BAHAMAS

The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays in the Atlantic, is a sun-drenched paradise. Formed from coral, these islands boast breathtaking white and pink sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. With a history influenced by Lucayan, Spanish, and British cultures, it gained independence in 1973, becoming a premier tourist destination known for its relaxed charm and vibrant Junkanoo festivals.

Region: Caribbean / North Atlantic Ocean

Capital: Nassau

Official Language: English

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Violent crime, such as armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, remains a concern, particularly in some areas of New Providence and Grand Bahama islands.

A map of the Caribbean islands, with the Bahamas highlighted in Green.

Why Visit Bahamas?

World-Class Beaches: Pink Sands (Harbour Island), Exuma’s turquoise waters.

Swimming Pigs & Wildlife: Boat tours to Big Major Cay (Exuma).

Diving & Snorkeling: Andros Barrier Reef, Thunderball Grotto.

An aerial view of a small island with lush vegetation surrounded by clear blue water, with a boat leaving a wake.

Island-Hopping Adventures: From Nassau to the serene Out Islands.

Junkanoo Culture: Vibrant music/dance festivals (Dec 26, Jan 1).

Luxury & Relaxation: Overwater bungalows, private-island resorts.

An aerial view of a pristine sandbar surrounded by clear turquoise water, with a kite surfer.

Essential Trip Information

Visa-free entry for citizens of the U.S., Canada, U.K., EU, and many others (up to 90 days).

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Proof of onward travel (return/onward ticket) may be requested.

Visas required for some nationalities (check Bahamas government website) 

The Bahamian Dollar (BSD) is pegged 1:1 with USD. Both are accepted everywhere.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Bring USD cash (small bills for tips, taxis, markets).
  • ATMs are widely available (Nassau/Freeport), but may charge fees.
  • Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) accepted at resorts, but not always on outer islands.

What to Avoid:

  • Exchanging currency at airports (poor rates).
  • Dynamic currency conversion (always pay in BSD or USD).

English is the official language.

Helpful phrases: “What’s the rush?” (relax), “Big up” (thanks).

Generally safe, but avoid isolated areas at night (especially in Nassau).

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets—keep valuables secure.

Emergency number: 911 or 919 (police).

No special vaccinations required.

Tap water is safe in Nassau/Freeport; stick to bottled water on outer islands.

Travel insurance recommended (medical care can be expensive).

Taxis: No meters—agree on fares upfront.

Ferries: Best for island-hopping (Nassau → Exuma, Eleuthera).

Domestic flights: Expensive but efficient (e.g., Nassau to Harbour Island).

Walking: Easy in downtown Nassau/Paradise Island.

The Bahamas is moderate to expensive, especially on tourist-heavy islands (Nassau, Paradise Island).

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Guesthouses ($80–150/night)

  • Mid-range: Resorts ($200–400/night)

  • Luxury: 5-star hotels ($500+/night, e.g., Atlantis)

Food:

  • Quick eats: Conch salad ($10–15), 12–25)

  • Casual dining: $25–50/person

  • Fine dining: $70+/person

Drinks:

  • Beer: $4–8 (local Kalik)

  • Cocktails: $10–15 (try Bahama Mama!)

Transportation:

  • Taxis: Fixed rates (e.g., Nassau airport to downtown: $30)

  • Ferries: $10–30 (inter-island)

  • Rental cars: $70+/day (left-side driving)

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Eat at local fish fries (Arawak Cay, Nassau).

  • Visit free beaches (Cable Beach, Love Beach).

  • Book excursions locally (not through resorts).

Explore the Bahamas

The vibrant capital city, located on New Providence Island, offers a bustling mix of historic charm, duty-free shopping, and lively nightlife. Explore colonial architecture, visit historic forts, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Connected to Nassau by two bridges, this iconic island is home to world-class resorts like Atlantis, offering expansive water parks, casinos, and beautiful beaches. It’s a hub of entertainment and luxury just off the coast of New Providence.

A pristine protected area in the Exuma district, south of Nassau, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and untouched beauty. It’s a must-visit for snorkelers, divers, and nature lovers.

