Nowhere on the planet screams tropical paradise quite like The Bahamas. Come here to dig your toes into the softest, whitest sand, plunge into the turquoise sea, kick back with a rum sundowner and binge on seafood.
Famous for its postcard-perfect beaches with pristine white sand and crystal blue waters. It is the ideal spot to relax, indulge in some EPIC water sports or just soak in that Bahamas sunshine.
But you might be thinking that this ecological oasis is a luxury destination, strictly for honeymooners and the mega-rich. Put those worries aside!
With over 700 islands to choose from, there is an island to suit everyone’s vacation needs… you just need to know where to stay in The Bahamas.
That’s why I’m here! Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in The Bahamas for your first time, travelling on a budget, taking the whole family or seeking a retreat off the beaten track, I’ve got your back.
I’ve compiled the top five areas to stay in The Bahamas depending on your travel style and budget. I have no doubt there will be somewhere in there for you.
Grab a drink, sit back and relax – let’s find out which area of The Bahamas is best for you.
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Looking for a specific place to stay? These are the best places to stay in The Bahamas.
Cosy Tropical Abode/ Includes Breakfast! | Best Airbnb in The Bahamas
This gorgeous apartment is located in a safe area close to Arawak Cay and Junkanoo Beach – one of New Providence’s best neighborhoods. The host provides a complimentary breakfast and some other bonus treats. You get a lot of space with comfortable furnishings and a fully equipped kitchen. it’s one of the best Airbnbs in the Bahamas!
Humes@Hillcrest | Best Hostel in The Bahamas
This airy hostel offers private rooms and dorm rooms. It’s a 15-minute walk to Downtown and 5 minutes to the Bay Street Marina. Lower bunks come with privacy curtains and security lockers are available. There is a communal kitchen, a couple of hammocks and a free breakfast included making it one of the coolest places to stay in The Bahamas.
Ocean West Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in The Bahamas
Situated by the dreamy Cable Bay, this stunning mansion offers boutique rooms with phenomenal views of the ocean from the swimming pool. The location itself is very peaceful, but with plenty of nearby restaurants and it’s only a short drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport. The rooms are sophisticated and there is a bar on site.
The Bahamas Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in The Bahamas
The Exuma Islands
There are 365 cays that form the tropical paradise that is the Exuma Islands, that’s one for each day of the year! Half of The Bahamas islands are in fact part of the Exuma archipelago.
Nassau
The capital of The Bahamas, Nassau, is located on the island of New Providence. With the majority of the flights into the tropical haven landing at Nassau, this is the gateway to The Bahamas.
Grand Bahama
The northernmost and fourth-largest of the archipelago is known for its beaches, reefs and also its lively cities that ooze Bahamian culture and art, such as Freeport. Grand Bahama is our pick for where to stay in The Bahamas for nightlife.
Cat Island
Cat Island has neither swimming pigs nor a particularly high population of cats; the island was named after the pirate Arthur Cat who frequented the island to hide his treasure, rather than our feline friends.
Paradise Island
The enticingly named Paradise Island sits offshore from New Providence Island and connects to Nassau via two bridges. This pocket-sized island has some of the softest beaches and calmest waters in the nation, safe for even the tiniest water babies to gain confidence in the sea!
The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands, over 2,000 rocks and cays and 100,00 square miles of ocean boasting some of the clearest water on the planet. In fact, the astronaut Chris Hadfield famously observed that The Bahamas is the ‘most beautiful place on Earth’ when seen from space. With all the islands to choose from, which one is best?
The northernmost islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama are two of the most populated islands with many awesome vacation rentals in The Bahamas, but no holiday in this astounding archipelago can be complete without venturing onto the uninhabited cays for a spot of snorkelling or diving.
All islands offer pristine beaches, watersports and aquatic life. All islands are shaped by their own distinct personality, culture and attractions. Some are famed for their secluded beaches others for their boutique hotels and fancy resorts.
Exuma Islands: If you’re wondering where to stay in The Bahamas for your first time, we give the Exuma Islands a big thumbs up for getting the best of the Bahamian spirit. It’s got some of the best Bahamas hotels and a white sand beach to die for!
Nassau, New Providence Island: Scratching your head over where to stay in The Bahamas on a budget? You’ll be able to nab yourself a cheap room or dorm bed, New Providence. There are loads of different places to stay in Nassau but I love day lazing by the wonderful Cable beach.
Grand Bahama Island: If you’re all about sipping rum late into the night and picking up some Bahamian dance moves, Grand Bahama is the best place to stay in The Bahamas for nightlife.
Cat Island: The secluded and under-developed Cat Island offers a genuine glimpse into Bahamian culture. With empty beaches and the chance to find some solitude, we think this is the coolest place to stay in The Bahamas.
