Bahamas

When planning a vacation to The Bahamas, it’s important to factor in all the costs so there are no surprises. For a mid range trip, you can expect to pay between $3,400 – $5,200 for a two person vacation for one week (Including lodging and airfare). For a more luxury experience, a one week vacation for two can cost $10,850 or more.

I’ll break down the costs for accommodations, airfare, and miscellaneous expenses like transportation and food below.  All make sure to drop us a line and I will find the most up to date deals for you!

Cost For Accommodations

Finding the right place to stay is perhaps the biggest part of your budget, aside from airfare. There are various types of accommodations in the Bahamas, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts.  

All-Inclusive: All-inclusive resorts will generally be more expensive than traditional hotels, but we need to consider the overall cost of food, transportation, and activities that are included. 

The average price for an all-inclusive resort in the Bahamas is $275 – $500 per night, per person.  This can vary depending on the time of year and location. New Providence (Nassau) is by far the most popular island and offers the most variety of all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas. 

I personally prefer the all-inclusive option in the Bahamas so you can have a truly stress free vacation. After all, that is the glory of the Bahamas! 

Hotel Stays: If you want a bespoke vacation, a traditional hotel or resort can offer more flexibility.  During peak season, a double room in a three-star hotel starts at around $210 USD per night. Of course, you can always go with a four or five-star hotel that offers several amenities (not quite an all inclusive), which will cost $400 USD per night or more. 

Budget Stays: For budget travelers, you might find hotel rooms starting at around $100 per night.  There are also short-term rental options (AirBnB)  that can provide excellent value, especially for larger groups!

Cost For Airfare

The cost of getting to the Bahamas varies based on your departure location and the time of year. For instance, if you’re flying from the East Coast of the United States, round-trip direct flights to Nassau can range from $275 to $500 during off-peak times. During peak travel seasons, like holidays, these prices can surge above $700.

I always try to track the flight prices, and purchase them at least a month in advance to save some money.  Another great hack to save on airfare costs is to use a website like SpareFare to purchase flights at discount prices, or book your lodging and airfare as a package deal. You can also take advantage of airline loyalty deals going on at the time. 

Miscellaneous Expenses

Don’t forget about other important expenses like food, transportation, and activities. This is where adding up all of the expenses, and comparing it to the price of an all-inclusive option comes in.  

Dining out can vary widely. Eating at a casual beachside restaurant might cost $20 – $40 per meal, while a meal at an upscale restaurant could set you back $100 or more per person.

Transportation within the islands can also add up if you’re on the move a lot. The taxis are regulated and typically charge around $3-$5 per mile, or opt for rental cars starting at $30 per day. Transfers to and from the airport via taxi are around $35, but should be included with some resorts and hotels. I personally rented a car because I wanted to cover as much as possible, but it really depends on where you want to go. 

Note that there are no Ubers or Lyft cars available in The Bahamas. The local alternative ride sharing app is called Kroozzy. 

Booking tours or excursions such as snorkeling, boating, or visiting local landmarks can add an additional $50-$200 per person.  For example, a trip to swim with the pigs of Great Exuma will cost at least $100 from Nassau. 

Travel conditions vary throughout the year in the Bahamas. I’ll break down the best times to visit, covering what’s most important for each period.

Peak Season

The peak season to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April. The weather is most favorable during these months with temperatures ranging between 72-82°F. 

In the high season months, there is minimal rainfall (only 0.5″ per month). Consistently sunny skies and warm waters create perfect conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling and boating. The downside is this is also when hotel and flight rates are at their highest because of all the visitors.

Shoulder Seasons

The shoulder seasons fall between April to May and from October to November. These times offer a balanced mix of good weather and fewer crowds. In late spring, the temperatures are slightly warmer, averaging around 75-85°F, but you’ll find that prices for accommodation and flights are more affordable.

Early fall sees more rain, especially during the tail of the Atlantic hurricane season, but there are still plenty of dry, sunny days. For those on a budget, I recommend traveling during April or May to avoid the peak season’s high costs while still getting great weather and sunshine.

