Some tasty Bahamian food.

Sure the Bahamas have the beach, the waterparks, the adventure, aquariums, sunshine, beautiful people and the like, but where’s the beef? No seriously, where is the beef? If you’re like me (and I know that you are) and like to eat and drink your way through town, then this is how to get the most of your time in the Bahamas.

What do the Bahamas have to offer for food? Well, you’re likely to find a slew of seafood, fried, fresh, or grilled, but that’s not to say that there’s no variety. You can come to the Bahamas and have a typical tourist experience where food is like every Florida resort hotel. Or (or!) you can come to the Bahamas and experience the local offerings like a true native and indulge in the sea’s bounteous bounty. Conch, lobster, shrimp, grouper, chowder, and the like will likely be on the menu at any restaurant worth its salt.

But enough of the hors d’oeuvres, let’s get to the meat of the matter. Bahama food tours are a great option for those wishing to see some of the Bahamian countryside, learn about the history of the place, and eat some tasty conch fritters to boot. Typical food tours take you on a walking trip through Nassau’s local eateries and advice you on the best of the best of local eating. What could be better? Perhaps getting a history lesson while you’re at it? Well, most tours offer that too.

So if you’re looking to get some tasty Bahamian grub while on your trip to paradise, look no further. You’ll gain insight into the cultural and architectural offerings of Nassau, as well as taste locally sourced teas, savory Bahamian macaroni and cheese, and some spiny lobster.

-Hudson Hornick

Food Tours in the Bahamas from Bahamas Things to Do

Want to get away? Get out on the open ocean with a Bahama powerboat.

Stuck in paradise and need to escape? Sure, the Bahamas are quite beautiful, and there’s no doubt that there’s plenty to do in Nassau, but sometimes the sight of all that horizon speaks to something deep inside of us and we just need to jump on a powerboat and hit the water. Luckily, even though you’re on an island you have your options.

Here are the best day trips from Nassau.

Powerboat from Nassau – looking to get away? Here it is on a silver platter. Take a powerboat to your own private island in the Exuma chain. There’s nothing like it in the world. With the wind whipping through your hair topping speeds of 60 knots, you’ll know the indescribable sensation that comes with speed. And then relax on a deserted island: explore its shores, kick the sand, relax on an abandoned beach and do whatever it is young people in love do – it’s all here and possible: it’s your own private island for crying out loud!

Sandy Toes, Rose Island – Snorkelers and water-lovers will adore this option. Sandy Toes is known for just that – beach, sun, fun, and relaxation. Spend the day snorkeling, kayaking, or striking up a game of impromptu beach volleyball. There’s a restaurant, activities coordinator, and floaties for rent. Think of Sandy Toes as your private resort that you’ve booked just for the day.

Harbour Island, Eleuthera – This adventure is a stretch to get to, but once there, it tops the list of places to escape to. Rated as one of the best beaches by Fodors, Frommers, The Travel Channel, and now Viator, Harbour Island is world-famous for its hard-packed crystalline clean diamond-pink sand that stretches for miles. Outlying reef makes for safe playtime in the water and excellent snorkeling. If you’re willing to spend the time getting here, then this is the beach destination escape you’ve been hunting for.

 -Hudson Hornick

Best Day Trips From Nassau from Bahamas Things to Do

Count Basie Square at night. Photo courtesy of Geoff Livingston via Flickr.

Just touched down in The Bahamas and looking for a good time? You’re in luck – Freeport is the answer. The history of Freeport is a relatively new one and things are changing as they happen, so to speak. What is now the second-most populated city in the Bahamas began as scrub and swampland until, in 1955, a Virginian entrepreneur acquired the land through a grant from the Bahamian government with free trading rights – hence, Freeport. That said, the town is now a bustling cosmopolitan center and ripe for the intrepid traveler. So what are you waiting for? Get on out there and see it already!

Shopping and casino time aside, Freeport has got some things going for it. For the nature lover, check out Garden of the Groves, a twelve-acre garden chock-full of tropical plants and animals and one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. Lucayan National Park is another park favorite, thanks to its incredibly diverse network of underwater caves, giving it worldwide distinction.

