Top 5 things to do on a Bahamas vacation
As you begin to make preparations for your next Bahamas vacation, you may want to do a little research on the various attractions and activities available for your enjoyment. The options may seem endless, but below is a list of the top five things to do on a trip to the beautiful Bahamas. From street parties during the Junkanoo Festivals to shopping at the Straw Market in Nassau, there are many different ways to while away your time visiting this popular Caribbean destination.
Take a dip in the enticing waters surrounding the Bahamas. Many travelers come to the Caribbean solely to relax on the soft sand and enjoy the warm waves gently lapping on the Bahamian beaches. One of the most popular stretches of coastline in the Bahamas is Radio Beach on Bimini Island, which is the only beach in the area that offers public facilities such as restrooms, vendors, and food options. Thrill-seeking beachgoers should consider venturing into the wonderful underwater world of the Caribbean Ocean. Whether you prefer a lazy afternoon of snorkeling or an adventurous day of diving, the waters of the Bahamas are teeming with marine life and stunning coral reef formations that will dazzle you.
Celebrate one of the Bahamas’ annual Junkanoo festivals. Historically, the Junkanoo holiday was an occasion for African slaves in the Bahamas to enjoy their few days off at Christmas, and included music, dancing, and merry festivities. Although the tradition faded after slavery was abolished, many islanders revived the festival to honor their ancestors. Today, there are multiple Junkanoo events taking place throughout the year. Traditional festivals are held each year on December 26 and January 1, while a similar summer Junkanoo Festival is held annually in June. This celebration promises to give you a great taste of Bahamian culture with live musical performances, food vendors, and street dancing.
Take a look at all that nature has to offer. While sunbathing on a sandy beach may seem like a no-brainer for Bahamas vacationers, this Caribbean destination offers a variety of inland attractions that showcase the beauty of the great outdoors. Heading to one of the many gardens located in the Bahamas is a great way to enjoy the abundant greenery that fills the land. Consider the Garden of Versailles on Paradise Island, which features traditional landscaping, impressive terraces, and picturesque statues. For a more adventurous day, head to one of the many National Parks located in the Bahamas. Travelers interested in getting a glimpse of the local wildlife should visit the marine creatures of the Crab Replenishment National Park or the Inagua National Park, which is home to the largest West Indian flamingo breeding grounds in the world.
Take a stroll through the Straw Market. Located on Bay Street in Nassau, the Bahamian Straw Market is a famous place to collect a variety of souvenirs and bargain-priced goods. Stroll the aisles as you haggle over prices with friendly locals for items like straw baskets, bags, children’s toys, hats and more. Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Straw Market is a great place to shop for gifts for friends and family back home. If you work up an appetite after a few hours of shopping, explore the rest of Bay Street for great local restaurants.
Try your luck at a casino in the Bahamas. Many tourists are enchanted by the bright lights and bustling sounds of casinos in the bahamas. Although gambling is prohibited for island residents, visitors over the age of 18 can go all-in at any of the popular Bahamas casinos. Whether you’re into Caribbean poker, slot machines, betting on sporting events, or anything in between, the Bahamas’ gaming facilities offer it all. Locations include the Crystal Palace Casino in Nassau, the Atlantis-Paradise Resort Casino, and a stand-alone casino at Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort.
As you plan your itinerary for your Bahamas getaway, consider these five great activities. Each offers a unique look at Bahamian culture and will provide you with memories of a lifetime. Whether your lifestyle is more suited to snorkeling in pristine waters or shopping for trinkets in an enchanting market, the Bahamas has plenty of attractions to keep you enthralled during your travels.