Destination overview

The Bahamas form a 100,000 square-mile archipelago that extends over 500 miles of some of the clearest blue water you will see in the world. When holidaying in The Bahamas you will be spoilt for choice on any one of the islands that make up this magical place. While the beaches are a big attraction, there is also a rich history and culture to be found on each island, and you will find the people simply unique. Take a trek inland or stroll through the towns. You’ll find so many interesting things to see and do.

With 700 islands in The Bahamas, including uninhabited cayes and large rocks, the total estimated land area is 5,382 square miles. The Bahamas boasts the world's third-longest barrier reef, and about 14.5 per cent of the globe's coral can be found in its waters. The islands are made of calcium carbonate, mainly produced by the organisms on the coral reefs.

Geography plays a crucial role in Bahamian history. In 1492, Christopher Columbus made his first landfall in the New World on the island of San Salvador in the eastern Bahamas. After observing the shallow sea around the islands, he proclaimed it "baja mar" and effectively named the area The Bahamas, or the Islands of the Shallow Sea. Since it was located close to Florida and well-travelled shipping channels, The Bahamas caught the attention of explorers, settlers, invaders and traders. These people shaped the colourful history of The Bahamas and made the country what it is today.

The Bahamas is one of those places in the world where big-game fishing is a huge drawcard. In fact, the area has produced more than 50 record catches. You can take a deep sea charter to witness the vigorous strike of the bonefish up close and personal, while the flats and deep waters of The Bahamas are suitable for beginners and sports fishing enthusiasts.

Coral reefs, blue holes, walls, caves, shipwrecks, sharks, dolphins and stingrays will entice anyone interested in diving. The variety of diving experiences is stunning. Here you can dive a cave that originates from a hole found inland that is connected to the sea, or explore the stunning reefs found in the balmy water, mostly less than 20 feet deep, or explore one of the countless shipwrecks or sink into the depths of a blue hole, up to 200 feet deep.

Sun, sand and surf may own the days in The Bahamas, but clubs and live shows captivate the nights. Thanks to a Bahamian fondness for music and dancing, there’s no shortage of nightspots, local talent and good company to make a vacation day last long after twilight.

We also can’t forget that an unforgettable way to experience Bahamian culture is through your stomach. Although virtually any type of international food can be found, it would be a mistake to miss an opportunity to sample the local cuisine. No matter where you are, you won't have any difficulty finding plenty of restaurants serving Bahamian cuisine and fresh local seafood at reasonable prices. Make your dining experiences a feast in this part of the world. Remember, this is a holiday you’re on, so indulge.

If you’re a golfer wanting to bring your game to a new level, there are championship fairways and greens to await you – and they’re only a few feet above sea level. You will find 18-hole and 9-hole courses with scenery to die for.

The ecosystem of The Bahamas is a natural playground for a variety of eco-tourism pursuits. Hook up with guides for exploration under the water, on the water and across terra firma. See the flora and meet the fauna. The indigenous beauty of the land is magnificent.

Maybe it's Bahamian familial values or the locals’ appreciation for big smiles of the small variety. Regardless, special programs for children abound. Here you can give the babysitter a holiday, as well. The Bahamas is one of those kid-friendly destinations that will ensure the whole family has a great time.

Some of the must-see attractions when visiting this special place include Abaco National Park, where about 1,000 endangered Bahama or Abaco parrots are protected against predators within 5,000 acres of pine forest where they nest on the ground. Another interesting trip is to the Hope Town Lighthouse. Built in the 1860s, this lighthouse is one of only two remaining beacons that still use their original kerosene-burning lights. And you have to take some time out to see the Ardastra Gardens and Conservation Center where more than 300 birds, mammals and reptiles from the Islands of The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Latin America and around the world are on display among acres of lush tropical gardens.

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas and the Queen’s Staircase is its most visited attraction. Featuring 65 steps carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century, this 102-foot staircase was named in honour of the 65 years of Queen Victoria's reign. The climb up the stairs culminates near Nassau's Water Tower and Fort Fincastle.

Take a nature walk through the Lucayan National Park and Caves. Then why not kayak through the quiet waters of Gold Rock Creek, where the water is never more than waist deep? The Creek is a pristine mangrove environment and a habitat for bird and marine life.

If you have time to visit only one fort, then Fort Charlotte is the one to go to. It is by far the largest and covers approximately 100 acres. Located on a hill overlooking the far west end of Nassau Harbour, Fort Charlotte commands an impressive view of Paradise Island and a good part of Nassau. Built in 1788 by Lord Dunmore, this fort has a moat, dungeons, underground passageways and 42 cannons, which have never been fired in an act of aggression.

The islands of The Bahamas offer among the largest assortment of holiday spots of any tropical destination. Islands are circled by cayes (pronounced keys), and some cayes are surrounded by uninhabited rocks. Which island or caye is the right one for your holiday? It's a hard choice, but what's most notable about these islands, however, is that each has its own diversity that continues beyond geography, carrying through to the real heart of The Bahamas - the Bahamian people.

And who says you only have to visit one? Take some time and get to know the real Bahamas. You’ll love the diversity and beauty of this magical place.