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.
It’s technically the first place I ever traveled to outside of the US, and the hype is real!
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 one to suit everyone’s vacation needs… you just need to know where to stay.
That’s why I’m here! Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in The Bahamas for your first time, traveling 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 islands/areas 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 is best for you!
Photo: @taya.travels
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
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 (New Providence)
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 Island
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’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
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?
1. The Exuma Islands – Where to Stay in The Bahamas for the First Time
365 cays form the tropical paradise that is the Exuma Islands, which are no doubt some of the best in The Caribbean. 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. Besides the friendly locals, other residents of the Exuma Islands are turtles, stingrays, tiny sharks, iguanas, and the famous paddling pigs.
- Best For: First timers, adventure lovers, beach seekers
- The Vibe: Laid back, scenic, upscale
- Proximity to Airport: 10-30 minutes from Exuma International Airport (GGT)
- Transport Level: Rental cars are deff the best way to get around
- Budget: Mid-range to luxury, there’s no backpacking scene around here
- Crowds: Low to moderate, one of the least crowded Caribbean isles
Top Things to 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
- Visit Pig Beach on Big Major Cay
- Dive into the second-deepest sinkhole, Dean’s Blue Hole, on nearby Long Island
- 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’ Chill
- Go diving in the protected large barrier reef of Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
- Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Bay
- Join a full-day catamaran cruise that’ll take you sailing around The Bahamas with lunch and other stops along the way.
Best Affordable Hotel in The Exuma Islands: Sapphire Garden Townhouses
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 travelers, couples, or families.
Best Hotel in The Exuma Islands: Grand Isle Resort & Residences
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, you can get your rum fix, and a fitness center on-site so you can keep yourself fit on vacay! The resort has a range of rooms to suit different budgets.
Best Airbnb in The Exuma Islands: Overwater Bungalow at Georgetown
This overwater bungalow is UNREAL, like truly one of the best Airbnbs in the Bahamas! 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?
2. Nassau (New Providence) – Best Place to Stay in The Bahamas on a Budget
The capital of The Bahamas, Nassau, is located on the island of New Providence. The majority of the flights into the tropical haven land at the international airport, which 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-colored 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!
- Best For: Budget travelers, cruisers, resort goers
- The Vibe: Tourist oriented, colorful, beach focused
- Proximity to Airport: 20-30 minutes from Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
- Transport Level: Taxis can be expensive for long distances, many places are walkable
- Budget: Budget ($100/day as it’s still NOT cheap in The Bahamas) to Luxury options can all be found in Nassau
- Crowds: Moderate to high depending on where you are
Top Things to Do in Nassau
- 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
- 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.
- Go on a Bahamas Culture Tour on an Electric Trolley.
Best Hotel in Nassau: Margaritaville Beach Resort
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 center, and stunning ocean views. There is a tour desk to help you make the most of your stay.
Best Adults-Only Hotel: Warwick Paradise Island
This epic adults-only resort is perfect for a couples or solo getaway without the kids! You’ve got a private harbor beach, five onsite restaurants, two bars and a free breakfast buffet.
Rooms are comfortably laid out, with options between kings and doubles.
Best Hostel in Nassau: HumesHouse @ Hillcrest
HumesHouse @ Hillcrest is a locally-owned backpacker hostel with a super welcoming, cozy vibe. The property is brimming with history as it was built in the 1930s (don’t worry, it’s had a full renovation!) and is nestled into a quiet area. You’ll be a 15-minute walk into the town center where you’ll find restaurants, beaches, and all that good stuff you want while on vacation.
Best Airbnb in Nassau: Hideaway – Near Cable Beach
This eloquent studio is homely and stylish with a boutique finish. It’s equipped with a full kitchen.
The neighborhood is peaceful and known as a more “local” place to stay. You’ll be just a five-minute drive to the beach, shops and restaurants. However, if you don’t have a car this place might be difficult to explore from.
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.
Expect a kaleidoscope of Junkanoo colors and sounds, scrumptious daiquiris, beach bonfires, and dancing into the night! Throughout the year you can expect festivals, parades, and special events.
During the day, you can practice being a responsible traveler and dive into some ecotourism
- Best For: Nightlife lovers, water enthusiasts, adventure lovers
- The Vibe: Mixed resort and local life, outdoor-focused, chill
- Proximity to Airport: 10-15 minutes from Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO)
- Transport Level: Limited, car rental and taxis are your only options
- Budget: Mid-range to luxury, there’s some decent cheaper stays here
- Crowds: Low to moderate, busiest from Dec-April
Top Things to Do in 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 colorful boutiques in the Port Lucaya Marketplace
- Take a boat out to the Abaco islands for a different pace of life.
Best Affordable Hotel on Grand Bahama: Ocean Reef Yacht Club & Resort
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.
Best Hotel on Grand Bahama: Bell Channel Inn Hotel & Scuba Diving Retreat
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.
Best Airbnb on Grand Bahama: Old Bahama Bay Condo
This West End Airbnb is steps away from the beach and in between a pool and marina. Your private balcony that looks right out into the sea isn’t half bad either!
This vacation rental is nicely decorated with a kitchenette and spacious lounge. Walking distance to all the essential attractions and nightlife including the Lucaya Marketplace.
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 commercialization. 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.
- Best For: Nature and adventure travelers, solitude seekers, honeymooners
- The Vibe: Remote, tranquil, rustic
- Proximity to Airport: 5-15 minutes from New Bight Airport (CAT)
- Transport Level: Super limited with only a few taxis and rental cars
- Budget: Mid-range to luxury, though a more authentic kind of luxury
- Crowds: Very low, Cat Island is one of the least visited Bahamian islands.
Top Things to 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
- Have a true cultural experience by participating in the People to People initiative which pairs travelers with a Bahamian to enjoy a local experience together. Cat Island is one of the islands where the scheme is available!
Best Hotel on Cat Island: Rollezz Villas Beach Resort
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.
Best Airbnb on Cat Island: Beachfront Home
This iconic home is quite literal a step away from the beach, you truly cannot ask for more. Located on the most protected bay of Cat Island, you can kayak, swim and snorkel right from your own private, sandy beach. The airport is 10 minutes away and the host is super helpful.
Best Airbnb on Cat Island: Sandy Shores Beach House
This home is absolutely beautiful and tucked away in a very private location. The house has all the amenities you could need. The hosts are extremely helpful and responsive.
If you stay here be prepared to spend your days fishing, swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling right outside your door.
5. Paradise Island – Best Place for Families to Stay In
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, which is both famous and iconic. Rooms don’t come cheap, but I 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!
- Best For: Families, luxury travelers, casual tourists
- The Vibe: Busy, tourist-centric, fun, lively
- Proximity to Airport: 20-30 minutes from Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
- Transport Level: Resort shuttles and taxis are widely available
- Budget: Luxury – there’s no way to stay here on the super cheap!
- Crowds: Moderate to high, this is one of the most popular islands
Top Things to Do on Paradise Island
- Treat the family to a day at the Atlantis Resort for a day of swimming pools, 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 eastern tip of the island
- Check out the mega-port of Prince George Wharf to get an eyeball of the cruise liners!
Best Affordable Hotel on Paradise Island: Comfort Suites 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.
Best Airbnb on Paradise Island: Atlantis, Harborside Resort
This awesome Airbnb is in an EPIC resort right by the sea. Guests get to stay in not just a hotel room but an entire 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-colored complex <3
Questions people usually ask me…
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!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Ready?
Whether you’re a backpacker on a 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 my 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 my 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!