Hurricane Season

The hurricane season in the Bahamas lasts from June to October, peaking in August and September. It’s important to note that while the risk of hurricanes is higher during these months, not every day will be stormy. Rainfall does increase, averaging 6-8 inches per month, particularly towards late summer.  It was my experience that even if it rains, the showers typically last about 30 minutes. 

Despite the rainy season, there are still many sunny days and the temperatures are hot, around 85-90°F. For the best prices, these months offer unbeatable deals on hotels and resorts. That said, if you decide to travel during hurricane season, keep an eye on weather forecasts and I highly recommend travel insurance!

I often get asked whether the Bahamas is a safe place to visit. From my perspective, I did not have any issues or feel unsafe during my time there.  There’s a lot of beauty and fun to be had, but there are some important safety tips to keep in mind.  

Currently the U.S. State Department has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory for the Bahamas. This means that while it’s safe to visit, tourists should stay alert due to crime, especially on Grand Bahama and New Providence islands. 

If you visit the Bahamas:

• Always stay in well-traveled and well-lit areas. I rely on official transportation options like taxis or rideshares for getting around. I avoid walking alone at night and keep my valuables secure.
• Stay more vigilant in some areas of Nassau, especially south of Shirley Street. Keeping an eye on my personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas helps me avoid any potential issue.
• Communicate with your hotel staff. They usually provide the best advice on which areas to avoid and how to move around safely. 
• Always use licensed and certified tour operators.  This goes for all excursions and boat outings.  Please do not try to save a little money by going with a sketchy “tour guide”. 
• Do not answer your hotel or rental’s door if you do not know who it is.  This is a common way for robbers to gain access. 
• Lock your car doors if you have a rental car, and make sure to hide or remove your valuables when leaving the card parked. 

Okay, so all of that said, there is no need to freak out. A Level 2 is out of a 4 tiered scale. Most reported violent crimes in the Bahamas are gang related, and no US citizens are known to have been affected.  Additionally, the national statistics show that total violent crime was down 26% in 2023 compared to 2022.  

If you need to contact the local police, the number is 911 or 919.  Additionally, the local US Embassy in Nassau can be contacted at +(242) 322-1181.  Hopefully you do not need to use either of them!

Below is the list of my top 10 favorite spots around the Bahamas.  It is not exhaustive, but these are spots I can recommend with confidence!  Keep in mind that if you literally want to sit on the beach the whole time, I am not going to judge 🙂

1. 1. Snorkeling at the Andros Barrier Reef: The third largest barrier reef in the world. This is an absolute haven for marine life and perfect for snorkeling lovers. A trip out to the reefs with all the snorkeling gear will cost around $100 or more.
   2. Swim with the Pigs at Exuma:  This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to hang with the famous swimming pigs! Don’t pass it up. Tours can be booked through local operators or through your hotel.
   3. Explore Pink Sand Beaches on Harbour Island: Famous for its unique pink-hued sand. A beautiful spot for sunbathing and swimming. Accessible by ferry from Eleuthera.
   4. Golf Courses in Paradise Island: For all of the golfers, the Bahamas is home to some of the best golf courses with stunning ocean views. Private and resort courses are available.  Contact the course first to schedule your team time and check the greens fees. 
   5. Junkanoo Beach: This beach is closest to the cruise ship port and always has a lot of action. There are plenty of places to grab a bite of food, and get nice souvenirs. Right by the beach is the famous Straw Market where you can get a nice hat!  Despite being a popular destination, the sand and water are picture perfect!
   6. Charter a Boat in Nassau: The best way to get off the beaten path and enjoy all the secluded beaches and hidden gems. There are a lot of companies that offer half-day or full-day charters. Prices vary depending on the boat size and amenities.  I took a full day tour that included swimming with the pigs, snorkeling, and beach relaxation which was $170 USD. 
   7. Scuba Diving in the Tongue of the Ocean: Dive in a deep oceanic trench. See diverse marine life and coral formations. Dive tours are available for a fee depending on the operator choose.  These will generally start at around $100, but it’s worth every penny for the sea creatures and coral you’ll see.
   8. Kayaking in Lucayan National Park: Glide through mangroves and explore caves. A peaceful way to experience nature. You do need to rent a kayak which costs $89 per person for a guided tour. 
   9. Relax on Cable Beach in Nassau: A long stretch of white sand with clear turquoise water. Perfect for a lazy beach day. The public beach access is free.
   10. Visit Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre: Take a relaxing stroll through tropical gardens to see exotic animals and pink flamingos. Great for families and nature lovers. A $35 entry fee for adults is required that supports the animal rescue and conservation efforts.
       