The water-inclined will also find Freeport an amusement park of activities, not the least of which being a powerboat outing on open water. This wind-whipping blast takes you out to the Exumas, a group of uninhabited islands which you can have to yourself – don’t worry, lunch and snorkel equipment is included.

Check out other day cruises from Freeport 

Those who prefer just seeing the sites will enjoy  a trip to Millionaire’s Row and the Freeport Open Market on a half-day Freeport Tour, and come nightfall, there’s fun to be had in Count Basie Square where live music starts every Friday and Saturday come nightfall. Perhaps the most quintessential island nightlife experience is a Freeport bonfire on the beach experience. Here you’ll dance in the firelight, enjoy a traditional limbo, be served cocktails, and who knows what else – it’s Freeport, after all.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahama tours & things to do, Bahama attractions, and Bahama travel recommendations.

What to Do with One Day in Freeport from Bahamas Things to Do

Abaco Island Beach. Photo courtesy of Steven Beger Photography (Beger.com Productions) via Flickr.

Any trip to the Bahamas is going to be a great vacation. But sometimes on our quest for that ever elusive word “relaxation,” we want to see and explore a little bit more than the ordinary. Part of the majesty of the Caribbean is getting to discover new islands, to feel the salty breeze on your face and to know the freedom that comes with having wind in your sails while embarking toward see some distant sand-filled island. This is island hopping in the Bahamas, and there are few places in the world where it gets as good as this.

The Bahamas are an island hopping paradise because of the sheer number of your options. There are 15 main “paradise” islands and literally hundreds of small island cays, many of them deserted. Some are even available for private rental.

The district of Exuma alone consists of 365 named islands – one for every day of the year! – and many day trips from Freeport and Nassau will head here as part of options. Some boast great snorkeling, others ultra-luxury resorts, while most just boast sand and the ever glistening water. The biggest of this island chain is Grand Exuma, and it’s here in George Town that you’ll likely make your first stop should you choose to hop here (there’s an airport and Sandals Resort as well as a much-needed grocery store).

If you instead decide to do it alone, or better yet take a cruise (it’s easier to not scuttle your boat on the rocks when you have a guide), you should consider heading to Athol Island for some great snorkeling. You’ll also pass The Narrows,  a picturesque island filled with expats and Bahaman locals. Green Cay is a great place for shelling and making your footprints in the sand.

Whatever route you choose, it’s all easy living. This is the Bahamas, after all, and your adventure is just beginning.

Cruisers, be sure to check out our Bahama Shore Excursions!

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas ours & things to do, Bahama attractions, and Bahama travel recommendations.

Island Hopping in the Bahamas from Bahamas Things to Do

The Bahama Beach Adventure begins. Photo courtesy of cdorobek via Flickr.

From relaxing on the sun-drenched beach to trying your hand at one of the many island golf courses, you’ll likely have plenty of options with your time in the Bahamas. But don’t be fooled too quickly. Though the white-sand beaches and aquamarine waters of the Bahamas have their draw, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes of this small island nation – more than meets the eye.

For example, take the Lucayan National Park. This park is home to one of the longest underwater cave structures in the whole world, and walking out to the caves on the wooden boardwalk you’ll see miles of sparse pine trees and wetland in something more befitting the Florida Everglades than a tropical island paradise.

That said, there’s always the usual gamut of fun adventures to be had while stopping in the Bahamas. Diving is ever-popular, and whether it’s a two-tank dive exploring the area’s abundant sea life, or diving with sharks in an adrenaline-filled adventure, you’re sure to have a blast. Snorkeling is always a hit for those who prefer not to strap on the air tank, and here, in paradise, there’s even the SUB Bahamas Adventure where you’ll get a chance to navigate your own mini-sub!

Back on land, there’s always the white beach, but why not make the most of your time here and explore Freeport? Tours take you to Millionaire Row and to an open-air market, but perhaps the best activity is the end of the day bonfire on the beach. Little speaks like vacation and easy living then a night filled with fire, dancing, limbo parties, cocktails, and who knows – romance? It’s possible – there’s more than meets the eye on this island, after all.

