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Snorkeling in the Bahamas

A Shallow Sea Filled with Possibilities

With 700 islands and 5,000 square miles of underwater real estate to discover, the hardest part of a Bahamas snorkeling adventure is narrowing down the choices. Coral reefs teeming with fish life? That's a given. But what about a drift over a shipwreck in the company of reef sharks—don't worry, they won't bite. Or a trip into the sea cave from the James Bond film Thunderball. You can meet up with dolphins and turtles on sand flats, plunge into the waters of a blue hole, or explore fish nurseries in mangrove channels. The only bad choice would be not planning enough time to discover the full diversity of the Bahamas' underwater world.

Highlights

  • Best for: Solos, couples and families, beach lovers and adventurers
  • Best season to visit: Year-round, with some areas exposed to cold fronts in winter months
  • Weather: Sub-tropical climate similar to Florida, with warm water temperatures in summer, becoming cooler in winter when cold fronts pass

Bahamas Information

Snorkeling in the Bahamas Overview

Good snorkeling opportunities can be found around most every island in the Bahamas. In some cases, these sites can be reached from shore, but many of the best locations will require a boat ride. A number of dive resorts and tour operators run dedicated trips to sites that are too shallow for scuba divers, but ideal for snorkelers.

Snorkeling in the Bahamas Tips

While coral reefs are usually the star attraction on snorkeling excursions, the Bahamas offers a number of additional unique experiences. These include shipwrecks in shallow water, tidal channels, blue holes, rock grottoes, sand flats and seagrass beds. Each of these landscapes showcases a different aspect of the underwater environment.

Best Places for Snorkeling in the Bahamas

The reefs at Coral Caverns are covered in rainbow hues of sea fans and sponges. Snorkeling off the southwest coast of New Providence Island yields shallow shipwrecks, shark sightings and an underwater sculpture park. At Eagle Ray Run, dozens of rays swim information like jet fighters. Huge stone blocks at the Bimini Road are said to be part of the lost city of Atlantis. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park encompasses 21 miles of protected reef. A short swim from the beach at Paradise Cove leads to underwater drops offs and unique coral formations.

What to Pack for Snorkeling in the Bahamas

If you have personal snorkel gear, pack it in a nylon backpack or mesh carry bag to keep things organized aboard the boat. Neoprene boots and open heel fins with straps work well for wading in from the beach, but slip-on fins are more convenient for boat trips. Don't forget sunscreen and a light cover up for time on the surface.

Resorts

Snorkeling

Bahamas

Bluff House Beach Resort & Marina

ABACO Bluff House Beach Resort & Marina is located on Green Turtle Cay, Abaco, in the Bahamas, three miles off the east coast of Great Abaco which is approximately a one-hour flight from Florida. Perched on the highest point of Green Turtle Cay, this 12 acre tropical paradise stretches from White Sound to the Sea of Abaco. Many have described it as the “most special piece of property in Abaco". Located on Green Turtle Cay is a vacation paradise for sailors, divers and fishermen. Snorkeling and SCUBA diving is a popular adventure with the world’s third largest barrier reef just a short boat ride away. You can beachcomb for shells and tossed up treasures from the sea on our power-soft, white-sand beaches or take a leisurely boat ride and explore the many nearby deserted cays. .
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Snorkeling

Bahamas

Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina

ABACO Located on Green Turtle Cay, an island just three miles in length, and reached only by boat, the Green Turtle Club and Marina sits on a picturesque harbor surrounded by some of the most spectacular beaches. Green Turtle Club Resort and Marina offers waterfront rooms, various suites, 1-, 2- & 3-Bedroom villas. Brendal’s Dive Center, a member of the PADI Association, is located directly adjacent to the Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina. Explore Earth's third-largest barrier reef, explore historic wrecks, walls, and swim-through caverns, dive with dolphins, turtles, and sharks, hand feed stingrays and tropical fish! Centrally located to be within a short golf cart commute of town and it is the only resort on Green Turtle Cay within an easy walk (less than 10 minutes) from the breathtaking beaches on the Atlantic side of the Cay. The highly acclaimed Club Restaurant features freshly caught Abaco seafood and World/Caribbean fusion cuisine
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Bahamas

