The subtropical Bahamas, where turquoise waters flow along miles of white sand beaches, include more than 2,000 cays, islets and rocks. Of the approximately 700 islands, 30 of the largest ones are inhabited. Beginning 50 miles ( 80 km ) from the Florida coast, The Bahamas form a 760 mile ( 1,223 km ) arc through the Atlantic, creating a natural barrier across the eastern gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. The island of Bimini is closest to Florida, while the southernmost island of Inagua, is 60 miles ( 97 km ) from Haiti.
The two most popular tourist destinations in The Bahamas are the city of Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. The islands' capital, Nassau, on New Providence Island, is rich in colonial history and charm and offers varied opportunities for sports activities, shopping and sightseeing. Prestigious Paradise Island, linked by entry and exit bridges to Nassau, is a playground of the rich. Freeport, the modern resort-residential complex on Grand Bahama Island, is more cosmopolitan and sports oriented than Nassau. Grand Bahama was developed more recently than Nassau and has become a favored resort, due in part to its nearness to Florida. About 80 percent of the people vacationing in the Bahamas are from the United states.
The Out Islands, known the world over for game fishing, scuba diving, sailing, pristine beaches and emerald blue seas, extend as far as you can see. There are resorts in areas noted for their lack of commercial development, and where only the silver-top thatch palms and flamingoes claim residence. The principal Out Islands are Abaco, Andros, Bimini, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Exuma and Long Island. Abaco has naturally protected waters and dozens of offshore cays ( pronounced keys ) that make them a favorite with yachting and fishing enthusiasts.Here there are excellent marinas, guides and boats for hire.
Just off the island of Eleuthera, with its picturesque little villages and exclusive resorts, are the charming settlements of Harbour Island, with its pink sandy beaches, Spanish Wells, which in the old days served as a watering hole for Spanish galleons. The Exumas have many cays, most of which can be reached only by boat.
The trade winds ensure fine sailing conditions all year; boats and equipment for sailing, parasailing, fishing, water skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and spear fishing can be rented from charter firms at the major marinas and from the docks of many waterfront hotels. Hotels that offer parasailing are found in Nassau and Paradise Island; Freeport and Lucaya, Grand Bahama Island; and Cockburn Town, San Salvador Island.
An informative publication for those interested in bareboat charters is the " Yachtsman's Guide to The Bahamas, " available at mant yachting supply storesin The Bahamas. The 1 or 2 hour scuba diving lessons offered throughout the islands are usually not enough preparation for the sport; you should take a complete course in advance. One of the best places to learn diving is at the Underwater Explorers Society ( UNEXSO ), in the Grand Bahama's Port Lucaya area, home base of a prominent society of diving experts.
Those who prefer indoor recreation will find nightclubs and casinos on New Providence, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama. Hotel nightclubs and restaurants usually sponsor dancing and after-dinner entertainment.
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