Check out shore excursions from Freeport. 

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahama tours & things to do, Bahama attractions, and Bahama travel recommendations.

The Bahamas for Cruise Visitors from Bahamas Things to Do

The road to Lucayan National Park defies traditionally held conceptions of Bahamian landscapes. Photo courtesy of ironypoisoning via Flickr.

Often thought of as simply pristine coastline and white sand beach, what makes the Bahamas famous,  is more than idyllic beach beauty. Six very diverse ecosystems at work in this island nation, and all six of them can be seen in one spectacular little trip to Lucayan National Park. Pine trees, mangroves, ferns, swamp and orchids abound, and at Lucayan National Park, you can see some of what makes the Bahamas more than just a resort island escape.

The Lucayan National Park is roughly 40-acres of pristine wilderness, and with just one visit you’ll see a whole new side of what the Bahamas are all about. Dozens of rare flower species, orchids, bats, and thousands of other species of animal reside here, as does one of the longest and most extensive systems of underground caves in the world. This vast tunnel system was created over eons of time by acidified water runoff eating away at the island’s limestone bedrock. This truly unique environment is renowned the world over and divers flock to this magnificent labyrinth to dive in a place like no other anywhere on earth. It is so vast, it is still being mapped, and for this reason ( as well as to preserve the park), divers are limited to the areas in which they are allowed to go, and then you’ll need permission.

Still, if you get the opportunity, even just to see the caves, the Lucayan National Park never disappoints. With stalactites and the eerily-clear water, it makes for one of the most memorable experiences you’re likely to have. Bring a camera and a sense of adventure, and see what makes the Lucayan National Park special for yourself.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas tours & things to do, Bahama attractions, and Bahama travel recommendations.

Lucayan National Park from Bahamas Things to Do

Romance in the sunset. What could be better?

We all have images of white sand and crystal blue water in our head when it comes to the Bahamas. For many, the island is a retreat which has nestled itself firmly in our heart; a sandy haven of fun and sunshine that we wouldn’t give up for anything. For others, the Bahamas is a romantic getaway of epic proportions, and thus even more special. And while romantic getaways are wonderful, sometimes we’re looking for something more to do as a couple than just sit around the hotel. Don’t worry – the Bahamas are great for romance and here’s why.

What makes a day special? Relaxation, beauty, adventure. In the Bahamas? Check, check, and… check. If lying around the beach drinking Pina Coladas and Mai Tais have had their fair share of time, spend some time playing in the water. An adventure sports package gives you options. Over 12 different activities are available, from jet-skiing to riding a banana boat, to kayaking, snorkeling, and more. Sailing has also long been a favorite activities of young love, so why not check out the Bahamas with a Nassau Sailing Adventure? You’ll learn the basics of seamanship and get some time out in the deep water.

Nothing kindles the embers of love than surviving an adventure together, and  shark diving is always a thrill. Additionally, nature lovers will enjoy the Bahamas East End and Lucayan National Park which makes strolling hand-in-hand, beautiful, serene, and lets you enjoy a bit of time on the island.

Whatever you do, don’t forget Valentine’s is right around the corner. Remembering that is, by far, your safest bet.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas tours & things to do, attractions, and travel recommendations.

Romantic Things To Do in the Bahamas for Valentine’s Day from Bahamas Things to Do

Lighthouse in the Bahamas during sunset. Photo courtesy of vl8189 via Flickr.

The Caribbean, and The Bahamas, often conjures up images of European merchants of old, swashbuckling pirates, and the sugarcane plantations and their ensuing rum production that had half the world clamoring for more grog. Nowadays, visitors often arrive on large cruise ships, stay for a day, and then motor out, while the locals keep on in their customs. But for the local, the Caribbean is less about cruise ships and more about abandoned beaches long forgotten by the forward progression of time, and more about the white sands and the sapphire water than the next club stop. If this is the Caribbean you’re looking for, then welcome to the Out Islands of The Bahamas.

