Exuma and Cays, Bahamas Guide

Across the Straits of Florida, just 50 miles from Miami begins the 120,000 square miles of ocean lightly scattered with 2,400 islands known collectively as the Bahamas. This diverse group of islands provides limitless vacation possibilities for young and old alike. The low-lying limestone and coral islets (Cat Island boasts the highest point at 207 feet) have a history rich in British tradition and on July 10, 1973 became the free and sovereign Commonwealth of the Bahamas, ending 325 years of British rule.

The two main cities of Nassau and Freeport are on two of the smaller islands in the chain. The capital city of Nassau on New Providence Island boasts lively casinos, resorts (many on adjacent Paradise Island), shopping, and is the center of government and commerce. Cruise ships make Nassau and Freeport, Grand Bahama Island regular stops on their Caribbean routes. Accommodations in each city range from first class resorts to small family-run inns. Nightlife, water sports, golf, tennis, fishing and family activities make these two islands a favorite vacation destination for travelers seeking a tropical resort atmosphere. Grand Bahama features the Dolphin Experience where you can swim in the open water with trained dolphins.

The other populated islands and cays are known as the Out Islands. Eclectic visitors, towns and islanders make these remote islands the Bahamas’ best-kept secrets. They are not hard to get to and your efforts are well rewarded with deserted, powdery white sand beaches (pink sand sparkles on Eleuthera and Harbour Island) rimmed with coconut palms and causerina pines. Peace and solitude, the hallmark of the Out Islands, is reflected in their friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Abacos is hailed as some of the finest yacht cruising in the world and is the northernmost island group in the Bahamas. Annual billfish tournaments, sailing and diving are Abaco’s claim to fame.

Land of water, sea of life-Andros, the Bahamas largest island is full of holes and inhabited by mysterious creatures, both in the trees and under water. Snorkelers and divers explore the island’s blue holes and underwater caves. Go bird-watching to see pink flamingos or enjoy world-class bonefishing at one of the many fishing camps throughout the island.

Bimini, a favorite of many celebrities, hosts big game fishing tournaments and is a great getaway for those who just want to relax and leave the world behind. Enjoy Hemingway memorabilia and laze away the days on your own white sand beach. No shopping, nightlife, or casinos here, just Out Island charm at its finest.

Often overlooked, but so perfect a spot, Cat Island offers a few small resorts, excellent diving and water sports, 17th century pirate history, and secluded beaches for the road-weary traveler.

Long and skinny, Eleuthera’s 100 miles are some of the most developed in the Out Islands. Off the northern coast lies Harbour Island and Spanish Wells, two favorites for vacationers. A comfortable place to enjoy white sand beaches and crystal clear water.

The Exumas are a sailor’s paradise. These 350 little cays are some of the most unspoiled in the Bahamas. Enjoy bonefishing, annual sailing regattas and maybe your own private island.

Long Island extends 60 miles north and south dotted by small towns and innumerable nooks and crannies worth exploring. There are several large resorts, golf, diving, sailing, fishing, lovely deserted beaches, two airports, and that Out Island friendly hospitality.

San Salvador maintains the lookout on the Atlantic as the easternmost island. Home to a few resorts, development has largely passed this lovely island by. Superb diving, island exploring, beachcombing and biking will make your stay memorable.

The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays located in the Atlantic Ocean, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The islands were originally inhabited by the Lucayan people, a peaceful indigenous tribe believed to have migrated from South America.

In 1492, Christopher Columbus stumbled upon the islands during his first voyage to the New World. He named the islands “Baja Mar” meaning “shallow sea” in Spanish. However, the Spanish did not establish a permanent settlement on the islands and it wasn’t until the mid-17th century that the Bahamas became a popular destination for European explorers and colonizers.

In the early 1600s, the British claimed the islands and established the first permanent settlement on the island of Eleuthera. The island was named “Eleuthera” which means “freedom” in Greek, as it was a safe haven for British Puritans seeking religious freedom. The British also brought African slaves to the islands to work on cotton and tobacco plantations, leading to a diverse population of European, African, and indigenous peoples.

During the 18th century, the Bahamas became a popular hideout for pirates, most notably the infamous Blackbeard. The islands’ location and shallow waters made it an ideal spot for pirates to hide and attack passing ships. However, the British Navy eventually cracked down on piracy in the region and the Bahamas became a Crown colony in 1718.

In the 19th century, the Bahamas saw a significant increase in its economy with the growth of the sponge industry and the establishment of a lucrative salt trade. The islands also became a popular stop for American ships, leading to a strong cultural and economic influence from the United States.

In the mid-20th century, the Bahamas gained independence from Britain and became a sovereign nation in 1973. Today, the Bahamas is a popular tourist destination known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture. The islands’ economy relies heavily on tourism, with millions of visitors each year.

Despite its tumultuous history of colonization, piracy, and slavery, the Bahamas has emerged as a thriving nation with a unique blend of cultural influences. From its indigenous roots to its modern-day tourist industry, the Bahamas continues to evolve and attract visitors from around the world to its beautiful islands.