THE ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS

Islands of the Bahamas

No one knows exactly how many islands there are in this group, but some guess around 700.  They cover over 100,000 square miles.  There are 3 main islands with Nassau on New Providence Island as the main gateway to all the Out Islands. 

Nassau’s main street is at the ship dock on Bay Street.  Filled with wonderful shopping and eateries.  Paradise Island lies across two bridges from the city.  This is the home of the famous Atlantis Resort.   The bridge across the top of the resort is one very large suite renting at over $25,000 and only accommodating 2 people.  It is booked for over 2 years out.  If you want in, you need to call me quickly!!!  This resort has the most magnificient walk-through aquariums and marine-life exhibits.    Next door to the Atlantis is the Cloister which resembles France’s Versailles Gardens.  Stroll through at your leisure.

Freeport is becoming the next hot destination.  Many new resorts, some all inclusives and new golf courses are here.  Undersea reefs are a diver’s dream.  The Lucayan National Park is a 100 acre preserve with amazing birds and the famous blue holes that bubble from from unknown depths.

Andros is the largest of the Islands with vast nearly empty spaces.  Freshwater creeks, dozens of lakes, swamps and miles of beaches beacon visitors.  One beach is 18 miles long with no buildings.  Find your little private space.   Fishing for bonefish is the biggest tourist draw.  Red Bays is legendary for it’s straw work and a batik factory is worth a visit.

Cat Island’s crescents of deserted beaches is a small bit of paradise.  The highest point is Mount Alvernia at 206 feet  with its crumbling stone sancturary.

Boaters and water lovers heat for the islands of  Abacos and Exuma.  Many restaurants have docks for tying up and exploring.

Eel-shaped Eleuthera is 100 miles long and a few yards wide at some points and has wonderful pink sand beaches.

Harbour Island the snorkeling and fishing are tops but it is the friendly islanders who are the draw.    Visit the 3 mile long pink sand beach.

Bimini is filled with Hemingway memorabilia.

Long Island is has miles of golden beaches and long stretches between resorts.  You might go for days without seeing another tourist.

Most major carriers have connections to Nassau where you can get connections by air or ferries to the outer islands.  Also there are cruise lines from Florida that operate service from Ft. Lauderdale.