18 Best Beaches in The Bahamas
By Banita Sadhra on 27th April, 2023
The Bahamas comprises over 700 islands and is one of the Caribbean’s most popular island vacation destinations. From the pink coastline to the rocky shores, The Bahamas has an array of beautiful beaches offering picturesque views and silky soft sand. To make your vacation planning easier, we’ve selected our top 18 best beaches in the Bahamas to visit.
Cable Beach
Cable Beach is a Nassau public beach and is famed for its golden sands and water sports options. The Bahamas beach is lined with restaurants, resorts, and bars to indulge in whilst enjoying The Bahamas sun. The beachside bars also offer crafted beer for your tastebuds to go wild.
Expect to see tropical ocean views, glimmering blue waters, and golden sand. Get involved in fun water activities; jump on a jet ski and ride the waves, or dive underwater and see majestic marine life. If you’re feeling extra adventurous get involved in the Sunset Camel Tour available on the beach or enjoy the 18-hole golf course with spacious greenery around you! The perfect beach for the whole family to enjoy and have fun together.
Pink Sands Beach
Pink Sands Beach is one of Eleuthera’s most visited beaches in the Bahamas. The beach’s name comes from the pink sand created by foraminifera, which are tiny marine creatures that produce a red pigment. The Bahamian beach is 3 miles long and is popular amongst tourists offering amazing Instagram-worthy pictures! In March 2005, Pink Sands Beach was named the best sand beach on the Island of The Bahamas.
There are a number of resorts, and restaurants available for you to visit and the local town is great for you to enjoy the nightlife in the evenings. During your beach day, why not take a trip underwater and see the marine life or take a dip in the crystal clear waters? Make sure to enjoy the signature cocktails at the beachfront bars and book a table at Acquapazza Wine Bar & Ristorante. If you love the color pink, then Pink Sands Beach is definitely worth a visit and is one of the best beaches in the Bahamas.
Saunders Beach
Saunders Beach is a fun family Bahamian beach located between Nassau and Cable Beach. The beach offers white soft sand and aqua-marine waters which is ideal for paddling, swimming, and snorkeling. For the little people, there is a playground nearby, perfect for the kids if they need a break from the sea and the sand.
There is also a local gas station near the beach, where you’re able to purchase snacks and drinks to enjoy whilst sunbathing. The beach is known for being relaxing and quiet, so taking a beach day here will definitely be worth it!
Pig Beach
Located on Big Major Cay, Pig Beach gets its name from the pigs that live along the Bahamas beach and splash in the water. Around 20 pigs called the beach home and you can experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of swimming with the pigs.
To get to this unique beach you will need to travel by a private plane, boat, or ferry. The beach also offers soft sand and crystal clear waters, letting you have a chance to have fun swimming with the pigs. The locals will provide you with food so you’re able to feed the pigs when you’re in the water with them. So are you ready to experience the unique Pig Beach? This is the perfect beach for adults to enjoy.
Cape Santa Maria Beach, Long Island
Cape Santa Maria Beach in Long Island offers majestic views and is known for being a romantic beach for couples if you’re wanting a little more seclusion. The powdery white beach stretches over 4 miles and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Make sure to bring your swimming gear and enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in the calm waters.
If you’re feeling a little hungry why not try fresh conch fritters with an ice-cold coconut rum at the local bar? This is a perfect beach for anyone who is wanting to relax away from the hustle and bustle.
Junkanoo Beach
This beautiful white stretch of sand is found in the city of Nassau on the island of New Providence. It’s the largest Bahamas island in terms of its population and the beach is only a five-minute walk from the cruise port. Anchor yourself on a beach bed under the palm trees and enjoy The Bahamas sun.
