Dreaming of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rum cocktails? Look no further than the Bahamas! This 7-day island-hopping itinerary will take you through some of the most stunning spots, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Bahamian culture. Get ready to dive into paradise!
Day 1 & 2: Nassau – A Vibrant Start
Your Bahamian adventure begins in Nassau, the capital city located on New Providence Island. After arriving at Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle to your hotel. Cable Beach offers a range of resorts, while downtown Nassau provides boutique hotel options and easy access to attractions.
Exploring Downtown Nassau
Start your exploration at Parliament Square, easily recognizable by its pink colonial buildings. From there, stroll along Bay Street, the main shopping street, browsing duty-free shops selling everything from jewelry to liquor. Be prepared for enthusiastic vendors! Don’t forget to haggle a little for souvenirs.
For a dose of history, visit Fort Fincastle, perched atop Bennet’s Hill. Built in 1793, it offers panoramic views of Nassau and the surrounding harbor. You can walk up the Queen’s Staircase (also known as the 66 steps) to reach the fort. The staircase, carved out of solid limestone rock by slaves, is a historical landmark. Admission to the fort is typically around $5 per person.
Junkanoo Beach and Arawak Cay
In the afternoon, head to Junkanoo Beach (also known as Western Esplanade) for some sun and relaxation. It’s a lively beach close to the cruise port, so expect music and a party atmosphere. Rent a beach chair and umbrella, grab a drink from one of the beach bars, and soak up the Bahamian vibes. The beach itself is free, but chair and umbrella rentals will cost you around $20-$30 for the day.
For dinner, immerse yourself in authentic Bahamian cuisine at Arawak Cay (also known as “The Fish Fry”). This strip of brightly colored shacks offers a dizzying array of local delicacies. Try conch salad, fried fish, cracked conch, and peas ‘n’ rice. Twin Brothers is a popular spot, but feel free to try out a few different shacks to find your favorite. Prices are very reasonable, with meals averaging around $15-$25.
Day 2: Swimming with Pigs on Exuma Cays? (From Nassau)
While not in Nassau, a day trip to Exuma to swim with the famous pigs is a MUST-DO! Several tour operators offer full-day excursions from Nassau that include a boat ride to the Exuma Cays, where you can swim with the pigs at Pig Beach (Big Major Cay). These tours typically include stops at other highlights of the Exumas, such as:
- Allen’s Cay: To feed the indigenous iguanas.
- Compass Cay: To swim with nurse sharks (don’t worry, they’re generally gentle!).
- Thunderball Grotto: For snorkeling in a stunning underwater cave (featured in James Bond films!).
These tours are expensive, ranging from $350 to $500 per person, but they are unforgettable. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider operators like Powerboat Adventures or Exuma Escapes for a reputable experience. Keep in mind that the boat ride can be bumpy, so if you are prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand.
Day 3 & 4: Harbour Island – Pink Sand Perfection
From Nassau, take a short flight on Bahamasair or Southern Air to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH). The flight is only about 15-20 minutes. From the airport, take a taxi to the nearby dock (about a 5-minute ride, costing around $5-$10), where you can catch a water taxi to Harbour Island (another 5-minute ride, around $5 per person).
Harbour Island is famous for its stunning pink sand beach, stretching for three miles along the island’s eastern side. The pink hue comes from microscopic coral insects called Foraminifera that get crushed and mixed with the sand.
Briland Style and Pink Sands Beach
Dunmore Town, the main settlement on Harbour Island, is charming and colorful. Explore the streets by golf cart, the preferred mode of transport on the island. You can rent a golf cart from numerous rental agencies near the dock for around $50-$75 per day.
Spend your days relaxing on Pink Sands Beach. The water is calm and shallow, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Several hotels and restaurants line the beach, offering food, drinks, and beach chair rentals. Sip on a rum punch at Sip Sip, a popular lunch spot known for its delicious Caribbean cuisine and stunning ocean views (be prepared for a wait, especially during peak season!).
For a luxurious stay and direct beach access, consider The Landing Hotel or the Pink Sands Resort. For a more budget-friendly option, look into guesthouses and smaller hotels within Dunmore Town.
Exploring Harbour Island
Take a boat trip to nearby islands and reefs. Several tour operators offer snorkeling and diving excursions. You can explore reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine life. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at The Rock House, known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet cuisine. Alternatively, try Arthur’s Bakery for a casual breakfast or lunch. The baked goods are delicious and affordable. For dinner, try Queen Conch for some of the best local seafood.
Day 5 & 6: Eleuthera – Untamed Beauty
From Harbour Island, take the water taxi back to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) and rent a car. Eleuthera is a long, thin island, so having a car is essential to explore it properly. Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited. Be prepared to drive on the left side of the road!
The Glass Window Bridge and Surrounding Areas
Start by driving south towards the Glass Window Bridge, one of the most unique spots in the Bahamas. This narrow strip of land separates the dark blue Atlantic Ocean from the turquoise Bight of Eleuthera. The contrast in colors is truly stunning. Be careful when crossing the bridge, especially during high winds, as the waves can crash over it.
Near the Glass Window Bridge, visit the Queen’s Baths, natural rock pools filled with seawater. These pools are perfect for swimming and relaxing, especially during low tide. Be sure to wear water shoes, as the rocks can be slippery.