Thankfully this small country has a well-serviced international airport so you can be on your hols in no time!
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in The Bahamas
Let’s take a look at the 5 best neighborhoods to stay in The Bahamas. They’re each a little different, depending on the type of experience you’re after.
#1 The Exuma Islands – Where to Stay in The Bahamas the First Time
There are 365 cays that form the tropical paradise that is the Exuma Islands, that’s one for each day of the year! Half of The Bahamas islands are in fact part of the Exuma archipelago.
If you’re looking for gleaming white sand, azure waters, fresh seafood and cays teeming with wildlife, the Exuma Islands are for you. You also can’t miss Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s second deepest sinkhole!
The largest island is Great Exuma and is where most of the accommodation can be found if you’re looking where to stay in the Exuma Islands. Besides the friendly locals, other residents of the Exuma Islands are turtles, stingrays, tiny sharks, iguanas and the famous paddling pigs.
Sapphire Garden Townhouses | Best Affordable Hotel in The Exuma Islands
These simple villas feature all the essentials for your Exuma Islands accommodation, including a kitchen, air conditioning and comfortable beds. There is a range of options available making the hotel suitable for solo travellers, couples or families. Located a 15-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport.
Grand Isle Resort & Residences | Best Hotel in The Exuma Islands
This amazing resort in The Exuma Islands has an outdoor pool, and it’s right on the beach so you get the best of both watery worlds. There is an excellent bar on site so you can get your rum fix and a fitness centre on-site so you can keep yourself fit on holiday! The resort has a range of rooms to suit different budgets.
Overwater Bungalow at Georgetown | Best Airbnb in The Exuma Islands
This overwater bungalow is UNREAL. Wake up to view across the sea because… well, you’re literally in the sea! This tiny home is the ultimate ocean getaway. These guys also offer a range of additional services such as boat tours, massages, a private chef, and convenient grocery delivery… not bad, huh.
Things to See and Do in The Exuma Islands:
- Go beach hopping on the white sand beaches; put the Tropic of Cancer Beach at the top of your list
- Paddle with the pigs at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay
- Pick up rum cake and coconut bread at Mom’s Bakery
- Dive into the second-deepest sinkhole, Dean’s Blue Hole, on nearby Long Island
- Dine on Bahamian Rock Lobster at Santana’s
- Go Snorkelling at Thunderball Grotto off Staniel Cay – Sean Connery paid a visit to film the 1965 James Bond flick ‘Thunderball’
- Meet the curious Bahamian Rock Iguanas of Allen’s Cay
- Take the boat over to Stocking Island and hang at the sociable Chat ‘n’ Chills
- Go diving in the protected large barrier reef of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
- Gorge on traditional Bahamian fish fry at Shirley’s Fish Fry Shack
- Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Bay
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#2 Nassau (New Providence) – Where to Stay in The Bahamas on a Budget
The capital of The Bahamas, Nassau, is located on the island of New Providence. With the majority of the flights into the tropical haven landing at the international airport, this is the gateway to The Bahamas.
If you’re looking for where to stay in The Bahamas on a budget, Nassau is a great choice. Here you can find a handful of backpacker hostels and simple accommodation. It’s a popular destination for those who can’t afford some of the more lavish Bahamas resorts!
Nassau is also the historic heart of The Bahamas, with pastel-coloured colonial buildings, ancient forts and fascinating museums. Nature lovers and thrillseekers can choose between watersports, diving and wildlife watching, whilst foodies will be more than satisfied!
Serenity Studio | Best Airbnb in Nassau
This eloquent studio is homely and stylish with a boutique finish. It’s equipped with a full kitchen and complimentary tea, coffee and fruits.
The neighborhood is peaceful and you can walk to nearby attractions and beaches and take the bus to downtown. The studio and your super host are highly commended!
HumesHouse @ Hillcrest | Best Hostel in Nassau
HumesHouse @ Hillcrest is a locally-owned backpacker hostel with a super welcoming, cosy vibe. The property is brimming with history as it was built in the 1930’s (don’t worry, it’s had a full renovation!) and is nestled into a quiet area. Youll be a 15-minute walk into the town centre where you’ll find restaurants, beaches and all that good stuff you want while on holiday.
Margaritaville Beach Resort | Best Hotel in Nassau
This friendly and luxurious resort and hotel is a short walk from Cable Beach. It provides beautifully styled rooms where comfort is key. Little touches of luxury include the pool, spa, Jacuzzi, fitness centre and stunning ocean views. There is a tour desk to help you make the most of your stay.
