The Bahamas is a tropical paradise famous for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and lively culture.
It’s the ultimate destination, whether you want to relax or have an adventure. With over 700 islands and cays, you’ll find plenty of things to do in the Bahamas.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a list of the top Bahamas activities and attractions for a trip to remember.
Top 17 Activity Options in the Bahamas
The Bahamas might seem like the best place to relax after a stressful time, and it is. Yet, for thrill seekers, families, and history admirers, it offers so much more. This mesmerizing destination is packed with activities for everyone.
Here are some of the best activities to try during your stay in the Bahamas:
1. Relax at One of the Beautiful Beaches
The Bahamas is known for having some of the most stunning beaches in the world. On one of these beaches, you can soak up the warm sun and let the sand tickle your feet. Things couldn’t get better than this.
Some popular spots include:
- Cable Beach in Nassau: This is a popular spot in Nassau, known for the long stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect warm winter getaway, with many nearby restaurants and resorts to explore.
- Pink Sands Beach in Harbour Island: It’s not cotton-candy pink, but the sand over there isn’t like other beaches. With a light hue of pastel rose, Pink Sands Beach is perfect for relaxing and taking memorable photos.
- Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park: Located within the national park itself, Gold Rock is a beautiful, secluded beach. Over there, you’ll get the chance to escape reality and take a break from the busy tourist spots.
2. Go Snorkeling
The Bahamas sits on one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. Therefore, it’s an outstanding destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. Just stick your head under the clear, warm waters, and you’ll be able to explore the huge variety of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.
Some top spots include the Exuma Cays, where you can visit the Thunderball Grotto and swim among the captivating marine life. The Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest in the world, also provides another breathtaking snorkeling experience.
Overall, you can find multiple tours offering snorkeling packages. Yet, if you prefer going on your own, the following interesting snorkeling sites are worth checking out:
- Pearl Island
- Blue Lagoon
- Long Island
- Clifton Heritage National Park
- Rose Island
3. Dive Into Dean’s Blue Hole (and Other Diving Destinations)
For those who can’t get enough adrenaline from snorkeling, diving is the answer. Dean’s Blue Hole, located on Long Island, is one of the most spectacular diving spots in the Bahamas. It’s the world’s second-deepest sinkhole, with a depth of over 660 feet.
If you’re a certified diver, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring the fascinating underwater landscape and stunning rock formations of Dean’s Blue Hole. Moreover, you can also explore one of the world’s largest subaquatic cave systems inside Lucayan National Park.
That said, the best, not-to-miss diving destinations in the Bahamas include:
- Blue Lagoon Island (where you can dive with sharks)
- The 6,000-foot-deep Tongue of the Ocean
- The James Bond Wrecks near New Providence Island
- Grand Bahamas
- The Abacos
4. Explore the Rich History of Nassau
Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is full of interesting historical and cultural sites. So, exploring the city can definitely be worth adding to your to-do list.
Start with the Queen’s Staircase, a gorgeous set of 66 steps carved out of stone in the 18th century. They acted as a pathway that connected Fort Fincastle to the city of Nassau. Although climbing those stairs can be tiring, the reward is a breathtaking view of the island from the top.
Besides Fort Fincastle, there are a few other historic forts to check out in Nassau (if you’re into this sort of stuff). Among the most notable is Fort Charlotte. It’s the largest fort on New Providence Island, and the view from over there is absolutely magnetic.
5. Swim With the Pigs at Pig Beach
One of the most fun and unique Bahamas things to do (especially for the kids) is swimming with the pigs at Pig Beach. Located on Big Major Cay in Exuma, this famous beach contains a group of friendly pigs that love to splash around in the clear Bahamas waters.
In fact, this isn’t the only beach in the Bahamas where you can find pigs. However, Exuma’s Pig Beach is the original place to spot the “original swimming pigs.”
In general, Pig Beach tours include a boat ride to the island, where visitors can swim and interact with these adorable pigs. Some tours also combine this trip with other stops that include wildlife observation, such as Big Guana Cay.
6. Discover Lucayan National Park
For nature enthusiasts, Lucayan National Park is a must-visit. This beautiful park, located on Grand Bahama Island, is famous for its diverse natural landscape. It spans 40 acres of land that includes lush mangroves, stunning beaches, and jaw-dropping underground caves.
