The Bahamas is known for its beautiful beaches and incredible turquoise waters, but it’s also a destination with so much more to offer. From island hopping by plane to discovering historic landmarks, here are some of the best places to visit in the Bahamas.
Eleuthera is a real gem of the Bahamas, with its pink-hued sands and quaint boutique hotels. Harbour Island is also worth a visit for its pastel-painted houses edging narrow lanes overflowing with flowers.
Nassau
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, the Bahamas is a must-see destination. Featuring thousands of pristine sandy beaches, this island country has everything you could want for a memorable trip!
If you want to soak up the sun, swim in the sea and eat some delicious local cuisine, Nassau is your best bet. The capital of the islands, it’s also home to many great attractions, and is a place where you can truly experience the culture of the Bahamas.
You’ll find lots of shopping opportunities in the city, from designer brands to small boutiques offering unique finds. It’s also home to the famous Nassau Straw Market, a great place to pick up authentic Bahamian souvenirs like straw bags and hats.
A short ferry ride from Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) is one of the most popular destinations for cruisers to visit in the Bahamas. This private island is packed with attractions, including dolphin encounters, sea lions and an inflatable water park.
Eleuthera
Eleuthera is one of the most beautiful islands in the Bahamas. Its pristine pink sand beaches and crystal clear water make it a popular destination with tourists.
Eleuthera also has a number of beaches that are popular with surfers. The best of these beaches are located in Governor's Harbour.
A few of the most popular ones are French Leave Beach, Ten Bay Beach and Surfer's Beach. These beaches are great for people who want to relax and soak up the sun, but they can get a little busy during high season.
On Eleuthera, you can also take a trip to the Queen's Baths, which are natural pools that were created by crashing waves on the Atlantic side of the island. This is an area that is not recommended for visiting during high tide because of the sand and rocks that can get buried underneath the water.
Another thing you can do while on your trip to Eleuthera is visit the historic capital of the island, Governour's Harbour. This is a charming place to explore with its colorful colonial architecture and vacation vibe.
Cat Island
Located southeast of Eleuthera and northeast of Long Island, Cat Island runs deep with Bahamian history and culture. Whether you're visiting for the ruins of a cotton plantation or the plot of land where Sir Sidney Poitier's boyhood home once stood, Cat Island is a must-see destination.
Pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and intriguing history make Cat Island one of the most enchanting islands in the Bahamas. The small island is so little-known that it still feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Nassau.
The island is renowned for its pristine virgin beaches and stunning natural surroundings, which are ideal for sunbathing and enjoying nature trails and the eight-mile Pink Sand Beach. You can also enjoy water sports like snorkeling and diving.
The island's natural wonders include a bubbling lake called the 'Boiling Hole' which is said to be home to a sea monster, and it is also an excellent place to spot baby sharks and stingrays. The island's unique landscape makes it a great choice for couples and families looking to unwind and explore.
Harbour Island
In-the-know travelers adore Harbour Island for its quiet elegance, refined charm and pink-sand beaches the color of coral. Affectionately called “Briland” by its residents, it’s one of the Bahamas’ best-kept secrets.
- Easily accessible from the United States, Harbour Island is on Eleuthera and can be reached by flight to North Eleuthera airport (ELH) and a short water taxi ride. Once you're there, your days are as laid back as the island atmosphere: lounge on the pink sand beach, snorkel or dive, kayak or fish, stroll through town and a relaxed nightlife beckons.
- While cars are allowed on Harbour Island, they’re not necessary—the only form of transportation is a golf cart, which is available for rent at many shops. The island has opted out of the motorized deluge that so many vacation destinations are subjected to—it’s just as well, as it makes exploration fun and easy!
