Top 15 Amazing Things to Do in the Bahamas 🇧🇸🏝️
The Bahamas is a slice of paradise with over 700 islands and cays scattered across the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this tropical wonderland has something for everyone. From swimming with pigs 🐷 to diving in crystal-clear waters 🤿, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in the Bahamas!
1. Swim with the Famous Pigs in Exuma 🐷🏝️
One of the Bahamas’ most famous attractions is Pig Beach on Big Major Cay in the Exumas. These adorable, friendly pigs paddle out to greet visitors, eager for treats and selfies! You can book a boat tour that includes stops at nearby sandbars, snorkeling spots, and iguana island.
📍 Where: Big Major Cay, Exumas
🔗 Book a tour here
2. Explore Nassau’s Straw Market 🎨🧺
For a taste of local culture and handmade crafts, visit the Straw Market in Nassau. Vendors sell handwoven straw hats, bags, and wooden carvings—perfect souvenirs to bring home. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be shy!
📍 Where: Downtown Nassau
🔗 More info here
3. Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto 🤿🐠
This underwater cave system, located near Staniel Cay, is famous for its appearance in the James Bond movie Thunderball. With vibrant marine life and natural light streaming through the cave openings, it’s a top snorkeling and diving destination in the Bahamas!
📍 Where: Staniel Cay, Exumas
🔗 Book a snorkeling tour
4. Walk on the Blush Sands of Pink Sands Beach 🌸🏖️
Imagine stepping onto a three-mile-long beach of pink sand—yes, PINK! 🌸 Harbour Island’s Pink Sands Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with soft, powdery sand that gets its color from tiny coral insects called foraminifera.
📍 Where: Harbour Island
🔗 Plan your visit
5. Experience the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort 🎡🎰
Atlantis Paradise Island is more than just a resort—it’s a world of entertainment! With a massive water park, aquariums, a casino, and luxury dining, this resort is a must-visit, even if you’re not staying overnight.
📍 Where: Paradise Island, Nassau
🔗 Visit Atlantis Bahamas
6. Dive into the Andros Barrier Reef 🪸🐟
The third-largest barrier reef in the world, the Andros Barrier Reef, is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. It features deep blue holes, colorful coral formations, and diverse marine life—a must for underwater enthusiasts!
📍 Where: Andros Island
🔗 Find a diving tour
7. Celebrate at the Junkanoo Festival 🎉🥁
If you’re visiting during Christmas or New Year’s, don’t miss Junkanoo, the Bahamas’ most vibrant festival! It features colorful parades, live music, and extravagant costumes, making it one of the Caribbean’s most exciting cultural celebrations.
📍 Where: Nassau (and other islands)
📅 When: December 26 & January 1
🔗 Learn more about Junkanoo
8. Kayak Through the Exuma Cays 🛶🌅
If you love serene, crystal-clear waters, then kayaking in the Exuma Cays is a must. Paddle through hidden coves, mangroves, and deserted beaches while spotting wildlife like sea turtles and tropical birds.
📍 Where: Exuma Cays
🔗 Find kayaking tours
9. Taste Authentic Bahamian Cuisine 🍽️🐟
No trip to the Bahamas is complete without trying delicious Bahamian food! Here are some must-try dishes:
- Conch fritters 🦪 – Deep-fried and crispy seafood delight!
- Bahamian rock lobster 🦞 – Fresh and juicy, straight from the sea.
- Johnnycakes 🍞 – A sweet, dense bread served with stews.
📍 Where to eat: The Fish Fry at Arawak Cay, Nassau
🔗 Explore Bahamian cuisine
10. Cross the Glass Window Bridge 🌉🌊
One of the most breathtaking natural sights in the Bahamas, the Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera Island offers a stunning contrast between the deep blue Atlantic Ocean and the calm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea—a perfect photo spot!
📍 Where: Eleuthera Island
🔗 Plan your trip
11. Go Shark Diving in Nassau 🦈🤿
Feeling adventurous? Take a shark dive in Nassau, where you can safely swim alongside Caribbean reef sharks! It’s a thrilling and unforgettable experience for brave travelers.
