Plan a Bahamas trip!
Just a hop, skip and jump away from Florida’s east coast, the Bahamas entice a variety of vacationers. The 700 islands are sprinkled over the world’s clearest water, making the warm seas a wonderland perfect for snorkeling, diving and fishing. Inspiring geographical features compliment the worlds of fascinating creatures in the air, land and sea. For the more cosmopolitan traveler, a Bahamas vacation provides pearly white beaches, fabulous shopping, gourmet dining, and exciting casinos. Soak in tropical luxury at an all-inclusive Bahamas resort or get in touch with nature at a Bahamas eco resort. No matter your style, it’s easy to see why the Bahamas is one of the most popular vacation spot in the world!
Bahamas vacation planning will be the most stress-free when you leave your planning to a travel expert who has been to the Bahamas and can offer guidance and advice. Get the most value for your vacation dollar by contact a Bahamas Vacation Travel Agent today!
Grand Bahama Island
Grand Bahama Island, only 55 miles off the coast of Florida, is the perfect tropical getaway. The warm and friendly people welcome you whole-heartedly to an island of pristine beaches, three national parks and the world’s largest underwater cave system. Although visitors are drawn to Grand Bahama for a more serene and secluded island experience, world-class shopping and chic dining experiences are always within reach.
Weather
Trade winds give Grand Bahama Island a warm, pleasant climate throughout the year. Typically, Freeport experiences subtropical temperatures with light rainfall and low humidity. Temperatures range from an average of 70°F during the winter season to around 86°F in the summer season. Hurricane season lasts from June to November. Hotels in the Bahamas offer a full refund for cancellation due to a hurricane.
Currency
Grand Bahama Island uses the Bahamian dollar which is equal in value to the US dollar. Either currency is accepted throughout the Bahamas.
Tipping
Most restaurants on Grand Bahama Island include a 15% gratuity as part of the bill. Taxi drivers expect a 15% tip for their services. At the hotel, it is customary to tip the porters $1 per bag and to tip the maid $2 a day.
Wedding Requirements
Couples must be in the Bahamas for 24 hours prior to applying for a marriage license. The marriage license must be obtained at least one day prior to the wedding. Birth certificates and a notarized affidavit are required; if appropriate, you’ll also need divorce papers, a former spouse’s death certificate or parental consent, if under 18. No blood test is required. The marriage license cost is approximately $40 USD. For more information, call toll free 1-888-NUPTIAL.
Airport Information
Numerous major airlines fly to Grand Bahama International Airport (Freeport International Airport) from major cities throughout the US.
Rental Car Information
Rental cars are available at the airport and some major hotels. You must be 21-years old and possess a valid driver's license for all rentals. Visitors may use their home driver’s license for up to three months or an international driver's license. Bahamians drive on the left side of the road.
Activities and Attractions
Bahamas National Trust Rand Nature Centre provides self-guided nature walks through a 100-acre nature preserve, rotating art and island exhibits. Great bird watching, plus local plants, trees, educational exhibits and the Glory Banks Gallery.
The International Bazaar is a multinational-themed shopping center in downtown Freeport. The 10-acre complex contains 90 shops, 13 restaurants and 6 snack stores. The bazaar is divided up into sections representing different parts of the world.
Water sports are plentiful in the Bahamas. Try your hand at parasailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, glass-bottom boat tours, jet skiing, swimming with dolphins and so much more!
Festivals
Junkanoo Summer Festival (dates change each summer): The festival features brightly colored parades full of music, dancing and costumes across the four big islands of Exuma, New Providence, Grand Bahama, and Abaco. During the day vendors sell food and crafts and games abound for children of all ages. Junkanoo parades also fill the streets on December 26 and January 1.
Nassau/Paradise Island
Located on the Bahamian island of New Providence, Nassau is the nation’s capital and largest city. In the 1700s it was considered the home base of Caribbean pirates and was governed by the infamous Blackbeard himself. Today rumors still spread of buried chests of gold, but the real treasure here is the crystal clear ocean and the white-sand beaches that line it. Off the shore of Nassau, the small Paradise Island is a popular place for celebrity homes and top-notch resorts.
Weather
The Gulf Stream and trade winds help maintain a temperature range of 68-86°F during the day and 62-70°F during the night all year round. Seawater temperatures range from 73°F in February to 82°F in August. Hurricane season lasts from June to November. Hotels in the Bahamas offer a full refund for cancellation due to a hurricane.
Currency
Nassau/Paradise Island uses the Bahamian dollar which is equal in value to the US dollar. Either currency is accepted throughout the Bahamas.
Tipping
Most restaurants in Nassau/Paradise Island include a 15% gratuity as part of the bill. Taxi drivers expect a 15% tip for their services. At the hotel, it is customary to tip the porters $1 per bag and to tip the maid $2 a day.
Wedding Requirements
Couples must be in the Bahamas for 24 hours prior to applying for a marriage license. The marriage license must be obtained at least one day prior to the wedding. Birth certificates and a notarized affidavit are required; if appropriate, you’ll also need divorce papers, a former spouse’s death certificate or parental consent, if under 18. No blood test is required. The marriage license cost is approximately $40 USD. For more information, call toll free 1-888-NUPTIAL.
Airport Information
Numerous major airlines fly to Nassau International Airport from major cities throughout the US. Nassau is a 45 minute flight away from Miami, Florida.
Rental Car Information
Rental cars are available at the airport and some major hotels. Major rental agencies such as Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and National operate throughout Nassau. You must be 21-years old and possess a valid driver's license for all rentals. Visitors may use their home driver’s license for up to three months or an international driver's license. Bahamians drive on the left side of the road.
Activities and Attractions
Atlantis Paradise Island is a resort and waterpark located on Paradise Island. It is the most popular attraction in Nassau and often said to be the world’s best hotel. In addition to the 141 acres of water rides and pools, Atlantis Paradise Island has the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, a 14-acre dolphin sanctuary, 21 award-winning restaurants, and the largest casino in the Caribbean.
Ardastra Gardens is a zoo located in Nassau. It is best known for its trained flamingos.
Downtown Nassau is lined with duty-free shops selling art, jewelry, clothing and souvenirs. Throughout the downtown area, colonial homes and buildings are open for tours.
Water sports are plentiful in the Bahamas. Try your hand at parasailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, glass-bottom boat tours, jet skiing and so much more!
Festivals
Junkanoo Summer Festival (dates change each summer): The festival features brightly colored parades full of music, dancing and costumes across the four big islands of Exuma, New Providence, Grand Bahama, and Abaco. During the day vendors sell food and crafts and games abound for children of all ages. Junkanoo parades also fill the streets on December 26 and January 1.
Bahamas International Film Festival (early December): Films are shown from both the local area and around the world. The genres include shorts, features, documentaries and animation. The festival also features educational programs and forums.
Read more about Bahamas destinations below!
