The Bahamas: Experience The Coastline Like A Local
The Bahamas: Experience The Coastline Like A Local
The Bahamas is typically celebrated for its postcard-perfect scenes of white powdery beaches fringed by the most transparent turquoise waters. But there is much more to explore beyond the well-trodden spots of these tropical and idyllic islands. The islands, nearly 700 of them, including the popular Exumas and Abacos, also offer rich culture, authentic island cuisine, natural wonders, and quieter anchorages. Here, we have put together a guide to the Bahamas' best-kept secrets:
Taste The Islands
The Bahamian food scene is delicious and one to be savored while traveling around the islands. Aside from international influence and tourist hotspots, there are plenty of local spots and experiences to sample the culinary delights. For a true taste of the islands, enjoy a privately guided food tour around Nassau, enjoying everything from conch fritters to rum-soaked cakes - all washed down with a signature Bahama Mama. Knowledgeable and local guides can point you to the best places to get the island's specialties.
Enjoy The Traditions
One of the most traditional and well-known things to do in the Bahamas is to try out a local fish fry. While most visitors head to Arawak Cay for a classic fish fry, those who are seeking something less touristy should visit Potter's Cay Dock, where seafood shacks serve fresh fish straight from the boat, with a more local atmosphere. For something unique, on a yacht charter in the Bahamas, the crew can arrange a private beach or sandbar fish fry. When it comes to festivals, Junkanoo is the island's famous Boxing Day and New Year's Day carnival. However, there is also Goombay Summer, an authentic island-wide festival held from June to August. For something a little quieter, head to one of the Out Islands to witness local artisans practice traditional straw work, weaving everything from baskets to mats using age-old techniques.
Unique Swimming Experiences
The Bahamas is home to some of the world's most famous swimming spots - typically with other resident mammals besides you. Big Major Cay in the Exumas, famously known as Pig Beach, is a must-visit spot full of friendly swimming pigs. A less famous but equally memorable experience is at Compass Cay Marina, where you can swim with lots of gentle nurse sharks in the clear, shallow waters. For snorkelers, the iconic Thunderball Grotto near Staniel Cay is not only a James Bond movie location but also, at low tides, transforms into a natural aquarium, where you can swim in underwater caves filled with tropical fish.
Step Back In Time
Many assume the island's capital, Nassau, is just for beach clubs and duty-free shopping. However, it is also an ideal location to learn about the past, wandering through the centuries-old cathedrals and spotting colonial architecture. Visit The Pompey Museum of Slavery, a restored 18th-century slave market building, to get an honest glimpse into the island's complex history. The historic forts of Fort Charlotte and Fort Fincastle on Nassau are also worth a visit, they were built in the late 18th century and also give an insight into the past as well as panoramic island views.
Beyond The Beach
The Bahamas are known for their incredible beaches, but the islands' natural beauty goes further than just the white sands. Nature lovers can head inland to explore Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama, home to one of the world's longest underwater cave systems, or the remote Blue Holes of Andros, a diver's paradise full of deep sinkholes. Cruising to Conception Island National Park, you can experience this uninhabited spot full of crystal-clear waters and pristine reefs - it is also an important site for nesting green sea turtles.
Whether you opt for indulging in local cuisine, learning about island traditions, or escaping to hidden spots, The Bahamas is full of opportunities to experience its coastlines like a local. Go beyond the popular islands and beaches to get a real feel for these islands.
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