Located northeast of Eleuthera, this charming island is famous for its stunning Pink Sands Beach, a unique natural wonder. Explore quaint Dunmore Town with its colorful colonial cottages and enjoy a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.

The largest island in The Bahamas, situated west of Nassau, is a diver’s paradise with the third-largest barrier reef in the world and numerous blue holes. It’s an ecological wonderland perfect for adventurous travelers.

A popular tourist destination in the northern Bahamas, offering a blend of natural attractions like Lucayan National Park and vibrant urban areas in Freeport. Enjoy diverse landscapes from beaches to pine forests.

Known for its dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and exquisite beaches, including Surfer’s Beach and French Leave Beach. This long, thin island lies east of Nassau and offers a more laid-back experience with stunning natural beauty.

A chain of islands and cays in the northern Bahamas, renowned as a top sailing and boating destination. Discover picturesque colonial towns like Hope Town on Elbow Cay, with its iconic candy-striped lighthouse.

The closest Bahamian islands to Florida, famous for their rich history and excellent deep-sea fishing. Explore the mysterious Bimini Road underwater rock formation and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.

Located in the Exuma Cays, this uninhabited island is globally famous for its swimming pigs, a unique and unforgettable experience. Easily accessible by boat from nearby Staniel Cay.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices on flights and accommodations
  • Fewer Crowds and more secluded experiences
  • Authentic Local Vibe as island life returns to a slower pace
  • Lush, Green Landscapes due to increased rainfall

Main Drawbacks:

  • Hot and Humid Temperatures (average 82ºF/28ºC)
  • Higher Risk of Hurricanes and tropical storms, leading to potential travel disruptions
  • Some closures of businesses or attractions due to weather or lower demand
  • Limited Outdoor Activities on very rainy or windy days

Key Regions:

  • Grand Bahama: Excellent for budget travelers, but check weather forecasts carefully.
  • Andros: Great for quiet nature exploration, especially if you enjoy solitude.
  • Long Island: Offers a truly remote feel with very few tourists.
  • San Salvador: Experience history and tranquility, away from the bustling hubs.

Key Advantages:

  • Pleasant Weather with warm temperatures and manageable humidity (average 80-85ºF/27-29ºC)
  • Manageable Crowds compared to peak season
  • Reasonable Prices for accommodation and activities
  • Excellent Water Conditions for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports
  • Festivals & Events like Junkanoo Summer Festival

Main Drawbacks:

  • Transition to Wet Season in late May/June, with increased chances of brief showers
  • Start of Hurricane Season in June, though serious storms are less likely
  • Can be warmer than peak season, especially in July

Key Regions:

  • Nassau & Paradise Island: Enjoy popular attractions with slightly fewer people.
  • Exuma Cays: Ideal for exploring the stunning cays and swimming pigs without peak crowds.
  • Eleuthera: Perfect for beach hopping and exploring natural wonders.
  • Abaco Islands: Great for sailing and fishing with good weather conditions.
  • Mid-December – April (excluding holidays)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Spring Break (March-April)

Planning Your Trip

Island Time: Service is relaxed; patience is key.

Dress Code: Resort casual by day; resorts may require smart attire for dinner.

Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants; $1–2 per bag for porters.

Junkanoo Culture: Respectful participation encouraged—drumming and dancing are central.

Accommodation: Budget ($80–150/night), 200–400), luxury ($500+).

Food: Conch fritters ($8–15),20–40), fine dining ($75+).

Activities: Snorkeling ($50–100), 200+).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: $100–150 (guesthouse, local eats, public ferries).
  • Mid-range: $250–400 (resort, dining out, excursions).
  • Luxury: $600+ (private villas, helicopter tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Spotty outside resorts; purchase a local SIM (BTC or Aliv).

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo).

Essential for hurricane season (trip interruption coverage).

Medical emergencies can be costly—ensure your plan includes evacuation.

From luxury resorts to budget stays, the Bahamas caters to all travelers.

Luxury Resorts:

  • Atlantis Paradise Island (iconic waterpark, marine exhibits).
  • Rosewood Baha Mar (Nassau) or Kamalame Cay (private island).

Mid-Range:

  • Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma) or Tiamo Resort (eco-friendly, South Andros).