Miles away from the typical big destination ports, the Bahamas’ Out Islands are a bit further out there than New Providence (Nassau) or Grand Bahama (Freeport). Because of this, locals have come to dub the Out Islands as the “Family Islands” because here the attention is about the landscape, the water, the fish in the sea, and the simple things that make a seaside, beachside vacation special. People don’t come here for all night parties or busy streets teaming with boutique shopping experiences. People come to the Out Islands to relax, soak up some sunshine, and absorb some of the native culture seemingly unconcerned with the march of the rest of the world. A perfect opportunity then to explore your native skill sailing, or brave your luck diving with sharks.

If you’re looking into visiting Bahamas’ Out Islands, you’re in luck. This is the Caribbean dream as it was meant to be. While here, look into renting a sea kayak, snorkeling, skin diving, sailing, and other fun, easy-going water sport activities, or just lay by the tide, dip into the water when you get too hot, or stroll down the beach to the local lobster and conch hut to see what the owner feels like cooking up today. Some of the best Bahama experiences bar none.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas tours & things to do, Bahamas attractions, and Bahamas travel recommendations.

The Bahamas’ Out Islands from Bahamas Things to Do

Beach in the Bahamas. Photo courtesy of acme via Flickr.

Spending the Holidays on the Bahamas? A nice Caribbean breeze, a celebratory cocktail or two, and goodwill towards your fellow man – doesn’t sound too bad, right? It isn’t. It’s great. But if you’re looking for what there is to do on the Bahamas during the holidays, you’ve come to the right place.

In many ways, the Bahamas celebrate Christmas and New Year’s in the traditional Anglican fashion – and that is with Christmas trees and ideas of Santa Claus and so forth. What’s special and different about Christmas in the Bahamas is the idea that everything should be fabulously colorful (Oh, it’s a tad warm too). Expect lights, a bedazzled truck parade, and a Junkanoo celebration on January 26th. What is a Junkanoo, you ask? Junkanoo parades are masqueraded parades where participants dress up in mask and costume and chase one another through the streets. These parties/parades vary in seriousness and playfulness, but are always fun and exciting to watch. On the Bahamas, the Junkanoo parades typically start December 28th at 2am, and the wait is well-worth the late night up. If you can, spot one while on the Bahamas for the holidays.

Come New Year’s, typical Bahaman parties include local events down by the fish fry and beach, but many resorts offer special discotheques and bacchanalian debauches to boot. So whatever the feeling is, whether it is local down by the beach, or in the resort with DJs and all night dancing, be sure to bring a camera, dress lightly, and be ready to have a great time – no one parties like in the Bahamas!

-Hudson Hornick 

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas tours & things to do, attractions, and travel recommendations.

Spending the Holidays In the Bahamas from Bahamas Things to Do

The Queen’s Staircase in Nassau

It might seem to be something of an oddity or perhaps a misnomer to say that one of the main tourist attractions in Nassau is a staircase. I mean, after all, aren’t we on vacation to relax? Be that as it may, the truth of the matter is that the number one tourist attraction in Nassau (unless you count the beach) is indeed a staircase – the Queen’s Staircase, to be exact.

So if you’re going to see a staircase on your trip it has to be impressive. So it is fitting, then that this staircase is indeed a royal staircase.

Built around 1794, the limestone staircase is a 102-foot vertical climb with exactly 65 steps – one for each year of Queen Victoria’s rule. Cut entirely by hand out of the side of a mountain, the staircase is a symbol of the hard work achievable by those with the determination to do it (in this case, the local slaves).

Leading to the back of another attraction – Fort Fincastle – the Queen’s Staircase is a serene homage to the efforts of Queen Victoria’s efforts to eliminate that selfsame slavery in the area. While walking up (or down) the staircase, visitors are flanked by beautiful jungle palms, waterfalls, and the limestone rock the area is famous for.

To get to the Queen’s Staircase, head to the Water Tower (easily recognizable as the tallest building in Nassau), and across the street you’ll find Fort Fincastle and behind it, the Queen’s Staircase.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Bahamas tours & things to do, Bahamas attractions, and Bahamas travel recommendations, or book a private tour guide in the Bahamas for a customized tour!

Climbing the Queen’s Staircase in Nassau from Bahamas Things to Do