access to other islands.
What is the safest island in the Bahamas?
While safety can vary, the smaller, less populated Out Islands like Eleuthera and Harbour Island are generally considered safer than the more touristy areas. These islands have lower crime rates and a more relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.
How do I decide where to go in the Bahamas?
Consider your interests and travel style when deciding where to go in the Bahamas. If you want bustling nightlife and attractions, choose Nassau or Paradise Island; for secluded beaches and a laid-back vibe, opt for the Out Islands like Exuma or Eleuthera.
Which Bahamas island has the best beaches?
Many consider Exuma to have some of the best beaches in the Bahamas, with its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Harbour Island is also famous for its pink sand beaches, while Eleuthera offers miles of untouched coastline.
Where is the most crime in Bahamas?
The majority of crime in the Bahamas occurs on New Providence Island, particularly in certain areas of Nassau. The Over-the-Hill area south of Shirley Street in Nassau has been identified as having higher crime rates, primarily affecting the local population.