Things to See and Do in Nassau:
- Tuck into an authentic fish fry at Arawak Cay on Sunday evening whilst local bands and Bahamian poets perform
- Dive with sharks in Stuart Cove
- Take a tour of the John Watling’s Distillery then relax with a tasting flight
- Clamber the 65 steps of the Queen’s Staircase to see Fort Fincastle
- Pick up Bahamian craft souvenirs at the Nassau Straw Market
- Savior cocktails in the rustic bars of Downtown Nassau
- Eat as much rum cake as you can at The Bahamas Rum Cake Factory
- Shiver yer timbers at the Pirates of Nassau museum
- Get a dose of Caribbean culture at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
- Scale the walls of Fort Charlotte
- Connect with nature at the Bonefish Pond National Park
- Pay a visit to the pink-hued Government House and Parliament Square, a popular destination with visitors.
- Take a short flight or boat trip over to the isolated Bimini islands.
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View on Osprey View on REI#3 Grand Bahama Island – Best Area to Stay in The Bahamas for Nightlife
The northernmost and fourth-largest of the archipelago is known for its beaches, reefs and also its lively cities that ooze Bahamian culture and art, such as Freeport. Grand Bahama is our pick for where to stay in the Bahamas for nightlife.
Expect a kaleidoscope of Junkanoo colours and sounds, scrumptious daiquiris, beach bonfires and dancing into the night! Throughout the year you can expect festivals, parades and special events.
Grand Bahama was affected by the recent Hurricane Dorian, however, the island is on the road to recovery, hotels are open and tourists are welcomed warmly. During the day, you can practice being a responsible traveller and dive into some ecotourism
Lovely one-bed waterfront apartment | Best Airbnb on Grand Bahama
This Freeport-based Airbnb gives a charming view out over the Bell Channel from your private balcony. The Spanish-style complex features palms, tropical foliage and a swimming pool.
The apartment is attractively decorated with a kitchen and spacious lounge. Walking distance to all the essential attractions and nightlife including the Lucaya Marketplace.
Ocean Reef Yacht Club & Resort | Best Affordable Hotel on Grand Bahama
This hotel in Grand Bahama has bags of fun, with an outdoor swimming pool and waterslide complex! There is a BBQ area for guests to enjoy as well as a restaurant and bar. It’s a short walk from Taino Beach and the Port Lucaya Marina, ideal for nightlife seekers.
Bell Channel Inn Hotel & Scuba Diving Retreat | Best Hotel on Grand Bahama
Those looking to dive by day and party by night, look no further than the Bell Channel – where you can learn on-site! The hotel also has a free shuttle service, a tour desk and a 24-hour reception. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a wide range of amenities and attractions found nearby.
Things to See and Do on Grand Bahama:
- Delve into the caverns of the Lucayan National Park. Grand Bahama’s star park features the largest underwater cave systems in the world
- Shop at the colourful boutiques in the Port Lucaya Marketplace
- Register to volunteer with the Hurricane Dorian relief efforts.
- Hang out at Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience for legendary hot dogs, roasted conch and a pina colada with a mesmerizing ocean view. Sunday night is jazz night!
- Party at the weekly Bonfire on the Beach – every Tuesday at Smith’s Point Beach
- Cool down with a frozen cocktail at Sparky’s at the Port Lucaya Marketplace
- Watch the game, tuck into hearty burgers and have a boogie at Red Beard’s Pub
- Chill at the Margarita Villa Sand Bar with live music
- Get an upmarket tropical cocktail at the Manta Ray Beach Club
- Find evening entertainment to appease anyone at Count Basie Square – sit outdoors with a cocktail at Rum Runners, watch street performers and boogie along with DJs
- Belt out karaoke at Neptune
- Take a boat out to the Abaco islands for a different pace of life.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Cat Island – Coolest Place to Stay in The Bahamas
Cat Island has neither swimming pigs nor a particularly high population of cats; the island was named after the pirate William Catt – a real-life pirate of the Caribbean – who frequented the island to hide his treasure, rather than our feline friends. There are also no cruise ship ports, no hotel chains, and relatively low numbers of tourists.
Cat Island is one of the Family Islands, meaning it has been spared from commercialisation. Relatively untouched, this is one of the coolest places to stay in The Caribbean.
The island is a long and skinny 48 miles, accessible via a 40-minute flight from Nassau. You’ll find a scattering of family-ran guesthouses and Airbnb homes across the island, and most of the Cat Island accommodation is remote.
Carried Away | Best Airbnb on Cat Island
On a half-acre plot of land perched on a small bluff overlooking the sea, you’ll feel like you’re standing on the prow of a boat as you look down at the private beach below. With multiple porches and an outdoor shower, this Cat Island accommodation is that island retreat we all need to experience once!
