Top 15 Must-See Attractions in The Bahamas

Situated amidst the stretched cays and small landmasses between the radiant shores of Florida, the lush coastal mountains of Cuba, and the stunning Turks and Caicos, the renowned Bahamas continues to be one of the most desirable vacation and travel destinations throughout the Caribbean region.

Given the immense diversity of experiences, activities, and sights (interspersed with local conch salads and fish fries, of course), it is straightforward to comprehend why this region captivates so many! Locations such as New Providence are vibrant with energy and excitement, featuring expansive casinos along Cable Beach and the Atlantis resort, which boasts waterparks and opulent relaxation terraces.

Nassau is imbued with a rich colonial heritage and numerous rum houses, balanced by the untamed beauty found in areas such as the Lucayan National Park and the idyllic Eleuthera.

Adventurous pursuits include scuba diving among barrier reefs, surfing at renowned beaches, and hiking along scenic trails, in addition to abundant tranquil tropical shores perfect for relaxation!

Let us delve into the most compelling activities to partake in while visiting The Bahamas:

1. Enjoy Caribbean beauty on Pink Sands Beach

Removed from the bustling resorts and ostentatious casino establishments of Nassau, the charming Pink Sands Beach provides a quintessential Caribbean experience.

This beautiful stretch can be found along the less-traveled east coast of Harbour Island, just a brief distance north of Dunmore Town.

The gentle waves caress the shoreline, with reefs and sandbanks located just offshore.

Sunbeds and palm-covered umbrellas are available for relaxation, alongside some of the island’s most appealing boutique hotels hidden among the dunes and manchineel trees lining the back.

Most notably, the pink-hued sands radiate a soft rose color under the Bahamian sun!

2. Swim with dolphins on Blue Lagoon Island

Initially a haven for pirates and later a training site for divers during World War II, Blue Lagoon Island (officially known as Salt Cay) has emerged as one of the premier family attractions in The Bahamas.

Highlights include stunning stretches of pristine white sand, the impressive McCutcheon’s Tower providing panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, extensive Segway tracks and walking paths winding through the coastal coconut palm forests, and a lagoon brimming with wildlife and opportunities for watersports.

Furthermore, this location is home to the well-regarded Dolphin Encounters program, allowing visitors to realize a dream by swimming with one of the ocean’s most intelligent species!

3. Ride the slides at Paradise Island Water Park

Among the myriad attractions nestled within the expansive grounds of the vast Atlantis Bahamas Resort, the Paradise Island Water Park is uniquely situated on the northern edges of Nassau.

Accessible, enjoyable, and exceptionally family-friendly, the park features an abundance of twisting water slides and splash pools.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the aptly named Leap of Faith propels riders swiftly down the slopes of a simulated Aztec temple, while the daunting Abyss plunges individuals 15 meters into a dark void before reaching the water below.

Adults can also enjoy designated pools with bars, grotto pools, a lazy river, and stunning white-sand beaches.

4. Go beachcombing and caving in the Lucayan National Park

Spanning 40 acres along the southern coastline of Grand Bahama, Lucayan National Park showcases a wild array of mangrove swamps, sandy beaches, and pine forests interspersed with winding boardwalks, attracting budding birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike from Freeport.

However, the park’s most intriguing feature lies below the surface.

Delving deep into the island’s core, the underwater cavern systems found here are among the longest and largest globally.

Visitors can explore the caves to observe resting bats and jungle fauna, while gaining insights into the unique ecosystems nurtured by the area.

5. Shop till you drop in Port Lucaya Marketplace

The Port Lucaya Marketplace is unmissable.

It stands proudly at the harbor’s edge in Freeport on Grand Bahama, adorned in vibrant Caribbean colors of bright pink, turquoise, yellow, and green.

Enthusiastic shoppers can enter into the central plaza, featuring over 40 boutique shops offering local straw crafts and art, coupled with numerous restaurants, bars, and informal dining spots.

Stay late into the evening to experience vibrant nightlife and DJ performances in the area!

6. Check out the amenities on Cable Beach

Cable Beach is one of the most developed and bustling locations in the Caribbean.

Stretching along the northern shore of Nassau, it is conveniently accessible from the capital city and the nearby Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Along its expanse, myriad golf resorts, luxury hotels, and casinos can be found, such as the Cable Beach Golf Club and the Sandals Royal.

On the streets adjacent to the beach, travelers will discover a range of dining options from English-style pubs to sushi restaurants, while the beach itself offers a delightful ambiance with its pristine ivory-white sands and inviting waters.

7. Tour Eleuthera Island from head to toe

Out of the limelight and lacking the opulent celebrity estates and resorts found in Nassau and Harbour Island across the bay, Eleuthera remains one of the true natural treasures of The Bahamas.

