The Bahamas

Dive into Turquoise Waters & Island Dreams

Your Guide to The Bahamas

Imagine stepping into a postcard where the water shimmers in unbelievable shades of turquoise and aqua, so clear you can see starfish resting on the sandy bottom. Picture powder-soft white sand – or even pink sand! – stretching before you, maybe even sharing a beach with famously friendly swimming pigs! This is the magic of The Bahamas, an incredible nation of over 700 islands and thousands of smaller cays scattered across the Atlantic like jewels. It's the ultimate paradise for anyone who loves sun, sand, and sea.


The real charm of The Bahamas lies in its incredible variety. For first-time visitors, the lively hubs of Nassau (the capital on New Providence island) and adjacent Paradise Island often provide the initial taste, offering large resorts like Atlantis and Baha Mar, casinos, shopping, history, and plenty of buzz. But for returners, or those seeking a different pace, the true soul of The Bahamas resides in its numerous Out Islands (also called the Family Islands) – idyllic escapes like the Exumas, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, the Abacos – each offering laid-back charm, stunning, unspoiled nature, boutique hotels, and a focus on boating, fishing, diving, and pure relaxation.

Airports in The Bahamas

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Most UK travellers fly directly into the capital:


  • Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau, New Providence: This is the country's main international airport, handling all direct flights from the UK (usually London Heathrow) and connecting flights from the US. It serves Nassau and Paradise Island resorts and is the primary hub for domestic flights to the Out Islands.



  • Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) in Freeport, Grand Bahama: The second major international airport, serving Grand Bahama island. It sees fewer direct UK flights compared to Nassau.

Transport options in The Bahamas

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Inter-Island Flights, Ferries (Fast Ferries & Mail Boats), Water Taxis

Official Spoken Languages

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The official language is English, spoken clearly and universally throughout the islands, making communication incredibly easy for UK visitors.


You'll also hear locals speaking Bahamian English/Creole, a rhythmic and expressive dialect with unique vocabulary and intonation. Understanding isn't necessary, but appreciating its musicality adds to the cultural immersion.

Weather & Climate

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For the best chance of perfect weather, visit during the Dry Season (Mid-Dec to Mid-Apr). For warmer seas, lower prices, and fewer people (accepting the rain/storm risk), consider the Wet Season or shoulder months like late April/May or late November/early December.

Must-Do Expereinces in The Bahamas

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The Buzz of Nassau & Paradise Island

Dive into the lively capital, Nassau, on New Providence. Explore the colourful colonial buildings of Parliament Square, browse the Straw Market (remember to haggle politely!), learn about legendary pirates, or admire local art. Then, cross the bridge to opulent Paradise Island, dominated by the vast Atlantis resort with its incredible waterpark (Aquaventure), marine habitats, and casino (day passes are often available). Nearby Cable Beach hosts the equally impressive Baha Mar complex. It's the hub for mega-resort fun, dining, and nightlife – a must-see, at least briefly, for most first-timers.

A pig and a bird are swimming in the ocean.

Swim with Pigs in the Exumas

This has become an iconic Bahamian adventure! Take a boat tour (available from Nassau or based in the Exuma Cays) to Big Major Cay (Pig Beach) and wade into the crystal-clear water with surprisingly friendly swimming pigs. These popular tours often include other amazing stops: swimming safely with gentle nurse sharks at Compass Cay, visiting the endangered Bahamian rock iguanas, snorkeling into the dramatic Thunderball Grotto (of James Bond fame!), and relaxing on pristine sandbars. The Exumas boast arguably the most stunning water colours in the world – an unforgettable Out Island experience.

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Harbour Island's Pink Sand Beach

Hop over from North Eleuthera (via a quick water taxi) to tiny, chic Harbour Island. It's world-famous for its breathtaking Pink Sand Beach, a three-mile stretch along the Atlantic coast whose sand genuinely glows pink due to crushed microscopic marine organisms. Rent a golf cart (the main mode of transport) to explore charming Dunmore Town with its pastel-painted colonial cottages, browse high-end boutiques, and enjoy delicious food at stylish restaurants. It’s a picture-perfect, laid-back luxury escape.

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Explore Underwater Wonders

Thanks to incredibly clear waters, The Bahamas offers world-class diving and snorkelling. Explore parts of the vast Andros Barrier Reef (the planet's third-largest), famous for its blue holes and diverse marine life. Experienced divers might seek out thrilling shark encounters off Bimini or near Nassau (with reputable operators like Stuart Cove's). Excellent snorkelling abounds in protected areas like the Exumas Land and Sea Park or directly off beaches on many islands – expect colourful fish, coral heads, and maybe even sea turtles!

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Understand that The Bahamas offers vastly different experiences. Nassau & Paradise Island mean large resorts, casinos, cruise ship crowds, extensive dining/shopping. The Out Islands (Family Islands like the Exumas, Eleuthera, Abacos, Long Island) offer quiet charm, stunning nature, smaller hotels/rentals, and a focus on boating, fishing, diving, and relaxation. Decide which vibe suits you, or plan a split trip (fly into Nassau, then hop to an Out Island).

Expect Quality (and Prices to Match)

Life moves at a wonderfully relaxed pace here, particularly outside Nassau. Don't expect everything to happen instantly. Service might be leisurely, shop hours can be flexible. Take a deep breath, relax, chat with the friendly locals, and sync with the island rhythm. Trying to rush will only lead to frustration!

Slow Down to "Island Time" (Especially Out Islands)

This tasty sea snail is the national dish – you have to try it! Look for local 'conch shacks' or restaurants serving fresh conch salad (ceviche-style: raw conch diced with lime juice, onions, peppers – incredibly refreshing!), cracked conch (tenderised, battered, and fried), or conch fritters (deep-fried dough balls with chopped conch). It's a delicious taste of Bahamian culture.

Get Your Conch On! (Pronounced 'Konk')

The Bahamian Dollar (B$) is pegged exactly 1-to-1 with the US Dollar (US$). US Dollars are accepted absolutely everywhere, interchangeably with Bahamian Dollars. Prices are often listed in both, or just USD in tourist spots. You'll likely get change back in a mix of both currencies. There's no practical need to exchange money specifically for Bahamian Dollars. ATMs dispense both B$ and US$.

USD is King (Literally 1:1)

The Bahamas: Dive Into Island Life

The Bahamas offers an unparalleled escape into a world defined by stunning turquoise waters and idyllic island living. With hundreds of islands to choose from, it caters to every taste – from the high-energy resorts of Nassau and Paradise Island to the serene, natural beauty of the countless Out Islands. The clarity of the water and the beauty of the beaches truly have to be seen to be believed.


With direct flights making Nassau easily accessible from the UK, English spoken universally, and unique experiences like swimming with pigs awaiting, The Bahamas promises an unforgettable holiday. Whether you're seeking adventure on (and under) the water, luxurious relaxation, or quiet island charm, prepare to dive into the breathtaking blues and warm hospitality of this incredible archipelago.