Budget:

  • Airbnbs/guesthouses (e.g., Eleuthera’s Rainbow Inn or Nassau’s A Stone’s Throw Away).
  • Hostels rare—look for local B&Bs.

Unique Stays:

  • Overwater bungalows (Fowl Cay Resort) or lighthouse cottages (Elbow Cay).

Tip: Book early for December–April stays—resorts fill quickly.

The Bahamas is an archipelago, so island-hopping requires planning.

Inter-Island Flights:

  • Bahamasair and private charters connect major islands (Nassau→Exuma, Eleuthera).
  • Book early—limited flights, especially to smaller islands.

Ferries:

  • Fast ferries (e.g., Bahamas Ferries) run between Nassau, Exuma, and Harbour Island.
  • Schedules vary—check ahead, as trips can be canceled due to weather.

Taxis:

  • No meters—agree on fares before riding (e.g., $30+ from Nassau airport to downtown).
  • Shared jitneys (minibuses) are cheaper but only operate on populated islands like New Providence.

Rental Cars/Scooters:

  • Useful on larger islands (Eleuthera, Grand Bahama); drive on the left.
  • Scooters popular on Harbour Island (rent for ~$50/day).

Boats/Water Taxis:

  • Essential for accessing private cays (e.g., Exuma’s Pig Beach).
  • Tip: Negotiate rates with local boat captains for day trips.

Note: Avoid relying on public transport—options are limited outside Nassau.

Handy Tips

The Bahamas uses the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), pegged 1:1 with the U.S. Dollar (USD). Both currencies are accepted interchangeably.

  • Denominations:

    • Bills: $1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100.

    • Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 15¢, 25¢ (unique 15¢ “shilling” coin).

  • Exchanging Currency: U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but small vendors may prefer BSD. Avoid airport exchanges; use local banks or ATMs.

  • Using Cards: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in resorts/tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller islands, markets, or tips.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: 15–20% (check if service charge is included).

    • Taxis: 10–15% or round up.

    • Hotel Staff: $1–2 perbag for porters; $2–5 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: $5–10 per person for group excursions.

English is the official language, but Bahamian dialects (“Bahamianese”) add local flavor. Helpful phrases:

  • “How much dis cost?”

  • “Where’s da nearest beach?”

  • “Tanks a lot!” (thanks)

  • Pro Tip: Locals appreciate friendliness—greet with “Good morning/afternoon” before asking questions.

The Bahamas is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas at night (especially in Nassau’s “Over the Hill” district).

Emergency Contacts:

  • 911: Police, medical, fire emergencies.
  • 919: Tourist police (Nassau/Paradise Island).
  • Your Embassy: U.S./U.K. embassies in Nassau; keep details handy.

Marine Safety: Check weather alerts before boating/swimming (strong currents).

120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs (same as U.S.). No adapter needed for North Americans.

Tap water is safe to drink in most resorts, but bottled water is recommended on smaller islands (e.g., Exuma, Eleuthera).

Major holidays (banks/offices close):

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day (Junkanoo parades!).

  • 10 Jul: Independence Day (festivals, fireworks).

  • 1st Mon in Aug: Emancipation Day.

  • 25 Dec: Christmas (Junkanoo Rush).

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day.
    Note: Beaches/resorts stay open, but book ferries/tours early.

Stores: 9:00–17:00 (Nassau); smaller islands may close midday.

Straw Markets: Open late for souvenirs (haggle politely!).

Duty-Free: Best deals on liquor/perfumes at Nassau’s port.

Cracked Conch: Tenderized, deep-fried conch served with fries or rice—national favorite.

Conch Salad: Raw conch marinated in lime, pepper, and onion—Bahamas’ take on ceviche.

Rock Lobster: Grilled or broiled—commonly served with butter and peas ‘n’ rice.

Peas and Rice: Savory side dish made with pigeon peas and seasoned rice.

Stewed Fish: Snapper or grouper slow-cooked in tomato broth—classic island breakfast.

Souse: A tangy soup of lime, peppers, and meat (usually chicken or pork)—a hangover cure.

Bahamian Macaroni Pie: Thick baked mac & cheese with bell peppers and hot sauce.