📍 Where: Nassau
🔗 Book a shark dive
12. Visit Lucayan National Park 🌳🦜
If you love nature, Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island is a must. It’s home to one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, as well as mangrove forests, wildlife, and the secluded Gold Rock Beach.
📍 Where: Grand Bahama Island
🔗 Visit Lucayan National Park
13. Walk Through Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre 🦩🌺
See the national bird of the Bahamas, the Caribbean flamingo, up close at Ardastra Gardens in Nassau. This small zoo and botanical garden is home to native birds, reptiles, and lush tropical plants.
📍 Where: Nassau
🔗 Visit Ardastra Gardens
14. Relax at Port Lucaya Marketplace 🛍️🎶
For shopping, dining, and live music, visit Port Lucaya Marketplace in Freeport. Here, you can buy local crafts, enjoy Bahamian food, and listen to live reggae and calypso music.
📍 Where: Freeport, Grand Bahama Island
🔗 More info here
15. Sip Rum at John Watling’s Distillery 🥃🏰
Located in a historic estate in Nassau, John Watling’s Distillery offers tours where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample their famous handcrafted rums.
📍 Where: Nassau
🔗 Visit the distillery
Final Thoughts: The Bahamas Awaits! 🌴✨
With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless adventure, the Bahamas is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. Whether you’re swimming with pigs, diving with sharks, or just soaking up the sun, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do!
Which activity are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments! 💬👇
🔗 Plan your trip now: Bahamas Official Tourism Site
FAQs About Things to Do in the Bahamas
1. What is the best time to visit the Bahamas?
The best time to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and pleasant. However, visiting during the off-season (May to November) can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, but be aware of hurricane season.
2. Do I need a visa to visit the Bahamas?
For most travelers, a visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. However, it’s always best to check with your country’s embassy before traveling.
3. How do I get to the swimming pigs in the Bahamas?
The swimming pigs are located on Big Major Cay in the Exumas. You can reach them by booking a boat tour from Nassau, Staniel Cay, or other nearby islands.
4. Is the Bahamas safe for tourists?
Yes, the Bahamas is generally safe for tourists. However, like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use reputable tour operators.
5. What currency is used in the Bahamas?
The official currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD), which is pegged to the U.S. dollar (1 BSD = 1 USD). U.S. dollars are widely accepted, so there’s no need to exchange money.
6. What are the must-try foods in the Bahamas?
Some delicious Bahamian foods to try include:
- Conch fritters 🦪 – A deep-fried seafood delicacy.
- Bahamian rock lobster 🦞 – Fresh and juicy seafood.
- Johnnycakes 🍞 – A sweet, dense bread served with stews.
- Bahama Mama 🍹 – A tropical cocktail with rum and fruit juices.
7. What is the best island to visit in the Bahamas?
It depends on what you’re looking for!
- Nassau & Paradise Island – Great for nightlife, shopping, and resorts.
- Exumas – Famous for swimming pigs and crystal-clear waters.
- Harbour Island – Known for its pink sand beaches.
- Andros – A paradise for divers and nature lovers.
8. Can I use my phone in the Bahamas?
Yes! Most international carriers offer roaming services, but it’s best to check with your provider. You can also buy a local SIM card for better rates.
9. What are some unique activities to do in the Bahamas?
Some unique experiences include:
- Swimming with pigs in Exuma 🐷
- Diving with sharks in Nassau 🦈
- Exploring the underwater caves of Lucayan National Park 🌊
- Dancing at the Junkanoo Festival 🎉
10. How many days should I spend in the Bahamas?
A 5 to 7-day trip is ideal to explore multiple islands, enjoy the beaches, and try different activities without feeling rushed.
Final Tip:
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or culture, the Bahamas offers something for everyone. Start planning your dream tropical getaway today! 🌴✨
🚀 Check out official travel resources: Bahamas Tourism Board
