The best things to do in the Bahamas are about more than just relaxing on postcard-perfect beaches. This stunning Caribbean destination is a collection of more than 700 islands and cays, each offering unique experiences filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. From swimming with pigs in Exuma to exploring vibrant coral reefs, travelers will quickly discover why the best things to do in the Bahamas attract visitors from all over the world. Nassau and Paradise Island combine history, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, while the quieter islands invite you to slow down and connect with nature.
Best Things to Do in The Bahamas
Whether you’re diving in crystal-clear waters, enjoying fresh seafood on the shore, or visiting colorful colonial towns, the best things to do in the Bahamas are perfect for every travel style. Thrill seekers can try snorkeling, kayaking, and boating, while culture lovers can explore museums, festivals, and local markets.
Couples, families, and solo travelers will find unforgettable moments with the best things to do in the Bahamas, creating memories that will last a lifetime. With year-round sunshine, warm hospitality, and endless activities, it's easy to see why the best things to do in the Bahamas make this island nation one of the most desirable travel destinations in the world. When you plan to explore the best things to do in the Bahamas, you'll experience relaxation, excitement, and Caribbean charm.
1. Swim with the Pigs at Big Major Cay
Location: Big Major Cay/ Pig Island (Exuma)
Cost: Up to about $200 per person for the full trip
It’s always a fun time to interact with wildlife safely while exploring a new tropical destination. In the Bahamas, one of the most iconic experiences is seeing the swimming pigs. While you can find these adorable creatures on a few islands, Exuma is home to the real swimming pigs at Big Major Cay – also known as Pig Island. Many tours combine this must-see stop with other highlights like Big Guana Cay. For the best light and fewer crowds, book an early morning tour.
2. Take a Day Trip to Rose Island
Location: Rose Island (Day Trip from Nassau)
Cost: About $130
Escape to picturesque Rose Island, a peaceful private island not far from Nassau. Ideal for couples or groups looking to unwind, this day trip includes snorkeling, beach lounging, and buffet-style dining under bright blue skies. Some tours also include overnight accommodations in treehouses or beachfront bungalows—perfect if you want to stay away from the property for a night during your all-inclusive vacation in the Bahamas.
3. Snorkel at Thunderball Grotto
Located: Near Staniel Cay, Exuma
Cost: Included in many tour packages
One of the most unique attractions in the Bahamas, Thunderball Grotto is an underwater cave system that gained worldwide fame in James Bond films like Thunderball and Never Say Never Again. Located near Staniel Cay, it is a top snorkeling and scuba site that is home to vibrant marine life including Sergeant Major, Yellowtail Snapper, and Angelfish. It is a magical place for adventurers and movie buffs alike.
4. Take a Day Trip to Blue Lagoon Island
Location: Blue Lagoon Island (Day Trip from Nassau)
Cost: Starting at $69 USD for adults, $45 USD for children
Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt) is a family-friendly and couples-friendly destination that offers unforgettable marine encounters. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish, and even meet stingrays and sea lions. There are also a variety of activities available, such as Segway tours, sip-and-paint classes, and beach-front shopping. Just three miles from Nassau, this island is one of the easiest and most exciting day trips in the Bahamas.
5. Enjoy the view at Coco Plum Beach
Location: Exuma
Cost: Free
Coco Plum Beach is a hidden gem in Exuma known for its soft, white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and tranquil atmosphere. Fairly secluded, this beach isn’t just Instagram-worthy—it’s a peaceful getaway for travelers looking to disconnect. Visit at low tide and you’ll also be treated to the strange sight of sand dunes stretching out into the ocean. As far as the eye can see, this beach definitely makes it onto your list of must-see places in the Bahamas!
6. Meet the iguanas at Bitter Guana Cay
Location: Exuma
Cost: $197.95 USD
At Bitter Guana Cay, you’ll meet the Bahamas’ native rock iguanas. Up close and personal, these creatures look like something from the dinosaur era! And if you stay long enough, you can see the gentle reptiles basking on the rocky shores, as they are quite accustomed to visitors. Tours often combine this spot with a trip to the swimming pigs or other Exuma cays, making it a fun and educational wildlife experience.
