The Bahamas is an archipelago of 16 major islands, each with its own unique settings, vibes, and stories. From breathtaking landscapes and pristine, untouched beaches to historic landmarks, mysterious blue holes, rich wildlife, and endless water adventures, the islands of the Bahamas offer an extraordinary escape. They are undoubtedly some of the best destinations for a diverse range of experiences.

With an incredible amalgamation of 700 islands, the Bahamas offers endless opportunities for exploration, often leaving tourists unsure about the best attractions to visit. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve prepared a well-researched blog on the top places to visit in the Bahamas.

We have picked the best experiences and top Bahamas vacation spots that shouldn’t be missed at any cost.   

Table of Content  

• Exumas  
• Inagua  
• Cat Island  
• Long Island   
• San Salvador   

The list of the best islands to visit in Bahamas has been prepared for you, covering all the popular attractions and must-try experiences. So, without wasting much of our time, let’s get started.

1. Exumas

Want to visit iconic James Bond movie sites? Or swim with the world-famous swimming pigs? How about exploring islands that have barely seen any footprints on their beaches? Welcome to the Exumas—a collection of 365 stunning islands with sapphire-blue, crystal-clear waters, unexplored beaches, and deserted cays. If you’re a nature enthusiast and the mystery of hidden gems excites you, the Exumas should be at the top of your list of Bahamas tourist attractions.

Where is Exumas?  

Exumas, a 365-cays-and-islands combination, is situated in the Bahamas, West Indies, and is surrounded by the clearest ocean in the world, the Atlantic Ocean.   

What are the Best Places to Visit in Exumas?  

Exumas is filled with deserted cays, unexplored islands, a rich marine ecosystem, and authentic local island life. The best places to experience these unique nature wonders are:  

• Big Major Cay: It is also known as Pig Beach. It hosts the swimming pigs that are pretty lovable and friendly and hold a special place in Bahamas attractions.
• Little Exuma: Home to a vast number of gorgeous beaches, including Tropic of Cancer beach, the prettiest beach on the islands.
• Thunderball Grotto: An exotic underwater cave filled with rich marine life, coral reef, and hidden entrances perfect for divers.
• Stocking Island: Pristine white sandy beaches with exquisite beach bars and restaurants. It is ideal for snorkeling in the Bahamas.
• Compass Cay: Famous for providing an unreal experience of swimming with nurse sharks.   

Events in Exumas   

The Bahamian Music & Heritage Festival is one such event in Exumas that you shouldn’t miss. It’s a family-friendly annual event celebrating Bahamian music, arts, culture, and food.

2. Inagua

The third-largest island in the Bahamas, Inagua, is home to three national parks. It’s an eco-friendly destination ideal for birdwatching and spotting endemic species. With 80,000 flamingos and 140 species of native and migratory birds, Inagua is known as the birdwatching capital of the Bahamas. From flamingos and Bahamian parrots to pelicans and rare heron species, Inagua’s pristine, untouched islands are a paradise for wildlife lovers.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Inagua?  

Inagua has national parks, wildlife spotting, and raw beaches. Here’s what you must cover when in Inagua.

• Inagua National Park: Home to 80,000 flamingos that are often spotted at Lake Windsor or Rosa.  
• Little Inagua National Park: Ideal place for bird watching with over 140 species of endemic and migratory birds, including the Bahama Parrot, West Indian whistling duck, Kirtland’s warbler, and more. 
• The Great Inagua Lighthouse: It is the best place to learn about the history of the Bahamas. A climb to the top offers scenic views of the islands of Inagua and Cuba.
• Union Creek Reserve: Come here to watch the endangered green and hawksbill turtles.  

Events in Inagua  

The Inagua Heritage & Salty Festival is family-friendly, and features live entertainment, a gospel concert, and a tour of the Inagua National Park and Inagua Lighthouse.

3. Cat Island

Cat Island is said to be home to the world’s most beautiful cats, roaming the beaches and swimming in crystal-clear ocean waters. Naahhhh! Cat Island of the Bahamas doesn’t actually have any cats. However, it does boast the laid-back vibe of pristine sandy beaches, nature trails, historic ruins, and exclusive watersports like diving and kiteboarding. With roots in the iconic Rake & Scrape (Bahamas’ indigenous music) and home to the country’s highest point, Mt. Alvernia, Cat Island is rich in tradition, history, and warmth from its people.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Cat Island  

Discover 8 miles of pink sandy beach, traditions, towns, and ruins, sharing the rich Bahamian history. Here’s where you should go to know Cat Island inside and out. 

• Mount Alvernia aka Como Hills: It is the highest point of the Bahamas, rising 206 feet above sea level.
• Arthur’s Town: Home to Academy award-winner Sidney Poitier’s childhood house where he grew up in the Bahamas. Stroll through his home to learn about his early life, childhood, and learnings.
• Old Bight Beach: Five miles of white sandy beach and crystal-clear water offering picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the Old Bight Settlement and learn about the Bahamas culture.
• Port Howe: It is said to be Cat Island’s oldest settlement, and it has much history to unfold. Explore the ruins of Deveaux Mansion.