Johnny Cake: Slightly sweet Bahamian bread served alongside most meals.

Guava Duff: Steamed guava-filled roll topped with rum or brandy butter sauce.

Coconut Tart: Shortcrust pastry filled with grated sweet coconut—a popular dessert treat.

Alcoholic:

  • Kalik Beer: The Bahamas’ most iconic lager—light, crisp, and brewed locally.

  • Sands Beer: Another local favorite—slightly stronger and more flavorful than Kalik.

  • Bahama Mama: Rum-based tropical cocktail with pineapple, coconut, and a cherry kick.

  • Goombay Smash: A blend of dark rum, coconut rum, apricot brandy, and pineapple juice.

  • Sky Juice: Gin mixed with sweetened condensed milk and coconut water—sounds strange, tastes incredible.

  • Rum Punch: House-made variations found island-wide—always fruity and deceptively strong.

  • Pirate Republic Beer: Locally brewed craft beer—try the Island Pirate Ale.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Switcha: Homemade lemonade with lime—zesty and ultra-refreshing.

  • Coconut Water: Served straight from the shell—hydrating and naturally sweet.

  • Fruit Punch: Often made with local guava, mango, or papaya—served chilled.

  • Tamarind Drink: Sweet and tangy, made from steeped tamarind pods.

  • Bahama Blend Smoothies: Mango, pineapple, coconut blends from local fruit shacks.

Junkanoo Festival: Bahamian street carnival with costumes, drums, and horns—held on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Pompey Museum: In Nassau’s old slave market—traces the islands’ colonial and African roots.

Christ Church Cathedral: Historic stone church in downtown Nassau—dating to the 1600s.

Pirates of Nassau Museum: Interactive exhibits about the golden age of piracy.

The Queen’s Staircase: 66 limestone steps carved by slaves in the 1700s—linking history with stunning views.

Gregory Arch: A limestone bridge marking the divide between downtown Nassau and the “Over-the-Hill” neighborhoods.

Cultural Dances: From rake ‘n’ scrape to goombay, the music traditions keep African roots alive.

Handmade Straw Markets: Purchase handcrafted baskets, hats, and dolls—supporting local artisans.

Bahamas National Trust: Protects natural heritage sites including Lucayan National Park.

Androsia Batik Factory: Watch the process of making vibrant island fabrics by hand.

Snorkeling with Pigs (Big Major Cay): Swim with the Bahamas’ most famous four-legged islanders.

Thunderball Grotto: Dive into this famous James Bond filming location near Staniel Cay.

Blue Hole Diving (Andros): Explore massive underwater sinkholes—the world’s deepest blue hole is here.

Swimming with Sharks (Compass Cay): Pet-friendly nurse sharks in crystal-clear waters.

Dolphin Encounters (Blue Lagoon): Family-friendly wildlife experience near Nassau.

Lucayan National Park: Boardwalk trails, mangroves, and Gold Rock Beach.

Glass Window Bridge (Eleuthera): Gaze where the deep blue Atlantic meets the turquoise Caribbean.

Golf at Ocean Club (Paradise Island): Championship course with oceanfront views.

Bahamian Craft Beer Tasting: Visit Pirate Republic Brewery in Nassau.

Sunset Cruises: Set sail with a rum punch in hand as the sky lights up over the sea.

Skybar at Baha Mar: Rooftop views and luxury vibes—great for cocktails and sunsets.

Senor Frog’s (Nassau): Party spot for loud music, dancing, and frozen drinks.

The Daiquiri Shack: Colorful roadside stand with powerful fruit daiquiris.

Aura Nightclub (Atlantis): Upscale dance club with celebrity DJs and ocean glamour.

The Poop Deck: Waterfront bar known for strong cocktails and seafood.

Bon Vivants Café & Bar: Speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Nassau.

Tiki Bikini Hut: Chill beach shack with rum-heavy drinks and reggae tunes.

Sharkeez Bar & Grill: Overlooking the water—casual spot with strong drinks and local flavor.

Bahama Barrels: The first and only winery in the Bahamas—sip blended wines from Caribbean grapes.

Señor Frog’s Frozen Wall: Try the “Octopus” drink if you dare—nine alcohols in one.