Forming a backward C shape and extending over 100 miles from top to bottom, it features countless hidden bays and coastal inlets to explore, where boulders line the uninhabited shores and sea grasses sway with the trade winds.

Locations such as Surfers Beach are favored by wave enthusiasts, while horse riders can explore caves and intriguing geological formations scattered from Whiteland to Rock Sound.

Indeed, slender Eleuthera is a true paradise worth exploring!

8. Sip coconuts at Tiki Bikini Hut

A cluster of red umbrellas and gently swaying palm trees denotes the charming creation of the affable local, Byron, situated on the sands of Junkanoo Beach on the northern outskirts of Nassau.

Incredibly inviting and utterly relaxed, this lively establishment plays the rhythms of South American samba and Caribbean steel drums.

A simple menu highlights the drink selection: passion fruit cocktails and mango infusions, piña coladas, and fresh lime sodas— or a $30 option for an all-you-can-drink experience if you dare! Patrons can also indulge in a variety of conch fritters and hotdogs, delivered directly to the salt-washed wooden tables and beach beds mere meters from the shoreline!

9. Cruise Castaway Cay

Unfortunately, access to the sandy shores of Disney’s Castaway Cay is restricted to passengers aboard one of the company’s massive cruise ships that dock at this private island located off the coast of Sandy Point on Great Abaco.

Indeed, every one of its 1,000 acres is privately owned by Disney, leased from the Bahamian government for nearly a century.

The result is an all-encompassing resort destination designed to replicate a shipwrecked community—imagine makeshift dwellings and rustic bamboo shacks! Visitors can enjoy cycling paths, watersport activities, basketball courts, snorkeling locations, and numerous dining establishments.

10. Devour the Fish Fry on Arawak Cay

For an authentic culinary experience in The Bahamas, be sure to head to the quaint Arawak Cay, located just a short stroll from the Western Esplanade of Nassau.

Here, an assortment of informal barbeque establishments collaborate to serve the famous Bahamian Fish Fry.

Expect a variety of local conch salads and shrimp, typically prepared in traditional Carib rock ovens.

Sunday evenings are particularly lively, featuring performances from local bands and poetry readings throughout the area.

11. Take in the views from Stocking Island

Rugged and untamed, Stocking Island acts as a natural barrier protecting Great Exuma from the waves of the eastern Caribbean and the breezy trade winds sweeping across The Bahamas from the Atlantic.

Distinct from many other postcard-perfect islets in the Bahamian archipelago, this area is characterized by towering cliffs and rocky outcrops, making it ideal for coastal hikes or hilltop strolls.

Dramatic ocean vistas await on the Atlantic side, while unspoiled coves and the relaxed Chat and Chill eatery beckon on the western coast.

12. Dive the waters around Andros

While there is undoubtedly no lack of snorkeling and scuba diving locations throughout the Bahamas, there is arguably no superior area for diving than near expansive Andros.

Surrounded by miles of barrier reef—the third largest globally—this island offers a mesmerizing spectrum of marine life.

Unique dive sites range from submerged shipwrecks to underwater blue holes, where parrotfish, trumpetfish, speckled scorpionfish, and blue tangs flourish in the currents.

13. Meet the rays on the Stingray Adventure

Head to the shallow waters of Half Moon Cay, nestled in the waves between Cat Island and South Eleuthera, surrounded by dramatic cliffs rising from the azure ocean.

Set against this beautifully secluded backdrop, approximately 30 minutes by boat from Nassau, travelers can engage with the remarkable stingray.

Programs begin with introductory sessions focused on appropriate handling techniques and understanding stingray behavior, ultimately allowing participants to interact closely with these fascinating creatures, feeding and petting them within their natural habitat.

14. Spot the monstrous ships on Prince George Wharf

Prince George Wharf extends into the waters separating Paradise Island and Nassau on the northern shores of New Providence.

It stands as one of the most frequented cruise ship destinations worldwide, with enormous ocean liners entering the harbor from early morning until late evening.

The sight of row upon row of these colossal vessels is truly awe-inspiring and showcases the thriving tourist industry that sustains these islands.

Be sure to capture a memorable photo with the large ships from the end of Woodes Rogers Walk and explore the nearby conch vendors!

15. Sample the delights of John Watling’s Distillery

Among the prominent historical homes forming the cultural tapestry of downtown Nassau, the Buena Vista Estate now houses the acclaimed John Watling’s Distillery.

Regular tours grant visitors access to the meticulously landscaped gardens and brewing halls, where Bahamian locals have skillfully produced the iconic spirit from sugarcane and rum for centuries.

Furthermore, there is a tasting room and the adjoining Red Turtle Tavern for those looking to purchase rum after their informative tour!