5 fabulous things to do in the beautiful Bahamas

700 islands and cays in the Bahamas offers so much to see and enjoy. There is surely something for everyone to take part in and remember, from splashing in the crystal clear waters to dancing in the moonlight with friendly locals.

Snorkeling

Observing the beauty of underwater wildlife can be accomplished simply by grabbing a mask and snorkel and swimming out a few feet from any beach on most islands. You’ll surely spot a few small fish and maybe even a sting ray or two. Organized snorkeling trips by boat travel out further to specific snorkel and diving hot spots. When visiting a reef, (like the San Jacinto wreck off the Abacos,) expect to see lots of tropical fish, turtles, coral and sharks. Snorkeling does not require a certification, as opposed to diving, so anyone is welcome to partake in this sport. Trips range anywhere from $45 to $70 a day.

Sunning

Perhaps some of the most beautiful beaches on Earth are the beaches in the Bahamas. The sand ranges from a clean, fresh white to a soft pink. Be sure to spend at least one full day at the beach doing nothing but laying in the sun. Many say the best beaches are on Grand Bahama Island and Eleuthera. Don’t forget your sunscreen, shades and a good book!

Hiking

The Bahamas are composed of hundreds of islands, rich with palm and pine trees and laced with mangrove marshes. While hiking, you are likely to see Crepe Murtles, Bougainvillaea, Orchids, Hibiscus, and the National Flower of the Bahamas, Yellow Elder. Few mammals live in the Bahamas, but horses, raccoons and hutia (a rat-like rodent) may be seen. Reptiles like turtles and iguanas could be spotted while hiking too. The Bimini Nature Hiking Trail offers guided tours. Enjoying nature is an enriching activity that is totally free!

Horseback Riding

Imagine galloping on the beach at sunset…Relax and literally be carried away on horseback in the Bahamas. On a planned horseback tour, you’ll see parts of the islands you most likely would not see if you were just walking or driving. Happy Trails Stables in Nassau offers daily tours six days a week, excluding Sunday for approximately $150 per person, including free transportation to and from the Stable from your hotel.

Enjoying Conch

Definitely put conch on your dining to-do list. This ocean mollusk is a Bahamian staple and it’s fleshy white/pink meat, like it’s beaches, is divine! Locals will fry it up fresh for you street side. You can also savor it saturated in lime and served with coconut at any of countless fine dining establishments.