Plan Your Trip to Bahamas: Best of Bahamas Tourism
Bahamas
Essential Bahamas
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How to do Nassau in 3 days
A family-friendly guide to Nassau
The Coral At Atlantis4,858Our favorite place to stay in the Bahamas for a week is the one you've probably heard of over and over again. Atlantis has become a household name for a reason. It’s one of those properties you can spend ten days at and still not have enough time to do everything. The pools and beaches are great for all ages. No one minds your noisy, messy baby. Slightly older kids will be exhausted by the water park and the incredible marine habitats, and parents will appreciate the numerous dining options and bars scattered throughout the property.
Marina Village307No matter how old my three kids are, they always enjoy meandering around the Marina Village on Paradise Island, next to Atlantis. Live music often accompanies your stroll through craft shops and a top-notch ice cream parlor. On select nights, we watched the Junkanoo parade featuring performances by local Bahamians. If you're visiting from the cruise port or another resort, you can take a water taxi for about $4 per person.
Carmine's1,845Anytime we are in the Bahamas, we dine at the Italian family-style restaurant Carmine's, located in the Marina Village. The portions are large and meant to be shared. The best thing about Carmine's, besides the ravioli, is that the dishes are reasonably priced, which is only sometimes the case in the Bahamas. Since this restaurant is popular, be sure to book a reservation to avoid waiting.
Baha Bay Water Park749We arrived on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship on our most recent trip to the islands. Since we had already been to Atlantis, we decided to try the Baha Bay Water Park in the Baha Mar resort. You can purchase day passes directly through the resort or the cruise ship. The best part of this water park is that there are cabanas that you can rent with access to a pool and Cable Beach. My husband and I lounged by the pool while our three teens relished the rides.
Cable Beach2,326When your family wants to hit the beach, Cable Beach is one of the most accessible options. The crystal-clear blue-green ocean views and the soft sand provide that Caribbean vibe you think of when daydreaming of the Bahamas. We took public transportation there from the cruise port, and the best part is that access to the beach is free. If you hop on the #10 bus, it's only $1.25 per person each way and about a 20-minute ride.
Junkanoo Beach2,128This beach is much smaller and more crowded compared to Cable Beach. But it's also only about a fifteen-minute walk from the cruise port. Junkanoo is a free public beach with an option to rent chairs or umbrellas. IIf you are short on time, this is a great option; otherwise, Cable Beach is worth the trip.
Straw Market2,271Located within walking distance of the cruise port is the infamous Straw Market. My daughters are artsy and crafty, so they appreciate the handmade Bahamian souvenirs you can find here. It's similar to a flea market with a variety of vendors, most of them local. Be sure to bring your negotiation skills to get the best price for your souvenir and have some cash (American dollars) on hand.
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Bahamas travel advice
Popular Choices
According to forum posts, popular islands for vacation stays in the Bahamas differ based on traveler preferences. New Providence, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Abaco, and Great Exuma are frequently recommended. These islands offer a blend of beautiful beaches, local culture, and various amenities.
Family and Activities Focus
For families and travelers looking for a more active vacation, New Providence (Nassau/Paradise Island) and Grand Bahama (Freeport/Lucaya) are favored. These areas provide larger resorts with plenty of activities, including programs for children like the Trainer for a Day at Atlantis, which is popular among young marine enthusiasts.
Quiet and Remote Options
Travelers seeking quieter and more remote spots tend to prefer the out islands such as Eleuthera, Cat Island, and Long Island. These islands are praised for their laid-back vibe and less touristy environment, making them ideal for those looking to escape the busier main tourist hubs.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Flight Options
According to forum posts, numerous flights operate from Nassau to Exuma, particularly to Georgetown, Great Exuma. Airlines like Bahamasair and Western Air offer multiple daily flights, making air travel convenient. Prices for roundtrip flights are typically around $250 per person, although some users have found prices to be excessively high when searched through certain platforms.
Ferry Service
Some travelers mentioned a ferry service from Nassau to Exuma, but it operates only once a week and takes about 15 hours, serving primarily as a mailboat. This option is less recommended due to its lengthy duration and infrequent schedule.
Charter Flights
For those looking for a more tailored travel experience, charter flights are available. Stella Maris Resort Air Service offers per seat scheduled charters, providing a balance between convenience and cost. Prices are higher than commercial flights but offer the flexibility of private travel.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Accommodation Preferences
According to forum posts, travelers seeking luxury and tranquility often prefer less crowded beaches and resorts that offer amenities like beach service and comfy beach chairs. The Baha Mar resort is mentioned, but it may not suit those avoiding nightly parties.
Specific Recommendations
Some travelers suggested specific locations such as the Four Seasons on Paradise Island, known for its upscale atmosphere and proximity to a golf course, or the villas at Baha Mar, which offer a new golf course and expansive beach, although they can be crowded. Cape Santa Maria Resort on Long Island was recommended for its beautiful beach and quieter environment, suitable for those avoiding crowds.
Alternative Accommodations
For those interested in more laid-back or budget-friendly options, forum contributors have discussed staying in Airbnb properties or private rentals, particularly in areas like Cable Beach, which is known for its beauty and convenience to local amenities without the need for a car.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?
- Bahamas is known for some of its popular attractions, which include: