Bahamas Tourism (2024) Travel Guide Top Places

Bahamas Travel Essentials

Rating:

4.3 /5 (88 ratings) Rate This Destination

Weather:

Ideal duration: 4-6 days

Best Time: Anytime except the month of September Read More

Ideal Duration: 5-7 days for exploring Nassau and nearby islands; 10 days for a more relaxed island-hopping experience

Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD (B$))

Best Time: December to April

Accommodation Cost (per night in USD):
Dorm bed: $25-50
Budget: $80-150
Mid-range: $200-300
Luxury: $350 and above

Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $20-40
Mid-range: $50-80

Visa Policy for Indians: Visa required, various types available

Visa Policy for Other Nationals: Visa required, various types available

Getting In Bahamas: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau

Getting Around Bahamas: Taxis, ferries, rental cars for inter-island travel

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"An Ocean of Gorgeous Landscapes"

Bahamas Tourism

The Bahamas offers over 700 islands waiting for visitors to explore. It is considered to be one of the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. This Paradise of beaches is located 50 miles off the east coast of Florida and is heaven for beach lovers. The Bahamas provides the quintessential island experience, gorgeous beaches and numerous tours and activities. The breathtaking scenery and pleasant weather are one of the few reasons to plan a vacation to the Bahamas. One of the perks of visiting the Bahamas is you get to interact with the marine life, and that is once in a lifetime experience. No matter what your interests are, you will love the stay in the Bahamas.

An extremely rich history with the interesting mix of varying cultures of Spanish, British and African societies is the thing that separates this nation! Bahamas with its staggering scenes of sparkling sands, turquoise water and unwinding shorelines is a heaven jewel for its visitors. Once a sanctuary for privateers and Loyalists, the islands are currently a vacation hub for sightseers. The perspectives appear to be straight out of the wallpaper. Picturesque Bahamas likewise offers awesome shopping malls, eateries and clubs. It is a splendid spot to come and gather with your loved ones. Witness the magnificence of Bahamian waters and dive the amazingly shaded coral reefs and coral dividers, swim with the stunning dolphins and sea lions or go snorkelling, this spot has everything to make your excursion great. The incredible scene perspectives are quiet and reviving in its own specific manner. The vitality of this wonder is surely understood everywhere throughout the world.

Grand Bahamas

Paradise Island

Bimini Island

Andros

Eleuthera and Harbour Island

Nassau's Blue Lagoon Island

View All Things To Do In Bahamas

Top Hotels In Bahamas

More on Bahamas Travel

Hygiene in Bahamas

Public toilets are uncommon in the Bahamas, particularly in most of the tourist's zones. In order to use any restrooms in the restaurants or bistro, you are required to buy something. 2016 saw some Zika infections reported in the Bahamas, but generally, there are no exceptional health concerns for visitors. Crimes against people & property have increased since 2010 certainly in some areas of Nassau. Drug- and gang-related crime are highest in the suburbs south of downtown, popularly known as 'Over the Hill'. Generally speaking, the Out Islands are safe, quiet and conservative, and most of the country is safe for visitors. the tap water is fine to drink but try avoiding tap water and go for bottled water offered at the resorts as tap water can be unpleasant at some places. Nassau and Grand Bahama have modern hospitals with emergency rooms open 24/7, but free care is only provided to legal residents.

Exchanging Money in Bahamas

ATM are an extremely safe way to withdraw cash in Bahamas. However, there is a small amount of transaction fee charged with every withdrawal. You can also get the currency exchanged. Foreign currencies can easily be exchanged into BSD at the airport forex bureaux, banks and hotels.

Currency in Bahamas

Mostly all credit and debit cards are well accepted in the Bahamas. Every island being a tourist point keeps 'payment by card' option. US Dollars are accepted everywhere, by the locals, small, and big shops. The US Dollar is equal to the Bahamian Dollar with a ratio of 1:1. In addition to keeping a card, you may keep some amount of cash too, either in USD or BSD. Visitors from the US do not require to convert their money into Bahamian dollar as US Dollars are widely accepted all over the Bahamas. Also, both USD and B$ is equal in value. On the other hand, if you are travelling from another nation than the US, it's insightful to change your cash before you get to the Bahamas. Credit cards are accepted all through the majority of the Bahamas, particularly in the tourist's regions, however, a portion of the smaller out island require cash payments to buy, and in some cases even auto rentals. ATM's are accessible all through Nassau, Paradise Island and Freeport, yet are harder to discover in the smaller islands. ATM's at the Casinos and close to the Tourist Information Area give US dollars. All others will give out Bahamian Dollars. Attempt and utilise your Bahamian dollars before you return, a few spots may exchange it for you.. other won't. Traveller's Checks are acknowledged in many resorts and tourist restaurants and attractions. A few hotels charge a small expense to cash them for you.

Daily Budget for Bahamas

Budget travel: 150-160 BSD, Comfortable travel: 180 BSD, Luxury ravel: 220-250 BSD

Religion of Bahamas

The majority population consists of Christians. Second majority is of the Anglicans and the rest of them belong to protestant groups like Methodists, Church of God and Presbyterians.

Bahamas Customs

The casual attire worn by the locals in the Bahamas consists of flip-flops, cut-off jeans, shorts and T-shirts. On the beaches, the men wear California-style surf baggies. A tiny speedo is not common. The women wear bikinis, two pieces or one pieces. However, it is expected of them to cover themselves with a sarong while entering the premises of an establishment. The taxi drivers or the hotel staff can be tipped USD 1 - USD 2 if they're helpful. Tip 10 % for the Spas and 15 % for restaurants if the service charge is not included. Religion is considered very important in the Bahamas. They have several churches even for small communities. Music is another front which remains uncompromised with the Bahamian people. Music plays a vital role in Bahamian culture. Their instruments are made out of natural trees and barks and even animal skin and barrels. People here use bush medicines for various medicinal purposes. Examples like aloe vera, crab bush, fish leaf and white sage. People here like to get to know people, say hello to strangers and invite people into their homes. Sharing a meal is the most common way to build a relationship. Bahamians have a good sense of humour and use it often in all manner of situations. If invited to a BahamianÍs home, bring fruit, flowers, or wine for the hosts. Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating. Meals are often served buffet style or family style. Handshakes are the norm. They should be firm and friendly.

Language of Bahamas

Bahamian English is spoken, wherein the 'h' is dropped. Haitian immigrants use Creole. Native English is understood by the locals as well. If you don't understand their accent, ask them to speak slower.

History of Bahamas

The first inhabitants were the people who came from what is now called Cuba. Later came the Lucayans, who because of their peaceful nature were enslaved after Christopher Columbus discovered the island of San Salvador in 1492. The English Puritians arrived here in 1649 looking for religious freedom, but found food shortages. They received supplies from the American colonies, in exchange for brasileto wood. During the 1600, the pirates and privateers came here for hiding treasure in its shallow waters. Some people believe that the islands still hold hidden treasure. Nassau was established as a commercial port in 1670, but wasnt administered by the right people. Hence in 1718, a Royal Governor was assigned who restored law and order. Later, American colonists, loyal to Eluthera came and forced the Spanish forces to retreat. The Bahamas benefited a lot from the U.S. Civil war as it became a centre for trading cotton because of a blockade. Bahamas gained its independence on July 10, 1973, after 325 years of British rule.

Nightlife in Bahamas

Gaming at casinos located in resorts on Grand Bahama and Nassau. Junkanoo is part carnival and part masquerade ball. The dancers parade down the street in large costumes. Just looking at the carnival is breath taking. Live music can be enjoyed at the Atlantis Live stage on the Paradise islandNassau is the appropriate place to enjoy the nightlife in The Bahamas. Most of the action and fun is centred around the Paradise island and downtown waterfront. Fluid, Aura and Bambu are three of the hotspots in the Bahamas. DJs at Bambu turn a super-charged blend of the most recent salsa, soca, calypso, reggae, and reggaeton; Aura (in the Atlantis resort) is more upscale and contemporary (blending main 40 and hip-jump with island top picks) and draws in a superstar group; and Fluid is about the most recent reggae jams. Every one of the three clubs runs around midnight, with Bambu keeping the gathering bouncing until 4 am in the morning. Expect dress codes, cover charges and VIP areas, just like as you would find in New York, Miami, or LA. and the Arawak Cay in Nassau. At bars and clubs, ask for the "conch style" and the "stomping the roach".

Shopping in Bahamas

Import duties on perfumes, fragrances, crystal, leather goods, jewelry, fine linens, tablecloths, watches, clocks, photographic equipment, china, binoculars and telescopes have been abolished. The shops are marked with the DFS logo. Straw craft of Andros is very famous. The port Lucaya Marketplace and the International Bazaar of the Grand Bahamas are worth a visit. Long Island is known for its straw creations and the Nassau and Paradise island known for producing arts and crafts reflecting the Lucayan and Taino indians heritage. Shopping in the Bahamas is a vibrant mix of native arts &crafts with international brands. The shops for tourists especially is located on and around Bay Street. You may find a number of duty-free shops where you can steal a great deal. If youÍre looking for souvenirs, browse through the local markets that sell unusual items that make interesting gifts. Do not miss out Nassau's famous Straw Market where you can shop products made out of ceramics, spices and local handcrafts. Nassau also has some very stylish local boutiques. Grand Bahama has large shopping centres and the Out Islands also have many stores along with local crafts and Jewellery.

