6 Bona Fide ‘Don’t Miss’ Adventures in the Bahamas

by Alicia Loiacono

Picture the most pristine turquoise waters gently spilling onto powder-soft white sand, coral shell-pink shores and miles of stunning coastline…  The smell of tropical plants dancing in the air… now throw a little umbrella in a coconut.  Finally, take a deep breath and let all that stress melt away.  

 

This is what is waiting for you in the Bahamas, along with 16 Islands, countless stories, but which should you choose to make part of yours on your next visit to the Bahamas?! 

 

Want adventure or relaxation?  Why choose?  From award-winning scuba diving and fishing , to 32 National Parks, art galleries, historic sites, and much more.  There is no shortage of experiences to be had.  Below are some of the best ‘Don’t Miss’ adventures when you’re in the Bahamas. 

 

SWIMMING WITH PIGS

 

On the aptly named Pig Beach on the Big Major Cay Island are the famous swimming pigs.  This is truly a once in a lifetime experience.  This is consistently rated as one of the most fun experiences  If you can make it happen, you absolutely should for they are a sight to behold.  

 

ISLAND HOPPING

 

Who says you have to stay put on one island in the Bahamas?  Not us!  We encourage you to island hop if you can.  You can do this by renting a speedboat but we recommend island hopping by plane, especially since soaring above the majestic islands is the perfect way to experience the glistening oceans and picturesque views of The Bahamas.  

 

PARADISE ISLAND NASSAU & ATLANTIS RESORT 

 

Atlantis is an incredibly unique resort destination with unparalleled entertainment and awe-inspiring recreation.  If you’re in the Bahamas, you should definitely spend some time (either a day trip or a night or two) at this spectacular 170-acre island resort.  Atlantis is home to the world’s largest open-air Marine Habitat, Atlantis Casino, which offers Las Vegas style gaming, and three celebrity chef restaurants.  Enjoy pampering at the award-winning Mandara Spa or golf at Tom Weiskopf- designed Ocean Club Golf Course.  Atlantis offers everything from water slides to river rides and has 20 swimming areas.  This resort is perfect for everyone from families with young children, to couples, to foodies who demand exceptional dining options.  One especially excellent place not to miss at this resort is Dolphin Cay.  If you want to see marine life and dolphins in particular this is the place to go!  There’s so much to say about Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island that I will write a full blog post in the future.   

 

GET ON A BOAT

 

Few things are as exhilarating as boating in the clear turquoise waters of the Bahamas.  Whether  it’s  a quick cruise between the cays, a bareboat charter from Bimini to the Berry Islands, or an extended voyage aboard a private yacht, boating in the Bahamas is one of the most treasured experiences. 

 

DIVE IN THE WORLD’S CLEAREST OCEAN

 

Discover everything from exotic marine life, ancient shipwrecks, enchanting views on the water’s surface,  and the world’s  third largest barrier reef.  For incredibly brave divers, the Bahamas offers a one of a kind shark  dive experience at Stuart Cove.  Here you will literally swim alongside Caribbean reef sharks. There is no shortage of phenomenal places to experience the glittering, scenic experience of scuba diving in the Bahamas.  Unsure about scuba diving?   Grab some snorkel gear and head on in!  Though the two experiences cannot be compared, you’ll still see beautiful schools of fish, and colorful coral on your Bahamian adventure.  

 

FEED THE STINGRAYS

 

If feeding and swimming with stingrays is on your bucket list then head to Stocking Island’s Chat N’ Chill restaurant.  It is here that you’ll find the stingrays!  They are so accustomed to being fed by visitors of the restaurant that they swim right up to you for a snack!  These stingrays are known to be docile and friendly and are very used to people.  People hop right into the water to pet them and swim with them. Be respectful, steer clear of their tale, and their mouth and you’ll be just fine.  Don’t forget to bring the camera!

 

THERE’S SO MUCH MORE!

 

These are some of the experiences that stuck out to me, but it’s also just the tip of the iceberg.   If you want to feed iguanas, swim with sharks, shop diverse markets, explore tombs, treat your tastebuds to sinfully delicious, fresh, and flavorful cuisine, and immerse yourself in bold and colorful art the Bahamas is the vacation destination for you! 

 

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