One of the park’s main highlights is the Lucayan Caves, where you can see the fascinating rock formations (beware of the bats, though).
The park also contains the captivating Gold Rock Beach that appeared in two parts of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequel. It’s perfect for swimming, picnicking, or just relaxing under the sun. It’s a fantastic opportunity to escape the crowds and unwind.
7. Have Fun at Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park
Here’s another outstanding activity for thrill seekers and families as well. It’s the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park, located on Paradise Island.
It’s a huge, 141-acre aquapark that features a wide range of exciting attractions. This includes fun waterslides, a lazy river, and a large wave pool. It’s an ideal place to spend the day with your kids or a group of friends.
In addition to water attractions, the park offers a beautiful view of the surrounding Atlantis resort. Inside the largest open-air marine habitat in the world, you can spot marvelous creatures, including sharks, eels, stingrays, etc.
Plus, if you’re staying at this resort, you get to enter the water park for free.
8. Shop at the Straw Market in Nassau
Eager to interact with the locals and enjoy some retail therapy, Nassau’s straw market is the place to be. It’s a bustling area where you can experience local Bahamian culture and buy unique souvenirs for your loved ones.
Primarily, this market is famous for its colorful array of handmade crafts and traditional goods. You’ll find everything from beautifully woven straw baskets and hats to hand-carved wooden artwork.
As you browse the market, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and try a local snack. That said, don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills before you go.
9. Visit the Bahamas Historical Society Museum
Also located in the capital city of Nassau, the Bahamas Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past. It’s a non-profit organization that works hard to preserve information about the history of the Bahamas.
The museum was founded by Lady Arthur in 1959. She was the wife of Sir Raynold Arthur, the former governor of the Bahamas, and played a huge role in establishing the museum.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits such as old photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of how the Bahamas has changed over time. This includes items from the colonial era as well as displays of important events and people.
10. Try Going Deep-Sea Fishing
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, going deep-sea fishing in the Bahamas is a spectacular choice. The waters around the islands are so rich with big game fish that they make regular spots for a few annual fishing tournaments.
Ideally, you can book a fishing charter to take you out into the deep blue sea. Over there, you’ll have the chance to catch some impressive fish, including marlin, tuna, and barracuda.
Luckily, many charters come with all the equipment you might need. On top of that, there are also experienced guides who can take you to the best fishing spots.
That said, remember that you can’t go fishing without a license. While most tours handle issuing these permits on their own, it never hurts to ask about them before you book.
11. Explore the Pirates of Nassau Museum
You’ve probably heard about the pirate history of the Bahamas, and there’s no better place to learn about it than this place. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is located in Nassau and offers an exciting look into the world of pirates who once roamed the surrounding waters.
This museum is a fun and educational place for the whole family to enjoy. It features exhibits about the Golden Age of Piracy, with life-size replicas of pirate ships and detailed displays of famous pirates like Blackbeard and Calico Jack.
You can explore artifacts from the era and learn what life was like back then. All in all, the Pirates of Nassau Museum offers an amazing opportunity to learn about the islands’ past from different perspectives.
12. Swim With the Dolphins at Bimini Islands
You can’t visit the Bahamas without going to swim with the dolphins. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get up close and personal with the playful bottlenose dolphins.
Generally, there are many locations where you can try this fun activity, including Dolphin Cay, Blue Lagoon Island, and Sanctuary Bay. Yet, the Bimini Islands stand out for their clear waters and beautiful surroundings.
During your stay in the Bahamas, you can easily find tours that take you to experience dolphin encounters. They teach you about dolphin behavior and give you the chance to swim and interact with these marvelous creatures.
13. Attend the Junkanoo Festival
If you’re a fan of festivities, then you’ll definitely have a blast at the Junkanoo carnival. It’s a fantastic display of Bahamian culture that takes place annually on December 26 and New Year’s Day (January 1) in Nassau.
This enchanting festival features a parade of energetic music and dance performances through the streets of Nassau. Usually, the participants wear colorful hand-made costumes decorated with feathers, beads, and sequins as a dazzling display of tradition.