7. Hike at Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
Location: Eleuthera
Cost: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children (in U.S. dollars)
Trade the beach for a nature trail at Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve in Governors Harbour, Eleuthera. This plant sanctuary was created to preserve Bahamian plant life and showcase its cultural and medicinal importance. With shaded hiking trails and informative signage, it’s a serene escape into a tropical ecosystem for nature-loving couples. While there, you’ll be able to explore the medicinal plant trail to discover the healing benefits of the various species found in this beautiful setting.
8. Fall in love with the islands at Pink Sands Beach
Location: Harbour Island (near Eleuthera)
Cost: Free
Without a doubt, Pink Sands Beach is on the list of the best beaches in the Bahamas. Not only is this beach a great place to sunbathe and swim in crystal-clear waters, it’s also the only beach in the Caribbean where you’ll find pink sand. But don’t expect a striking pink hue, the sand here is a light pink color, and this is due to the presence of foraminifera – a sea creature with a red shell. When the shell is crushed and mixed with the white sand, it creates a charming pink sand effect that looks amazing in pictures, and even better in person.
9. Swim with Nurse Sharks at Compass Cay
Location: Exuma
Cost: $150 USD
Swimming with sharks is definitely not for the faint of heart—and once you get in the water, there’s no looking back! It’s a wild experience that’s hard to resist in the moment. If you’re interested in swimming with sharks on your vacation, head to Compass Cay (Exuma Island Chain) in the Bahamas. Compass Cay is popular with divers who want to get up close and personal with species like nurse sharks. These gentle bottom feeders are harmless to humans but are still thrilling to watch. This adventure is best for couples looking to add a little extra to their beach vacation.
10. Visit the Glass Window Bridge
Location: Eleuthera
Cost: Free tour
Eleuthera is a fascinating island with plenty of amazing views. The Glass Window Bridge is one of them. It’s a natural bridge where the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet the turquoise waters of Eleuthera. As you can probably imagine, this makes for quite a dramatic contrast. Since this view is so unique, many people choose to visit this attraction while in the Bahamas. When visiting the glass-windowed bridge, keep an eye out for the wild waves crashing on the bridge. It’s best to avoid the area during bad weather, just to be safe.
11. Enjoy a Beach Day at Joss Beach
Location: Nassau (New Providence)
Cost: Free
Most people expect great beaches when they visit the Caribbean. Or at least beaches with some beautiful scenery and plenty of ocean air for that much-needed respite. Joss Beach serves up a number of things. For starters, this beach is relatively shallow, with crystal-clear water and virtually no waves. It’s just as beautiful as it looks in the pictures. Plus, Joss Beach is quite famous. It was featured in the film ‘Jaws: The Revenge’. At Jaws Beach, you can not only enjoy a peaceful beach experience, but you can also earn some amazing bragging rights!
12. Snorkel at Dean’s Blue Hole
Location: Long Island
Cost: Free to visit
Located near Clarence Town on Long Island, Bahamas, Dean’s Blue Hole is a breathtaking natural wonder and the second deepest blue hole in the world. Sinking to an incredible depth of 663 feet (202 meters), it is surrounded by a stunning natural rock amphitheater on three sides and a turquoise lagoon and white sandy beach on the fourth. The place is famous for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional visibility, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling, diving, and freediving. Every year, the Vertical Blue Free Diving Competition attracts daredevils from around the world to test their limits in this amazing sinkhole.
13. Relax at Cable Beach
Located: Nassau (New Providence)
Cost: Free
Made for relaxation, Cable Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Bahamas. At this beach, you can grab a sun lounger and stay there for a few hours of pure bliss. You can bring your own drinks and food, or you can head to a nearby eatery. Cable Beach is not only a great place to spend some time on the beach, but there is also a lot to do in the area, including plenty of resorts, restaurants, bars, and casinos.
14. Drink at Cabbage Beach
Located: New Providence Island
Cost: Free
Without a doubt, Cabbage Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. This certainly explains its popularity and why you probably can’t get enough of it while you’re in the Bahamas. Cabbage Beach is easily accessible and great for relaxing and sunbathing. An experience here can include water sports like parasailing and jet skiing. There are bars near the beach where you can grab a drink and a quick bite to eat. On windy days, the waters at this beach can get a little choppy.