Events in Cat Island

The Rake & Scrape Festival is an iconic event in the Cat Islands that celebrates the music heritage of the Bahamas. Held annually in June, it is a must-attend if you’re planning your trip around that time. 

4. Long Island

Welcome to the islands, where the long coasts are as diverse as the natural wonders of the Bahamas. From tranquil white-sand beaches on the western shore to pink-sandy beaches along the wild Atlantic waters, and natural pools that dot the coast, Long Island has it all! Ideal for swimming, deep-sea fishing, and breathtaking diving experiences, the island is a haven for jaw-dropping wildlife encounters, beautiful coral reefs, and world-class bonefishing.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Long Island?  

From untamed beaches and blue holes to historic landmarks, here are the places to visit in Long Island for out-of-the-box experiences.   

• St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church: The oldest church in the country, offering a glimpse into the diverse cultures of the Bahamas.
• Dean’s Blue Hole: The world’s third-deepest blue hole, perfect for freedivers. The International Free Diving Competition takes place here.
• Columbus Point: Famous as the site where Christopher Columbus made his landfall on the island. Visit the monument and climb up for breathtaking views.
• Twin-towered churches: Located in Clarence Town, the twin-towered St. Peter’s & St. Paul’s churches are historic attractions of the Bahamas.
• Stella Maris: A pink sand beach with wild Atlantic waves and natural pools. Enjoy picturesque views of the pink sands contrasting with the crystal-clear blue waters.

Events in Long Island   

Long Island boasts an International Free Diving Competition every year, attracting diving enthusiasts from all across the globe to showcase their skills and set impressive records.

5. San Salvador

Discover landscapes unlike any other in San Salvador. The unique inland saltwater lakes and rolling hills highlight this tiny island. Boasting historic monuments, 50+ dive sites, and the endangered Rock Iguana, San Salvador is the place to be for the ultimate island experience. Nature, adventure, history, and culture—this island has it all. 

What are the Best Places to Visit in San Salvador?  

Cutting the long list of places to visit in San Salvador, here are our top recommendations that must be a part of your San Salvador itinerary.   

• Long Bay stone cross: This is the most photographed place on the island and holds rich historical significance. The cross-stone marks the spot where Christopher Columbus made his first landfall.
• Great Lake National Park is a mangrove forest surrounded by the Great Lake. It boasts endangered species, including the San Salvador Rock Iguana.  
• Watling’s Blue Hole: An inland blue hole that’s entirely saltwater. Ideal for diving and swimming.   
• Bonefish Bay Beach/Snow Beach/Grotto Beach: Visit the traveler’s favorite white-sand beaches on the islands, touched by crystal-clear blue waters on the shore.   
• Dim Bay, Long Bay, Snow Bay: Perfect place for boating in the Bahamas. Island hopping in the azure waters of the Bahamas makes it an irresistible destination.   

Events in San Salvador  

Island Boyz Grill Out is a weekly Friday event for family fun. Island Boyz catering offers ‘Taste of the Island’ and fun activities for the entire family.  

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Conclusion  

The list of the best islands to visit in the Bahamas is truly endless. The top Bahamas tourist attractions offer everything from playing with swimming pigs and relaxing on pink-sand beaches to experiencing breathtaking wildlife encounters! With untamed beaches, gorgeous blue holes, and world-class water activities, the Bahamas has everything you need for the ultimate island vacation. All that’s left is you! So, pack your bags and embark on the most unique trip of your life.   

Best Places to Visit in Bahamas FAQs

When is the best time to visit the Bahamas?

The best time to visit the Bahamas is between November and April, when temperatures are more relaxed and there is no rainfall. These months suit island hopping, water adventures, and enjoying the beaches. 

What do you need to know before traveling to The Bahamas?

Here are a few things you need to know before traveling to the Bahamas:  
• Driving is on the left side of the road  
• Minibuses known as jitneys or taxis are used for public transport  
• The climate is hot and humid. Hence, wearing light and comfortable clothes is advisable  
• English is the official language of the Bahamas and, hence, is widely spoken  
• US currency is widely accepted in the Bahamas  

What is unique about The Bahamas?

The Bahamas is a stunning archipelago of over 7000 islands offering the best island life, exciting water activities, wildlife, beaches, and vibrant culture. The combination of all these at a single destination makes the Bahamas unique.   

What food are The Bahamas known for?

Conch is the most popular food in the Bahamas. It also has a vast variety of seafood and tropical fruits to savor.   

What are the best islands to visit in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas is filled with gorgeous islands that are worth exploring. However, some of our best picks are:  
• Long Island  
• Harbour Island  
• The Exumas  
• The Abacos  
• Grand Bahama Island