That said, don’t get disappointed if you can’t make it to the Bahamas on these dates. Junkanoo festivities also occur every Saturday during the summer. Plus, you can pay a visit to Junkanoo World Museum & Arts Centre to learn more about this tradition and attend the daily celebration.
14. Munch on the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay
For a true taste of Bahamian cuisine, head to Arawak Cay and enjoy a bite of the famous fish fry. Located just outside of Nassau, this area is the place where locals head for a fresh seafood meal.
At Arawak Cay, you can find many stalls and small restaurants that serve freshly prepared, delicious seafood. From shrimp to mahi-mahi and other delights, it’s basically a fish haven for foodies. However, the star of the show over there is the crispy fish fry.
In addition to luscious food, Arawak Cay has an enjoyable, relaxed, and friendly atmosphere. That’s why it’s the perfect place to grab a meal and mingle with the locals.
15. Pet the Rays at Stingray City
Another one-of-a-kind animal encounter that’s a Bahamas specialty is swimming with the gentle stingrays. At Stingray City in Grand Cay, you can experience the thrill of interacting with these friendly sea creatures in their natural habitat.
Worry not, as these smart rays are used to being surrounded by people. So, they’ll glide freely around and allow you to gently pet their smooth bodies. You’ll also get the chance to feed the rays.
For animal lovers of all ages, this experience is one of the best to have in the Bahamas. Don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera to take unforgettable shots. Alternatively, you can buy photos from one of the on-site pro photographers.
16. Watch the Exotic Flamingos at Great Inagua Island
Located in the southern part of the Bahamas, Inagua Island is mostly uninhabited. However, the huge number of flamingos makes up for all the empty space. The island is home to one of the largest flamingo populations in the Caribbean,over 80,000.
Primarily, Inagua National Park on the island provides a perfect habitat for these gorgeous pink birds. You can book a guided tour to Lake Windsor or Lake Rosa, where you can see flamingos feeding on tiny pink brine shrimp.
Great Inagua Island is also known as the “Birdwatching Capital of the Bahamas.” It houses about 140 species of amazing native and migratory birds, including pelicans and Bahamian parrots.
17. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
For a sports and relaxation combo, try kayaking or paddle boarding in the Bahamian waters. These activities are perfect for enjoying the clear, calm waters and exploring the mesmerizing coastline at a slow pace.
Conveniently, you can easily rent a kayak or paddleboard from local shops or beaches. As you glide over the turquoise water, you can observe the scenic view and maybe even spot some marine life.
Overall, one of the best places to enjoy this activity is the 365 Exuma Cays. It offers a calmer water area than other Caribbean kayaking destinations and contains interesting sheltered spots to explore.
Where To Stay When Visiting the Bahamas
When planning your vacation to the Bahamas, figuring out where to stay is essential. For a luxurious and unforgettable experience, consider Sea Glass Found, a premier vacation rental that offers a fantastic mix of elegance and comfort.
This beautiful facility sits on a private peninsula on Man-O-War Cay and is close to many attractions in the Abacos. Over there, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the beautiful Bahamian waters wherever you look. You’re basically surrounded by the blue sea at all times.
Accommodations and Amenities
Sea Glass Found has four gorgeous private cottages that can host large groups of 8 to 22 guests. Each property is comfortable and cozy, making it the perfect place for a relaxing stay.
On top of that, there’s a large on-site dining cabana next to an infinity pool where you can enjoy a lovely meal with a view.
If you prefer the white sandy shores, there are three amazing private beaches with plenty of shaded lounge chairs to relax on. For sports lovers, the property also offers most water sports activities you can think of.
Additionally, there is a private marina where guests have access to several boats to explore the surrounding waters (captain included). There are also two 6-seater golf carts for easy travel around the island.
All in all, Sea Glass Found has everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Take a look at some of the additional amenities available:
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Trip planning to nearby attractions
- Comfortable living spaces with WiFi, smart TVs, air conditioners, ceiling fans, Nintendo Wii, and board games.
- A kitchenette in each house with a refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and coffee maker
- Watersports equipment and beach toys
- Outdoor movie projector
- Catering and massage services (paid)
