Think You Know The Bahamas? Think Again.
While The Bahamas has long been one of the hottest vacation spots, with its postcard-perfect beaches and turquoise waters, there's a lesser-known side to this tropical paradise that lies beyond the beaten path.
Even if you have previously explored The Bahamas, there is a world of unseen shores still left for you to explore! The Bahamas offer a kaleidoscope of experiences that even the most seasoned visitors are unaware of.
Even if you've been to the beautiful Atlantis Paradise Island or visited spots like Pink Sands Beach, the heart of The Bahamas lie within it's hidden gems. Beyond the most popularly visited spots are a set of unique places that each boast their own distinctive charm and diversity.
We guarantee there is more than meets the eye for those those with an open mind and a thirst for discovery. If you think you know The Bahamas, then it's time you think again as we reveal the top 10 islands with some truly hidden gems.
THE ABACOS
The Abacos are a cluster of enchanting islands and cays that offer a captivating blend of natural wonders, vibrant culture, and unspoiled tranquility.
From the captivating charm of Green Turtle Cay to the artistic enclave of Little Harbour, where the Johnston Art Foundry and Pete's Pub invite you to immerse yourself in creativity and island vibes, The Abacos have something for everyone. Sail to Treasure Cay, where crystal-clear waters and a pristine beach await, or spend your day at luxurious resorts like Bakers Bay.
With a rich history this northern Bahamian Island offers adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply a blissful escape.
From the captivating charm of Green Turtle Cay to the artistic enclave of Little Harbour, where the Johnston Art Foundry and Pete's Pub invite you to immerse yourself in creativity and island vibes, The Abacos have something for everyone. Sail to Treasure Cay, where crystal-clear waters and a pristine beach await, or spend your day at luxurious resorts like Bakers Bay.
With a rich history this northern Bahamian Island offers adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply a blissful escape.
ELEUTHERA
Eleuthera harbors an array of hidden gems waiting to be explored. As a truly unique island, Eleuthera offers a diverse set of destinations that can fulfill a variety of bucket-list adventures.
Venture to Queen's Bath, a natural rock formation offering shallow pools during low tide, and bask in its breathtaking views. Discover the serenity of Ten Bay Beach, ideal for families and snorkelers seeking secluded shores. Choose to explore the Hatchet Bay Caves, an underground labyrinth of limestone wonders.
Eleuthera is also known for its historic pineapple plantations, which offer a glimpse into the island's agricultural heritage and tropical charm. Additionally, the Glass Window Bridge, where the deep blue Atlantic Ocean meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea, is a natural wonder and a must-visit spot for capturing views of this awe-inspiring geological phenomenon.
Venture to Queen's Bath, a natural rock formation offering shallow pools during low tide, and bask in its breathtaking views. Discover the serenity of Ten Bay Beach, ideal for families and snorkelers seeking secluded shores. Choose to explore the Hatchet Bay Caves, an underground labyrinth of limestone wonders.
Eleuthera is also known for its historic pineapple plantations, which offer a glimpse into the island's agricultural heritage and tropical charm. Additionally, the Glass Window Bridge, where the deep blue Atlantic Ocean meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea, is a natural wonder and a must-visit spot for capturing views of this awe-inspiring geological phenomenon.
SPANISH WELLS
Spanish Wells, is a hidden gem itself, but it also hides a few lesser-known spots that add to its allure. With some of the largest fishing fleets in the entire Bahamas, you can experience authentic local culture by heading to the native fishing village to learn the traditional ways of fishing and boat-building.
Spanish Wells offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, at some lesser-known reefs and sites. Explore the colorful coral gardens and encounter vibrant marine life in more secluded locations like Devil's Backbone and the Hammerhead Hole.
Spanish Wells offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, at some lesser-known reefs and sites. Explore the colorful coral gardens and encounter vibrant marine life in more secluded locations like Devil's Backbone and the Hammerhead Hole.
HARBOUR ISLAND
Harbour Island is famously known for its pink sand beaches and vibrant atmosphere, but what many don’t know are the lesser-known sites waiting to be discovered. On top of that, Harbour Island offers great shopping and some of the best restaurants in the Bahamas.
A charming waterfront escape lives at Romora Bay Marina, providing a tranquil setting for yacht owners and visitors to unwind and enjoy stunning views.
