The convergence of the Atlantic and Caribbean oceans is littered with the 700 islands and 2,400 coral cays of The Bahamas, offering North American travelers easy access to gleaming luxury resorts, quaint West Indian-style inns, and sparkling sands – some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. More than half of the Bahamian population resides on New Providence where the capital, Nassau, is located. Grand Bahama is the home to Freeport, the once-and-again trendy resort town. The remaining populated atolls are collectively referred to as the Out Islands. This group includes the Abacos chain, Andros, the Berry Islands, the Biminis, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, the Exumas, Long Island and the Southern Islands.
Tagged by many as a cruise-ship port mega-destination, the Bahamas also offer real adventure and solitude. With so many options, there's a place here to suit almost any taste and budget.
SNORKELING AND DIVING
Scuba diving is a major draw to the islands of the Bahamas, and sharks are among the biggest draws. Many divers choose to dive from live-aboard boats, which allow them to sample a number of islands during one vacation. A reef that stretches 760 miles from Andros to Long Island offers some of the best diving options in the region. Snorkelers have it even easier, with innumerable spots around the Out Islands that are picture-perfect for dropping anchor, throwing on some fins and exploring the coral and marine life.
ECO-ADVENTURE
The eco-minded nation has also been making a concerted effort to protect its natural resources of late. Bird sanctuaries, wilderness areas and a long-standing ban on longline fishing help to make these islands an attractive destination for eco-tourists.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
The Bahamian calendar is filled with special events and celebrations. The largest blowout festival of the year is the carnival-like party called Junkanoo. At Christmastime, costumed dancers, musicians and drummers parade through the streets to the rhythm of cowbells, goatskin drums and whistle. During the summer, Goombay offers a variety of Bahamian musical and cultural events. Sporting events attract local and international participants. Among the more than 30 annual fishing tournaments, the six-tournament Bahamas Billfish Championship, which runs from March through June, is the most prestigious.
MAP OF THE BAHAMAS
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DON'T MISS
– Shopping amidst the hustle and bustle of Nassau's Straw Market
– Meeting flamingos at Inagua National Park
– Negotiating duty-free deals on Nassau's Bay Street or in Freeport on Grand Bahama
– Exploring Hemingway's haunts on Bimini
– Relaxing on Exuma's colonial quaintness and shell-strewn seashores
– Jumping to colorful Junkanoo, the island's Christmastime carnival
– Chowing on curried conch and Kalik beer
