Lifestyle
Gray's Guides
Bahamas

Bahamas

A breathtaking archipelago of over 700 islands and cays in the Atlantic Ocean, stretching from Florida to Cuba. Unwind on powder-soft beaches, explore the crystal-clear sea, and immerse yourself in a charming, laid-back island lifestyle. With its unique blend of natural beauty, history, and warm hospitality, the Bahamas is truly a destination like no other.

Stay

From family-run inns to world-renowned luxury resorts, find a welcoming home away from home.

The Dunmore Hotel & Resort

Located on the stunning Harbour Island, The Dunmore offers a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere with its pristine beachfront, stylish rooms, and world-class service. Perfect for a romantic retreat or a peaceful getaway, this resort is known for its charm and beauty.

The Ocean Club, Four Seasons

Famous for its appearance in Casino Royale, the resort features beautifully designed rooms, private villas with infinity plunge pools, and a serene spa offering Bahamian-inspired treatments.

Valentines Resort & Marina

Situated on Harbour Island, Valentines Resort & Marina offers upscale accommodations with picturesque waterfront views. With its marina, beach club, and excellent dining options, it’s a perfect choice for both adventure and relaxation, all while being close to the island's vibrant culture.

The Cove, Eleuthera

A quiet haven for travelers, where stylish villas and suites open up onto the serene turquoise waters. The secluded, untamed island is nestled between two white sand coves, home to thriving pineapple farms, friendly locals, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

Pink Sands Resort

Amidst lush gardens on Harbour Island and shaded by palm trees, this charming resort offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend your days snorkeling, scuba diving, or reef fishing in crystal-clear waters, then unwind with a soothing massage or a refreshing drink by the sea. This resort offers authentic Caribbean hospitality.

Eat

Dining out is an essential part of any travel experience. Explore our favorite restaurants, bars, and more.

The Landing

A sweet little boutique hotel and restaurant on the bay in Dunmore Town. The lemon ricotta pancakes are a must try!

Cafe Matisse

Nestled off Bay Street in Downtown Nassau, Cafe Matisse has been a local favorite since 1996. If you’re craving Italian fare with a Bahamian twist, Cafe Matisse is a charming spot offering both classic and creative dishes.

Arawak Cay (Fish Fry)

A must-visit for authentic Bahamian cuisine, especially fresh seafood. From conch fritters to grilled fish, you’ll find a variety of delicious dishes.

Graycliff Restaurant

For a more upscale experience, this historic restaurant offers gourmet Bahamian cuisine and a wine cellar with over 250,000 bottles. The elegant setting makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Drink

Explore our favorite bars.

Nippers Bar & Grill

A Bahamian favorite, Nippers is an iconic beachside bar on Great Guana Cay known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and stunning views of the Atlantic. Don’t miss their signature Nippers Rum Punch, perfect for enjoying while lounging in a hammock by the sea.

Bon Vivants

The first true cocktail bar in The Bahamas dedicated solely to the art and history of the craft cocktail. Located in Nassau, this upscale bar offers expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting, blending local and international flavors to create a truly unique drinking experience.

The Tiki Bikini Hut

For a lively beach bar experience, The Tiki Bikini Hut is a go-to spot. Located right on the beach, it’s a fun place to sip on cocktails, enjoy live music, and watch the sunset over the horizon.

John Watling's Distillery-

If you're a rum lover, John Watling's Distillery is a must-visit. Located in an old colonial estate on Nassau’s Buena Vista Estate, this distillery offers a deep dive into the history of rum making in the Bahamas. Take a guided tour to learn about the distilling process, and sample some of their signature rums, including their award-winning John Watling's Red Label.

What to do

Immerse yourself in local activities — including world-class golf courses, beaches, spas, parks, and more.

Pig’s Beach on Big Major Cay

Famous for its adorable wild pigs, this unique beach experience allows you to swim with the pigs in the crystal-clear waters of Exuma. It’s a must-see, quirky attraction!

Climb the Queen's Staircase

A historic and iconic landmark, hand-carved from solid limestone rock by enslaved people- this staircase was built to provide a direct route between Nassau and the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex. Named after Queen Victoria, the Queen’s Staircase is a reminder of the island’s history and resilience.

Ocean Atlas

Located off the western coast of New Providence, near Nassau, this mesmerizing sculpture is the world’s largest underwater statue. Created by British-Guyanese sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, Ocean Atlas depicts a young girl carrying the weight of the ocean above her, inspired by the Greek myth of Atlas.

Dean’s Blue Hole on Long Island

Known as the world's deepest blue hole, this stunning natural wonder is a paradise for divers and those wanting to explore its depths. The surrounding area offers beautiful, untouched beaches as well.

Pablo Escobar’s Sunken Plane

The famous underwater plane sits in the shallow blue waters of the Exuma Cays and is a top visited attraction of Bahamas day trippers for snorkeling.

Lucayan National Park

Located on Grand Bahama Island, this park is home to lush tropical scenery, hiking trails, and the world’s longest underwater cave system. Don’t miss the beautiful Gold Rock Beach, often considered one of the best beaches in the Bahamas.

Culture

Discover local art museums, theaters, landmarks, festivals, and more.

Junkanoo Festival

One of the most iconic cultural celebrations in the country, showcasing the Bahamian spirit through vibrant parades, stunning costumes, music, and dance. Held annually during Boxing Day New Year’s Day, Junkanoo is a colorful expression of the country’s African heritage and is often compared to Carnival celebrations worldwide.

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

Immerse yourself in the island’s art scene, enjoy local music genres like rake and scrape and Bahamian calypso.

Bahamas Carnival

Celebrate Bahamian music, food, and culture. This festival offers a more interactive way to immerse yourself in the island’s traditions, with vibrant parades, performances, and plenty of local food and drink to enjoy.

Junkanoo Museum and Junkanoo World

To learn about one of the most important cultural traditions of the Bahamas, visit the Junkanoo Museum and Junkanoo World in Nassau. You can immerse yourself in the history and vibrant costumes of the Bahamian Junkanoo festival, a unique celebration of the island’s heritage.