The Bahamas Travel Guide - Bahamas Travel Tips, Tours & Experiences (2024)

Looking for an in-depth Bahamas travel guide?

Then you’re in the right place!

The Bahamas has long been known as one of the best places to soak up some sun and get away from it all. With over 2,000 beaches to enjoy throughout the islands, there’s no shortage of opportunities to relax here. It’s truly a must-visit when booking a trip to the Caribbean.

But there’s so much more to this Caribbean nation than just beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts!

Made up of 700 islands just a few miles southeast of Florida, The Bahamas is a nation rich in culture and natural splendor. From swimming with sharks to swimming with pigs to the lively Junkanoo festivals, there’s something for everyone visiting the country.

And don’t think that beachside resorts are the only way to stay in The Bahamas; whether you’re interested in eco-tourism, home rentals, backpacking, or something else, there are many different ways to experience the islands.

If you originally planned a trip to The Bahamas with the intention of just chilling on the beach, don’t be surprised if you add a few more activities to your itinerary after reading this guide. There’s just so much to do and see!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to the Bahamas.

Note: This guide to travel in the Bahamas contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Table Of Contents

  1. Bahamas Map
  2. Top Tours In The Bahamas Islands
  3. Renting A Car In The Bahamas
  4. Bahamas Hotels
  5. Bahamas Travel Insurance
  6. Bahamas Travel Guide FAQ
    • Q: Are the Bahamas part of the Caribbean Islands?
    • Q: How far is the Bahamas from Florida?
    • Q: What international airports are in the Bahamas?
    • Q: What are the inhabited islands of the Bahamas?
    • Q: Since this is a Bahamas vacation guide, can you share a Bahamas map?
    • Q: About how much does a trip to the Bahamas cost?
    • Q: Do you need a passport to go to the Bahamas?
    • Q: Is there anything I should know when it comes to Bahamas travel safety?
    • Q: What are the top things to do while visiting the Bahamas?
    • Q: Do I need a visa to visit the Bahamas?
    • Q: When is hurricane season in the Bahamas?
    • Q: Are credit cards accepted in the Bahamas?
    • Q: What is the local currency in the Bahamas?
    • What would you add to this Bahamas travel guide?
  7. Bahamas Travel Guides
  8. Bahamas Travel Tips
  9. Caribbean Travel Tips

Bahamas Map

Use this Bahamas travel map to begin planning your trip!

The Bahamas Travel Guide - Bahamas Travel Tips, Tours & Experiences (2)

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Bahamas Travel Guides

Learn about the destination through these Bahamas vacation guides.

Swimming With Nurse Sharks In Compass Cay, Exumas, Bahamas

Swimming With Pigs At Big Major Spot Cay In The Exuma Cays, Bahamas

Bahamas Travel Tips

This Bahamas travel advice can help you explore these Caribbean islands smarter.

Is The Exuma Archipelago The Quirky Sister Of The Galapagos?

Caribbean Travel Tips

Make your Caribbean vacation even more memorable with the help of the following travel guides!

13 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Travel (+ Tips!)

Top Tours In The Bahamas Islands

Hire a local Bahamas tour guide through one of these fun group excursions:

  • Nassau Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour
  • ATV Tour Of Nassau
  • Snorkel Adventure & Beach Escape with Lunch at Pearl Island from Nassau (Bahamas Day Trips)
  • Famous Swimming Pigs Tour Bahamas – Full Day Powerboat to Exuma from Nassau (Bahamas Day Trips)
  • Rum, Reggae & Rhythms Tour (With Cable Beach Visit!)

Renting A Car In The Bahamas

Need a rental car for your Bahamas trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!The Bahamas Travel Guide - Bahamas Travel Tips, Tours & Experiences (9)

Bahamas Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in the Bahamas!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Bahamas Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Bahamas tour. When visiting the Bahamas — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Bahamas itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Bahamas Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions and additional Bahamas travel information.

Q: Are the Bahamas part of the Caribbean Islands?

Yes! More specifically, the 700 islands and islets and 2,000 coral reefs that make up the Bahamas are located in the northwestern West Indies.

Q: How far is the Bahamas from Florida?

The Bahamas Islands are located about 50 miles from the coast of Florida.

Q: What international airports are in the Bahamas?

Lynden Pindling International Airport (formerly Nassau International Airport) is the largest international airport in the Bahamas and is located in Nassau, on the island of New Providence.

