Bahamas – behind these seven letters hides a huge Caribbean island world. There are said to be over seven hundred, but very few of them are inhabited and at best a retreat for dropouts and dreamers. Since 1973, the Bahamas has been a sovereign state as part of the Commonwealth and is therefore under the protection of Her Majesty’s Crown. They are part of the West Indies and are perfect for a relaxing holiday on beautiful beaches.
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The Bahamas are something of a magic word for vacationers who can’t escape wanderlust. The sea glistens turquoise, the palm trees on the beaches sway in a warm wind and the white sand invites you to take long hikes. For connoisseurs of this archipelago, this is all a beguiling mixture of luxury and a cheerful charm.The history of the colonial era, which has long since been overcome, can be seen in the Bahamas in the successful and bustling efficiency of the upper class and the obvious serenity of the Caribbean inhabitants. Over the centuries, an interesting jumble of languages developed on the various islands. Where the English set the tone, the famous “Patois” was born, where the French ruled, the former slaves from Africa used the “Créole”, and in the Dutch territory there is still the “Papiamento”. The colonial era was gone, but the languages remained.
Geologists claim to have counted no less than 2000 coral reefs off the beaches of the Bahamas. The fact is that over time, the authorities have created twenty national parks to protect their paradise. They are first-class spots for divers and snorkelers, and those who spend their holidays in this island world can’t get enough of the colorful world below and above water.
The mail ships of the Bahamas only operate between the larger islands of the archipelago. If you want to drive to the picturesque and secluded bays, you should use a private shuttle. Worth seeing – also for families with their children – is the underwater observatory of Coral World in Nassau with its large shark tank. In the footsteps of the legendary secret agent Sean Connery (“007”), vacationers walk on the terrace of the British Colonial Hotel, which had to serve as the backdrop of the film “Never Say Never”. And for the writer Ernest Hemingway, the Bahamas were “islands in the stream”.
On the famous Baha Mar Boulevard in Nassau, there is not only a casino, but also numerous neat villas on the edge of the boulevard. And at many points of the islands, luxurious hotels entice with their inimitable lightness of being.
The most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas
Cable Beach, New Providence
Cable Beach is one of the most famous and popular beaches on the main island of New Providence and is located just a few miles from the capital city of Nassau. The approximately four-kilometre-long, white-sand beach is known for its luxurious resorts, first-class restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. The shallow, turquoise waters offer ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling, while the numerous water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides provide fun and variety.
Treasure Cay Beach, Great Abaco
Treasure Cay Beach is located on the island of Great Abaco and is a true insider tip among Bahamas connoisseurs. The kilometre-long, powder-sugar-white sandy beach is surrounded by an impressive dune landscape and offers plenty of space to relax and sunbathe. The calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. There are some charming accommodations and restaurants near the beach that offer fresh seafood and local specialties.
Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island
Pink Sands Beach is a very special gem among the beaches of the Bahamas and is located on the small island of Harbour Island. The beach is known for its unique, pink sand, which is created by tiny pieces of coral. The three-kilometre-long coastline offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and diving in addition to the breathtaking scenery. Horse lovers will also get their money’s worth here, as guided rides along the beach are offered.
Gold Rock Beach, Grand Bahama
Located in Lucayan National Park on the island of Grand Bahama, Gold Rock Beach is an idyllic, secluded beach perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by unspoiled nature. The beach is especially impressive at low tide, when the sea exposes the shallow, golden sand and small, natural pools are created. Here you can swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the picturesque landscape.
Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island
Located on the famous Paradise Island, Cabbage Beach is another crowd-pleaser among the beaches of the Bahamas. The fine, white sandy beach stretches for several kilometers and offers a breathtaking view of the turquoise waters.
Travel information Bahamas
| Capital | Nassau |
|---|---|
| Form of government | Parliamentary monarchy |
| Currency | Bahamian Dollar (BSD) |
| Area | 13,939 km² |
| Population | approx. 354,000 (as of 2010) |
| Languages | English |
| Electricity grid | 230 volts and 60Hz |
| Area code | +1 (242) |
| Time zone | UTC -5 |
