Explore The Bahamas Like a Local: 10 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
What Makes The Bahamas So Special?
Swimming in clear, turquoise waters and snorkeling alongside angelfish in an enchanting grotto are just some of the unique things to do in The Bahamas. With the abundance of beaches, coastlines, and vast expanses of ocean as a playground, it’s no surprise that many unique activities are based in or around water.
But you’ll also find plenty of photogenic historic landmarks to visit inland, family-owned attractions with delicious local flavors to try, and serene, hidden gem islands filled with magical moments. Read on to discover what makes The Bahamas truly special.
1. Underwater caves in Lucayan National Park
Gentle hiking in outstanding beauty
Good for: Unusual, Photo
Exploring the underwater caves in Lucayan National Park will give you a fascinating insight into the biodiversity and history of Grand Bahama. Follow the boardwalk trails to Burial Mound Cave, and you’ll be amazed at the striking vegetation and clear, dazzling blue water that awaits you. Important archaeological remains have been found in this cave, as well as the discovery of a rare crustacean.
It links to Ben’s Cave through an extensive underwater cave system. Follow the peaceful trails and take in the stunning flora and fauna along the way. While the intriguing caves are undoubtedly the main attraction, don’t miss the walk down to the mangrove creek and on to Gold Rock Beach for incredible scenery.
Phone: +1 242-393-1317
Underwater caves in Lucayan National Park
2. Bahamian Brewery
For beer lovers
Good for: Couples, History
Head to western Freeport to take an insightful tour of Bahamian Brewery. You’ll get to view inside the pristine facility and learn the history of this Bahamian-owned business, as well as watch the brewing and bottling processes in action. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, encouraging questions and providing a fun, interactive experience for visitors.
At the end of the tour, relax and sample the lagers and ales in the in-house bar. Try one of the unusual flavors, such as pink grapefruit or guava, if you’re looking for something original and refreshing. You’ll also find light lager and non-alcoholic options. Before you leave, visit the onsite store where you’ll find all the locally produced beer available for purchase.
Location: Grand Bahaman, Freeport, Bahamas
Open: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +1 242-352-4070
Bahamian Brewery
3. Pig Beach
Fun on The Exumas
Good for: Unusual, Adventure, Families
It’s a mystery how these quirky animals arrived on Big Major Cay, but Pig Beach is now home to around 20 adorable pigs and piglets. Accessible by boat, you’ll see these cute animals as you approach, bobbing in the clear, turquoise water, sunbathing on the sparkling, white sand, and even swimming out to meet you. It’s an incredible sight.
Visiting Pig Beach is an excellent choice for a family adventure or a fun, unusual date idea for couples. The pigs are known for being friendly, and there are signs with advice on how to approach them. Take a seat on the sand and watch these playful creatures frolic under the sun for a memory you’ll never forget.
Pig Beach
4. Dean’s Blue Hole
Long Island’s awe-inspiring underwater sinkhole
Good for: Budget, Couples, Photo
If you’re looking for a dramatic, natural landscape with exceptional, raw beauty, Dean’s Blue Hole is an essential spot to visit. It’s one of the world’s deepest blue holes, plunging over 660 ft, and is known for its freediving competitions. The contrast of vivid colors makes its appearance breathtaking. Follow the path up the limestone cliffs and look down on clear turquoise water that suddenly darkens into deepest indigo. It’s incredibly photogenic.
Mornings are the best time to visit, when there are fewer people and the water is calmer, to enjoy a gentle swim or snorkeling session alongside beautiful fish. Take sunscreen, towels, and water with you, as there are no facilities at this stunning site.
Dean’s Blue Hole
5. Thunderball Grotto
Following in 007’s footsteps
Good for: Couples, Adventure
Located just off Staniel Cay, Thunderball Grotto is even more picturesque than it appeared in the 1965 James Bond movie. As the sun streams through holes in the rock walls, this partially submerged cave system will take your breath away. Clear blue water allows you to snorkel alongside hundreds of tropical fish, including beautiful angelfish and yellowtail snapper.