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas

NASSAU All Inclusive adults only resort in Paradise Island Bahamas. Select from four different room categories. Island Views, Water Views, Harbour Deluxe, and Harbour Front Suites. A private island escape for anyone seeking a modern upscale relaxed resort.
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Bahamas

SLS Baha Mar Nassau

NASSAU Located on the northern shore of New Providence Island, on the beautiful white sands and tranquil turquoise waters of secluded Cable Beach, regarded as one of the most breathtaking beaches in The Bahamas. With a rich history as a destination for the international jet set, this pristine shoreline is experiencing a revival among a new generation of travelers and divers looking for a Bahamas resort vacation where they can play, scuba dive, recharge, and experience the vibrant culture of the islands.
All 299 rooms include SLS signature bedding, Bahamian-designed furniture, walk-in rainfall shower, wall-mounted HDTVs, full in-room technology connectivity, safe, plush SLS signature robes and slippers, custom Ciel Reserve bath amenities, and a mini bar curated with SLS Signature refreshments.

For additional information call toll free 800.328.2288 or email sales@caradonna.com.
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Bahamas

Embrace Resort

STANIEL CAY ISLAND Located in the heart of the Exuma Cays on the island Staniel Cay. 7 ecofriendly villas named and decorated uniquely to showcase the exquisite splendor of their island namesake. Influenced by the culture, rooted in sustainability, and driven by a desire to create memorable experiences. One to three bedrooms including a honeymoon villa complete with a Jacuzzi, perfect for couples and two villas with complete kitchen and living room, a dream for any family vacation. Loaded with features & amenities, and personalized customer service.
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Courtyard By Marriott Nassau Downtown/Junkanoo Beach

NASSAU Relax after a busy day in Nassau at the resort-style pool under the sun or walk just a few steps to the famous Junkanoo Beach. Stay fit at the on-site fitness center, providing free weights and cardiovascular equipment. Whether stopping by one of the small shops around downtown, the hotel provides easy access to experience the authentic local flair of Nassau. Following an adventurous day, unwind in the sleek lobby lounge and stay in touch with friends and family back home via free, property-wide Wi-Fi.
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Margaritaville Beach Resort Bahamas

NASSAU Located in the downtown area, next to Junkanoo beach, and a short walk to the lively Nassau craft market. Luxurious contemporary accommodations with stunning ocean views featuring terraces with harbor and lighthouse views, and stunning nightly sunsets. Amenities include a full-service spa and fitness center, the Parakeets kid club, entertainment complex with movies, bowling, indoor, outdoor event spaces, “The Fins Up!” water park with lazy river, water slides, surf stream wave pool and climbing wall. 12 food and beverage options which include fine dining, over water dining, casual fare with specialty restaurants, pool side snacks and pizza. Hand crafted cocktails are a must try at the popular lobby bar or the spectacular sky bar. It’s the ultimate resort destination in The Bahamas. Kick back, relax, and discover the Margaritaville state-of-mind.

For additional information call toll free 800.328.2288 or email sales@caradonna.com.
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Bahamas

Greenwood Beach Resort

CAT ISLAND Located at one of the most southern points of Cat Island, this 16 room resort is perfect for those in search of adventure, with over 8 miles of deserted beach. This intimate resort provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a variety of fun activities including diving, snorkeling and kiteboarding.
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Bahamas

Orange Hill Beach Inn

NASSAU A beautiful quiet family run resort. Nice rooms, well-kept grounds, beach views, swimming pool, open bar, and on-site restaurant. 10 minutes from the airport.

