The Bahamas, a tropical paradise composed of more than 700 islands and cays, beckons rental property vacationers with its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage and vibrant marine life.
This captivating destination offers many unique, must-do experiences that contribute to your dream Bahamas holiday.
From thrilling aquatic adventures to cultural explorations and serene moments of relaxation, the Bahamas promises a journey filled with unforgettable memories. All topped off with wonderful rental property accommodation from industry specialist, Shore Concierge.
Whether you're seeking heart-pounding excitement, meaningful connections with nature, or a deep dive into local culture, the Bahamas will exceed your wildest expectations.
Shore Concierge founder, Lou Jupp, names 20 of the most extraordinary and must-do experiences for the Bahamas vacationers.
20 must-do experiences on Bahamas vacations
1. Breathtaking beaches The Bahamas is renowned for its stunning beaches, and each one offers a unique charm. For a vibrant atmosphere, head to Cable Beach in Nassau where you can indulge in water sports, beachfront dining, and vibrant beach bars. Cabbage Beach, in Paradise Island, has both lively and quiet areas at either end, so you can take your pick. At Eleuthera Island, relax on the pink sands of Harbour Island, known for its picturesque shores and laid-back ambiance. Explore the treasures of Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park, on Grand Bahama Island, which boasts pristine white sands and turquoise waters and has been featured in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. In fact, pretty much any beach in the Bahamas will provide breathtaking views and family fun in the sun, sand and water.
2. Swim with pigs in Exuma One of the most unusual and talked-about experiences in the Bahamas is swimming with pigs on Big Major Cay in the Exuma Cays. These 20-or-so friendly and sociable pigs have become a famous attraction, and visitors can swim with them in the crystal-clear waters, creating unforgettable memories and photo opportunities. No one knows how the pigs arrived – there are stories of them being left by sailors or coming from a shipwreck. But, wherever they came from, they are a must-do experience.
3. Explore historical Nassau Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Bahamas by exploring Nassau's historic sites. Visit the Queen's Staircase, a hand-carved staircase made of limestone rock, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore Fort Fincastle, a historic fortress built in 1793, which provides insights into the island's colonial past.
4. Atlantis Paradise Island A visit to Atlantis, on Paradise Island, is a must for families and adventure seekers. This iconic New Providence resort offers a variety of experiences, including an expansive waterpark with thrilling slides, marine habitats where you can interact with marine animals, and a world-class casino for those seeking entertainment and excitement. The 141-acre Aquaventure water park features The Abyss, a 200-foot body slide that sends you plunging into a lagoon. You can also experience the thrilling Mayan Temple slide, the Drop, The Falls, The Surge and more. After all that action, relax on the mile-long Rapids River. The marvel at the marine life in the largest open-air marine habitat in the world featuring over 250 species, including sharks, stingrays, and dolphins.
5. Adventures underwater… More marine thrills, this time underwater. The Bahamas is a paradise for snorkelers and divers, with its clear blue waters teeming with marine life. Explore the Andros Barrier Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, where you can swim alongside colourful coral formations and encounter vibrant fish species.
6. … And on top of it The Bahamas is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of fishing experiences. Embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion to catch marlin, tuna, and other game fish, or engage in bonefishing, a popular sport in the shallow flats of the islands. Alternatively, explore the azure waters on a boating adventure, discovering hidden coves and remote beaches.
7. Island hopping As we have mentioned, with over 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas offers endless opportunities for island hopping and exploration. Discover the unique character of each island, from the relaxed atmosphere of the Out Islands to the bustling culture of Nassau. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, each island has something special to offer.
8. Savour the flavour of local dishes Indulge in the flavours of Bahamian cuisine, which combines fresh seafood with local ingredients. Try conch fritters, a beloved local snack, and savour the taste of cracked lobster, a Bahamian delicacy. Don't miss out on traditional dishes like peas and rice, served alongside flavorful stews.