First-time visitors should arrive at low tide, when it’s easier to enter the grotto. Guided tours are also an excellent option, as the boat trip will be organized for you, including snorkeling gear. Ask the guides for tips on the best spots for snorkeling, as well as information on the marine life, resident bats, and the grotto’s history.
Thunderball Grotto
6. Bimini Road
Legend or natural occurrence?
Good for: Couples, Unusual
With its line of huge, rectangular blocks, lying approximately 15 ft underwater, Bimini Road is one of the most unique places to visit in The Bahamas. For decades, divers, researchers, and scientists have debated whether this limestone structure is a natural geological formation or evidence of the Lost City of Atlantis. Located off the coast of North Bimini, it’s only accessible by boat.
Take a boat tour out to Bimini Road, then enjoy a memorable scuba-diving experience with a difference. As you glide down, past the fish and coral filling the turquoise waters, you’ll suddenly see the massive slabs stretching out over 1,500 ft long. Could this be a submerged wall of Atlantis? Explore at your leisure and decide.
Bimini Road
7. Queen’s Staircase
A stunning landmark in Nassau
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
History buffs and photography enthusiasts will love visiting the Queen’s Staircase. This photogenic site originally consisted of 66 steps that were meticulously chiseled by 600 enslaved people around two centuries ago. Intended as a quick escape route down from Fort Fincastle, it’s now a serene and beautiful spot with a gentle waterfall cascading down alongside the steps, and plenty of lush vegetation.
Named after Queen Victoria, you’ll find a plaque by the steps, honoring her reign. Providing easy access to Fort Fincastle, these beautiful steps are a short visit, so combine a trip with sightseeing at the fort and its water tower.
Location: Greenwich St, Nassau, Bahamas
Open: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Queen's Staircase
8. Glass Window Bridge
An astonishing natural wonder
Good for: Budget, Photo
The Glass Window Bridge will delight you with its uniqueness. At the northern end of tranquil Eleuthera, this concrete bridge covers a strip of rock that is only 30 ft wide. On one side, the deep, indigo waters of the Atlantic Ocean stretch far into the distance. On the other, the bright turquoise of the Bight of Eleuthera glistens.
It’s not just the sharp contrast in colors on each side of the bridge that makes this so remarkable. The ocean’s choppy waves often crash against the rocks, but the turquoise waters opposite remain calm and clear. Visit at sunrise or sunset for Instagram-worthy photos, and wear shoes with a good grip as the spray makes the rocks and bridge slippery.
Phone: +1 242-332-2142
Glass Window Bridge
9. Rose Island
Relaxation in a romantic setting
Good for: Couples, Food
Take a leisurely boat ride from Marina Village in Nassau to Rose Island and prepare to be enchanted by tranquil nature. This long, thin island covers an area of just three square miles, so it’s compact and easy to explore. It’s sought after by couples looking for a romantic getaway. Lazy days on idyllic, white sands, and long strolls admiring tropical birds and abundant marine creatures help you get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Snorkeling in the calm, clear waters is popular too, so don’t forget to take your gear with you. Stop at one of the cozy eateries dotted around the center of the island to feast on delicious island dishes as the sun sets.
Rose Island
10. Nassau Glass Bottomed-Boat Tours
An original observatory
Good for: Families, Photo
Glass-bottomed boat tours in Nassau are an exciting way to head out on the water and observe marine life. For those preferring to stay dry, rather than snorkeling or scuba diving, this is a wonderful choice. As you depart from Nassau Harbor, a knowledgeable guide points out historic landmarks and celebrity homes peeking out behind lines of yachts and cruise ships.
You’ll learn about the vibrant coral reef and colorful sea creatures as you sail across the water, observing underwater activity through the boat’s glass floor. Many tours offer complimentary drinks and snacks, while some also offer snorkeling opportunities or a visit to another island. Whichever tour you choose, plan on sunscreen, towels, and non-slip shoes.
Nassau Glass Bottomed-Boat Tours
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