15. Spend the day at Junkanoo Beach
Location: Nassau (New Providence)
Cost: Free tour
It won’t cost you anything to walk the sands of Junkanoo Beach while on vacation in Nassau. This beach is a favorite of locals, and it’s also a convenient spot for visitors, especially cruise ship passengers. Junkanoo Beach is about a 15-minute walk from Nassau Harbor. On your way to this beach from the harbor, you’ll pass by a busy shopping area and the Nassau Straw Market. Once you reach Junkanoo Beach, you can simply relax by the ocean, go horseback riding, or head to one of the bars like Tiki Bikini Hut for an icy cocktail.
16. Nassau ATV, Culinary and Beach Experience
Price: Starting at $269 per person.
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours (excluding transfer time).
An ATV adventure in the islands brings real action, and the Island Routes version of this tour takes things to new heights. Not only will you ride an ATV to enjoy the stunning scenery and rich heritage of the Bahamas, but you’ll also get to enjoy authentic local cuisine and spend time relaxing by the beach. This tour includes a scenic cruise along the scenic Go-Slow Bend, which offers breathtaking ocean views. You’ll get to taste the iconic guava duff at The New Duff, explore Fort Charlotte on a guided tour, relax on Western Esplanade Beach, and truly immerse yourself in island life at the lively Arawak Ke Fish Fry.
17. Nassau Evening Catamaran Cruise
Price: Starting at USD 127 per person.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours (excluding transfer time).
Enjoy your catamaran cruise experience from day to night with the Nassau Evening Catamaran Cruise. This scenic adventure allows you to enjoy the beauty of Nassau’s stunning coastline while sailing into the sunset. Drift to the rhythm of the Caribbean groove or sit back and relax as the lights of the horizon light up. An open bar and delicious appetizers are available on board to enhance the experience.
18. Reggae Catamaran Cruise and Nassau Beach Break
Price: Starting at USD 141 per person.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours (excluding transfer time).
While in the Bahamas, live the island life and spend as much time in and around the water as possible! The Island Roots Reggae Catamaran Cruise and Nassau Beach Break is the perfect way to do it. Cruise along Nassau’s stunning coastline on a modern “Soul-Mate” catamaran, passing the historic landmarks and celebrity homes of Nassau Harbor. Enjoy snorkeling on a vibrant reef teeming with marine life, then relax and swim on the beach at Rose Island. With an onboard DJ, an open bar, and delicious appetizers, this cruise delivers pure Caribbean bliss.
19. Nassau Spring Break Catamaran Cruise
Price: Starting at around $136 per person.
Duration: Around 4 hours.
A catamaran cruise is a must for any island getaway, and even more so in the sun-drenched archipelago of the Bahamas. The Nassau Spring Break Catamaran Cruise is your ticket to fun, offering an unforgettable cruise along the Nassau coastline, with a live DJ setting the mood. It’s a true Caribbean party at sea—with unlimited exotic cocktails, dancing, and even a chance to swim on a quiet, local beach. This cruise is designed for those who are ready to vacation and celebrate like an island.
20. Eleuthera Pink Sands Experience and Swimming Pig
Price: Starting at $474 per person.
Duration: Approximately 8 hours (excluding transfer time).
Eleuthera in the Bahamas is one of the rare pink sand beaches in the Caribbean, and this Island Routes tour gives you the chance to experience it firsthand. Spend time on the tranquil Pink Sands Beach while exploring the charming Harbour Island. Whether you’re in the mood for swimming, relaxing, or just taking some great vacation photos, this beach is sure to delight. For an especially memorable snapshot, don’t miss the wooden swing at the sand bar. Before the day is over, you’ll swim with pigs at Mix Patch Island, interact with wild green turtles, and enjoy a delicious island-style lunch at Sunsets Restaurant.
21. Baha Bay Waterpark and Beach Break
Price: Starting at $137 per person.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours (excluding transfer time).
