YOUR ISLAND INSPIRATION STARTS HERE
Before you goA little planning.
A whole lot of paradise.
Find your kind of Bahamas—from beach days and boat rides to local flavours, art and island celebrations.
Find your inspiration ↓Endless possibilities.
EXPLORE THE BAHAMAS
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ISLAND TIME
What will your Bahamas look like?
Adventure Tours
Let the adventure begin with tours that include diving and snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, and jet ski rides, or speed boat excursions. Visitors also enjoy fishing; surfing; swimming with the pigs, sharks or stingrays; picnicking on the beach; hiking along nature trails; or bird watching.
Art Galleries & Museums
Visitors can get a glimpse into the vibrant and rich history of The Bahamas through a host of art galleries and museums, which exhibit the talents of native artists and boasts of island relics and treasures. One can also learn about the impact of slavery in The Bahamas at Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation and get an in depth look at The Bahamas’ history and heritage at Heritage Museum of The Bahamas, The Bahamas Historical Society and the Antiquities, Monuments & Museums Corporation. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of Pirates of Nassau and experience an era where pirates reigned supreme.
Artists
Talent amongst artists and craftsmen in these islands seems boundless. From the painter and sculptor to the wood carver and jewellery maker, Bahamians are as creative as they come! Galleries on the major islands throughout the archipelago feature artwork done by local artists using vivid watercolours, oils, and acrylics, as well as other mediums like sculptures. Local retailers, straw markets, and pop-up markets showcase works of Bahamian artists.
Beaches
The Bahamas is a bejeweled archipelago adorned with miles of white or pink sandy beaches. Breathtaking beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, surrendering to shallow, crystal-clear waters protected by offshore reefs that encourage swimming or snorkeling. However, there are some beaches facing the Atlantic Ocean that can whip up lively waves for surfers during the winter months.
Birding
Enjoy close encounters with more than 140 species of resident and migrant birds, including 28 species of Bahamian birds not seen in the U.S., Canada or Europe. A number of expert guides can be found throughout the islands, including Certified Bahamas Birding Tour Guides with decades of experience. Andros and Inagua are two of the best locations for bird-watching in The Bahamas.
Blue Holes
Although very little is known about the blue holes in The Bahamas, there is no denying that these natural wonders are fascinating places to explore. Blue holes can be found all over the Bahama islands. Andros island is considered the “holy grail” for these underwater caves. Dean’s Blue Hole, located on Long Island, is the deepest blue hole in the world.
Botanical Gardens
Several Bahamian islands are home to these beautiful gardens, which feature fragrant, exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can take in a natural trail experience while observing a variety of local fauna or certified wildlife habitats. The Memorial Sculpture Garden on Abaco adds a lesson in history with stone plaques and sculptures paying homage to the island’s residents who have made significant contributions. Also, the 18-acre Botanical Gardens in Nassau features more than 600 species of tropical flora, including The Bahamas’ national flower, the yellow elder.
Casinos
World-class casinos allow non-resident guests to enjoy range of gaming, slot and video poker machines and table games. Casinos are located in New Providence, Grand Bahama, and Bimini. The legal gambling age is 18.
Cinemas
Local cinemas feature the latest movies with a choice of screen and viewing options, Some cinemas offer casual or fine dining and also host live music concerts, seminars, and even religious services.
City Tours
City tours immerse visitors in the concrete jungles of popular metropolitan areas, like Nassau, where they can explore architecture, culture, art, music, people and more.
Culture
Bahamian culture is a diverse melting pot of mostly African traditions coupled with European, British and American influences. Known for their hearty hospitality and deep sense of community, Bahamians are eager to share their culture with visitors, whether they are showing off their island, telling tales of folklore and humour, or pointing out hidden treasures. The customs that are a part of the Bahamian culture are often expressed in their love for celebration and people. Music, dance, colourful dialect and food are integral aspects of Bahamian culture.
Dining
The Bahamas has its own unique cuisine with influences from Europe, Africa and America. Road-side food stalls, family-run restaurants, takeout spots, casual and fine dining mainly feature seafood dishes, local produce and historic cooking techniques. Due to the pandemic, many restaurants now offer delivery or utilise any of a number of local delivery services, including Kraven and The Delivery Guy.