For additional information call toll free 800.328.2288 or email sales@caradonna.com.
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Bahamas

Hilton At Resorts World Bimini

BIMINI The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini is an exclusive island paradise featuring luxury Caribbean hotel accommodations and world-famous Bahamas beach resort activities; perfect for family vacations, destination weddings, honeymoons and more. Diving services are available from Neil Watsons Bimini Scuba Center (offsite).
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Bahamas

Breezes Bahamas

NASSAU Miles away from everyday life, but only minutes from the airport. Breezes Bahamas is located on a stretch of the island’s best beach: The powder white sands of Cable Beach. Crystal clear waters gently lap the shore as everyday worries drift away. Just a short stroll along the beach takes you to the excitement of Nassau’s glittering casinos.

For additional information call toll free 800.328.2288 or email sales@caradonna.com.
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Passport and/or Visa Requirements

Entry/Exit Requirements: All U.S. Citizens are required to present a valid passport. No visa is required for American citizens. All persons, six years and over leaving the Bahamas, pay a Government Departure Tax of 29.00 which should be included in your international airline ticket taxes.

Immunizations

Vaccinations are not required for entry into the Bahamas. Check with your doctor and the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel at Traveler's Health CDC The Bahamas.

 

Culture and Customs

Though still a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the Bahama's English heritage is obvious only in the historic architecture of Nassau, a love for the Queen, and the nation's parliamentary system of government. The cosmopolitan resorts of Paradise Island and Grand Bahama may be more spiritually aligned with Miami or Las Vegas, but move into the Out Islands and you transition to island time, where the phrase “soon come” is the mantra for a relaxed, welcoming way of life. The big event on the calendar is Junkanoo, which is celebrated from December's Boxing Day to New Years Day. Every island stages a celebration, but the big show happens in Nassau when thousands of lavishly costumed revelers march through the streets to the accompaniment of horns, goombay drums and cowbells. Come March, the island sailboats are packed with passengers headed for the National Family Island Regatta in Georgetown. Here, crews from across the archipelago race traditional island sloops by day, then party the night away at Regatta Village Cricket season lasts from March to November, and ongoing commentary of the matches fills the local airwaves.

Celebrated since the 17th century, Junkanoo has grown into a large, organized event with groups that compete for cash prizes for best music, best costume, best dancing, etc. Traditionally held on New Year’s Day, Boxing Day and Independence Day, parades are also held during the annual “Junkanoo Summer Festival” and the “Just Rush” competition. Many hotels also offer Junkanoo shows for their guests throughout the year.

Electricity, Phone and Internet Access

Electricity in the Bahamas is 120 volts/60 cycles, which is the same as the U.S. and all U.S. appliances are compatible. the country code/area code for the Bahamas is 242. The local phone company BTC (Bahamas Telephone Company) should be available on your cell phone, so check with your carrier for costs for calls and data while in the Bahamas on roaming. There are many public hotspots, and you will find most hotels offer WiFi, as well as many bars, restaurants and shops.

Water Quality

Tap water is safe to drink on the main islands of the Bahamas. Bottled water is available for purchase.

Language & Currency

English is the official language, however you may hear locals speaking "Bahamian English" which has a mixture of African influence, island dialect and the Queen's diction. The H is often dropped so thanks sounds like tanks. The local currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD) but U.S. Dollars are accepted everywhere. The Bahamian and the U.S. dollar are equivalent so as a visitor you don’t need to exchange any money. Credit cards are accepted at most locations on Nassau, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. Cirrus and +PLUS ATMs can be found on Nassau, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama and most of the major Out Islands.

Time

The Bahamas are in the Eastern Time Zone. The Bahamian Islands do observe Daylight Savings Time. They are 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 during Eastern Standard Time) and 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time during Daylight Savings Time (-4 Eastern Daylight Time).

Location, Size and Population

The Bahamas are located in the North Atlantic Ocean on the eastern edge of the Caribbean. They are approximately 45 miles Southeast of Florida. The Bahamian Islands are made up of approximately 700 islands and 2,000 cayes of which about only 30 are inhabited. The islands are north of Cuba, northwest of the Turks and Caicos, and Southeast of the Florida Keys. The size of the Bahamas is approximately 5,382 square miles with a coastline of 1,368 square miles. The capital city of the Bahamas is Nassau, located on New Providence and is approximately 80 square miles. The population of the Bahamas is 392,575 (2016).

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