Bahamas vacation to the Caribbean: Islands offer beautiful sandy beaches and culture
The Bahamas cover an impressive area of 700 islands and more than 2,000 coral reefs. Only 30 of these islands are permanently inhabited, and 16 of them play an active role in tourism. Visitors can expect a diverse mix of vibrant cities, relaxed beaches and remote natural paradises. In addition to the typical Caribbean flair of sun, sand and sea, the island state offers numerous activities, cultural highlights and sustainable tourism options.
Nassau and Grand Bahama: two islands, two worlds
Nassau on Paradise Island is the heart of cosmopolitan life in the Bahamas. Here travelers will find luxurious resorts, upscale restaurants, casinos and a vibrant nightlife. Who is a Bahamas vacation right for? This island is ideal for anyone looking for a lively vacation with entertainment and upscale comfort.
Those who prefer adventure with a touch of sustainability will find the perfect mix in Freeport on Grand Bahama. Ecotourism, water sports and outdoor activities take center stage here. Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, explore mangrove forests or get involved in sustainable tourism projects. Despite this closeness to nature, there are also urban amenities and a lively nightlife.
The outer islands: Pure nature and authentic experiences
Away from the major centers are 14 other islands, known as the "outer islands". They offer a pristine nature experience and are perfect for anyone looking for peace, tranquillity and seclusion on their travels. Here you can become one with nature - sailing, fishing or diving in crystal clear waters. Many of these islands are barely developed and retain their natural beauty. Sustainability is a priority here: visitors have the opportunity to stay in small, family-run accommodation and get to know traditional island life.
Bahamas vacation More than a beach vacation: cultural highlights and festivals
The Bahamas are far more than just a tropical beach destination. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the culture, history and heritage of the islands in depth. A special offer is the "people-to-people" program, which brings tourists together with locals. Here you can experience the life of a Bahamian for a day - be it cooking together, visiting a festival or attending a church service.
Festivals play a central role in the cultural life of the Bahamas. In the summer months alone, over 30 festivals take place on 13 islands. These events range from culinary festivals with traditional cuisine to music and dance festivals that are deeply rooted in Bahamian culture.
Bahamas trip: Tourist infrastructure and easy accessibility
The Bahamas are easily accessible thanks to numerous flight connections. There are daily flights to Nassau, which serves as the capital and transportation hub. From here, there are regular connections to the outer islands, allowing visitors to explore different parts of the archipelago. International connections via London and other European cities also make the journey uncomplicated.
Sport and adventure on vacation in the Bahamas
In addition to relaxation and culture, the island state offers a wide range of sporting activities. Whether water sports, sailing or sports tourism - the Bahamas attract a broad target group. Golf and basketball in particular have established themselves as important sports. The country hosts international tournaments such as the Korn Ferry PGA Tour and major college basketball games.
A destination with growing popularity
The Bahamas is an attractive destination for a wide range of travelers - from solo travelers to couples and multi-generational families. The return rate is high: around 40% of visitors return after their first stay. The total number of tourists is also growing steadily. In 2019, the country recorded 7.2 million visitors, in 2023 it was already 9.65 million, and in 2024 a new record was set with 11.2 million travelers. Tourism is the economic backbone of the Bahamas, and the country is increasingly focusing on sustainable development. In addition to the classic hotel and beach vacation, cultural experiences, environmental awareness and individuality are becoming increasingly important. As a result, the island state remains not only a popular but also a sustainable travel destination.
Where are the Bahamas?
The Bahamas are a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean and extend south-east of the USA, close to the coast of Florida and north-east of Cuba. Geographically, they are part of the West Indies and lie on a huge limestone platform known for its shallow, turquoise waters. The archipelago consists of around 700 islands and over 2,000 coral reefs spread over an area of around 100,000 square miles. Despite their location in the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahamas are often considered part of the Caribbean, as they have strong cultural and climatic ties to the region. With its tropical climate, white sandy beaches and clear waters, the Bahamas is a sought-after destination that is both easily accessible and diverse in its landscapes and activities.
Places worth seeing in the Bahamas: the highlights of the island state
The Bahamas offer much more than beautiful beaches - from lively cities to remote natural paradises and historical sites, there are numerous places that are well worth a visit. Here is a selection of the most impressive destinations in the archipelago:
- Nassau – The vibrant heart of the Bahamas
The capital Nassau on New Providence is the cultural and economic center of the Bahamas. Visitors can explore the historic colonial buildings, stroll through the colorful streets of downtown Nassau or climb the famous Queen's Staircase. The Atlantis resort on Paradise Island entices visitors with its huge water park and luxurious accommodation. - Exuma – The paradise of the floating pigs
You have probably heard of the floating pigs? The Exumas are known for their untouched nature, secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters. A highlight is Big Major Cay, where visitors can encounter the famous floating pigs. Equally impressive are the Thunderball Grotto, a spectacular cave for snorkeling, and the Sandbars of Exuma, which emerge at low tide. - Grand Bahama – nature, adventure and culture
Grand Bahama combines a mixture of tourist infrastructure and untouched nature. The Lucayan National Park, with its underground caves and mangrove forests, offers spectacular landscapes. Freeport, the island's largest city, invites you to explore its markets, restaurants and beaches. - Harbour Island – the jewel with pink sand
This small island is famous for its Pink Sands Beach, where the fine sand takes on a pink hue from crushed coral. Harbour Island also boasts charming colorful colonial houses and exclusive boutique hotels. - Andros – A pristine natural paradise
Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas and is known for its untouched wilderness. With the third largest barrier reef in the world, the Blue Holes and extensive mangrove forests, it is a dream destination for divers, nature lovers and adventurers. - Bimini – Island of Legends
Bimini is the closest island to the US coast and was made famous by Hemingway and the legendary “Bimini Road”, an enigmatic underwater formation. The island is a popular spot for sport fishing and diving, where you can explore the diverse marine life. - Eleuthera – The island of endless beaches
Eleuthera delights with spectacular coastlines, dramatic cliffs and the famous Glass Window Bridge, where the deep blue Atlantic meets the calm turquoise Caribbean Sea. The island is ideal for travelers who want to experience nature and unspoiled beauty away from the crowds. - San Salvador – in the footsteps of Christopher Columbus
San Salvador is considered to be the place where Columbus first landed in the New World in 1492. Today, the island offers a mix of historical sites and world-class diving spots, including the famous Devil's Claw Reef. - Cat Island – an insider tip for those seeking peace and quiet
Cat Island is one of the least developed islands in the Bahamas and a place to slow down. With the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia, as well as deserted beaches and traditional fishing villages, the island is an insider tip for individual travelers. - The Abacos – a sailing paradise with Caribbean flair
The Abaco Islands are particularly popular with sailors and water sports enthusiasts. Marsh Harbour is the starting point for boat trips to idyllic bays and small offshore islands such as Green Turtle Cay or Elbow Cay with its iconic red and white lighthouse.
Conclusion: The Bahamas offer variety for every type of traveler
Whether vibrant cities, secluded nature reserves or legendary beaches - the Bahamas has the right experience for every taste. Each island has its own charm and history, making a round trip worthwhile to discover the diversity of the archipelago. A flight usually goes via Nassau and takes around 21 hours on average. The cost is around 2,000 euros for a return flight.
