The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Vacation in the Bahamas

Paradise does not have to be far or expensive. The Bahamas is one of the most frequently visited Caribbean destinations, especially for Americans. This country is a 500-mile-long chain of islands in the Atlantic Ocean conveniently located only a few hours from the United States.

It is a 1-hour flight from Miami and 3 hours from New York and Dallas. The Bahamas is a top-rated stop for many cruise ships voyaging through the Caribbean.

Aside from its proximity to the US, The Bahamas is sort after by tourists because of its endless white and pink sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, salty breezes, and the laid-back lifestyle of the local people.

Anyone would love to visit the Bahamas. If you like fun adventures or just lounging on the beach, the Bahamas can deliver both. Here is our ultimate guide to planning a vacation in the Bahamas for you.

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How To Get At The Bahamas

Getting to Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas on New Providence Island is typically done by airplane. The average cost of round-trip flights from Miami to Nassau is $165 per person. There are direct flights between those two cities daily.

The best time to visit will depend on your budget and what you plan to do in the Bahamas. From mid-December to mid-April, when the weather is at its best, is considered peak season when the flights, excursions, and room rates are higher, and the islands are crowded with tourists.

Booking to visit during the off-season will save you money and the islands will be less crowded but be mindful that the off-season is also the hurricane season. 

Nassau - The Capital of the Bahamas Islands

Where To Stay On Bahamas Island

The Bahamas has a wide range of accommodations, from modest private guesthouses to expansive luxury resorts. The size and amenities of hotels vary, ranging from premium all-inclusive to quite basic inns. There are also historical guesthouses on some islands and eco-friendly resorts such as MSC’s Ocean Cay.

Hotels offer different plans for meals, drinks, and amenities. Most people would agree that booking an all-inclusive is economical and hassle-free but considering that the cost of food and drinks at local eateries is about $30 per meal it may be cheaper to book an EP (European Plan) hotel that includes breakfast. Lunch and dinner can be an opportunity to explore the local Bahamian cuisine.

Bahamas Islands

What To Do On the Vacation In The Bahamas

No Caribbean vacation is complete without visiting the beach and The Bahamas islands have an abundance of beaches for your enjoyment. Each island has its unique attraction and apart from diving and snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs off the coast, you can book a boat tour to meet and feed the swimming pigs on The Exuma Cays.

Swim with docile nurse sharks on Compass Cay or spend a day on a secret sandbar between the islands. The Abacos island chain is a haven for sailors, boaters, and anglers.

For those who prefer onshore excursions, there are several options to explore including discovering Bahamian cuisine on a Nassau food tour with stops at local restaurants and neighborhood eateries. A local guide will assist you in navigating local delicacies like traditional conch fritters, Bahamian mac 'n' cheese, hand-made truffles, and tropical cocktails.

In Nassau, you can also take a tour where you will learn the rich history of The Bahamas and why the islands were a favorite for pirates and the traditional bush medicines used by the island’s natives. 

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In Grand Bahamas, you can book Mamma Gal’s Native Experience where you will get the opportunity to see the island away from the resorts and tourist traps through a private tour where your guide will take you to several locations, including a fruit market, beach, and perfume factory. 

For travelers on the more adventurous side of things, you can book an ATV tour to explore the island’s terrains, nature parks, and beaches. Through this onshore tour, you will see the beauty of nature, sea, and sand, while you feel the tranquility that the warm sea breeze brings and the quiet nature of the locals.

Book The Bahamas today, those clear blue waters and white sandy beaches are calling your name!