Savor great cuisine at Rock House or The Landing, or opt for an authentic Bahamian experience at Queen Conch in Dunmore Town. On the weekend, Harbour Island’s bar scene lights up with different options to choose from based on if you want a place for dancing, to play bar games, or just simply enjoy a drink.
A charming waterfront escape lives at Romora Bay Marina, providing a tranquil setting for yacht owners and visitors to unwind and enjoy stunning views.
Savor great cuisine at Rock House or The Landing, or opt for an authentic Bahamian experience at Queen Conch in Dunmore Town. On the weekend, Harbour Island’s bar scene lights up with different options to choose from based on if you want a place for dancing, to play bar games, or just simply enjoy a drink.
THE BERRY ISLANDS
Made up of nearly 30 cays, The Berry Islands stand as a fishing hotspot and diving mecca in the Bahamas. Fishing in Great Harbour Cay and Chub Cay – which is commonly known as “The Billfish Capital of the Bahamas” – prove irresistible to avid anglers.
The Island offers pristine beaches and local reefs for snorkeling. Situated along the Tongue of the Ocean – a deep underwater trench – The Berry Islands draw in an abundance of marine life, and are even known for the hammerhead sharks that migrate through every year.
If you ever visit the Berry Islands you must purchase fresh conch from a local fishermen. The conch, a delicacy in the Bahamas, offers a taste of the island's natural beauty and culinary delights in the freshest form possible!
The Island offers pristine beaches and local reefs for snorkeling. Situated along the Tongue of the Ocean – a deep underwater trench – The Berry Islands draw in an abundance of marine life, and are even known for the hammerhead sharks that migrate through every year.
If you ever visit the Berry Islands you must purchase fresh conch from a local fishermen. The conch, a delicacy in the Bahamas, offers a taste of the island's natural beauty and culinary delights in the freshest form possible!
ANDROS
As the largest island in the Bahamas, Andros offers an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. While it may not boast the typical tourist infrastructure, Andros’ allure lies with its untouched natural beauty, the lack of crowds, and the opportunity to explore something new.
If you are looking for unique experiences, then head to Andros during the summer when the winds are light. Known for preserved nature and wilderness both on land and underwater, Andros offers the world’s third largest barrier reef and multiple national parks. Learn to scuba or rather choose to see one of the 150+ blue holes the island has to offer.
Andros is mostly known for bonefishing. One of the top things to do is hire a local guide to take you to the sandy flats, to fish tarpon, permit, and bonefish. The thrill of catching an elusive bonefish, combined with the surrounding nature, creates an unforgettable experience for new and experienced anglers alike.
THE EXUMAS
The Exumas are a chain of 365 small islands that offer an idyllic escape for yachts seeking tranquility, stunning beaches, and quirky attractions. Among these delights are spots you have probably heard of, if not already seen, such as the famous swimming pigs, the large iguanas at Allens Cay, and/or the spectacular Thunderball Grotto, immortalized in the James Bond film "Thunderball."
Throughout The Exumas, numerous deserted beaches await such as Hawksbill Cay and Twin Cay, where the sandbar, surrounded by water at low tide, creates an enchanting setting for exploration and beach fun. For those seeking a unique thrill, Compass Cay offers the chance to swim with friendly nurse sharks.
Moriah Harbour Cay is part of the Exuma Land and Sea Park and remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. It features serene beaches, shallow tidal flats, and mangrove forests. Shroud Cay is also a part of the Exuma Land and Sea Park which features a labyrinth of mangrove channels, creeks, and small islets, offering adventure for kayakers and boaters.
Throughout The Exumas, numerous deserted beaches await such as Hawksbill Cay and Twin Cay, where the sandbar, surrounded by water at low tide, creates an enchanting setting for exploration and beach fun. For those seeking a unique thrill, Compass Cay offers the chance to swim with friendly nurse sharks.
Moriah Harbour Cay is part of the Exuma Land and Sea Park and remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. It features serene beaches, shallow tidal flats, and mangrove forests. Shroud Cay is also a part of the Exuma Land and Sea Park which features a labyrinth of mangrove channels, creeks, and small islets, offering adventure for kayakers and boaters.
LONG ISLAND
Long Island is known for its diverse range of attractions and natural wonders, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Long Island also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. From powdery white sands to striking cliffs and hidden coves, the island's coastline offers a variety of picturesque spots to unwind and enjoy the sun and sea.
