The Bahamas is famous for bustling hot spots like Nassau and paradise islands like the Exumas, but scattered across this archipelago nation are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Venture beyond the well-known spots and you’ll be richly rewarded with deserted beaches, fascinating history, and a true get-away-from-it-all tropical vibe. Let’s explore some of the best under-the-radar islands the Bahamas has to offer.
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The Exumas
Stretching south of Nassau, the Exumas are the epitome of a Bahamian escape. Though Great Exuma and Little Exuma attract more tourists, even these islands have an off-the-beaten-path charm. With 100 miles of coastline and dozens of cays to explore, solitude seekers will have no trouble finding their own private piece of paradise.
Long Island
Long Island lives up to its name at 80 miles in length yet just 2 miles across at its widest point. With historic Loyalist settlements, stunning pink and white sand beaches, and very few tourists, Long Island is a true getaway. Check into Stella Maris Resort Club or Cape Santa Maria and soak up the tropical tranquility.
Andros Island
As the largest island in the Bahamas, undeveloped Andros has an adventurous vibe. Three major eco-systems – the lush “Androsian” west, mangrove-filled creek, and barrier reef – attract bonefishers, divers, snorkelers and nature lovers. Stay in small seaside inns and embrace off-grid seclusion.
Mayaguana Island
Mayaguana boasts miles of shoreline with hardly a soul in sight. The island’s population numbers only about 300. Isolation rules here, with most travel by boat or four-wheel-drive vehicle down unpaved roads. Turtles nest on the beaches from April to July. Conch shells litter the empty strands. Blissful tranquility awaits.
Acklins and Crooked Islands
Near the southeastern end of the Bahamian archipelago, Acklins and Crooked islands retain old Caribbean ways. Stunning, secluded beaches – like the 5 miles of pink sand at Mira Por Vos on Crooked – fulfill castaway fantasies. Acklins has bonefishing and snorkeling in its shallow bays. With few amenities, DIY adventuring rules.
Ragged Island
At the southernmost end of the Bahamas, Ragged Island lives up to its remote, rugged reputation. Hiking, fishing, diving, and beaching are the main activities on this slender landmass. Historic Duncan Town, with clapboard houses and stone ruins, adds ghost town allure. With only about 70 residents, solitude is guaranteed.
Cat Island
Cat Island combines stunning natural beauty with historic charm. Lofty Mt. Alvernia – highest point in the Bahamas – offers panoramic views. Gorgeous hikes, diving, fishing and tranquil spots like Hawk’s Nest Resort provide the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Quaint Arthur’s Town harkens back to the island’s loyalist heritage.
San Salvador Island
San Salvador bears the distinction of likely being Christopher Columbus’ first landfall site in the New World. Today, it remains one of the most under-visited islands. Divers love its offshore waters, kayakers explore its coves and inlets, and historians appreciate important Lucayan, plantation, and pirate sites. Stay in tidy seaside cottages.
Rum Cay and Conception Island
These two tiny islands southwest of San Salvador offer quintessential deserted isle experiences. Rum Cay attracts divers and snorkelers with its stunning underwater scenery. Conception is an eastern jumping off point for diving excursions off of Santa Maria Beach. Privately owned and undeveloped, overnight stays require approval.
Best Time to Visit the Hidden Gems
The Bahamas enjoy warm weather year-round, but the ideal months for beach lounging are March through May when high season crowds have left but rainfall is still low. November to February brings slightly larger crowds and higher prices. Summer tends to be hotter, rainier, and more humid – but cheaper.
Getting to the Hidden Gem Islands
Reaching the hidden gems takes commitment but offers big rewards. Most islands can be reached by small plane from Nassau or Florida. Flying is the quickest but priciest option. Ferries provide a more affordable, adventurous way to island-hop, but journeys can be long. Renting a sailboat provides maximum freedom and fun.
Where to Stay
Accommodations on the hidden islands range from small resorts and cottages to bare bones inns. Options include Staniel Cay Villas on the Exumas, Moon Bay Resort on Cat Island, Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros, and Angela’s Starfish House on Mayaguana. Be prepared for a more laid-back, rustic vibe.
Things to Do
Underwater adventures like scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and boating top most visitors’ hidden island bucket lists. Beaching, biking, hiking, kayaking, birding, and beachcombing round out the delightfully unscripted itineraries. Bask in the history of loyalist towns and landfall sites.
Why Visit the Hidden Gems?
Aside from bragging rights for “discovering” under-the-radar gems, these islands offer an authentic old-world Caribbean atmosphere hard to find elsewhere. You’ll enjoy deserted beaches, unspoiled natural areas, a slower pace of life, and a sense of adventure. Get ready to be transported back to a simpler time.
So leave the crowds, glitz, and resort bustle behind. Venture off the beaten path to uncover the tropical jewels that only the most dedicated and daring travelers experience. Let the legendary spirit of the Bahamas wash over you and leave you inspired as it did the great explorers of the past. The hidden gems await – now it’s your turn to unveil their secrets.
Conclusion
For an authentic Bahamian escape, forego the popular hotspots and seek out the country’s lesser-known islands. Away from crowds and resorts, you’ll find deserted beaches, fascinating history, and simple pleasures. Revel in solitude, take your time exploring, and appreciate the easygoing lifestyle. Discover for yourself why it’s worth charting your own course to the hidden gems of the Bahamas.
FAQs
What are some of the best hidden gem islands in the Bahamas?
Some top hidden gems include the Exumas, Long Island, Andros Island, Mayaguana Island, Acklins and Crooked Islands, Ragged Island, Cat Island, San Salvador Island, and Rum Cay and Conception Island.
What are the best months to visit the hidden islands?
The ideal times are March-May when high season crowds have left but rainfall is still low. November-February brings slightly more visitors. Summer can be hot, rainy, and humid but cheaper.
How can you get to the hidden gem islands?
Reaching them takes effort but is rewarding. You can fly from Nassau or Florida, take ferries, or rent a sailboat. Flying is fastest but most expensive. Ferries are more affordable but journeys are long. Boats provide maximum flexibility.
What is there to do on the hidden islands?
Top activities are scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, biking, bird watching, beachcombing, and exploring historical sites. Be prepared for a laidback, rustic vibe.
Why make the effort to visit lesser-known islands?
You’ll enjoy an authentic old Caribbean atmosphere with deserted beaches, unspoiled nature, slower pace, sense of discovery, and adventure. It’s a magical experience reminiscent of a simpler time.