Bahamas Attractions - 10 Things to Do

Bahamas attractions are similar to other well-developed destinations such as Cancun. They emphasize dining, shopping and nightlife.

But unique Caribbean attractions often have their roots in nature or history, and the Bahamas are no different. Unique things to do in the Bahamas include Fort Charlotte, Exuma Caves Land & Sea Park, Lucayan National Park and Hamilton's Settlement.

Noteworthy regular attractions include nine golf courses and an exceptionally large number of watersports activities including many snorkeling and scuba diving operators.


For anyone with an interest in shopping, a good starting point is the Port Lucaya Marketplace. The marketplace is a 12-acre shopping and dining complex on the waterfront. Colorful structures and brick walkways add to the atmosphere. In addition to dining and shopping, visitors can charter fishing boats, dive boats and reef tours.


The park has the world's longest underwater system of limestone caves, accessible via land and ocean. Visitors to the 40-acre park also can see upland forests, rare flower species and mangrove creeks.


The largest fort in the Bahamas sits on a hill with views of Nassau, the harbor and Paradise Island. It has a moat, dungeons, underground passages and numerous cannon on 100 acres of land. The entrance fee is $5 for adults, $2 for children (under 12) and $3 for seniors.


The most popular attraction in Nassau has 65 steps that were carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the 18th century. The staircase was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned for 65 years. The top of the stairs lie near Fort Fincastle and Nassau's Water Tower.


The first education nature center created on the Bahamas is known for its West Indian flamingos that nest at a pond inside the park. The center also is known for plant species and other bird species including Red-legged Thrushes, Stripe-headed Tanagers and the Bahama Parrot.


This interactive entertainment tells the story of pirates in an educational, historically accurate way. The facility has a pirate-themed pub and gift shop. Tel: 242-356-3759; fax: 242-356-3951.


The wild horses are Abaco Barbs, which are descended from the time of Christoper Columbus' explorations. The herd has declined from more than 200 in the 1960s to only nine today, but they now live in a preserve and receive the support of a non-profit organization that is trying to save them.


Yachtsmen worldwide visit the beautiful Elizabeth Harbour, which is the location of the annual National Family Island Regatta that takes place in the last week of April each year as well as the George Town Cruising Regatta.


Visitors to Hatchet Bay can tour this mile-long cave filled with stalagmites and stalactites. A cave guide is recommended.


Fincastle is located on Bennet's Hill within walking distance of downtown Nassau. The fort, shaped like a paddle-wheel steamer, was built in 1793. Because Nassau was never attacked, this fort was used first as a lighthouse and then as a signal tower. It is open to the public Monday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.