The Bahamas travel guide
The Bahamas Tourism | The Bahamas Guide
You're Going to Love The Bahamas
Clear blue waters, sandy beaches, lush forests, and vibrant historic towns are just some of the reasons why travelers choose the Bahamas as their dream destination.
What to do in The Bahamas
1. Go Diving
Home to gorgeous reefs, the Bahamas is one of the best diving destinations in the world. Exuma Cays, Andros, and The Biminis are some of the top diving locations.
2. Visit Historical Sites
Historical sites, like Clifton Heritage National Park, are crucial to understanding the Bahamas' past and present, whether or not you're a history buff.
3. Explore the Beaches
With several beaches to choose from, you can visit a different one every day. The Pink Sand Beach, named as such because of its distinctive color, is Instagram-perfect.
4. Get a Taste of Homemade Rum
Go on a free tour of the John Watling's Distillery to sample their famous homemade rum and other house specialties.
5. Explore Nassau
Take a break from sunbathing and swimming at one of the many beaches and explore Nassau.
When to visit The Bahamas
While temperatures are the most bearable between June and September, it's also hurricane season, so choose your dates carefully when planning your trip to the Bahamas.
March is the month to avoid if you can't stand crowds of partying tourists.
How to Get to The Bahamas
Entry Requirements
As a tourism destination, the Bahamas are relaxed when it comes to entry requirements. Most people can enter the country visa-free and stay for up to 90 days.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months counting from the date of entry.
Plane
International flights to the Bahamas land at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau or at Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport.
There are frequent nonstop flights to the Bahamas from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Boat
Taking advantage of the proximity with Florida in the United States, the Bahamas are included in many cruise ship routes that usually include a stop in Grand Bahama or Nassau.
Popular airlines serving The Bahamas
Where to stay in The Bahamas
The Bahamas are mostly famous for their all-inclusive resorts ranging from affordable family places to luxurious high-end accommodations. On some islands, hotels and villas are somewhat easy to find if you plan early.
Where to stay in popular areas of The Bahamas
Most booked hotels in The Bahamas
How to Get Around The Bahamas
Boat
Island hopping by ferry, mail boat, and water taxi is frequent and sometimes a more reliable alternative than taking a domestic flight.
Ferries are operated by private company Bahamas Ferries. The government runs mail boats and water taxis. Trips on the mail boats are the cheapest but also the longest, usually taking place overnight to farther islands. A one-way ticket costs approximately BS$30-45 ($30-45).
Bus
Private minibuses, known as jitneys, are mostly used in Nassau. Although they're supposed to follow a predefined route and timetable, most of the time they just follow the local workers' demand for transportation.
Car
Remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road and keep your driver's license with you at all times. Your local license is valid in the Bahamas for up to three months, with no need for additional documents.
You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the Bahamas. Some car rental companies may only rent cars to drivers 25 years old or older.
Taxi
It's easy to find licensed taxis in Freeport and Nassau. In the Out Islands, they're used as the main local transportation option.
The government-issued fixed rates are based on distance, especially between cruise terminals and airports and major hotels and destinations on the islands.
Plane
Domestic flights between islands are common and frequently used by locals as a faster and affordable way to get around.
Regular routes from Nassau operated by local airline Bahamasair include destinations like Abaco, Exuma, Long Island, and Grand Bahama.
The Cost of Living in The Bahamas
Both Bahamian dollars and US dollars are widely accepted as payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but you should always carry cash for more remote locations. ATMs are easier to find in the main cities and tourist destinations. Daily groceries can cost around BS$45 ($45).