Island Hopping in the Bahamas

March 11, 2026 - Vacations - by Megan Morrow

Believe it or not, The Bahamas is home to nearly 700 different islands off the coast of Florida, although only 30 or so are inhabited by people and about half of those are accessible to tourists. New Providence, with its popular capital city of Nassau, is the best known of these islands. If you're looking for a Bahamas vacation for two, you can marry luxury, nature, relaxation, and adventure all in one amazing trip. You can also enjoy a Bahamas cruise to private islands if you're looking for an even more exclusive experience.

Here are some islands worth checking out:

Harbour Island for a Luxurious Escape

This small but mighty island is home to gorgeous pink sand beaches, tinted rosy by microscopic organisms that blend with traditional white sand, as well as charming architecture, high-end resorts, and stunning marine life. You won't need to rent a car, since they are not allowed on the island. Residents and visitors get around via golf carts, biking, and walking.

Enjoy the Eye-Popping Natural Beauty of Exuma Island

An ideal part of any Bahamas vacation package, this beautiful island chain is surrounded by sapphire-blue water, which is home to world-famous swimming pigs (that will swim out to meet you!), snorkeling, and Thunderball Grotto, an underwater cave featured in two James Bond movies. You can spend the day at Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a protected area established to nurture and preserve marine life, including colorful coral reefs and sea creatures.

Adventure Your Way on Cat Island

Dotted with picturesque beaches, nature preserves, and historical ruins, Cat Island is known for world-class fishing, diving, and kite surfing. Where does the unique name come from? It's either named for the pirate Arthur Catt, who used it as a base, or for its previous population of feral cats. Cat Island is recognized as the birthplace of "rake and scrape" music, Bahamian music that brings together African and European music to create a distinctive Caribbean sound. It also boasts the highest point in The Bahamas, Mount Alvernia. 

Dive and Fish Your Way Through Bimini

A chain of islands at the westernmost part of The Bahamas, just 50 miles from Miami, Bimini is beloved for top-notch diving and fishing. You can swim with dolphins or join an exhilarating shark dive. Fun fact: Bimini was one of author Ernest Hemingway's favorite escapes.

Bring the Whole Family to Abacos

This safe, family-friendly island is the "boating capital of the world," with protected waters perfect for sailors and those who love to fish. Kids of all ages will enjoy the candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse (the last manually operated lighthouse in the world that is fueled by kerosene), Bahamas parrots, coral reefs, and swimming with pigs.

Whether you're seeking a Bahamas vacation for two or a trip for the family, The Bahamas has something to offer for every age and every interest. If you plan your Bahamas vacation package during the holiday season, you may get to join in the festival of Junkanoo, held on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day in Nassau, which fills the streets with costumes, floats, dancing, music, and food.