Grand Bahama Island

Grand Bahama Island, especially around Freeport, offers a mix of beautiful natural scenery and modern amenities. Because it is the northernmost island of all the Bahamas archipelago, it is easily accessible yet still offers a secluded getaway.  Check out Lucayan National Park to explore underwater caves and mangrove swamps.

Exuma

The Exuma Cays are a chain of 365 islands known for crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Visit Pig Beach to swim with friendly swimming pigs. The water here is some of the clearest you’ll ever see. 

The best way to get to Xuma is to take a flight from Nassau to George Town with Bahamasair.  They offer two flights per day, one in the morning and one in the evening.  The flight is also only 40 minutes long. 

Paradise Island

Connected to Nassau by bridges, Paradise Island offers luxury resorts and beautiful beaches. The Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, with its water park and marine habitat, is a must-see. 

You can take a taxi to Potter’s Cay Dock in Nassau, and then take the ferry out to Paradise Island. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes and costs $8 for the roundtrip. 

Andros

Andros is the largest of the Out Islands and is famous for its incredible blue holes and extensive coral reefs. It’s a paradise for divers and nature lovers. The island also boasts vast national parks and rich marine life.

I also recommend checking out Eleuthera for its pink sand beaches and Abaco for its boating community and private islands. There’s so much to discover!

Nassau

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, located on New Providence Island. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, historical sites, and fantastic shopping. Make sure to visit the famous Straw Market and relax on Cable Beach.

Below are the highlights to know before you go to the Bahamas.  This shortlist will give you the cliff notes of what to expect once you arrive at the islands!

Culture

The Bahamas has a vibrant culture with a rich blend of African, European, and Indigenous influences. One of the standout experiences is the music scene, particularly Junkanoo, a traditional Bahamian festival featuring lively parades and rhythmic music.

Art and crafts play a significant role, too. You’ll find local handicrafts like straw hats and wood carvings at markets. The locals are friendly and welcoming, often eager to share their traditions. Remember to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting cultural or religious sites.

Currency

The official currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD), which is pegged to the U.S. dollar (USD) at a 1:1 ratio. You can use both currencies interchangeably though. Most places accept major credit cards, but carrying some cash is nice for small purchases or tips.

ATMs are widely available around the islands.  If you’re changing money, do it at banks or official exchanges to get the best rates.  Exchanging currencies at the airport generally has the worst exchange rates. Again though, most places will accept USD so there is no reason to convert your money. 

Food

Bahamian food is a delightful mix of flavors, heavily influenced by seafood. Conch fritters, made from a type of shellfish, are a popular local snack. Another must-try is pigeon peas and rice, often served with pork or chicken.

For the adventurous, give the national dish, “cracked conch,” a go. Restaurants vary from casual beachside diners to upscale establishments. Don’t forget to sample some Bahamian rum, either straight up or in a cocktail.  By far my favorite cracked conch is from Twin Brothers in Nassau.  You can get an order for $27, and they also have many other local Bahamian favorites!

Weather Statistics

The Bahamas has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges between 74°F in winter and 86°F in summer.  The hottest months are typically June – August with temperatures flirting around 90°F during the day with high humidity. 