Diving
The Bahamas is known internationally for being one of the best places for diving. There is a lot to see in our crystal-clear waters, such as colorful coral reefs and fascinating marine life, sunken ship and plane wrecks, cavernous trenches, and shallow blues studded with starfish. Divers also love exploring “blue holes,” which are very deep vertical caves. Local operators offer excursions and charters for snorkelling, as well as specialty adventures like deep-water diving. Diving with sharks, riding in a submarine, or scuba diving. Serious divers can take a PADI course and earn a certification in SCUBA diving More information can be found at the Bahamas Diving Association: http://www.bahamasdiving.com.
Ecotourism
The Bahama islands can provide a dream vacation for the ecotourist who seek to experience nature and enjoy the country’s natural resources. Many of the islands provide guided bird tours; explorations of plush gardens and areas deemed protected areas or national parks; or adventures to experience mysterious blue holes or discover thriving marine habitats. Information surrounding the research and protections of hundreds of species of marine animals, birds and plant life are also made available.
Events
There is no shortage of things to do in The Bahamas, no matter your island-destination or vacation interests. From tourist-driven offerings to the laid back “tru tru” Bahamian happenings, these islands make it hard to visit just once! Many of the major events provide opportunities to come face to face with how Bahamians celebrate. For 2026 Events please visit http://www.bahamas.com
Family Fun
The Bahamas welcomes families to vacation on any of our islands to experience our first-rate accommodations and attractions. Besides accessing our beautiful beaches for “fun in the sun,” families are encouraged to go island-hopping to discover our unique island attributes. Families can visit our marine reserves or national parks; tour museums, zoos, and historical sites; and swim with the dolphins (or “swimming pigs”). Families can also attend local festivals or homecomings to get a firsthand experience in Bahamian cuisine, art, dance, and music.
Famous Musicians
The music of The Bahamas can be categorized into three forms: Goombay, Junkanoo and Rake n’ Scrape. Local musicians have used these music genres over the years to express themselves and to tell stories about island life. Still others have put the spotlight on Bahamian entertainers through other genres of music including Soca, Reggae and Dancehall, Pop, Rap and R&B. Some of The Bahamas’ famous musicians past and present include Ronnie Butler, Tony “The Obeah Man” McKay, Joseph Spence, Blind Blake, Phil Stubbs, DMac, KB, Baha Men, Visage, Julien Believe and Tebby Burrows.
Fish Frys
An ultimate way to feast on conch is at Fish Frys, which have become a mainstay of The Bahamas. Fish Fry menus have expanded to include various local seafood served with traditional Bahamian side dishes, and of course, rum, beer and cocktails.These events have grown to become major attractions with live Junkanoo music and entertainment, parades, and activities for natives and visitors to enjoy.
Fishing
Many of the Family Islands rely on fishing as a key part of their tourism offering. Residing at fishing lodges, participating in fishing tournaments and chartering boats are key highlights in this industry. Moreover, bonefishing on the flats, sports-fishing for billfish, wahoo and tuna, and deep sea and line fishing are all different ways to enjoy your fishing adventure. Plan your fishing by starting here www.bahamas.com/plan-your-trip/fishing
Golf
Golfing in The Bahamas introduces our visitors to a satisfactory line-up of golf courses that are sure to appeal to all calibers of golfers.
Historical Tours
Historical tours encompass art galleries, museums, national landmarks and historical monuments that bring the colorful, rich heritage of The Bahamas to life. Learn about the Lucayan Indians, slavery, the Loyalists, pirates, lighthouses, politics, straw work, and the origin of Junkanoo.
Island Hop
No trip to The Bahamas is complete without visiting the Out Islands, which are each unique in their own way. You can certainly expect to be swept up in the warm and hospitable nature of the Bahamian people, who will make you feel like family wherever you decide to “island hop.”