Q: What are the inhabited islands of the Bahamas?

Along with New Providence — which is home to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas — the other main inhabited islands include Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Rum Cay, Long Island, San Salvador Island, Ragged Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Exuma, Berry Islands, Mayaguana, the Bimini islands, Great Abaco and Great Inagua.

Q: Since this is a Bahamas vacation guide, can you share a Bahamas map?

Sure! Here is a Google Map of the Bahamas Islands.

Here is also a visual Bahamas Map giving you insight into the location of the islands within the Caribbean:

The Bahamas Travel Guide - Bahamas Travel Tips, Tours & Experiences (10)

Q: About how much does a trip to the Bahamas cost?

The cost of a trip to the Bahamas certainly depends on your travel style as there are lots of different ways to experience the Bahamas, from backpacking to luxury beachside resort stays. That said, the average, mid-range traveler can expect to spend about $159 USD per day while in the Bahamas.

Airfare from the United States to the islands will depend on your departure location, but you’ll probably find the absolute cheapest airfare flying from bigger “hub” airports like Miami, Charlotte, and Chicago O’Hare.

Q: Do you need a passport to go to the Bahamas?

Yes. All international visitors to the Bahamas must present a valid passport to enter the country regardless of their age.

Q: Is there anything I should know when it comes to Bahamas travel safety?

The Bahamas is considered fairly safe for tourists — making it a great option for solo female travel in the Caribbean — but crime is very much a reality in certain parts of the islands.

Nassau is the country’s most populous island and most travelers will pass through it at some point in their trips; this makes the downtown area a target of pickpockets and ATM scammers. Stay alert when visiting the downtown area and keep any valuables close — or just leave them in a safe location — to avoid pickpockets.

The “Over-The-Hill” section of the island also has a high rate of violent crime. If you do visit this area, avoid walking around at night and travel with a group if possible.

Exercise caution when booking boat tours, snorkeling excursions and other water activities on the islands. Make sure you are booking with a tour operator to avoid scams and rent jet skis from businesses recommended by the tourist office, as many operators are unregulated. If you have any doubts about a boat or water activity, trust your intuition.

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Q: What are the top things to do while visiting the Bahamas?

The Bahamas’ top attractions are definitely its beaches. Paradise Beach on Paradise Island boasts white sand and beautiful turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling or just soaking up some sun. Nassau’s Cable Beach is a bit more lively and home to many popular all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, and shops.

Take a walk through Downtown Nassau to see sites like the city’s gorgeous pastel-colored buildings and the bustling Straw Market.

Get in touch with nature in Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island, where you can see all six of the island’s ecosystems in one place.

Of course, you can’t visit The Bahamas without a trip out to the tiny, deserted island of Big Major Cay in the Exumas, where you can swim with pigs!

And if you’re looking for a more unspoiled and truly relaxed experience in The Bahamas, head to Cat Island, where you can enjoy miles of beach away from the resort and cruise ship crowds on the more major islands.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit the Bahamas?

Visitors from the United States, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa to visit the Bahamas if they are staying for less than three months. For a full list of visa and passport requirements by country, visit the Bahamian government’s website.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Bahamas International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of the Bahamas.

Q: When is hurricane season in the Bahamas?

Hurricane season in the Bahamas runs from June 1 to November 30, with early August through October being the prime time.

You may remember Hurricane Dorian, a devestating tropical storm that took place in August 2019.

Hurricanes are definitely something to consider when planning a Bahamas vacation, so check the latest weather updates and Bahamas travel information before booking.

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Q: Are credit cards accepted in the Bahamas?

Credit cards are widely accepted around the Bahamas, particularly in tourist areas. That being said, it is wise to always carry some cash.

Additionally, check with your financial institution to confirm if they charge a foreign transaction fee. If they do, consider getting a credit card that doesn’t.

Q: What is the local currency in the Bahamas?

The local currency in the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar.

What would you add to this Bahamas travel guide?

Enjoyed this Bahamas travel guide? Pin it for later!

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The Bahamas Travel Guide - Bahamas Travel Tips, Tours & Experiences (2024)

FAQs

What to stay away from in Bahamas? ›

Safety and security
  • Avoid Nassau's “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.
  • Don't walk alone, particularly after dark.
  • Don't carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery.