The rainy season runs from May to October, peaking in June and September when monthly rainfall can exceed 2”. Despite having increased rainfall, there is still plenty of sunshine to be had as rain showers are typically short lived. 

Hurricanes can occur between June and November, so be sure to check weather forecasts if traveling during these months. Actual hurricanes are less common, however, you can also expect high levels of rainfall during these months. 

Transportation

Getting around the Bahamas is straightforward but varies by island. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient option, especially if you’re carrying luggage. Licensed taxis will have the distinct Taxi license plates and decals that show they are registered. Not all taxis will accept credit cards, but most do. Ask before you start your ride if they accept credit cards. Lastly, make sure to agree to your fare upfront!

Buses, known as jitneys, provide affordable local transport on larger islands.  Although they are super cheap, I would avoid the Jitneys because they are unreliable and can attract pickpockets. 

Car rentals are another great option if you plan to explore on your own. Driving is done on the left side of the road in the Bahamas!  I ended up renting a car here because I wanted the flexibility. I think I could have gotten by with taxis and transfers because they are readily available though. 

For inter-island travel, ferries and private boats are popular choices, providing scenic trips between islands. Like taxis, make sure the boat operator is licensed and reputable. 

Airports

Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau is the main hub into the Bahamas. It offers a range of both international and domestic flights.  You can get almost anywhere on the island in 10 – 20 minutes via taxi from the Lynden airport. Grand Bahama International Airport serves the northern parts and handles many visitors arriving from the U.S.

Bahamasair is the national airline that offers many routes around the islands.  You can get great deals to do some island hopping.  Booking flights early, especially during peak tourist seasons, is recommended.

Passport And Visas

A valid passport is required to enter the Bahamas. U.S. and Canadian citizens typically do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.

Other nationalities should check visa requirements before traveling. It’s also wise to carry a printed copy of your itinerary and accommodation details, as these might be requested upon entry.

Nightlife

The Bahamas offers a range of nightlife options to suit different tastes. You’ll find lively bars, nightclubs, and beach parties, especially in Nassau and Freeport. Popular spots feature live music, often with local bands playing Bahamian music genres like reggae and rake-and-scrape.

For a more relaxed evening, enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beachside bar. Many resorts also host evening entertainment, from cultural shows to DJ sets, providing visitors with various ways to unwind and celebrate their vacation.

Which island in the Bahamas is best?

My personal favorite island in the Bahamas is Great Exuma because it is still relatively untouched and the beaches are have sweeping white sand vistas.  You can easily fly into the George Town airport from Nassau or some US based airports. Best of all, the swimming pigs are just a short 1 hour 30 minute boat ride away!

How can I get the best deals on a Bahamas vacation?

To get the best deal on a vacation to the Bahamas, it helps to get an early start so you have more options.  Visiting the islands in August or September will have the most reduced prices because it is hurricane season.  But that doesn’t mean that you cant visit during that time because there is still a lot of nice weather to be had.  The other way to save is to book a package deal with the accommodations and flights together.   There can also be current offers from the resorts or airlines that can lead to big savings.  To ensure the best deals across the board, using a certified travel agent will ensure you get the most savings without skimping on your experience.

Are the Bahamas Safe?

When I visited the Bahamas, I did not feel unsafe at any point.  The country currently has a Level 2 travel advisory from the State Department, which simply means to exercise increased caution when traveling. Note that this is out of 4 levels, with 4 being the most dangerous.  Certain parts of Nassau should be avoided as that is the capital city and has some gang activity.  That said, it is important to exercise common sense measures like walking in groups at night, don’t answer your door if you don’t know who it is, and staying in more trafficked areas.

What are things to do in the Bahamas on a cruise?

I would highly recommend going to Junkanoo Beach, which is closest to the cruise ship port and is filled with things to do. There are several beachside restaurants to grab some food and lots of shops to get nice souvenirs. A short 15 minute walk is the famous Straw Market where you can get a nice hand made hat!  Despite being a very popular destination for tourists, it truly is a picaresque beach that gives an authentic Bahamian vibe.