Experience high-energy island fun with a Baha Bay Waterpark and Beach Break tour from Island Routes. This tour includes access to all the rides and attractions at Baha Bay, as well as time to relax on the beach. Whether you opt for a standard lounger or upgrade to a private cabana (available at an additional cost), your day promises both thrills and relaxation. For foodies, there are nine Bahamian dining options on site (at an additional cost), making this experience ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers.
22. Taste of Nassau Historical Experience
Price: Starting at USD 141 per person.
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours (excluding transfer time).
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the capital with the Taste of Nassau Historical Experience. This rich tour blends sightseeing and local flavors, giving you the opportunity to visit top attractions along with delicious Bahamian cuisine. Highlights include a stop at The New Duff to try local favorites, a rum tasting session at John Watling’s Distillery, a visit to Tasty Tea for a delicious herbal blend, and a cultural walk through Potters Cay Dock. It’s the perfect mix of food, fun, and fascinating history.
23. Nassau Glass Bottom Boat Experience
Price: Starting at USD 103 per person.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours (excluding transfer time).
The Bahamas offers a mix of tranquility and excitement, and the Nassau Glass Bottom Boat Experience lets you experience both. On this tour, you’ll sail from Nassau Harbor on a glass-bottom boat, where you’ll get an unparalleled view of the extraordinary aquatic landscape—no snorkeling required. You’ll see colorful marine life and coral reefs beneath your feet. Ideal for families with young children or those who prefer to stay dry, this relaxing adventure is as scenic as it is serene.
24. Rose Island Half-Day Pig Interaction
Price: Starting at $298 per person.
Duration: Approximately 5 hours.
Discover the natural beauty of Rose Island on a half-day tour that includes an unforgettable pig interaction experience. While these aren’t the famous pigs of Big Major Cay, they’re just as adorable and playful. Along the way, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and spend some well-deserved downtime on one of the Bahamas’ most pristine beaches. All of these activities are sure to whet your appetite, and the adventure ends with a satisfying local lunch that will bring a taste of the islands to your plate.
25. Exuma Full Day Swimming Pigs Powerboat Adventure
Prices start at USD 436 per person.
Duration is approximately 8 hours (excluding transfer time).
There’s no shortage of excitement on a powerboat adventure in the Bahamas, and this full-day Island Routes tour includes all the highlights. Speed over the waves to explore some of Exuma’s best attractions, including the iconic swimming pigs of Big Major Cay. Along the way, you’ll visit Pablo Escobar’s sunken drug plane, interact with rare Bahamian rock iguanas at Allen’s Cay, and swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay. Add a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and some free time on one of Exuma's best beaches, and you'll have an island experience you won't soon forget.
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FAQ – Best Things to Do in the Bahamas
1. What are the best things to do in the Bahamas for first-time travelers?
First-time travelers should enjoy island hopping, relaxing on white-sand beaches, snorkeling in clear waters, exploring Nassau’s historic sites, and visiting Exuma to see the famous swimming pigs.
2. When is the best time to enjoy the best things to do in the Bahamas?
The weather is dry and pleasant from December to April, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and water sports.
3. Are there any family-friendly activities among the best things to do in the Bahamas?
Yes, families can enjoy beach resorts, marine parks, boat tours, aquariums and water parks, and interactive attractions like wildlife encounters.
4. What are the best things to do in the Bahamas for adventure lovers?
Adventure lovers can try scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing, and exploring underwater caves and coral reefs.
5. Are the best things to do in the Bahamas expensive?
Costs vary by island and activity. Luxury resorts can be expensive, but many beaches, cultural sites, and outdoor activities are affordable or free.
6. Can I experience the local culture while exploring the best things to do in the Bahamas?
Sure. Travelers can attend festivals, visit local markets, enjoy Bahamian music and dance, and sample traditional foods like conch salad and fresh seafood.
Conclusion: The Bahamas offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery for every type of traveler. From crystal-clear waters and enchanting beaches to vibrant cities and rich island traditions, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Whether you prefer a peaceful island escape, exciting water sports, or exploring local history and cuisine, the Bahamas offers memories that will last a lifetime. With warm hospitality, beautiful scenery, and countless activities throughout its archipelago, a trip to the Bahamas promises a rich and enjoyable trip that truly captures the spirit of the Caribbean.
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