The Bahamas archipelago consists of more than 700 islands and islets and approximately 2,400 coral reefs, scattered across the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida and north of Cuba. Among the best-known islands and island groups are New Providence, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Andros, Eleuthera, the Abacos, the Exumas, Cat Island, Long Island, the Bimini Islands, and San Salvador.

Known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and spectacular underwater landscapes, the Bahamas attract both travelers seeking relaxation and scuba diving enthusiasts.

The Abacos are renowned for sailing and charming colonial villages such as Hope Town. The archipelago offers a relaxed setting, beautiful beaches, and a strong maritime culture. It is a favorite destination for sailing enthusiasts.

The largest island in the Bahamas, Andros is a true natural sanctuary. It is famous for its barrier reef, one of the longest in the world and ranked among the top three longest barrier reefs, as well as its pine forests and wetlands. Less developed for tourism, it attracts travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Grand Bahama offers a balance between nature and modern amenities. It is home to the city of Freeport, local markets, and vast natural areas such as Lucayan National Park. The island is known for its mangroves, caves, and long, peaceful beaches.

Located north of Nassau, the Berry Islands form a small archipelago made up of nearly 30 islands and cays, most of which are uninhabited. Surrounded by shallow turquoise waters, they are known for their white-sand beaches, sport fishing, and marine-rich waters. Great Harbour Cay, the largest island in the archipelago, and Chub Cay are home to most of the local population and tourist facilities. The Berry Islands are also home to two famous private islands in the north dedicated to cruise passengers: Great Stirrup Cay, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, and Little Stirrup Cay, better known as CocoCay, operated by Royal Caribbean.

The Bimini Islands lie at the western edge of the archipelago and are known for their crystal-clear waters, quiet beaches, and sport fishing. Very popular for day trips from Florida, they offer a peaceful and authentic atmosphere, ideal for relaxing, scuba diving, or discovering the local marine life.

Long and narrow, Eleuthera features spectacular cliffs, pink-sand beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere. The island is appreciated for its natural beauty and colorful small villages. It appeals to travelers looking for tranquility and unspoiled scenery.

The Exumas are renowned for their turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and wild islands. Popular with nature lovers and those seeking tranquility, they offer an ideal setting for relaxing, swimming with the famous swimming pigs, or exploring pristine coral reefs.

Long Island is known for its contrasting landscapes, with rugged cliffs along the eastern coast and peaceful beaches on the west. It is home to the famous Dean's Blue Hole, one of the deepest blue holes in the world. With relatively few visitors, the island offers an authentic and wild experience, ideal for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

The administrative and tourist heart of the Bahamas, New Providence is home to the capital Nassau. The island combines colonial heritage, luxury hotels, white-sand beaches, and a lively nightlife. It is the country's main gateway and offers a dynamic atmosphere while retaining its Caribbean charm.

Connected to Nassau on New Providence by two bridges, Paradise Island is famous for its prestigious resorts, particularly the iconic Atlantis. It offers beautiful beaches, elegant marinas, and numerous recreational activities. Very popular with visitors, it provides a luxurious, family-friendly setting surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Bahamas.

San Salvador is famous for being the place where Christopher Columbus is believed to have landed in 1492. The island remains largely unspoiled, with white-sand beaches, impressive cliffs, and pristine nature. It attracts travelers seeking tranquility, history, and authentic scenery.

The Bahamas are home to several private islands and cays developed by major cruise lines to welcome their passengers in a tropical setting. These ports of call generally offer long white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, lagoons, restaurants, and numerous water activities, allowing passengers to enjoy a relaxing day without leaving the destination.

Among the best known is CocoCay, located in the Berry Islands and developed by Royal Caribbean under the name Perfect Day at CocoCay. The island combines beaches, pools, relaxation areas, and water attractions, including a large water park. Castaway Cay, owned by Disney Cruise Line and located in the Abacos, offers a more family-oriented atmosphere with beaches reserved for passengers, water activities, and spaces inspired by the Disney universe.

Other cruise lines also have their own private destinations. Half Moon Cay, also known as Little San Salvador, welcomes ships from Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line. The island is particularly appreciated for its beaches and relatively unspoiled natural environment. Great Stirrup Cay, in the Berry Islands, is Norwegian Cruise Line's private destination, offering beaches, water activities, and excursions to explore the tropical landscapes of the Bahamas.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, located south of Bimini in Bahamian waters, is the private island of MSC Cruises. Formerly an industrial site used for sand extraction, it was completely redeveloped by the cruise line to become a tourist destination integrated into a marine reserve. Its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, water activities, and iconic lighthouse are among the main attractions of this port of call.

These private islands offer visitors facilities specifically designed for cruise passengers while allowing them to enjoy the tropical climate, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Bahamas.

The Bahamas are among the world's top diving destinations thanks to their crystal-clear waters and exceptional visibility. Coral reefs are home to abundant tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. Beginner divers can enjoy shallow, calm sites that are perfect for a first underwater experience.

For thrill-seekers, the Bahamas are famous for shark diving. At Tiger Beach, off Grand Bahama, divers can observe tiger sharks in their natural environment. Other sites offer encounters with reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, and nurse sharks.

The archipelago also offers unique experiences such as exploring underwater caves and blue holes, particularly around Andros. These spectacular natural formations attract experienced divers from around the world. Protected marine parks, such as those in the Exumas, help preserve the area's rich biodiversity.

The Bahamas are easily accessible by air from Europe, the United States, and Canada. Most international flights arrive at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, often with a connection in Miami, New York, or London. Direct flights are also available from several major North American cities.

The Bahamas can also be reached by boat, particularly by cruise ship or ferry from Florida. Once there, domestic flights and ferries make it possible to travel between the different islands of the archipelago.

Taking a cruise to the Bahamas is a very popular way to explore the archipelago. Many itineraries depart from Florida, particularly Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral, about a 1-hour drive from Orlando, and call at Nassau, Paradise Island, or the Exumas. Cruises allow travelers to visit several islands in just a few days while enjoying the comfort of the ship and onboard activities.

A valid passport is required to travel to the Bahamas, including the Bimini Islands. If you transit through the United States, you must meet the specific entry requirements.