Located southeast of Florida, the Bahamas is an archipelago of 700-plus islands. Grand Bahama and Paradise Island are among the best known and are home to many large resorts. The Bahamas are the quintessential Caribbean vacation destination where you will find many gorgeous white sand beaches, historical sites, museums, water parks, nature parks and so much more. Here are some of the most popular Bahamas attractions.
Atlantis Bahamas, Paradise Island
Located on Paradise Island, the Atlantis Resort is one of the Bahamas’ most popular tourist attractions, home to a casino, six lagoons, and a huge 141-acre water park, called Aquaventure. It is the perfect playground for the entire family. The resort also features top-notch accommodations, a golf course and several restaurants. Atlantis Bahamas also boasts the world’s largest open-air marine habitat. The aquariums are home to over 50,000 marine animals from over 200 species, including sharks, eels, piranha, rays and many more.
Lucayan National Park, Grand Bahama Island
Located on Grand Bahama Island, Lucayan National Park features 40 acres of palm, pine and mangrove trees, as well as beautiful Gold Rock Beach, the Burial Mound Cave and Ben’s Cave, both of which are part of one of the world’s longest underwater limestone cave systems. Located less then 20 miles from downtown Freeport, the national park is within easy reach.
Queen’s Staircase, New Providence Island
Queen’s Staircase in downtown Nassau on New Providence Island is a historic staircase that was carved out of limestone by slaves in the late 1700s. It took more than 16 years to complete and was named after Queen Victoria, who ruled over this region for 64 years. She abolished slavery in the country. Spanning 102 feet, Queen’s Staircase is also sometimes referred to as 66 steps, though only 65 are visible.
The Glass Window Bridge, Eleuthera
To enjoy one of the most unique views in the Bahamas, visit the Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera. Measuring just 30 feet in width at its narrowest point, this strip of land connects Eleuthera’s Gregory Town and Lower Bogue. On the northern side, you’ll see the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and on the southern side the turquoise waters of the Exuma Sound in the Caribbean Sea. It is this stark contrast between the Glass Window Bridge’s two sides that is so fascinating for many visitors. You can see both sides without leaving your car, but to truly enjoy the view, you can hike around the area. There is also a public beach on the Caribbean side.
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, Eleuthera
Located on Eleuthera, the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve is a 25-acre national park, a lush oasis featuring beautiful native flora, from orchids and ferns to mangroves and cacti. There are miles of trails within this nature preserve, so it is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll with plenty of great photo opportunities.