Situated in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of Florida, the Bahamas archipelago encompasses 700-plus islands and even more beaches. Many of them are picture perfect tropical beaches and stand out for their perfect mix of sand and surf. The islands of Grand Bahama and Paradise Island are home to many hotels and resorts and are among the best known. Top snorkel and scuba diving sites include the spectacular Andros Barrier Reef, the black coral gardens off Bimini and Thunderball Grotto.
Located on Grand Bahama Island within the protected Lucayan National Park, Gold Rock Beach is the most beautiful section of this island’s 90 miles of south shore coastline. This white sand beach is almost a football field wide at low tide, and the shallow nearshore waters are perfect for wading and snorkeling. For those who prefer to stay dry, the park is also home to limestone caves that are worth a visit.
Due to its proximity to the most popular resort in the Bahamas, Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is a must-see. Since it is just a short stroll from Atlantis Resorts Bahamas, it is one of the most visited beaches in the Bahamas. The beach is a great place for swimming and snorkeling. There are many things to do here. Atlantis Resorts Bahamas is a huge property, home to six luxury hotels, a fabulous gambling casino as well as Paradise Beach, made famous in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean and James Bond’s Thunderball and Casino Royale.
Another top Bahamas Beach is Pink Sands Beach, located on Harbour Island, which is accessible via a two-hour ferry ride from Nassau. The island is known for its 35-plus miles of pale pink sand beaches. The pink sand comes from broken coral pieces and shells of foraminifera, a single-celled organism. Harbour Island is one of just a few locations in the world with pink sand beaches, so this island is well worth a visit.
Long Island is home to Deals Beach, which is situated along the island’s main road. It’s a beautiful two mile stretch of sand with a shallow bay, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, wading or sailing. Another top Bahamas beach is Long Bay Beach on San Salvador Island. This beach was named after the longboats that Christopher Columbus and his crew used to come ashore here in October 1492. The exact location is marked by a white cross, and it is the most photographed place on the island. Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities here, and there are a few large reefs just offshore that are teeming with marine life.
Looking for a beach that’s off the beaten path? Visit Tahiti Beach in the Abacos. Located on the southern tip of Elbow Cay, this stunningly beautiful white sand beach is lined with coconut palms. It is very secluded and accessible only on foot, bike or by boat, so you are sure to find a stretch of sand to call your own. Tahiti Beach is a great spot for swimming or collecting sea shells, starfish and sand dollars.