Island Tours
Every populated island in The Bahamas has tour guides who can show you the natural beauty of the land. Touring activities may consist of beach-hopping, birdwatching, Segway and bicycle tours, horseback riding, restauranting, and more. Art galleries, museums, historical sites, and nature conversatories also welcome or arrange guided tours. HomeAway Coconut Farm Tour 432-2083
Junkanoo
The largest cultural festival in The Bahamas, Junkanoo, is a street parade filled with music, dance and a creative display of artistic talent. With groups that can reach up to 1,000 people, the parade features hypnotic rhythms produced by the beating of goatskin drums, the clanking of cowbells, and the blowing of horns and whistles. Vibrant colored costumes depicting chosen themes are made from crepe paper and cardboard, and a show of lively dance routines ensure that parade-goers feel the rush! Rooted in African culture, Junkanoo parades – and smaller “rush outs” – bring people from all walks of life together and provide entertainment for thousands each year. Nassau is home to the largest and the liveliest Junkanoo parades, but visitors can also experience this amazing cultural festival on Grand Bahama, Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Bimini, The Exumas, and The Abacos.
Kayaking
Mangroves provide the ideal location for a calming day of kayaking or canoeing for experts and beginners. Ocean kayaking is also available on some islands based on location and weather conditions.
Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding has become a mainstream sport that is now enjoyed on several islands. Companies provide kiteboarding instruction, gear rentals and guided services with top spots in New Providence and other Family Islands.
Live Shows
Live shows consist of daring limbo or fire dancing performances at local festivals, as well as Bahamian comedy shows, stage plays, dancing events, and more.
Marinas
For boaters sailing to the islands of The Bahamas, we have an extensive list of full-service marinas from Abaco to Inagua that provide safe, easy access for your vessel, as well as all of the amenities you’ll need during your stay.
National Parks
With approximately 32 national parks stretching from north Abaco to south Inagua, The Bahamas’ national park system offers a treasure trove of animal and plant life as well as areas of natural beauty, including one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems, a sea turtle research facility, a large collection of rare palms, and a 250-acre wetland that is home to more than 100 bird species.
Nightlife
The entertaining and vibrant nightlife of The Bahamas are hosted at diverse venues, including restaurants, bars, lounges, and nightclubs. DJs playing Bahamian, American and Caribbean music are typical features of nightly diversion. Happy hours, comedy hours, live music, concerts and dance parties are also consistent with a fun-filled evening.
Out Island Excursions
From New Providence, visitors can take advantage of an Out Island excursion to one of the nearby islands aboard a boat cruise or step it up a notch by setting sail on an all-inclusive luxury yacht.
Paddleboarding
Glide across calm seas or tiny, rippling waves while paddleboarding in The Bahamas. Paddleboarding is a combination of surfing and kayaking and is perfect for all ages.
Pampering
A much-needed pampering session is all that you need to unwind and begin to feel rejuvenated. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage; body wrap or scrub; facial or skin care sessions; pedicure and manicure; or a complete hair salon service at one of The Bahamas’ luxury spa or retreat.
Parasailing
Soar to greater heights as you take to the sky on a parasailing adventure. This activity is offered by water sports operators on popular beaches as well as on major resorts.
Powerboating
For the best in fun and exhilaration, you’ll want to experience powerboating on your vacation to The Bahamas. These all-inclusive boating excursions let you experience an unrelenting adrenaline rush as you zip across luminous waters aboard a high-speed powerboat. The only reason to slow your pace is to snorkel with tropical fish, stingrays or sharks while exploring colourful reefs, feeding iguanas or swimming with pigs.
Regattas
The sport of sloop sailing in The Bahamas is highlighted throughout the calendar year with regattas being held on various islands. These regattas offer added opportunities for visitors to get a taste of the true Bahamas as many family-centered cultural activities along with native dishes and crafts are often featured in addition to the races. Regattas in The Bahamas also highlight the talent of boat building as the boats used in the races must be constructed by local craftsmen.
Rum/Beach Bars
Rum-based beverages are popular throughout the islands and are often infused with fruit juices, or coconut water. Beach Bars are the perfect starting places for experiencing an authentic Bahamian drink. If specialty mixed drinks, awesome food, incredible views, live entertainment, and a great atmosphere with friendly, down-to-earth people sound good to you, then you’ve come to the right place.