Pigeon Cay Beach Club Hotel Cat Island | Best Affordable Hotel on Cat Island
This top-rated hotel on Cat Island has a variety of rooms available to suit solo or couple of group travellers. Accommodation is simple and the resort is small enough to give you a slice of those castaway Cat Island vibes. Make sure you make the most of the kayaks and paddle-boards to visit one of the many secluded coves in the area.
Rollezz Villas Beach Resort | Best Hotel on Cat Island
These rustic beach houses in the Bahamas are located on a private beach at the foot of Mount Alvernia. Each is decorated in a unique and charming style to make you feel at home. The resort has its own restaurant and the ocean is so calm here you’ll feel like you’re in a pool.
Things to See and Do in Cat Island:
- Spend lazy days lounging on deserted crescents of the nearby white sand beach.
- Wind down in beachside restaurants and listen to Rake and Scrape bands
- Explore the wreck of the Santa Maria Theresa, a sunken Spanish battleship
- Visit the highest point in the whole of The Bahamas – Mount Alvernia! At 206 feet above sea level, a short and sweet hike rewards you with a medieval-style monastery called the Hermitage
- Head to Half Moon Cay for the opportunity to get up close to stingrays
- Pick up coconut bread, pineapple pastries and mango jam at Olive’s Bakery
- Have a true cultural experience by participating in the People to People initiative which pairs travellers with a Bahamian to enjoy a local experience together. Cat Island is one of the islands where the scheme is available!
- Sit back, relax, and do absolutely nothing at Da Pink Chicken
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View on REI Read the Review#5 Paradise Island – Best Neighborhood in The Bahamas for Families
The enticingly named Paradise Island sits offshore from New Providence Island and connects to Nassau via two bridges. This pocket-sized island has some of the softest beaches and calmest waters in the nation and is one of the safest places in the Bahamas for even the tiniest babies to gain confidence in the sea!
Half of the island is taken up by the Atlantis Bahamas Resort, making Paradise Island our number one for where to stay in The Bahamas for families. Rooms don’t come cheap, but we can vouch for staying at one of the smaller hotels and making a day trip or two to the resort.
Paradise Island has been used as a filming location for several James Bond and Pirates of the Caribbean movies, so it’s your chance to find out if the water really is that blue!
Atlantis, Harborside Resort | Best Airbnb on Paradise Island
This awesome Airbnb is in an EPIC resort right right by the sea. Guests get to stay in not just a hotel room but an entre villa! Decked out with your own kitchen and access to a communal courtyard and swimming pool. You’ll not doubt fall in love with this rose-coloured complex <3
Comfort Suites Paradise Island | Best Affordable Hotel on Paradise Island
With deluxe amenities and a terrific outdoor pool, this hotel on Paradise Island also has a tour desk, gym, restaurant and bar on the premises. Particularly popular with families, the hotel offers babysitting services and connecting bedrooms. All rooms come equipped with a minibar and hot drink making facilities.
Bay View Suites Paradise Island | Best Hotel on Paradise Island
This Paradise Island accommodation combines tropical delights with home comforts. You’ve got a swimming pool, gym and BBQ area on-site.
Rooms are comfortably laid out, come with a basic kitchen and are suited to families. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a babysitting service and free parking at the property.
Things to See and Do on Paradise Island:
- Treat the family to a day at the Atlantis Resort for a day of swimming pools, aquariums, lagoons, beaches and an epic waterpark! You’ll get their adrenaline pumping
- Wander the sculptured Versailles Gardens and French Cloister
- Take scenic day cruises to nearby islands Athol and Rose Island
- Beach hop at some of the best beaches in The Bahamas! Add Arawak, Cabbage and Paradise Beach to your list
- Take a road trip out to the Nassau Harbour Lighthouse on the most eastern tip of the island
- Check out the mega-port of Prince George Wharf to get an eyeball of the cruise liners!
- Take your pick from waterside eateries such as the casual Green Parrot and upscale Dune
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For The Bahamas
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for The Bahamas
Yo! Get that travel insurance sorted because you just never know when you’re gonna need it, and if you do, you’ll be proper gutted if you skimp out now. I mean, who knows if one of those swimming pigs might go rogue.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in The Bahamas
Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring budget or a family counting down the days until your summer vacay, whether you’re looking to make new friends and party or retreat into a tropical haven, you’ll find what you’re looking for in The Bahamas.
With swoon-worthy beaches, fascinating nature and unique Bahamian culture spicing up the food, museums and architecture, all wanderlusters will find themselves satisfied.
The Exumas is our top pick for where to stay in The Bahamas. Beaches, swimming pigs, world-class diving and some real Bahamian fish fry – the only thing you won’t love is having to leave. The Grand Isle Resort & Residences is our recommendation on where to stay in The Exumas.
The laid-back, island vibes make this one of the coolest places to stay in The Bahamas!
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Bahamas instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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