This wonderful family beach offers easy access to the town and has many fun activities for everyone to get involved in. Looking for adventure? Have a go at kayaking or enjoy scuba diving tours in the crystal clear waters. If you fancy a drink on the beach make sure to visit the popular bars; Pirate Republic Brewing or Senor Frogs for signature cocktails and coconut rum tipples. Why not look around at the local shops and buy presents for your family members back home? Make sure to visit the different restaurants and enjoy the delicious fresh Caribbean dishes.
Gold Rock Beach
Gold Rock Beach is located on the island of Grand Bahama offering aqua-marine waters and soft white sand. The beach is located in the Lucayan National Park and is a secluded beach with beautiful panoramic views. If you’re wanting a quiet beach choice, Gold Rock Beach is the one for you. The beach is famous for its low tide letting you walk slowly along the shallow water in a tropical paradise scenery. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling kit and dive underwater to see the vibrant marine life.
Across the road from the beach the famous Lucayan Caverns – the world’s longest underground cave system. If you want a break from the sun, explore the caves and see what they have to offer.
Rainbow Bay Beach
Between Gregory Town and Governor’s Harbour Airport, Rainbow Bay Beach is one of the most visited beaches in The Bahamas. The tide is always calm and the water warm, so you can get involved in the fun water activities at the beach. Enjoy snorkeling under the water and swimming among the waves!
Fancy a picnic on the beach? There are many picnic tables for you to enjoy a spot for lunch. You will also be able to relax under the palm trees and listen to the relaxing sounds of the waves.
Cabbage Beach
While Cabbage Beach is situated in close proximity to resorts, it’s important to note that this particular stretch of coastline is freely accessible to the public, without any admission fees. This beach stands out as one of the most popular destinations in the Nassau area.
This cherished shoreline is meticulously maintained by both locals and tourists, ensuring a pristine environment free from litter, with well-kept sand that provides a comfortable walking experience.
The inviting waters at Cabbage Beach are a brilliant shade of blue and crystal clear, making it an excellent location for snorkeling to observe the underwater world, including marine life and flora. Even on bustling days, the sand remains undisturbed enough to maintain the sea’s clarity.
Churchill Beach
Churchill Beach consistently earns its reputation as one of the finest beach destinations in the Bahamas. With its expansive powder-soft sand stretching nearly 7 miles, it offers abundant room for relaxation. The presence of palm trees along the shoreline provides pockets of natural shade, although it’s wise to have sunscreen on hand.
Churchill Beach affords visitors the luxury of enjoying a serene escape, even during peak periods when it tends to be bustling, particularly from December to April. The beach’s generous dimensions cater to a variety of beach experiences. Whether you seek tranquil moments by the seaside or opportunities for surfing or diving in the turquoise waters, you’ll find ideal spots to fulfill your desires. Plus, the convenience of multiple refreshment vendors ensures that you won’t go hungry or thirsty during your visit.
Coco Plum Beach
Coco Plum Beach stands as a serene haven, perfect for a day of unwinding and tranquility. Although it’s considered part of Great Exuma Island, this charming beach in the Bahamas is nestled just off the coast, known as Stocking Island. To reach this hidden gem, a brief 5-minute boat ride is required.
This modest extra effort involved in reaching Coco Plum Beach contributes to its allure, as it effectively keeps the crowds at bay. Upon arrival, you might discover the beach to be virtually deserted. The beach’s shallow, crystal-clear water creates an ideal setting for wading and leisurely swims, making it an excellent choice even for families with children, given the near absence of strong currents. During low tide, the opportunity to explore the nearby barrier islands presents itself, enhancing the experience.
Peterson Cay National Park
Peterson Cay National Park, despite its small size, holds a special place in the hearts of locals, primarily due to the captivating coral reefs just off the beach. Situated on the sheltered side of a diminutive island, this cay often remains pleasantly unpopulated, allowing the local wildlife to flourish. This unique national park provides an opportunity to closely observe the majestic creatures in the blue waters.
