Bahamas holidays

Bahamas holidays promise a plethora of tropical islands – there are more than 700 in this Caribbean paradise, from party places to uninhabited spots - ideal for luxury beach escapes.

Nassau and Paradise Island resorts

Variety’s a given when you head to the Bahamas – the country’s made up of more than 700 islands, just off the coast of Florida. The bigger islands, like Grand Bahama and New Providence, are home to the liveliest towns and most plush hotels. You’ll find the capital, Nassau, in New Providence – rambunctious nightlife and seafaring history are its big calling cards. Elsewhere, tiny uninhabited cays – a sort of sandy islet – are made for away-from-it-all daytrips. Some are so out of the way that you need to take a seaplane and a boat to reach them.

Swimming pigs and pink sands

Picking the Bahamas’ best beach is no easy task, as there are so many in its locker to choose from – especially given the vast number of options on offer. On Big Major Cay – which is uninhabited – there’s a beach where wild pigs paddle and run along the shoreline. It’s rather aptly named Pig Beach. On Harbour Island you can top up your tan on the salmon-coloured Pink Sands Beach. Cabbage Beach, over on Paradise Island, is one of the leggiest stretches of white sand, and lands you close to some of the most swish hotels. Just off the coast of New Providence Island, meanwhile, the scuba diving situation turns a few heads – you can explore sunken shipwrecks and colourful coral reefs. You might even spot migrating sharks while you’re down here.

Pirate history and tropical daytrips

Nassau – the capital of the Bahamas – has a pretty unique history. Back in the early 1700s, it became an infamous haven for marauding pirates, as its shallow harbour was perfect for their nimble, smaller ships. There’s less chance of seeing pirates nowadays, but you can still enjoy pirate experiences and seafaring boat trips which give a nod to this part of the country’s past – not to mention the Pirates of Nassau Museum. Elsewhere in the city, check out the statue of Christopher Columbus, who rocked up here in 1492, plus the impressive Fort Fincastle and Fort Charlotte, which offer up sweeping views. The shopping and nightlife scene also makes Nassau one of the liveliest places you can visit. Head to Straw Market for handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts and souvenirs.