Imagine an archipelago of 700 islands in 100,000 square miles of the clearest water on the planet. Add a year-round summer climate, and this Eden has all the ingredients for that perfect vacation home.

But with 700 islands in The Bahamas, where do you begin?

The area is not that large. From north to south, The Bahamas is about as long as the distance between the top of Scotland and the tip of England—but you can't just board a train. Island hopping around here is done by boat, ferry, or plane.

Many people target their preferred islands by interest as each island has its own particular attractions. Let’s take a look at a few:

New Providence Island and Paradise Island

New Providence Island and Paradise Island are joined by a bridge and are home to a celebratory offering of the best of The Bahamas with many beautiful beaches, lively nightclubs, famous restaurants and upscale stores. Nassau, the capital, is here, making these islands the heartbeat of the archipelago.

Grand Bahama Island

Grand Bahama Island with its cities of Freeport and Lucaya has big city amenities and breathtaking beaches. Blue holes and underwater caves make this island a favorite destination for scuba divers and snorkelers.

Abaco Islands

Abaco Islands is beach bum heaven, a dreamy quiet place with colorful houses, narrow lanes, little shops for necessities, and no malls. Fishing is a popular pastime, particularly for marlins, bonefish, and tuna.

Andros Island

Andros Island is known for its barrier reef that is populated with exotic sea creatures and an abyss known as The Tongue of the Ocean that has a wealth of exotic ocean life. The island's 50 species of wild orchids sweeten the salty air.

Bimini

Bimini is a chain of islands 50 miles from Florida. Its many rock formations add a touch of mystery to its excellent ocean diving destinations. Swimming with sharks and playing with dolphins are popular attractions.

The Berry Islands

The Berry Islands, 30 of them, are relatively undeveloped and most are uninhabited. In winter, the Berry Islands are home to more millionaires than any other place in the world. The warm waters are perfect for diving. The fisherman is rewarded with catches of tuna, king mackerel, and tuna. And the resorts are magnificent.

Eleuthera and Harbor Islands

Eleuthera and Harbor Islands have turquoise waves and pink sand. Here, the dark waves of the Atlantic Ocean mingle with the gentle, aqua waves of the Caribbean Sea. Victorian homes line the streets. Horseback riding along the beach at low tide is a popular activity.

Exumas Island

Exumas Island is home to the rich and famous, but few human footprints mar the sand. The island has more than 300 secluded cays. You may see more people on yachts than on the beaches. The natural landscape has few signs of human habitation, but it is easy to spot iguanas, sharks, wild pigs, and stingrays. Deserted island fantasies come true on Exumas.

Cat Island

Cat Island has the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia, which is home to a Franciscan monastery. Nature lovers can explore miles of lush hills and nature trails or enjoy guided nature tours. The Port Howe area has many tourist attractions including the majestic ruins of the famous Deveaux House mansion, Columbus World Centre Museum, Sidney Poitier's childhood home, and a glass bridge over the ocean.

Long Island

Long Island has cliffs lined with cascades of colorful flowers and quaint fishing villages. Its network of caves challenges underground and underwater explorers. Dean's Blue Hole is the deepest underwater sinkhole in the world. Hamilton's Cave has drawings and artifacts from the Lucayan Indians. Nearby Conception Island is deserted and a refuge for rare green turtles, sharks, and lobsters.

Crooked and Acklins Islands

The lush, sparsely populated Crooked and Acklins Islands circle the Bight of Acklins Lagoon. The pair of islands is located in one of the most remote places in the commonwealth. The terrain is dotted with limestone caves, coral gardens, and cliffs. The quiet beaches are short walks away from ruins of cotton plantations.

Great Inagua Island and Little Inagua Island

The secluded Great Inagua Island and Little Inagua Island are home to West Indian flamingos and many exotic birds. Populations of wild goats and turkeys left behind by French explorers outnumber the people. A natural reef blocks ships from landing here, which is keeping the island pristine. Rumors of pirate treasure bring hopeful explorers.

San Salvador Island

San Salvador Island has a breathtaking shoreline and pristine inland lakes. Exotic resorts and 50 dive sites, some offering extreme diving adventures, draw the pampered and the brave. An underwater monument marks the spot where Christopher Columbus is believed to first drop an anchor in the New World. Historic sites include Fortune Hill Plantation, the New World Museum, and Watling's Castle.

Cruise lines own some private resort islands, and 54 islands are for sale.

Schedule a Discovery Stay to explore the islands and check out our incredible community!