There are few places that compare to a vacation in the Bahamas. The Bahamas, a cluster of around 700 islands, is a relaxing vacation spot, providing lots of memories and once in lifetime opportunities. From Bahamas vacation rentals, mesmerizing beaches, historical sites, scuba diving amongst the barrier reef, and popular hiking trails, there is something for everyone to experience in this popular vacation destination.
Getting to the Bahamas is also convenient. The popular vacation destination is located approximately 180 miles from the sound of Florida, and with a non-stop flight from any major airport in the United States, you can be relaxing in the sunshine in no time.
Here’s a look at some of the most exciting activities to do while you are in the Bahamas:
1. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
The Caribbean climate offers some of the richest waters for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Dean’s Blue Hole, located on Long Island, is said to be the deepest blue hole and second-largest underwater chamber in the world. The blue hole sinks 663 feet and is surrounded by gigantic cliffs that make it perfect for diving or snorkeling on the surface of the waters. Easily one of the best locations for a dive is in Andros. The Andros is set upon mile of the barrier reef and boasts a multi-colored collection of marine life. There is a range of shipwrecks, and underwater blue holes to explore, where you can site parrotfish, trumpetfish, spotted scorpionfish, and blue tangs that all enjoy drifting in the currents.
2. Relax on the Beaches
The Bahamas is home to the best beaches in the world. Relax at the beach with the white sand, captivating turquoise water, and stunning views. The most famous pink sand beaches reside in the Bahamas at Harbor Island and Cat Island. The pink sand is caused by tiny flecks of coral that are mixed with the white sand granules, and when the water covers them, the sand has its pinkish hue. Cat Island is the largest island in the Bahamas, with stretches of private beaches to enjoy.
3. Swimming with the Wildlife
There is a variety of flourishing wildlife both on the island and beneath the water’s surface. In the Bahama’s you have the opportunity to swim with dolphins at the incredible Dolphin Cay. One of the most popular Bahamas attractions is boat excursions to Staniel Cay to view the Exuma Swimming Pigs. You have the opportunity to feed and interact with the pigs in the water. Blue Lagoon Island is a private island where guests have the chance to swim with dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. In the shallow waters of Half Moon Cay, tourists have the chance to see stingrays up close. Tours start with training on the proper handling techniques, stingray’s behavior, and end with the opportunity to feed and pet the stingrays in their natural habitat.
4. Sightsee at the National Parks
If hiking is your thing, Lucayan National Park is a 40-acre slab the southern coast of Grand Bahama. The park offers a rich landscape with mangrove swamps, beaches, pine forests, and boardwalks. It’s perfect for birdwatchers, and wildlife seekers. Deep in the heart of the island is an underwater cave system, considered to be the longest and largest on the planet. Tourists can peer into the caves, and spot out sleeping bats, jungle creates and learn about the ecosystem and environment. There is the Peterson Cay National park, which is a one-and-a-half-acre environmental wonder. The area is a protected home to one of the most beautiful reefs in the Bahamas. At the Peterson Cay National Park, you can swim in the turquoise waters and watch the wildlife.
5. Discover the History
The Bahamas is a wealth of history, with a number of historical sites around the islands. Nassau is home to many museums, relics, and monuments. Explore the Columbus museum or many of the pirate-related attraction that explains the past history of the Bahamas. The annual Junkanoo festival displays the liveliness of the Bahamian culture with dance, music, food, and celebrations. Overlooking the city of Nassau is Fort Fincastle. Fort Fincastle features huge brick walls with canons and at the top is an exquisite view of the Bahamian waters.
6. Explore the Markets
You can find an abundance of markets to shop in the islands. The Port Lucaya Marketplace stands tall at the edge of Freeport on Grand Bahama, the marketplace is painted with bright pink, turquoise, yellow and green colors and you can enjoy more than 40 outlets selling local straw crafts, and art pieces, and grab food at many of the eateries, cafes and bars. The straw market is home to Bahamian goods such as wood carvings, and conch shell jewelry. At the straw market in Nassau, you can find a straw hat, handbag or mat.