Where not to go in Nassau? ›

In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

Should you bring cash to the Bahamas? ›

There's no need to get your currency exchanged, US currency is accepted. You'll want to travel with cash and a major credit card though, because you'll probably need both during your stay. Tips are king. If someone helps you during your stay, tips are expected.

What is the safest island in the Bahamas? ›

The Abacos are considered some of the safest islands in The Bahamas and are known for being family-friendly. The Abaco Islands have only a population of around 17,000 and are made up of Great Abaco, Little Abaco, and several smaller barrier cays. See crime statistics in The Bahamas on the Royal Bahaman Police website.

Is Nassau safe to walk around? ›

If you're visiting the Bahamas, you certainly don't want to miss vibrant Nassau. But is Nassau safe? The good news is that Nassau is a generally safe destination for tourists, though there are several neighborhoods you should avoid or exercise caution in. Crime levels are similar to those in many major cities.

Which Bahama island has prettiest beaches? ›

The most renowned of them is Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island's Atlantic coast. One of the best beaches in The Bahamas, it captivatingly stretches for about three uninterrupted miles and offers visitors a unique experience that is, without a doubt, exceptional.

Is Bahamas cheap or expensive? ›

For a family of four, the average Bahamas trip cost is about $630 per day. Overall, the total budget for a week's trip should be around $5500, considering the flight, transport, food, entertainment and souvenirs🤔. Without enough budget, creating enjoyable traveling memories becomes hard😭.

Is it better to go to the Caribbean or Bahamas? ›

Both regions have an abundance of gorgeous beaches for every pace and preference, making it easy for beach lovers to find their ideal stretch of sand, no matter where they go. However, the beaches in the Bahamas tend to be warmer, and there are more coral reefs and sandbars in the ocean surrounding Nassau.

Why is there a travel warning in the Bahamas? ›

The travel advisory specifically mentions gang-on-gang violence in the Nassau area, adding violent crime such as burglaries, armed robberies and sexual assaults occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

Why is Bahamas on alert? ›

Event: The U.S. Embassy in Nassau advises U.S. citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders.

Is there a security warning for the Bahamas? ›

Currently, the Bahamas has a Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) warning. Many tourism-reliant countries, including Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, currently have Level 2 warnings, and most travelers experience safe and enjoyable vacations.

How much is $100 US in Bahamas? ›

One hundred US Dollars are worth $100.000 BSD today as of 11:00 PM UTC. Check the latest currency exchange rates for the US Dollar, Bahamian Dollar and all major world currencies. Our currency converter is simple to use and also shows the latest currency rates.

Is shopping in Bahamas cheaper? ›

How expensive is the Bahamas? Most Caribbean islands tend to be more expensive than the United States for things like shopping, dining, accommodation, and more.

What food is the Bahamas known for? ›

10 Bahamian Foods & Cuisines to Try
  • Cracked Conch. ...
  • Conch Salad. ...
  • Rock Lobsters. ...
  • Bahamian Stew Fish. ...
  • Johnnycakes. ...
  • Pigeon Peas and Rice. ...
  • Baked Crab. ...
  • Souse.

Is it safe to go to the Bahamas right now? ›

Are the Bahamas Safe for Tourists? Similar to Jamaica, the advisory level for the Bahamas was not elevated recently by the State Department. The Level 2 advisory has been in place since 2022 and was reissued in January due to violence in specific neighborhoods rarely frequented by tourists.

What do I need to know before going to the Bahamas? ›

Armed robberies, burglaries, bag snatchings, theft, fraud and sexual assaults are the most common crimes committed against travellers in Freeport and Nassau. Be aware of your surroundings, even in areas usually considered safe. Keep valuables out of sight. Sexual assault frequently occurs in The Bahamas.

What can you bring back from Bahamas? ›

Here are 10 items that you can bring home.
  • Straw Goods. Weaving baskets, hats, purses, fans and more from dried palm leaves and sisal is an age-old Bahamian handicraft, and you'll see such items sold everywhere. ...
  • Rum. ...
  • Conch Shell Jewelry. ...
  • Jams and Jellies. ...
  • Cigars. ...
  • Batiks. ...
  • Pine Seed Doll. ...
  • Junkanoo Art.

Is water safe to drink in the Bahamas? ›

Bahamian tap water meets all the safety standards. It's safe to drink, but here's the scoop: Water Quality: In urban areas like Nassau, tap water is A-okay. But in more remote places, it's best to stick with bottled water.

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