Best Time to Visit Bahamas

How to Reach Bahamas

How to Reach Overview

The Bahamas has approximately 57 airports of which three are major international airports as entry ports. The busiest of them is the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas. There is three terminal in this airport namely domestic and charter flights, flights to the USA and non-US international flights. It has direct services to the USA, Canada, the UK, the Cayman Islands, Panama and Turks & Caicos. There are many frequent flights from Maimi, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to the Bahamas. Being an archipelago, Bahamas is well connected through waterways from the neighbouring countries. One can opt for either Ferry or Cruise ship and even Yachts to travel to various islands in the Bahamas. Nassau and Free Port are the popular port of calls.

How to reach Bahamas by flight

The international airport at Nassau is well connected to the rest of the world. One can book flights directly to Nassau and post-arrival, you can opt for connecting flight or even can go for waterways to reach the destination island. A few airlines fly directly to airports on the larger Out Islands, but the majority of flights arrive in Nassau or Freeport where passengers will connect to another flight before continuing to the Out Islands. There is a departure tax to be paid at the airport at the Bahamas. From outside the airport, you can hire a taxi or can rent a car of your own. There are many car rentals available at the airport. Some hotels provide their guests with shuttle service to and from the airport, but for this, you have to get in touch with the respective hotel.

How to reach Bahamas by road

It is not possible to travel here by land, thus one cannot reach the Bahamas through cab/car. But, you can hire a car or book a taxi after reaching the Bahamas in order to explore the city. Rental cars and Taxi cabs are extremely efficient and provide a comfortable journey to its tourists. The taxi cabs are very active and common taking people to just about any location in the country. The most popular taxi operators are Bahamas Tax Cab Union and Meter Cab Taxi Service.

How to reach Bahamas by train

Bahamian Islands are closely knit together mostly with buses and cabs. Railways are operating in and around Bahamas but that is limited for the transportation of goods.

How to reach Bahamas by bus

Being located on Island, Bahamas cannot be reached through roadways, thus one cannot reach the Bahamas through the bus. The public local buses in Nassau and other islands of Bahamas is extremely common among locals and tourists. Charging as less as USD 1.25 for major spots and USD 2 for the longer routes, this transport mode is a favourite for budget travellers. There is a very popular bus operator called Jitneys that runs minibuses in and around the islands.

How to reach Bahamas by waterways

Bahamian Islands are well connected with the mini water taxis and ferry services. All the major islands including Grand Bahama, Paradise Island, Nassau and several more can easily be reached by the fast ferries. There are endless government and private marinas all through The Bahamas, twenty-nine of which are authentic ports of passage to The Islands of the Bahamas. The capital city, Nassau located on the New province island is one of the world's busiest cruise ship ports and is well connected by ships originating from Florida. If one is travelling by Yacht then it is subject to customs and immigration documentations and a nominal fee of $150-$300 is charged. There is twice-weekly service by mailboat from Nassau to Freeport (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and twice-daily service between Crown Haven, The Abacos, and McLean's Town, East Grand Bahama Island.

Local transport in Bahamas

Travelling within the city and to other islands is facilitated mostly through air and water. There are many connecting flights that fly from Nassau's international airport to other Out islands. Ferries, cruises and Yachts also sail to other islands through various ports of Nassau. In order to explore the city one can rent a car to travel far off distances or may also rent a bike to travel in the city. Travelling through rail and buses is not available in the Bahamas.

Air: There are around 24 such airports which facilitate flying from one island to another. There are many flights that are scheduled between various islands but the centre of all is Nassau. Travelling via air may be troublesome unless you are staying in Nassau itself. Accordingly, after each excursion, you would be obliged to come back to Nassau which may cause a waste of time. The choice may be to contract a charter aeroplane just by any chance if you need to do a great deal of Island hopping.

Road: There is very little public transport available in the Bahamas to explore the city. There are no buses operational on any of the family Islands. However, in the capital city Nassau you may find some minibuses or "jitneys" running within the city but not near the airports. The best option to travel around is car rentals, though most of the roads are not well constructed and are often congested. You must carry a foreign or international driving licence in order to rent a car for a period of 3 months beyond which you will be required to obtain a license from the Road Traffic Department in Nassau. Driving is to the left. There are several local as well as international car-rental agencies in Nassau, Freeport and the Family Islands. Required age for obtaining a driving license in the Bahamas is 17 years; however, renters have to be 21 or more to obtain a license. There is an abundance of taxis in Nassau and Freeport. You need to call for one if you are on any of the Family Islands.

