Bahamas · Caribbean

Overview

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Bahamians like to tell the story -- whether real or apocryphal -- that American astronauts returning from orbit declared that they could recognize only two sights from space: the Great Wall of China and the waters of the Bahamas.

It wouldn't be surprising, for the sea is the prevailing feature of this country of more than 700 islands -- approximately 75% of the country lies underwater, and its shores are rimmed by some of the world's great barrier reefs. The sea is geography, attraction, livelihood, and inspiration all in one. Talk to a painter, diver, boatbuilder, fisherman, or chef, and they'll all likely agree: without the sea, the Bahamas would lose its raison d'être.

The nation's existence is based largely on tourism. Even though you can reach the Bahamas in less than an hour's flight from the Florida coast, the country's natural beauty and exotic appeal make it seem more like a far-flung outpost. The water ranges from pale aqua to deep sapphire, the spectrum changing hourly as the relentless Bahamian sun sweeps across the island sky.

Nassau and New Providence:

Nassau, the country's capital, is a bustling town on New Providence Island with shops, nightclubs, and an enviable array of restaurants, glitzy casinos, and posh hotels. Even in Nassau, though, there are quiet byways and shady lanes where you can escape the tumult of the main tourist drags.

Grand Bahama Island:

Grand Bahama Island, the fourth-largest island in the Bahamas after Andros, Eleuthera, and Great Abaco, lies only 52 miles off Palm Beach, Florida. Its two main cities, Freeport and Lucaya, are gambling hot spots.

The Abacos :

The Abacos, a center for boatbuilding, have attracted sailing and yachting fans over the years with translucent waters and excellent marina facilities. Marsh Harbour has great restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Eleuthera and the Exumas:

Eleuthera, notable for beaches and excellent diving, is sparsely populated, with only a handful of small settlements scattered across its landscape. Just off the islands north coast is Harbour Island, with lovely pink-sand beaches and some of the Bahamas best hotels. The hundreds of little cays that make up the Exumas are prime cruising ground for yachters, but you might also come to enjoy the attractive towns and a 7-mile-long beach known for its beautiful seashells.

Other Islands:

To escape New Providence's and Grand Bahama's crowds and glittering modernity, hop a plane, boat, or even a helicopter to one of the Out Islands. Wander uncluttered beaches and narrow, sand-strewn streets, or lunch in a village where fishermen's tidy homes are painted in soft pastel shades and shrouded in brilliantly colored vegetation.