9. Junkanoo Festival If you are thinking of a Christmas vacation, immerse yourself in Bahamian culture by participating in the vibrant Junkanoo Festival. This lively celebration takes place on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year's Day, featuring elaborate parades with colourful costumes, energetic music, and spirited dancing. Join the festivities to experience the true essence of the Bahamas.
10. Local crafts Visit the straw markets in Nassau, where you can purchase handmade crafts, straw hats, and souvenirs created by local artisans. Shop in the Bahamas Craft Centre, which features around 100 booths selling Bahamian handicrafts, conch shell jewellery, Junkanoo art, wooden carvings, clothing, straw work, souvenirs, and more. Or peruse Pompey Market in Cable Beach. The open-air market is colourful and quieter than those in the centre of the capital.
11. Relaxation and wellness Unwind and rejuvenate at one of the Bahamas' luxurious spas and wellness retreats. Indulge in oceanfront massages, yoga classes by the beach, and holistic treatments that harness the healing power of the ocean. For instance, The Mandarin Spa at Atlantis Resort brings together ancient Balinese healing practices, traditional European therapies and natural indigenous elements, making it one of the most well-rounded spas in the Bahamas. Or learn how to relax at the Espa (Education and Spa) where each treatment is tailored to individual needs and desires making it one of the most personal spa experiences in the Caribbean.
12. Swim with dolphins Escape to the tranquil Blue Lagoon Island, where you can swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. This unforgettable encounter allows you to interact with these intelligent creatures while learning about their behaviour and conservation efforts. You can also swim with dolphins at the appropriately-named Dolphin Cay, on Paradise Island. Dolphin Cay, part of the Atlantis resort, is one of the most sophisticated marine habitats in the world.
13. Explore blue holes
Blues holes are underwater sinkholes or vertical caves. The water appears cobalt blue as light waves of other colours are absorbed by the water, while blue light is transmitted to the bottom and back again. Dean's Blue Hole, a mesmerizing underwater sinkhole on Long Island, is known for its stunning underwater landscapes. Or visit the mesmerizing blue holes of Andros Island, which are unique geological formations and offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling. There are more than 50 oceanic blue holes and 170 inland blue holes in Andros and among the 40,000 acres of the Blue Holes National Park.
14. National Art Gallery of the Bahamas Gain a deeper understanding of Bahamian culture and creativity at the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas in Nassau. The gallery features an impressive collection of local and international art, reflecting the country's diverse artistic expressions.
15. Glass Window Bridge Witness the striking contrast between the dark blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the calm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea at the Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera Island. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
16. Hit the heights
Hike to the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia on Cat Island. Discover the stunning views and pay your respects at The Hermitage, a quaint stone monastery.
17. Go car-free Hope Town leads the way when it comes to environmentally-friendliness, as no cars are allowed in the main part of the town. Most residents travel by bicycle or walk. Elsewhere, golf carts are as extensive as cars on Elbow Cay. Hope Town was founded in 1785 and values its history and Loyalist architecture along its narrow streets. At nearby Elbow Reef is a candy-striped lighthouse that dates from the 1860s and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Bahamas.
18. A pirate’s life for me
The Pirates of Nassau Museum tells the story of Nassau's pirate history and features life-sized pirate ships and interactive displays. Kids can dress up to see if it is a pirate’s life for me and take part in a treasure hunt. Self-guided tours take around 30 minutes.
19. Making chocolate
Learn how to make chocolate at Graycliff Chocolatier. Gourmet chocolates and truffles are available for purchase at the boutique and select retailers throughout The Bahamas. Discover how cacao beans are processed to create delicious chocolate treats. Fun games for children are available.
20. Kayak through the mangroves Traverse the serene mangroves of the Bahamas by kayak or paddleboard. These coastal ecosystems are teeming with wildlife, providing a peaceful escape into nature.
With these captivating experiences awaiting vacationers, the Bahamas offers a diverse array of activities that cater to every traveller's interests and preferences. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or wildlife encounters, the Bahamas is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments.
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