Continue south to explore the charming settlements of Gregory Town and Governor’s Harbour. Gregory Town is known for its pineapple farms. Stop by a local farm to sample fresh pineapple. Governor’s Harbour is the main town on Eleuthera and offers a selection of restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
Beaches of Eleuthera
Eleuthera is home to numerous stunning beaches. French Leave Beach (also known as Club Med Beach) is a long stretch of pink sand with calm, turquoise water. It’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Lighthouse Beach, located at the southern tip of the island, is another must-see. The beach is secluded and pristine, with dramatic cliffs and rocky coastline. However, access to Lighthouse Beach requires a 4×4 vehicle and a bumpy ride. Consider hiring a local guide to take you there.
Enjoy a casual lunch at Tippy’s Restaurant, located on a beautiful beach. They serve delicious food and often have live music. For a more upscale dining experience, try The Restaurant at The Cove Eleuthera, known for its gourmet cuisine and stunning ocean views.
Day 7: Departure From Nassau
On your final day, drive back to North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) to catch a flight back to Nassau (NAS) for your international departure, allowing ample time for connections. Alternatively, you can fly directly out of Governor’s Harbour Airport (GHB), but flight options may be limited. Enjoy one last Bahamian breakfast before heading to the airport. Reflect on all the amazing experiences of your island-hopping adventure!
Essential Travel Tips for Your Bahamas Island-Hopping Trip
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Getting Around: Inter-island travel is primarily done by flights or ferries. Domestic flights are operated by Bahamasair, Southern Air, and Western Air. Book your flights in advance, especially during peak season. Ferries are a more affordable option, but they can be slower. The Bahamas Ferries operate between Nassau and several other islands, including Harbour Island and Eleuthera. Within each island, taxis, rental cars, and golf carts (on Harbour Island) are the main modes of transportation.
Currency and Payment: The Bahamian dollar (BSD) is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. Both currencies are widely accepted throughout the Bahamas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are readily available in Nassau and other major towns, but they may be less common on smaller islands.
Accommodation: Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Consider staying in a mix of hotels and guesthouses to experience the different sides of Bahamian hospitality. Airbnb is also a popular option for finding unique and affordable accommodation.
Food and Drink: Bahamian cuisine is a delightful blend of seafood, spices, and Caribbean influences. Try local specialties like conch salad, cracked conch, fried fish, peas ‘n’ rice, and guava duff. Rum is the national drink of the Bahamas, and you’ll find it in cocktails like rum punch and Bahama Mama. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but it’s recommended to drink bottled water, especially on smaller islands.
What to Pack: Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. A light sweater or jacket may be needed for cooler evenings. Water shoes are recommended for exploring rocky shorelines and natural pools. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery. A waterproof phone case is also a good idea.
Safety: The Bahamas is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings. Avoid walking alone in secluded areas at night. Keep your valuables in a safe place. Be wary of scams and touts. If you plan to rent a car, familiarize yourself with local traffic laws. And, of course, always swim in designated areas and be aware of currents.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to get between the islands?
Flights and ferries are the primary modes of transport. Flights are faster but more expensive, while ferries are more affordable but slower. Consider your budget and time constraints when choosing your transportation.
How much does it cost to swim with the pigs in Exuma?
Full-day tours from Nassau typically cost between $350 and $500 per person. This usually includes transportation, lunch, and stops at other Exuma highlights.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in the Bahamas?
Tap water is generally safe to drink in Nassau and other major towns, but it’s recommended to drink bottled water, especially on smaller islands, to avoid potential stomach issues.
What currency is used in the Bahamas?
The Bahamian dollar (BSD) is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio. Both currencies are widely accepted throughout the Bahamas.
How do people get around on Harbour Island?
Golf carts are the preferred mode of transport on Harbour Island. You can rent them from numerous rental agencies near the dock.
Do I need a visa to enter the Bahamas?
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, do not need a visa to enter the Bahamas for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.
What is the voltage in Bahamas?
The voltage in the Bahamas is 120V, and the frequency is 60Hz. The plugs are the same as in the United States, so you typically won’t need an adapter if you’re traveling from North America. If you are traveling from Europe or other regions with different voltage standards, you will need an adapter and potentially a voltage converter for your electronic devices.
Can I use US dollars in Bahamas?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted throughout the Bahamas. The Bahamian dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio, so you’ll often receive change in a mix of both currencies. Credit cards are also widely accepted at larger establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in areas where credit card processing may be unreliable.
What are some must-try Bahamian dishes?
Some must-try Bahamian dishes include conch salad, cracked conch, fried fish, peas ‘n’ rice, and guava duff. Conch is a staple ingredient in Bahamian cuisine, and you’ll find it prepared in various delicious ways. Be sure to also try some local rum-based cocktails, such as a Bahama Mama or a Goombay Smash.
Is it necessary to rent a car on Eleuthera?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended on Eleuthera. The island is long and thin, and having a car will allow you to explore its many beaches, settlements, and attractions at your own pace. Public transportation is limited, so a rental car is the most convenient way to get around.
References
- Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Official Website
- Bahamas Ferries Official Website
- Bahamasair Official Website
- Exuma Escapes Tour Company
- Powerboat Adventures Tour Company
Ready to turn this dream itinerary into reality? Don’t just imagine yourself on those pink sand beaches – start planning your unforgettable Bahamas island-hopping adventure today! Book your flights, reserve your hotels, and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of the islands. Paradise awaits!