For those seeking leisure, bird watching is a favored activity on the sandy shores, as various bird species are known to hunt for fish, insects, and seeds. Additionally, you can witness agile crabs scuttling along the beach, but it’s essential to exercise caution and refrain from touching, picking up, or disturbing them. Alternatively, if you’re inclined, you can snorkel and delve into the vibrant reef ecosystem protected by the park, offering an enriching underwater exploration.
Treasure Cay Beach
Treasure Cay Beach is a radiant, untouched gem, almost like a paradise on Earth. Picture soft, pristine white sands that feel like a dream beneath your feet, and glistening, pearly blue water caressing the shore. What makes this even more enchanting is the fact that very few travellers venture to the Abacos, so the likelihood of having this idyllic haven all to yourself is quite high.
Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find Coco Beach Bar & Grill, a locally renowned establishment (known by a select few tourists) celebrated for its unique Bahamian drink specialties.
Tahiti Beach
Situated on Great Abaco Island, Tahiti Beach sets itself apart from its picturesque namesake in French Polynesia with its tranquil stretch and enticing features. One standout attraction is the presence of a floating restaurant and bar.
Moreover, the beautiful water in this area is warm and shallow, ideal for leisurely floating or sunbathing while being immersed in the gentle ocean waves. During low tide, you may even have the delightful opportunity to come across sand dollars and starfish in this enchanting coastal haven.
Tropic Of Cancer Beach
While this beach may lack the usual amenities, resorts, or beach bars, it holds a unique and symbolic distinction as the beach offers a beautiful stretch and pleasing backdrop. Tropic of Cancer Beach, also known as Pelican Beach, resides on the Tropic of Cancer itself, the northernmost circle of latitude on Earth where the sun can be directly overhead.
This phenomenon occurs during the June solstice when the Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the sun. To the south of this line, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, lie the tropical zones. Tropic of Cancer Beach, located in Little Exuma, serves as a popular destination for travelers and was even the filming location for the first installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean film series.
Surfer’s Beach
Surfer’s Beach is a well-kept secret within the surfing community. Many coastal stretches in the Bahamas often feature water that’s too shallow or calm for board enthusiasts, which makes this shoreline truly exceptional.
The period from October through April boasts the most favorable weather conditions for a range of activities on the Bahamas ocean. Surfer’s Beach remains relatively undeveloped, flying under the radar for many tourists and even some locals. Consequently, crowd levels tend to remain delightfully low. If you relish the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the coastline, there’s no better place than this private beach in the Bahamas.
Rose Island Beach
Rose Island, located just a few miles away from Paradise Island, is a petite and virtually uninhabited piece of land that has surged in popularity as a pristine beach sanctuary.
This coastal gem lacks official residents and even roadways, making it an unspoiled natural haven for a day of seaside enjoyment. While it’s possible to visit the island independently, note that there are no regular ferries, so it’s advisable to opt for an organized excursion or ferry ride to ensure your safe return to Paradise’s shores after your day.
During quieter periods, Rose Island exudes a tranquil and restful ambiance, ideal for engaging in outdoor activities such as snorkeling. However, during the peak tourist season, from December to April, don’t be surprised if you stumble upon beachside gatherings and parties.
Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach, situated on Eleuthera Island, epitomizes serenity. Here, you can recline in your beach chair and observe the gentle waves caressing the shore, allowing you to rediscover tranquility, and parts of yourself that often get lost in the everyday chaos of life.
Accessing the beach may require a 4×4 vehicle due to the rugged road conditions, but once you arrive, the effort is undoubtedly rewarded, especially when you’re greeted by the sweet scent of the sea breeze. When embarking on your journey to Lighthouse Beach, it’s wise to pack all the essentials for the day, including food and a well-stocked cooler filled with refreshing drinks on ice.
We hope you have found the perfect Bahamian beach for your relaxing beach day on this Caribbean island. The Bahamas beaches are perfect for family-friendly vacations and all have their own unique features, so your beach vacation will always be remembered. Why not visit all our suggested beaches and tell us the best beaches in The Bahamas you have visited?
Destination Magazines