The Bahamas is one of the world’s most quintessential island paradises. This remarkable archipelago of 700 islands and over 2,400 smaller cays is the epitome of an exotic tropical destination, a haven of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, and stunning sunsets.
When most people think of a vacation to the Bahamas, it’s a trip for families, full of luxury resorts, all-inclusive hotels, and watersports. But there is so much more to the Bahamas than cocktails and infinity pools.
While the most famous spots of Nassau and Paradise Island serve up the classic resort experience (to the highest level, it should be said) there are so many wonderful hidden gems scattered across the rest of the archipelago. These lesser-known spots are perfect for anyone looking for a little extra adventure or a more intimate experience.
So whether you are embarking on a cruise leaving from Galveston destined for the Bahamas or flying in for a few weeks in paradise, here are some of the more under-the-radar places and experiences to seek out.
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Andros Island
Andros Island is the largest island in the Bahamas, yet somehow remains relatively undiscovered. It is a nature lover’s dream, with a huge variety of vast, diverse ecosystems including mangrove swamps, a network of winding creeks and rivers, vibrant coral reefs, and dense pine forests. It is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers, as the Andros Barrier Reef is the third largest of its kind in the world (and the third largest living organism on the planet!), which offers a massive playground for divers to explore.
Going beyond the natural wonders of Andros, it is a great place to get an authentic taste of Bahamian culture. The island has several small settlements like Fresh Creek where it is a simple thing to immerse yourself in the local community by visiting markets, eating traditional cuisine, and enjoying the warm hospitality of the island’s residents.
Eleuthera
The pink-sand beaches of Eleuthera hardly come under the heading of hidden gems, but no trip to the Bahamas would be complete without a visit, and there are some off-the-beaten-track experiences to be had on the island as well! It is a wonderful spot for a spot of peace and tranquility. Harbor Island, a tiny islet just off the coast of the main island of Eleuthera, is where you can find the most famous Pink Sands Beach, but there are several other less well-known spots to see this natural phenomenon caused by the crushed shells of microscopic marine organisms.
Once you’ve ticked the rosy-hued sands off your to-do list, venture away from the beach to take a more adventurous exploration of Eleuthera’s unique geological formations. This tiny island is home to a remarkable cave system, including Preacher’s Cave, as well as the Glass Window Bridge, a stunning natural rock formation where the dark blue of the Atlantic merges with the turquoise brightness of the Bight of Eleuthera.
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
One of the main reasons many people head to the Bahamas is for the incredible marine life. This is one of the finest places on the planet to discover the world beneath the ocean waves, and if you are a fan of aquatic life then the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park should definitely be on your list.
This extraordinary protected marine reserve stretches over 176 square miles and includes colorful coral reefs, incredible underwater landscapes, and a wealth of diverse, fascinating marine ecosystems. Snorkeling or diving in the park is a great experience and will bring you face-to-face with nurse sharks, shoals of vivid electric tropical fish, and even the elusive Exuma iguanas!
One of the most well-known spots in the Exumas is Staniel Cay, a tiny island unremarkable except for its population of wild, swimming pigs! Visitors to the cay will be greeted by a herd of friendly porcine paddlers as soon as they arrive, a unique and memorable experience.
Long Island
While many of the Bahamian islands are bustling, busy, and even crowded, Long Island offers a more peaceful escape. The rolling hills and dramatic cliffs of this serene haven make it the perfect destination for nature lovers looking for great views and a little solitude. It also offers adventure and adrenaline in the form of Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s second-deepest underwater sinkhole, which can be explored by the most intrepid scuba divers.
Long Island offers plenty for the history buff as well. Clarence Town is a charming historical settlement, with its rows of pastel-colored houses and St Paul’s Anglican Church, one of the oldest religious buildings in the Bahamas. It is also one of the sites where Christopher Columbus landed, a historical event commemorated by the impressive Columbus Monument.
Cat Island
Cat Island is considered by most to be the artistic and cultural hub of the Bahamas. This delightful spot boasts a vibrant art scene and is home to the oldest festival in the archipelago in the form of the Cat Island Rake and Scrape. This exciting event is a showcase of the island’s unique local music and dance traditions, as well as some of the most delicious food around.
Cat Island is also a gem for hikers and mountain explorers, as it is home to Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas. An excellent trail winds its way up to the summit where you will find a hermitage constructed by hand by Monsignor John Hawes, as well as stunning panoramic vistas.
San Salvador
While there are several spots associated with Columbus scattered across the Bahamas, San Salvador is recognized as his official first landfall in the New World. As a result, this island is steeped in history and dotted with sites of historical interest, including the ruins of Watlings Castle, and (from more modern times) the Mother Bernice Bay Rum Factory!
Great Inagua
The wildlife of the Bahamas is not just found under the sea. The islands boast an incredible variety of bird species, and ardent birdwatchers would be well-advised to give Great Inagua a visit. The Inagua National Park is home to over 80,000 flamingos, as well as a huge range of other feathered creatures, and the salt pans near Matthew Town are another hotspot for interesting bird life.
Crooked Island
Fishing, whether deep-sea sports fishing or the gentler vibes of fly-fishing is one of the biggest draws for visitors to the Bahamas, and Crooked Island is one of the best spots for anglers of all stripes. From bonefish on the vast white sand flats to tarpon further off-shore, Crooked Island is one of the least visited and most productive fisheries in the entire Bahamas, making it an ideal destination for off-the-beaten-track fishing experiences.
While Nassau and Paradise Island are the main Bahamian attractions for many thanks to their vibrant energy and luxury attractions, there are so many more hidden gems to discover in the Bahamas. The lesser-known spots highlighted above offer a different kind of allure, full of adventure, natural beauty, and rich, authentic cultural exchange. From the festivals of Cat Island and the rich history of San Salvador to the pristine natural reserves of Exuma Cay, this is the perfect guide to the hidden gems of the Bahamas for anyone who wants to explore beyond the tourist trail!
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Hi, we are Krasen and Ying Ying. Krasen is from Bulgaria, and Ying Ying is from China. We are passionate about geography and history, and we believe that the best way to experience it is by exploring the Earth in reality, not in a school, and not virtually.
So, we created this blog Journey Beyond the Horizon, where we share geographical knowledge, travel guides and tips how to experience it when you explore our planet, and a lot of inspiration.
And we wish you a happy journey, not just virtually, but most of all- in reality.
Enjoy!