Foot/ Cycle: It is also possible to rent bicycles, motorcycles or scooters to travel around.

Water: You can hop islands by ferries too. The only main interisland ferry operator in the Bahamas is Bahamas Ferries, which provides high-speed services between Nassau and Andros, the Abacos, Eleuthera, the Exumas, Grand Bahamas and Long Island. Mail boats sail under government contract to most inhabited islands, delivering post, freight and passengers. They regularly depart from PotterÍs Cay for Grand Bahama and all the Out Islands. Traditionally sailing overnight, mail-boat journeys last between five and 24 hours, comforts are minimal, and fares between BS$30 and BS$45. Always call the Dockmaster's Office and check with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism for the latest schedules and prices.

Browse Hotel Collections

Bahamas Photos

+ 48
photos

FAQs on Bahamas

What are the top hotels in Bahamas?

There are 116 in Bahamas which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Bahamas are Villa Plumeria, Coral Lakes Vacation Spot, Tranquil Haven on the Resort side of Town, Gillys Dream, The White House Manor, Eastwood Escape. You can see all the hotels in Bahamas here

What is famous about Bahamas?

White-washed shores. Duty-free shops. Fishing, and Scuba Diving Excursions. Casinos. Luxury accommodations. Seafood. Vast golf courses. Dolphin watching. Zoos and Aquariums.

What is not so good about Bahamas?

Too expensive. Infrastructure not well developed. Unsafe for women. Drinking and driving not allowed. Dirty. People spit around beaches and road.

Who should visit Bahamas?

Families. Spring breaks. Honeymooners. Beach lovers. Nature enthusiasts. Bargain hunters, and Golf lovers.

What is the best time to visit Bahamas?

Winter season is considered to be the best time to visit the Bahamas. It is appropriate for people who want to escape snow and ice during chilly winters and want to relax at sunny beaches in the Bahamas. The Bahamian winters will give you feel like late spring with moderate climate but it can get chilly in the early morning and at night. The temperature during this season ranges between 25-degree celsius during the day time to 17-degree celsius at night. As this time of the year is the peak time, you need to get reservations at least 2 to 3 months prior. Prices skyrocket and you'll likely be waiting in line for everything from your rental car to your tee time. At some hotels, it is impossible to get accommodations during Christmas and New Years. In the Bahamas, hotels charge their highest price during this season, therefore do not opt for this time if you do not want to spend way too much and want to avoid the crowd. Also, winter is the driest season of all.

Read More

What is the local food in Bahamas?

Essentially a cluster of islands, Bahamas is mostly known for its traditional sea food and beverages. The typical Bahamian cuisine includes rock lobsters, Johnny cakes, Bahamian stew fish, baked crab and Pigeon peas and rice. Being an international tourist destination, you can rest assured that you can find any type of food here. But while you're here, give your taste buds a chance to discover Bahamian cuisine. It's spicy and uniquely flavoured. One can give a try to the famous local cold beverages like a Kalik or Sands, a Bahama mama, or Goombay Smash. There is this cocktail named Sky Juice made from coconut water blended with sweet milk and gin. And donÍt forget to try Switcher, a refreshing drink made from native limes. Seafood is the daily food in Bahamians life. delicacies made of Lobster, Crabs are enjoyed and loved by many locals and visitors. People here love land crabs and the Bahamian rock lobster. They have special desire for fresh fish, especially boiled fish served with grits. Many dishes here are served with pigeon peas and rice mixed with spices, tomatoes and onions.
Read More

What is the best way to reach Bahamas?

What are the things to do in Bahamas?

The top things to do in Bahamas are Grand Bahamas, Paradise Island, Bimini Island, Andros, Eleuthera and Harbour Island, Nassau's Blue Lagoon Island. You can see all the places to visit in Bahamas here

What are the places near Bahamas?

The top places near to Bahamas are Miami which is 292 km from Bahamas, London which is located 6996 km from Bahamas, Dubai which is located 12463 km from Bahamas, Amsterdam which is located 7323 km from Bahamas, New york city which is located 1772 km from Bahamas

Have a Question on Bahamas?

Ask a question from the travellers who have
experience.

Bahamas Reviews

Your rating

bluewhale marine

4 years ago

Great post. Definitely this one of the informative and useful post to me. Thanks for the share. Top Boat accessories with the best quality of stainless steel. If you want to buy boat accessories with (Read More) great quality then click the marine online quick release bimini top

View All Reviews About Bahamas

Bahamas

Top Hotel Collections