Long Island is home to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Dean's Blue Hole. It is renowned for being the second deepest blue hole on Earth. Dean's Blue Hole is a mesmerizing underwater sinkhole with a depth of approximately 663’/202M and is a popular destination for free divers, scuba divers, and snorkelers.
The island has historical significance as it is believed to be the first landfall of Christopher Columbus in the New World in 1492. The Columbus Monument, located on the northern end of the island, commemorates this event and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding seas.
Long Island is home to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Dean's Blue Hole. It is renowned for being the second deepest blue hole on Earth. Dean's Blue Hole is a mesmerizing underwater sinkhole with a depth of approximately 663’/202M and is a popular destination for free divers, scuba divers, and snorkelers.
The island has historical significance as it is believed to be the first landfall of Christopher Columbus in the New World in 1492. The Columbus Monument, located on the northern end of the island, commemorates this event and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding seas.
RUM CAY
Rum Cay is home to many spectacular hidden jewels in the Bahamas. With historical ruins like The Wreck of the HMS Conqueror and beautiful reefs to explore such as the “Grand Canyon” Rum Cay offers a colorful paradise waiting to be explored.
Tucked away from the more frequented tourist destinations, Rum Cay offers a serene and unspoiled spot, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. One of the rare things to find in the Bahamas is good surfing, the exception is Rum Cay. On the northern coast you can find near perfect surf conditions which is one of the best kept secrets of the Bahamas.
If you are visiting Rum Cay then you must plan a day trip to Conception Island – a public park that is a short boat ride away. The island has many creeks and tidal pools that are home to stingrays, fish and turtles. In the winter, there are practically no boats that visit Conception Island, so it is a great spot for being on your own to explore.
Tucked away from the more frequented tourist destinations, Rum Cay offers a serene and unspoiled spot, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. One of the rare things to find in the Bahamas is good surfing, the exception is Rum Cay. On the northern coast you can find near perfect surf conditions which is one of the best kept secrets of the Bahamas.
If you are visiting Rum Cay then you must plan a day trip to Conception Island – a public park that is a short boat ride away. The island has many creeks and tidal pools that are home to stingrays, fish and turtles. In the winter, there are practically no boats that visit Conception Island, so it is a great spot for being on your own to explore.
INAGUA
If you keep traveling South in The Bahamas you will find Inagua. Most of Inagua is made up of protected National Parks that help explain the untouched nature and flourishing wildlife of the Island.
As a birdwatcher’s paradise, enthusiasts can find over 140 species of bird throughout the three National Parks in Inagua. Most notably, over 60,000 West Indian flamingos call Inagua their home.
However, the wildlife extends beyond birds. Donkeys can be found on the island, specifically Great Inagua Island, which is known for its population of wild donkeys that roam freely across the island's terrain.
Inagua is also home to one of the largest salt operations in the world. The island's salt pans, known as the "Great Inagua Salt Ponds," cover a vast area and consist of shallow, interconnected pools. These ponds are designed to allow seawater to flow in and then slowly evaporate, leaving behind salt crystals that are harvested and processed. Visitors can plan a tour to witness the fascinating salt production process and learn about the island's salt industry.
As a birdwatcher’s paradise, enthusiasts can find over 140 species of bird throughout the three National Parks in Inagua. Most notably, over 60,000 West Indian flamingos call Inagua their home.
However, the wildlife extends beyond birds. Donkeys can be found on the island, specifically Great Inagua Island, which is known for its population of wild donkeys that roam freely across the island's terrain.
Inagua is also home to one of the largest salt operations in the world. The island's salt pans, known as the "Great Inagua Salt Ponds," cover a vast area and consist of shallow, interconnected pools. These ponds are designed to allow seawater to flow in and then slowly evaporate, leaving behind salt crystals that are harvested and processed. Visitors can plan a tour to witness the fascinating salt production process and learn about the island's salt industry.
THE BAHAMAS REDISCOVERED
Want to discover more hidden gems in The Bahamas? Make sure to check back as we will add installments and take a deep dive into these 10 islands and the specific gems they hide.
In the meantime, check out the Fraser charter yachts available in The Bahamas that are ready to host you as you explore the must-visit spots you may have missed before.
In the meantime, check out the Fraser charter yachts available in The Bahamas that are ready to host you as you explore the must-visit spots you may have missed before.
All images courtesy of BMOTIA.
©Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
