The Bahamas is an island country in the Caribbean Sea with a population of about 350,000 people.
It comprises over 700 islands scattered over 100,000 square miles and is often called “Paradise.”
Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches that extend up to 27 miles long, crystal-clear water for snorkeling or scuba diving. And the abundance of natural wildlife like iguanas and sea turtles is fantastic.
There are also plenty of activities for travelers looking for an adventure, such as horseback riding on the beach or parasailing high into the deep, blue sky.
1) Swimming with the Dolphins
The Bahamas is one of only three places in the world where you can swim and interact with wild Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
A protected marine sanctuary covering an area makes this unique experience possible about 20% larger than Switzerland.
Visitors have many opportunities to snorkel or scuba dive as well, but nothing beats watching these animals leap out of the water right before your eyes.
These intelligent creatures are always up for making new friends, so bring along some tropical treats like fruit or fish for them to enjoy too.
Dolphins love when humans feed them, so they will come back again after their visit here.
To make this once-in-a-lifetime experience happen, you will need to contact a tour operator specializing in dolphin encounters.
2) The World-Famous Golf Courses
If you’re a golfer, the Bahamas should be on your next travel destination checklist.
The country boasts five of the top 100 golf courses in all of North America and Europe.
Ranging from links to parkland style, these public courses offer something for every level of player.
Whether it’s a vacation or business trip, these memorable visits will last long after you’ve left Nassau behind.
Visitors can get an unforgettable experience by booking with one of our preferred private tour operators who specialize in customized itineraries that includes access to exclusive offerings at some of the best resorts in town.
These packages also typically come with discounted greens fees and additional benefits like spa treatments and airport transfers, so ask about all the options.
3) Wildlife
The Bahamas have abundant natural wildlife that travelers will love to see.
Visitors can expect to see iguanas, sea turtles, and even the rare pink flamingo in their native habitat.
There are also plenty of opportunities for viewing many other colorful birds, including blue jays, cardinals, and ibis. More than 60 species have been recorded on this island chain.
The best way to observe these animals is from a catamaran tour or by taking an excursion onto one of over 40 uninhabited islands.
If you’re looking for something different, consider booking with a private company like ours specializing in customized itineraries that include unique activities and experiences such as sailing through spectacular shipwrecks.
4) Cruises
Cruising around the Bahamas is a fantastic way to relax and enjoy an extended vacation.
Many cruise lines offer these Caribbean vacations from just three days up to 12 days long.
Visitors can spend their time exploring different islands or hang out on one of them, sunbathing in the sand and enjoying all-inclusive food service.
The best part about taking a cruise here is not having any itinerary restrictions. You’re free to explore at your own pace without being tied down by schedules or deadlines.
A luxury yacht charter offers plenty of space for everyone aboard and amenities like a pool, private chef, and a crew of dedicated staff.
Depending on your destination island, the boat might be docked at the shore or anchored offshore in deeper water, where guests can enjoy some snorkeling time as well.
5) Tax-free Shopping
The Bahamas is a shopper’s paradise, and many people come here just for this one reason.
Many luxury brands are available without paying sales tax, including significant labels like Cartier and Louis Vuitton.
Visitors who want to save money on their purchases should shop at these stores and local vendors in Nassau or Freeport that offer souvenirs, art pieces, clothing items from designer lines, jewelry, and much more, all with no taxes included.
There are also some bargains, such as deals on electronics, so make sure you’re looking through everything before settling on something specific.
6) The Elizabethan Gardens
This destination is a lush, tranquil garden with plenty of lavender and other aromatic plants.
Visitors can explore the man-made caves that are modeled after the limestone formations found on Montserrat in 1609. These passages were once used to protect ships from pirates before moving inland to Nassau Harbour because of rising sea levels.
The gardens also have an extensive herb shop where visitors can purchase many items for their cooking needs. It also carries many varieties of rare plant life, including orchids, bromeliads, hoya carnosa, or even large palm trees like Schefflera arboricola ‘usnea’.
7) Free Outdoor Activities
Many resorts on the island offer free access to things like kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling.
Complimentary amenities for guests include tennis courts and gym facilities so you can keep up with your workout routine while enjoying an extended stay here.
You don’t have to pay for any of this either, which is a great money-saving opportunity that many travelers take advantage of during their time in Nassau or Freeport.
These packages also typically come with discounted greens fees and additional benefits like spa treatments and airport transfers, so ask about all the options.
If you are considering renting out some property, then be sure that it has these features included before signing anything because they will save you a lot of money in the long run.
8) The Queen’s Staircase
This is a natural phenomenon that has been attracting travelers for centuries.
It boasts an elevation of 120 feet and was formed from the limestone rocks around it, making you feel you’re walking up and down stairs with no assistance.
The path here takes about 20 minutes to complete one way, so many people stop halfway through to take in the views at this lookout point with its sweeping vistas overlooking Nassau Harbour.
The staircase is on Cable Beach, which offers plenty of other amenities such as water sports rentals, restaurants, bars, surf lessons, or even more scenic walks along a different coastline.
After seeing these impressive formations, visitors might want to check out the Blue Hole, a secluded marine reserve that’s also on Cable Beach.
9) The Food
Recently, The New York Times article called the Bahamas a “culinary powerhouse and gastronomic paradise.”
This is because there are so many types of cuisine available on the island, with each dish having a unique twist.
You can try authentic Bahamian food like conch and johnnycake, made from flour that’s pounded into the dough before it’s cooked in boiling water or oil.
They served this dish alongside steamed vegetables or stewed fish for an unforgettable meal experience.
There are also various culinary styles, such as Caribbean fare, Creole dishes, Italian specialties, French-style entrees, and American classics.
No matter your tastes, there will be something delicious waiting for you at one of these restaurants across Nassau or Freeport when you visit The Bahamas.
10) The People
Bahamians are known for their kindness and hospitality, so you’ll always feel welcomed.
You can connect with locals by checking out some of the local markets that sell fresh produce, spices, or other items that will remind you of home.
Otherwise, just stop a person on the street to say hello before heading back into your hotel room after a long day at one of these many attractions.
Final Thoughts
The Bahamas is an international destination like no other, which offers something different from what most travelers expect when visiting this country for the first time.
It is truly like no other place on earth with its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beauty. Whether it’s soaking up some sun at the beach or playing golf by the sea, the Bahamas has something for everyone.
So get ready to pack your bags and set sail for paradise now that you have read this list.…