Sailing
More than 100,000 square miles of spectacular, aquamarine waters encircle hundreds of islands and cays, making The Bahamas a prime location for sailing. Visitors have the option of sailing their own boats and dropping anchor where they’d like, or chartering a boat outfitted with crew members at one of the local marinas. Islands like the Abacos, Exuma and Bimini are popular sailing destinations for private boaters with some venturing even further south.
Shopping
Nassau has popular shopping districts located “Downtown” near the cruise ship pier, inside major resorts like Atlantis and Bahamar, and nearby business districts, such as Palmdale and local malls. Normal shop hours are 8AM to 5PM with many places closed on holidays and Sundays. Shopping on Family Islands will be more limited, but you can find options at various retail stores and gift shops. Bahamas in A Box Nassau 376-4882
Snorkeling
Gear up for an underwater exploration of breathtaking coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life, or perhaps discover a hidden treasure amongst one of the enigmatic shipwrecks.
Sports Tourism
Over the last two decades, Bahamian Athletic Associations have focused on hosting sporting events that attract thousands to their shores annually. These events have brought significant publicity and have boosted the local economy. Whether it’s golf tournaments, marathons and triathlons, basketball or football, The Bahamas is asserting itself as a major contender in this niche market. The impressive list of events over the years has included the Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic at the Ocean Club Golf Course, The Bahamas Bowl featuring college football; and the NCAA-sanctioned Battle 4 Atlantis Division I Pre-season Men’s College Basketball Tournament.
Straw Market
Credited as one of The Bahamas’ oldest industries, straw work or straw vending is a skill where Bahamians plait, braid or weave straw, fashioning it into hats, bags, baskets, placemats, dolls and more. Straw vendors can be found throughout New Providence as well as on the Out Islands.
Straw Work
The use of straw to create products that are useful as well as those considered decorative is an age-old custom in The Bahamas. Fibrous leaves from various palms and plants like the coconut and silver palm and the sisal plant are dried and woven or plaited together using various patterns. Straw work is a manifestation of the creativity of Bahamian people and has generated economic activity throughout the islands for the last two centuries.
Surfing
It may seem surprising to learn that The Bahamas offers opportunities for surfing. However, islands like Eleuthera and Abaco are well-known for their impressive, consistent surf.
Walking Tours
Walking tours include a memorable food tasting and cultural experience as visitors stop by local eateries to sample Bahamian food. Tour guides share cultural and historical information along the way.
Water Sports
Perfect weather paired with clear waters provides the perfect environment for water sports in The Bahamas. A few choices: snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, kayaking, surfing, and sailing.
Weddings, Honeymoons and Romantic Getaways
The Bahamas provides the perfect destination for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. This tropical paradise has numerous hotels and resorts that offer exclusive wedding and honeymoon packages along with wedding specialists to help you create treasured memories. The seclusion and privacy of our islands feature private homes and villas, which are also ideal for couples looking to escape to a romantic getaway. Visitors can apply for marriage licences upon arrival or during their stay. For more information, visit the Marriage License page at http://www.bahamas.gov.bs
Where to Stay
It’s easy to find a place to stay in The Bahamas once you determine your vacation budget with so many lodging accommodations available.Visitors can stay at a five-star luxury resort with all of the amenities or check into an affordable boutique hotel, villa, condo or private home on any of our islands. With the advent of Airbnb, travelers can find a listing of top vacation rentals that are literally at their fingertips and just a click away.
Woodwork
Like straw artisans, The Bahamas has wood carvers that excel in bringing wood to life using only hand tools like chisels, sand paper, and mallets. These beautiful, high quality, handmade wares, made from a variety of local wood, can be purchased at straw and craft markets throughout the islands.
Worship
Worship is an integral part of Bahamian culture as Christians or other religious groups regularly come together to express and celebrate their faith. Places of worship serve as popular locations for destination weddings, baptisms and christenings and funeral services.