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Planning a vacation that includes adventure and fun with hits of history and culture will take doing some homework. Luckily, these days travel destinations will not only do it for you but will also roll out the red carpet as you and your companions arrive.
For those requiring sun in the fun, The Bahamas is a destination worth putting on your travel radar. Just a 45-minute flight from Miami, the Caribbean hotspot consists of 700 islands; 30 are home to communities.
When it comes to things to do in The Bahamas, it comes down to the given day and mood. Start on the main island of Nassau, sipping t drinks with tiny umbrellas by the pool and exploring the local cuisine and a tasty Friday night fish fry.
Solo retreat? Girlfriend reunion? Destination wedding in paradise? No matter the reason or season, going to The Bahamas will always do the mind, body and soul good. We’re here to help get you going with our initial list of things to do in The Bahamas and trust us, there is plenty of more to add after you get there.
Sun, Fun and Water
There is no shortage of accommodations that limit your access to the sun and water. Both are the islands’ most sought-after amenities. From hotels to resorts, private island villas, it’s all about your budget, lifestyle and desired location.
One of the prized lifestyle attractions is The Atlantis which is like a mini Las Vegas that has it all when it comes to things to do in The Bahamas. World-class accommodations and restaurant experiences, a casino, night entertainment, golf, a spa and of course, water; plenty of it. Water lovers will unite at Aquaventure Water Park, which boasts 14 swimming bowls and 141 acres of high-speed slides. We’re not sure if you’re ready for this much fun.
You’ll want to save a day to take a short and relaxing ride to Blue Lagoon Island where you can swim with dolphins and sharks (these don’t bite) before making friends feeding the sea lions. The family-owned business Dolphin Encounters has built itself up over the years as a fun destination for individuals and families. You can also take a segway safari tour, an eco-adventure tour and for grown folks, sip on unlimited tropical drinks and paint as the sand caresses our feet.
A must that you have to do is have an authentic Bahamian meal on the beach as the rhythmic island sounds. For foodies, conch is definitely a must-try and the locals know how to make it to please. Tony Hanna of Tony Macaroni has been serving this seafood meat since 1992, but you can grab it throughout The Bahamas.
Arawak Clay on West Street in Nassau is where you want to hang out, listen to music, and enjoy some of the best food the island offers. Nicknamed “The Fish Fry,” Arawak Cay is named after the original West Indian inhabitants of the island, the Arawaks, with restaurants in this well-known area serving millions since 1969.
Other attractions for nature lovers include a visit to Ardastra Garden and Zoo Conservatory where you see lay your eyes on jaguars and rare Caribbean flamingos. Of course, the Junkanoo Museum is where it is at for a little carnival action where you can have fun trying on customs and learning the history of the event.
There are endless things to do in the Bahamas, and these suggestions only scratch the surface. For more ideas, check out Get Your Guide for half and full-day excursions and more.
When You Run Out of Things to Do in The Bahamas, Shop
If shopping is your thing and you are looking to collect some souvenirs, plan a day to stroll down Bay Street, the main connector to much of the action. The Nassau Straw Market offers lots of great gifts for loved ones back home. Bring your negotiating skills because it is a little competitive from vendor to vendor so you can always get a good deal.
Walking throughout Nassau, you’ll be tempted to stop at shops for local treats such as chocolate, pastries and rum. Art lovers will also be enticed by local artists, including wood carvers, who can make some of the impressive woodwork around.
RELATED: Pin Drop Rum Sets a New Course for the Spirit of The Bahamas
Celebrity Sightings
If you’re wondering when to head to Nassau, and you want checkmarks next to sun, fun, food and culture, one event is highly recommended. The Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival satisfies all four and then some. For five days, rub elbows with culinary royalty such as Martha Stewart, Jose Andres, Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown as the island hosts more than 30 events filled with gourmet experiences, talks with award-winning chefs, top entertainment and more.
This year’s event will take place March 12 – 16 and is The Bahamas premier culinary event without a doubt.
The hardest part about planning a trip to this Caribbean haven is narrowing down your top things to do in The Bahamas when visiting Nassau. Our suggestion? Start slow and break it up between more than one trip because it is indeed a destination worth a repeat visit or two.
