The Bahamas isn’t just one island—it’s more than 700. From the bright streets of Nassau to the pink sands of Harbour Island, this Caribbean nation is full of color, rhythm, and natural beauty. Every corner feels like a different kind of paradise, and yet the island spirit remains the same—welcoming, relaxed, and ready to be explored.

Beyond the beaches, the Bahamas offers more than meets the eye. You can swim with wild pigs in Exuma, dive into mysterious blue holes in Andros, or visit the world’s third-largest barrier reef. Its waters are some of the clearest on the planet—so clear that astronauts have spotted them from space.

The Bahamas also holds a deep history. Pirates once roamed these seas, and today, the islands still carry the stories of West African heritage, colonial legacies, and Junkanoo parades filled with drums, whistles, and costumes you won’t forget.

Whether you're sailing, snorkeling, or just soaking in the sunshine with a conch fritter in hand, the Bahamas is a place where the pace slows, and the moments last longer.

In this guide, we’ll take you through must-see places, local dishes, and the easiest way to stay connected while island-hopping.

Must-See Attractions in the Bahamas

Nassau – History Meets Island Vibes

Nassau, the capital, sits on New Providence Island and is the heart of Bahamian life. Stroll down Bay Street for local shops and straw markets, or explore the pastel-hued buildings left behind by British colonial rule. Climb the Queen’s Staircase, carved by enslaved people in the 18th century, and take in views from Fort Fincastle. When it’s time to relax, Junkanoo Beach is just a short walk away.

Exuma – Home of the Famous Swimming Pigs

The Exuma Cays are a chain of pristine islands known for their crystal-clear waters and unusual residents—wild pigs that swim out to greet visitors. A boat tour takes you to meet them, snorkel in Thunderball Grotto (made famous by James Bond), and glide past sandbars that appear and disappear with the tide.

Harbour Island – Pink Sand Paradise

Just off Eleuthera, Harbour Island is famous for its three-mile stretch of blush-colored sand. The laid-back village of Dunmore Town is full of charm, with golf carts instead of cars and pastel houses draped in bougainvillea. It’s quiet, beautiful, and a world away from the crowds.

Andros – The Untouched Island

Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas, but one of the least developed. It’s a haven for divers, with blue holes, coral reefs, and underwater caves. Nature lovers will also find peaceful pine forests, freshwater creeks, and rare birdlife. If you want space and solitude, Andros delivers.

Elbow Cay – Bahamian Charm in the Abacos

Elbow Cay, part of the Abaco Islands, feels like a postcard come to life. The red-and-white-striped Hope Town Lighthouse is one of the last manually operated lighthouses in the world. With calm waters and colorful houses, the cay is perfect for a quiet getaway.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in the Bahamas

Cracked Conch – A Bahamian Favorite

This is the dish locals crave and visitors come back for. Conch (pronounced konk) is a sea snail with a chewy texture and sweet flavor. It’s sliced, battered, and deep-fried until golden. Served with fries, a squeeze of lime, and spicy dipping sauce—it’s the island version of comfort food.

Peas and Rice – The Classic Side

You’ll find this on nearly every plate in the Bahamas. Long-grain rice is cooked with pigeon peas, onions, bell peppers, thyme, and often bits of salt pork. It’s simple, savory, and perfect alongside grilled meat or fish.

Bahamian Stew Fish – Rich and Warming

This hearty dish starts with fresh snapper or grouper, seared and simmered in a thick tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and spices. It’s served over grits or white rice, and locals swear by it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Guava Duff – A Sweet Island Treat

For dessert, guava duff hits all the right notes. It’s a rolled dough filled with guava fruit, steamed until soft, and smothered in a buttery rum sauce. Rich, fruity, and full of island flavor—it’s a must-try.

Johnny Cake – More Bread Than Cake

Don’t let the name fool you—Johnny Cake is a dense, slightly sweet bread that’s baked and sliced like cornbread. Locals eat it with everything: stew, soup, or just a pat of butter and tea in the morning.

Essential Travel Tips for the Bahamas

Money & Payments

The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is on par with the US Dollar. Both are accepted everywhere, so there's no need to exchange if you’re already carrying USD. Credit cards are widely used, especially in tourist areas, but it's smart to keep some cash on hand for smaller shops, taxis, or island markets.

Getting Around

In Nassau and Freeport, taxis and buses are easy to find. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your ride, as meters aren’t always used. On the Out Islands, renting a car or golf cart is a great way to explore at your own pace. Ferries and domestic flights connect the islands, but schedules can vary—plan ahead and check weather updates.

Staying Safe

The Bahamas is generally safe for tourists, especially in resort areas. Still, stay alert in crowded spots and avoid isolated areas at night. Sun protection is a must—bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. When swimming or snorkeling, always check local conditions and follow safety signs.

Staying Connected in the Bahamas

Even in a tropical paradise, staying online can make your trip easier—whether you’re pulling up directions to a beach, booking an island tour, or sharing those sunset photos in real time.

In popular spots like Nassau, Paradise Island, and Freeport, most hotels, resorts, and cafés offer Wi-Fi. But speeds can vary, and free public connections aren’t always reliable or secure. Once you head out to quieter islands or remote cays, Wi-Fi becomes harder to find—and mobile data is your best bet.

Local SIM cards are available at airports and authorized stores, but they require registration with your passport. While setup is generally simple, finding a store and waiting in line takes time you could spend on the beach.

Bahamas JetSet eSIM makes staying connected easy. Activate it before your flight, and you’ll have mobile data the moment you land—no need to swap SIMs or deal with paperwork.

There are no roaming fees, and if you need more data, just order another eSIM online in seconds.

Skip the hassle and enjoy the islands with fast, secure mobile data right from the start.