Picture yourself and your significant other walking hand-in-hand on a white sandy beach. The clear blue waters, the cool evening breeze, and the low-tide sweep away your wedding stress and exhaustion. This, and much more, is what a Bahamas honeymoon will offer.
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Is The Bahamas a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
The Bahamas is an excellent honeymoon destination. Comprising over 700 islands, The Bahamas is an island nation in the Caribbean, flaunting the third-largest barrier reef worldwide. Also, the rich Bahamian cultural heritage, emanating from African and European influence, makes it a top tourist destination.
The country’s diverse islands have pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful local traditions, offering the best setting for a romantic honeymoon. The Bahamas has something for every couple, from foodies to adventure enthusiasts and sun bummers. Newlyweds enjoy fine Bahamian dining, vibrant nightlife, fun-filled water sports, and pampering treatment in luxe resorts.
In addition, it’s a short flight to this paradisal destination off the coast of Florida. Hence, the flight rates to The Bahamas are lower than far-flung beach honeymoon destinations.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in The Bahamas?
There are endless activities to do on a honeymoon in The Bahamas. Whether you’re craving an adventure-packed vacation, or a relaxed, laid-back experience, this tropical paradise will serve your needs. Here are engaging activities to have on your bucket list when planning a honeymoon in The Bahamas:
- Lounging and enjoying breathtaking ocean views
- Scuba diving and snorkeling
- Exploring the nightlife
- Kayaking
- Swimming and diving
- Leisurely walks on the beachfront
- Sailing and fishing
- Dining in world-class hotels and restaurants
- Attending Bahamian festivals, such as Junkanoo (New Year’s Festival)
What Is the Best Month to Visit The Bahamas?
November and late April are the best times to visit The Bahamas, as the islands have pleasant weather and low tourist crowds. The Bahamas is a tropical destination, enjoying fine weather (with plenty of sunshine) all year round. However, the country enjoys the best climate from mid-December to mid-April. This is the island nation’s peak season, characterized by huge tourist crowds.
The worst time to visit The Bahamas is between June and November, when the country experiences rampant hurricanes. Also, The Bahamas’ rainy season is from May to November.
Is a Honeymoon in The Bahamas Expensive?
A honeymoon in The Bahamas can be relatively expensive since it’s a sought-after beach honeymoon destination.
The average 7-day honeymoon in The Bahamas costs $5,000 per couple. Accommodation costs range from $150 to $2,000 per night, and you’ll likely spend $10 to $25 per meal. However, the cost of your Bahamian honeymoon is subjective to several factors, including your flight, accommodation, and activity preferences.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in The Bahamas
- Set a realistic budget 6 to 8 months before your honeymoon. Check flight and accommodation costs to your preferred destination and make reservations. You’ll enjoy great deals if you go for your honeymoon during the off-season or flaunt your newlywed status.
- Be flexible with your accommodation options. Luxury resorts will cost you a fortune. Alternatively, choose affordable accommodation options, including mid-range hotels and Airbnb.
- Check out the cheapest modes of transport if you plan to travel within The Bahamas. It’s cheaper to use minibusses and water taxis when visiting neighboring islands.
- Opt for pocket-friendly activities. Activities like beach lounging, hiking, and strolling in local markets are free or cheap. Also, check out local clubs, where the prices are more reasonable if you’re a nightlife enthusiast.
- Go slow on tipping. Most Bahamian restaurants include a 15% gratuity fee in their bills, so you don’t have to give extra tips. Also, avoid overspending in restaurants. Instead, prepare your own meals.
6 Best Islands to Stay On in The Bahamas For Your Honeymoon
The Bahamas is a haven comprising numerous islands. Although most are uninhabited, several Bahamian islands have a paradisal setting for an epic Caribbean honeymoon. Here are the six best islands to stay on during your romantic honeymoon in the Bahamas:
New Providence
Home to The Bahamas’ capital city, Nassau, New Providence, is a tourist hotspot. The island boasts gorgeous white sand beaches, turquoise waters, fine dining, and an exciting shopping scene. New Providence also has various entertainment options, including nightclubs, museums, art galleries, and the nearby Atlantis Casino on Paradise Island.
Activities/Excursions: Snorkeling, diving, bird-watching, shopping, boat rides, attending the Mardi Gras-style New Year’s festival (Junkanoo), and visiting the Dundas Centre for Performing Arts and National Art Gallery
Where to stay: Downtown Nassau, Cable Beach, or Love Beach
Exuma
Flaunting the clearest and the most stunning sapphire-blue waters, Exuma is a series of 365 islands. It also exhibits the Big Major Cay (Pig Beach), where you’ll find the famous swimming pigs, and the Tropical of Cancer Beach (one of the most picturesque Caribbean beaches). In addition, newlyweds enjoy outstanding services in eco-friendly, adult-only, and all-inclusive resorts (like the Sandals Emerald Bay).
Activities/Excursions: Kayaking, island hopping, cruising, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, diving, and lounging
Where to stay: Staniel Cay, Great Exuma, George Town, or Compass Cay
Paradise Island
As the name suggests, Paradise Island offers a paradisal setting for couples looking for exquisite beachfront resorts, vibrant nightlife, and cultural experiences. This magnificent island is just off the shore of Nassau, connected via two bridges at Nassau Harbour. It’s famous for its iconic Atlantis resort, which offers world-class accommodation and recreational facilities, such as water parks, casinos, and walk-in aquariums.
