8 Unmissable Attractions in the Bahamas
The Bahamas, an archipelago of around 700 islands, is the quintessential relaxing Caribbean vacation spot. From gorgeous, white beaches and luxury hotels to historical sites and museums, the Bahamas has all the attractions you could possibly think of. Here are the 20 best attractions that you need to see.
1. The Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island:
The Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas is Nassau’s most popular tourist attraction. The enormous property features a Dolphin Cay, Casino and 141-acre waterpark called Aquaventure. Aside from the water playground that’s perfect for the entire family, Atlantis boasts six outdoor lagoons and aquariums that contain more than 50,000 animals from over 200 species.
2. Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park:
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a protected area in the Exuma Cays of the Bahamas. The 176-square-mile Exuma Cays Land and Sea National Park, built in 1958, is the first “no-take reserve” in the Caribbean and one of the most successful marine parks in the world. The Land and Sea Park is where many divers and snorkelers in the Bahamas come to explore the abundant marine life and clear blue waters. Exuma is also home to the Bahamas’ popular swimming pigs.
3. Port Lucaya Marketplace:
The Port Lucaya Marketplace is considered to be the commercial hub of Grand Bahama. It is the largest shopping, dining, and entertainment open-air facility in the Bahamas, with over 40 specialty stores and boutiques, along with restaurants and bars.
4. Pink Sand at Harbour Island:
The Pink Sand beach at Harbour Island is one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the Caribbean. The light pink sand gets its hue from thousands of broken coral pieces, shells, and calcium carbonate materials left behind by foraminifera that live in the coral reefs that surround the beach. Visit this natural phenomenon for yourself at Harbour Island in the Bahamas.
5. Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre:
The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre is a peaceful 80-year-old retreat featuring lush tropical gardens and an impressive zoo with the largest collection of Bahamian animals and species in the world. The zoo is famous for being the home of the Caribbean Flamingo, the Bahamas’ Native Bird, while the gardens boast exotic fruit trees, coconut palms, orchids, and much other exotic plant life.
6. Queen’s Staircase:
The Queen’s Staircase, commonly referred to as the 66 steps, is a major landmark that is located at the bottom of Fort Fincastle. The steps were carved from limestone by slaves between 1793 and 1794. A century later, the staircase was renamed to honor Queen Victoria and her role in the abolition of slavery in the Bahamas. This complex is one of Nassau’s most significant and historical landmarks.
7. National Art Gallery of Bahamas:
The National Art Gallery of Bahamas is the perfect place to get an introduction to a visual aspect of Bahamian culture. The museum showcases a range of art mainly from Bahamian artists through exhibitions, the Art Library, and the construction of the National Collection. The collection holds a variety of art pieces including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and photography.
8. Castaway Cay:
Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas and the highlight of their Caribbean cruises. Being owned by Disney, the island is the perfect place for a family vacation. On the island, there are plenty of excursions to choose from, including guided jet ski tours, banana boat rides, parasailing, and snorkeling. There is a “Family Beach,” which is suited for all ages. There is also a “Teen Beach” and the “Serenity Beach,” for guests over the age of 18.