Exploring The Bahamas: A Guide to What to Do and See

Just off the western shores of New Providence lies Ocean Atlas, the globe’s most colossal single underwater sculpture. This masterpiece, crafted by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, stands at an impressive 18 feet (5.49 m) tall and weighs 60 tons. It portrays a young Bahamian girl, symbolically shouldering the ocean’s weight, drawing inspiration from the ancient Greek myth of Atlas.

Constructed from pH-neutral materials designed to promote coral growth, the statue serves as a thriving artificial reef teeming with fish and diverse marine life. By snorkeling or diving here, you can witness the stunning juxtaposition of human creativity against the backdrop of nature’s splendor.

Boasting the world’s highest concentration of blue holes, Andros is a treasure trove of over 300 of these deep, vertical caverns, merging fresh and saltwater. Carved into limestone by the relentless forces of erosion over millennia, blue holes harbor exotic cavefish and invertebrates, including species unique to The Bahamas.

The protected Blue Holes National Park, home to numerous such marvels, invites exploration with its boardwalks and trails winding through lush pine and coppice forests. Among them, Captain Bill’s Blue Hole stands out, daring divers to plunge its 100-foot depths or leap from a gazebo in a true “Leap of Faith”.

For die-hard fans of James Bond, Thunderball Grotto offers an unforgettable adventure. This breathtaking underwater cave system, which starred in the James Bond films “Thunderball” and “Never Say Never Again” sits just west of Staniel Cay.

Accessible by swimming through short underwater passages or leaping from an overhead ledge, the grotto reveals a world of vivid coral reefs, teeming schools of fish, and mesmerizing sunbeams creating an enchanting ambiance. Thunderball Grotto is an essential destination for snorkelers and divers seeking the thrill of discovery.

Visiting the swimming pigs at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay is a highlight of any family friendly getaways to The Bahamas. These charming pigs have captured hearts worldwide, becoming a social media phenomenon. Friendly and curious, the pigs swim out to greet arriving boats, looking for snacks and interaction.

While the story of their arrival on the island is shrouded in mystery, they have become a beloved part of the Bahamian landscape, enjoying the sun and sea. A day trip from Nassau or The Exumas not only brings you face to face with these famous pigs but also leads to discovering other treasures like Thunderball Grotto, Compass Cay, and Staniel Cay.

For fishing enthusiasts and divers, The Bahamas offers a gateway to the rich marine biodiversity of the Caribbean Sea. Renowned for top-tier deep-sea fishing, The Bahamas is home to marlin, tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and sailfish. Charter a fully-equipped boat with an expert crew to pursue the catch of a lifetime.

Alternatively, dive into the world of shark diving to meet tiger, hammerhead, reef, lemon, and nurse sharks. Embark on a shark diving expedition to learn about these fascinating creatures, their behavior, and the importance of their conservation. Prime shark diving locations include Tiger Beach, Nassau, Bimini, and Cat Island.

A highlight of Bahamian culture is the Junkanoo Festival, an exhilarating celebration brimming with history. Held on Boxing Day (December 26th) and New Year’s Day (January 1st), this festival features lively street parades characterized by music, dance, and vibrant costumes. Its roots trace back to the African slaves who celebrated their brief respite from enslavement during the Christmas season.

Nowadays, Junkanoo stands as a vibrant showcase of Bahamian spirit and creativity, drawing crowds from both the local population and tourists. Whether in Nassau, the capital, or other islands like Grand Bahama, Abaco, and Eleuthera, participating in Junkanoo is a must for experiencing the soul of Bahamian culture.

For those keen on delving into The Bahamas’ past and natural beauty, a wealth of historical sites and green sanctuaries awaits. Nassau is a great starting point, where colonial architecture, forts, and museums narrate the island’s history. Notable sites include Fort Fincastle, the Government House, and the Queen’s Staircase, which is conveniently located just 45 minutes from the serene Club Med Columbus Isle, offering an easy day trip opportunity for those staying at the resort.

Venturing beyond Nassau, you’ll discover unique landmarks and scenic wonders across the islands, like the Elbow Reef Lighthouse in Hope Town, the ruins of Armbrister Plantation on Cat Island, Preacher’s Cave on Eleuthera, and the African Slave Memorial on Bimini. Additionally, the islands’ gardens and parks, including the Garden of the Groves on Grand Bahama and the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve on Eleuthera, beautifully display the local flora and fauna. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or nature lover, The Bahamas offers myriad inspirations.

A visit to The Bahamas wouldn’t be complete without tasting its culinary wonders. The local cuisine, a tasty blend of Caribbean and African influences, largely revolves around seafood, meats, fruits, and grains.

Signature dishes not to be missed are conch fritters, boiled fish, chicken souse and johnny cake, alongside desserts and drinks like guava duff, rum cake, switcha, and sky juice. These can be enjoyed in various settings, from upscale restaurants along Cable Beach to local street vendors, iconic fish fry events, and conch shacks dotted across the beautiful beaches of The Bahamas.

The Bahamian culinary scene also embraces international flavors, reflecting the country’s diverse population. Lastly, sampling the locally made rum at John Watling’s Distillery in Nassau offers insights into the rum-making process and an opportunity to taste their exquisite products.

Embarking on a journey through The Bahamas unfolds a rich tapestry of experiences, intertwining the natural, cultural, and adventurous into a vibrant collage of unforgettable memories. Each island within this captivating archipelago narrates its own unique tale, from the enigmatic depths of blue holes to the exuberant rhythms of Junkanoo, beckoning travelers to dive into a realm brimming with discovery at every turn.

As you eagerly anticipate your adventure in The Bahamas, it’s essential to consider that the essence of your journey extends beyond the sights you’ll explore to include the sanctuaries where you’ll rest and rejuvenate. Nestled in this paradise, an all inclusive resort in The Bahamas like Club Med Columbus Isle offers an idyllic retreat where luxury seamlessly blends with adventure. This haven promises a setting that elevates your exploration, relaxation, and the creation of moments that will be etched in your memory forever.

Unveil the beauty of The Bahamas with Club Med and take advantage of our exclusive offers designed for memorable escapes.