Things to Do in the Bahamas

The Bahamas, a nation of 29 islands and more than 600 cays, is in the Atlantic Ocean, just north of the Caribbean Sea and Cuba. With a permanent population of around 330,000, the Bahamas is a favorite with North American vacationers because of its proximity to the United States. (Grand Bahama Island is just 100 miles from the South Florida coast.) Visitors enjoy the many beaches, excellent sportsfishing, unique cuisine and lively music and dance.

Relax on the Beach

Enjoying the white sand beaches and beach water sports is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the Bahamas. Some of the most frequented beaches are Cable Beach in Nassau, the beach at Paradise Island and Lucayan Beach on Grand Bahama Island.

Fish

Sportsfishing has been a favorite Bahamas activity since Hemingway wrote about fishing in Bimini. That small island continues to attract those seeking swordfish, marlin, sailfish and tuna. Fishing charter boats depart from all of the major port cities, including Nassau, Freeport and Paradise Island.

Eat

Bahamas cuisine combines West African cooking with British culture, a reminder of centuries of British rule. Highlights include conch chowder and fritters, rock lobsters and refreshing Bahama Mama cocktails.

Celebrate

Music and dance are a part of daily life in the Bahamas. Steel drum bands accompany most meals and events. The annual Junkanoo Festival is celebrated Dec. 26 and features a street parade complete with feathered costumes and rhythmic music.

Gamble

Several of the Bahamas Islands feature casino gambling. The two most popular casino destinations are Paradise Island, just off the coast of Nassau, the nation's capital, and Grand Bahama Island, one of the largest of the Bahamas Islands. Casinos here rival Las Vegas, with slot machines, table games, sports books and poker rooms.

Resources

• Bahamas Tourism Web site