Activities/Excursions: Visiting Aquaventure Water Park and Dolphin Cay, downtown shopping in local craft shops or global luxury brands, swimming, and spa treatment
Where to stay: Cabbage Beach, Paradise Beach, or Cable Beach
Andros
Andros is the largest beach in The Bahamas, featuring a vast and pristine land mass. It’s also home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef, Andros Barrier Reef. Hop on this island to enjoy thrilling outdoor activities and unwind in top-notch private island and beach resorts.
Activities/Excursions: Visiting national and marine parks, boat rides, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling
Where to stay: Andros town, South Andros, Kemps Bay, Behring Point, Mangrove Cay, Calabash Bay, or Mars Bay
Eleuthera
A haven comprising gorgeous pink sand beaches, Eleuthera is a perfect honeymoon destination. Located on The Bahamas’ Out Islands, this Caribbean island contains natural, untamed beauty, fascinating landmarks, and world-class accommodations. You can lodge on a private island, an all-inclusive resort on the oceanfront, or a boutique hotel.
Activities/Excursions: Surfing, swimming, boat rides, exploring nature (caves and blue holes), beach hopping, driving along the Glass Window Bridge
Where to stay: Governor’s Harbour, Colebrooke Dale, Freetown, Upper Bogue, or Gregory town
Grand Bahama Island
One of the best honeymoon destinations, the Grand Bahama Island offers a postcard-perfect setting for a romantic getaway. It’s also renowned for its championship golf courses, one of the largest underwater cave systems, pristine beaches, and luxury resorts.
Activities/Excursions: Visiting Lucayan National Park, eco-adventures, dolphin-watching, kayaking, safari tours, biking, and scuba diving
Where to stay: Freeport, Williams town, Smith Point, or Lucaya
What Is the Best Way to Travel to The Bahamas?
The best way to travel to the Bahamas is by plane. You can take a flight to The Bahamas from a major city in the U.S. Most flights from the U.S. land at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau. Other significant airports include:
- Exuma International Airport – George Town
- Grand Bahama International Airport – Freeport
- Leonard M Thompson International Airport – Marsh Habour
Traveling Within The Bahamas
With over 50 airports in The Bahamas, you can island-hop via air, but other cheaper modes of transport are available, including water taxis, water boats, and minibusses. You can also take a private ferry if staying in a private-island resort.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in The Bahamas?
Various accommodation types are available in The Bahamas, including the following:
- All-inclusive resorts
- Beach resorts
- Four seasons resorts
- Boutique hotels
- Guesthouses on private islands
- Rental villas and cottages
Should You Stay At an All-Inclusive Resort For Your Honeymoon in The Bahamas?
All-inclusive resorts have taken root in The Bahamas, becoming a sought-after accommodation type. Booking an all-inclusive resort entails having your stay, food, drinks, entertainment, and fun activities in one package. However, like everything, an all-inclusive comes with advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
- No extra or surprise costs, especially for activities
- Save on booking time and research
- Cheaper than paying for individual services in luxury hotels
- Adult-only options available
- Stress-free honeymoon itinerary
Cons
- Limited chances to experience local culture and other offerings
- Can be limiting for adventure-centric couples
- The food may not always be great
- May not benefit the local community
6 Local Foods To Try in The Bahamas
- Conch Salad: Uncooked conch (mollusk meat) mixed with vegetables, including cucumbers, tomatoes, green pepper, and celery.
- Bahamian fish stew: Pan-fried fish served with a thick red sauce made by mixing dark roux with spices, onion, tomatoes, and celery.
- Rock lobsters: Clawless lobster served broiled or minced up in salads.
- Baked crab: Crab mixed with bread crumbs, eggs, and seasoning and baked in the crab’s original shell
- Pigeon peas and rice: A popular side dish comprising pork, pigeon peas, rice, celery, thyme, and tomatoes
- Guava duff: A Bahamian dessert prepared by folding guava into pastry dough and boiling it. It’s served with rum custard sauce.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in The Bahamas
A honeymoon in the Bahamas is relaxed. You may want one special outfit for an extravagant night out, but other than that, don’t forget to pack the following:
- Essential documents, including your passport, credit and health insurance cards, and destination information
- Beachwear, including swimsuits, coverups, beach towels, flipflops, hats
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellant, and rash guard
- Light clothes, including shirts, shorts, summer dresses, casual skirts, linen pants, and scarves
- Sandals
- Pijamas and underwear
- Camera, waterproof phone case, charger,
- Snorkeling gear
- Waterproof bags
Is The Bahamas Safe to Visit?
The Bahamas is generally safe to visit. However, crime rates increase during festivals and regattas. Here are general safety precautions when visiting the Bahamas for your honeymoon:
- Avoid leaving drinks unattended.
- Avoid flaunting jewelry and other valuables.
- Avoid walking alone, especially away from hotels.
- Be alert in crowded places.
- Be careful when traveling after dusk away from major tourist areas.
- Don’t resist in case of a robbery attack.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit The Bahamas?
You don’t need a visa to visit The Bahamas for up to 90 days as a U.S. resident. However, you must have a valid passport for your entire stay. Also, you must declare currencies or other valuable possessions exceeding $10,000 during your entry or exit.
Bonus Tips For Your Bahamas Honeymoon
- Although English is the national language, most locals speak the Bahamian dialect.
- The official currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD). 1USD =1BSD at the time of writing. U.S. dollars are typically accepted in all establishments.
- ATMs are widely available but scarce in isolated islands.
- Cars drive on the left side of the road.