Things To Do In The Bahamas
180 miles away from the buzzing city of Miami sits the gorgeous archipelago right in the Atlantic Sea. There really are so many of the very best things to do in the Bahamas, it doesn’t matter if you’re visiting for a day, a long weekend or a little longer. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
With its uninhabited and pristine islands, the capital, Nassau and plenty of conch to eat. Yum!
You’re going to love it. Let’s just say the Bahamas have a lot going on. With over 700 islands and cays, you’re not going to struggle to fill your time.
1.) Blue Holes National Park
Located on Andros, this park has been protected since 2002 and covers over 33,000 acres of land, blue holes and freshwater reservoirs. The limestone of the island has created elaborate underwater caves that you can snorkel or scuba dive to explore.
If you are more of a land dweller, hiking is an option too. You’ll see loads of local, Bahamian, bird species all across the routes.
2.) See the swimming pigs
It seems like everyone’s wanting to see the swimming pigs of the Bahamas right now. And it’s easy to see why. Hean on a tour to the uninhabited Big Major Cay and see the only local residents that call this island home. The pigs! They’re so cute.
3.) Junkanoo & the museum
Next to the University of the Bahamas in Nassau is the Junkanoo World Museum. Not to be confused with “junk”, this museum highlights the culture and history of a street parade filled with dancing, music and elaborate colourful costumes known as Junkanoo.
The festivity is celebrated throughout the Bahamas on New Year’s Day so it’s even better if you visited the Bahamas then.
For a tasty bite to eat, head for Oh Andros, which makes the best Caribbean grub.
4.) Paradise Beach, Nassau
Paradise Beach is a gorgeous and quite popular place to visit in Nassau. Take some time to relax, grab yourself a cocktail and even try and spot a few flamingos! After all, we all deserve a little rest and relaxation.
5.) Thunderball Grotto
First off, the 1965 James Bond movie was filmed here, so you know it’s going to be popular. The grotto is totally gorgeous and one of the best things to do in the Bahamas.
If you need more of a reason to go, this famous grotto is located not far from Staniel Cay and is renowned for world-class snorkelling
6.) Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park
Lucayan National Park is located just 25 miles from Freeport and is home to the stunning turquoise waters and golden sand of Gold Rock Beach. This secluded beach has BBQ pits and picnic tables, which is amazing for a little rest and relaxation.
Visit at low tide, where the receding water is locally known to as the “welcome mat” for the Grand Bahama Island.
7.) The Cloisters, Nassau
Located on Paradise Island in the Bahamian capital of Nassau, you can explore the remnants of a 14th-century French Monastery that was brought to the island.
The Cloisters have a lot of history- they were literally moved to the United States in the 1920s, and then relocated to a hill on Paradise Island. The area is popular for exploring, photos and a hilltop view of Nassau.
If you’re in Nassau, make sure to also see the Government Building too.
8.) Andros Barrier Reef
This 190-milelong reef is the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world and just off the east coast of Andros.
The site is best explored via scuba gear, especially the 6,000-foot deep ocean trench known as the Tongue of the Ocean.
Get certified (or grab a guide), pop on your gear and explore the reef with alongside all those exotic fish.
9.) Glass Window Bridge
Eleuthera is home to this famous landmark, a narrow bridge known as the Glass Window. The bridge connects the north and south points of the island and provides stunning views of the Atlantic and Caribbean waters.
Be cautious- the narrowness of the bridge makes it a one-way traffic flow.
10.) Gorge on Conch
Conch is one of the tastiest shell food, well, in my opinion at least. Best of all, it’s in abundance in the Bahamas. Gorge on conch chowder, grilled conch or the yummy conch fritters. They’re delicious.
Good food has to be one of the best things to do in the Bahamas!
11.) John Watling’s Distillery
Travel to downtown Nassau and explore former estate turned distillery! Known as the “Spirit of the Bahamas”, John Watling’s Distillery produces the famous rum and other spirits. Take the tour and get in the spirit with a few tasters!
12.) Queen’s Staircase, Nassau
Locally known as the 66-steps, the Queen’s Staircase is a spot you should stop at when in the area. Crafted in the 18th Century, it’s a perfect spot to see a little slice of history. It’s likely you won’t spend very long here, so it’s already good to see if you’re in the area.
Make sure to visit Andros The Fish Fry for some of the tastiest Bahamian dishes. Just remember to take cash as they don’t take cards.
And last but not least…
The Abaco Islands
The Abaco Islands are perched in the north of the Bahamas and a little spot you should definitely see. Protected by one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, the Abaco chain is stunning to see, especially the uninhabited islands.
Across the islands you’ll find no less than 6 National Parks; Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park, Fowl Cays National Reserve and Abaco National Park being firm favourites. They’re some of the best things to do in the Bahamas.
