Long gone is the era of well-crafted itineraries, today, travellers are all about spontaneous travel and impromptu plans – adding to the overall excitement. And why not?! We got in touch with a nomad who lives for the moment and spoke about their latest travels in the beautiful Bahamas…
Bahamas Beaches
Where to Stay
Enjoy your stay in Bahamas
The Bahamas is not exclusively cheap in terms of travel or living, but if you know where to look you’re in luck. There are a few islands that are somewhat untouched by the prying eyes of abundant tourists, but if you look hard enough, you can find accommodation here to be extremely cheap – plus you won’t have to fight for a space on the beach!
Such islands include Cat Island, Andros, Abaco, Long Island, Crooked Island and Inagua, where you can experience total R&R amid the Bahamian beauty. On these islands, you’ll find that seafood is fairly cheap – and of course delicious – helping you to keep your pockets fuller for longer. It’s worth noting however that if there’s a popular upcoming festival, the islands prices will shoot up in anticipation of partygoers visiting to celebrate – so it’s best to avoid these dates if you’re trying to travel on the cheap.
when to visit the bahamas
Best time to visit Bahamas
The best time of year to visit the Bahamas if you want to soak up the Caribbean sun, is between the months of November to April when the weather is pleasantly warm yet with less rain than the summer months. The average temperature is around 24°C, which is ideal if you want to explore without overheating!
What to do
Want to explore the island without spending a small fortune on attraction tickets and tours? We’ve rounded up some of the best things to see and do in the Bahamas, that won’t cost you so much as a penny.
Pristine Beaches
Pristine Beaches in Bahamas
The Bahamas is brimming with exotic white-sand beaches, so you’ll have your fair share of time spent on the sand. As a backpacker, you have total freedom and flexibility with regards to where you go and when, but we have a few favourite beaches we’re sure you won’t want to miss while you’re here. A few of these best public, free beaches include Cabbage beach, Cable Beach, Coco Plum beach, Lighthouse beach, Pink Sands beach, Jaws beach and beyond.
Queen’s Staircase
Queen’s Staircase in Bahamas
If you want a change of scenery beyond azure blue waters (we could personally stare at them for weeks on end!), then you need to visit Queen’s Staircase. This historical landmark in Nassau – the capital city of Bahamas – consists of 65 steps, carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 1700s. If you like history and culture, this attraction is free to visit – however you can hire someone if you wish to know more about the history of this place.
John Watling’s Distillery
JOHN WATLING’S DISTILLERY
If you fancy a tipple, take a free independent or guided tour of the John Watling’s Distillery. You’ll see barrels of rum lined up and discover the processes of rum making. There is a minimal charge for tasting their in-house rum, where the waiter explains the art of tasting and how to do it properly!
Port Lucaya Marketplace
PORT LUCAYA MARKETPLACE
It’s one of the top open-air marketplaces in Freeport, which you can visit while you are in the Bahamas. There are many opportunities for dining, entertainment and shopping within this bustling market; and in addition to local shops, there are boutiques too, which offer something different yet local. If you get tired of all the exploration, take a seat and unwind in the bars or diners within the market.
Dean’s Blue Hole
Dean’s Blue Hole
If you’re after a dive-in experience in paradise, you’ll find one at the Long Island area of the Bahamas. Dean’s Blue Hole is believed to be the deepest blue hole in the world, where the water plunges to a depth of 663 feet (202 metres) sure to test your adrenaline! Not into watersports? Lace up and go for a climb up one of the rugged cliffs, the effort will be worth it when you’re rewarded with breathtaking views at the top.
How to Explore
Explore Bahamas
Another way of living like a local on your Bahamas holidays is by using the local transportation. If you want to explore the roots of the place, interact with locals and join them on the public commute – you’ll soon get talking about the best places to visit unknown to tourists.
The cheapest and easiest modes of transport in the Bahamas are:
Jitney
This bus has a capacity of around 30 people, making it a spacious way to travel from A to B. However, these are not available on all of the islands, so be sure to check in advance.
Water Taxis
Water Taxis in Bahamas
The Bahamas houses around 700 islands, and taking the road can rack up some serious dough. There are plenty of ferries available with a variety of different routes – the prices vary depending on your destination, availability of seats and age.
Taxi
Taxi services in Bahamas
If you can’t flag down a Jitney, taxis are the next best way to travel if you’re not comfortable with driving in another country. The rates may vary but be careful as some journey costs may be fixed.
Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Bahamas Holiday
Holidays to Bahamas
Seafood is cheap and fresh, so you’ll want to indulge in local food at local eateries as much as you can.
Don’t get in a vehicle with strangers, especially at night time
You can camp at the beach if you don’t fancy renting accommodation.
If you want to explore nearby places, hire/buy a bike for a cheaper way to travel.
Travel off-season, avoid crowds and lap up the island’s natural beauty yourself!
Inspired by this carefree way of travelling? You can catch a last-minute flight to this Caribbean Isle for fantastic prices when you book with Crystal Travel. Explore our deals today and call to tailor your backpacking adventure…
Are you ready to explore the wonderland of the Caribbean? Palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and lush rainforests with swinging palm trees spring to mind when we think about a trip to the Caribbean. You’ll find all this plus more across this diverse collection of sun-kissed islands. It’s a tropical paradise peppered with spectacular landscape. Friendly people and their primal culture keep you coupled with locals and your Caribbean escape can be as lively as you want it to be.
This far-stretching region encircles an area of around 1,063,000 square miles. It has a population of over 43,600,000 citizens as per the census retrieved in 2017. The inhabitants of the Caribbean Islands are known as Caribbean and West Indian. The region has 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories. Visitors find themselves getting pulled into ascetic land with captivating attractions. It undoubtedly caters to never-ending and diverse leisure options for visitors. A holiday in the Caribbean allows escaping from everything.
From Santo Domingo, Havana, Port-au-Prince, San Juan, Kingston, and Santiago de Cuba to Spanish Town, Georgetown, and Paramaribo among others, every metropolitan area in the Caribbean can cast a spell on you with a memory for a lifetime. Even now, Caribbean seems intimidating, bewildering and incomprehensible for international visitors. It’s high time to break the myth with an easy and affordable trip to the Caribbean Islands. We have hand-picked the finest Caribbean destinations. Explore some of the region’s exclusive islands for this section. Scroll more and select your favourite from the top 15 Caribbean Islands to visit in 2021.
1. Grand Cayman – Cayman Islands
Located in the western Caribbean Sea, Cayman Islands is an autonomous British Overseas Territory. It encompasses three islands. Grand Cayman is the largest among three islands of Cayman Islands. Lively coral reefs and sun-kissed beaches are the hallmarks of Grand Cayman as well as cruise-ship port and colonial-era ruins among others can be your holiday goals.
Why Go To Grand Cayman
If you love water sports, Grand Cayman is amazingly crafted for you. There’re plenty of recreation opportunities in Grand Cayman. Coral reefs, snorkelling, sailing and swimming across tranquil beaches are vacation goals. It houses scenic picnic areas, historic exhibits and great shopping and dining complexes. Click photos of turtles and starfish playing on the beach.
When to go:
December to April is the peak travel season.
Key information: Nearest Airport: Owen Roberts International Airport (IATA: GCM) Currency: Cayman Islands Dollar Languages: English, Jamaican patois and other Caymanian dialects Average Temperature: 23 °C – 32 °C
Sited on English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda, Nelson’s Dockyard is a restored paradise. It’s known for sandy beaches, marina and museum displaying cultural heritage. You can relish whimsical charm and explore elegant colonial buildings. Some major advantage includes several strategic locations. Travel to rich island colonies through major sailing routes.
Why Go To Nelson’s Dockyard
Explore naval heritage from the 1700s–1800s, restored buildings and museums exhibiting naval history. It serves hands-on options for dining and shopping. Enjoy its vibrant nightlife at restaurants, bars and others.
When to go?
February to April is the best time to go to Nelson’s Dockyard
Key information: Nearest Airport: VC Bird International Airport (IATA: ANU) Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar Languages: English Average Temperature: 21 °C – 32 °C
3. Grand Anse Beach – Grenada
It’s really amazing to celebrate holidays at harbours cascading waters amid lush surroundings. Hover into the ultimate holiday space nestled with Georgian buildings and colourful homes. Grand Anse Beach is one of the major tourist attractions in Grenada. It is located across the calm islands of the Caribbean region. Make sure you’ve done your booking from a trusted gateway to seek support if fly to Grenada. It makes you feel relaxed so that you can enjoy the romantic atmosphere on beautiful beaches.
Why Go To Grand Anse Beach
To celebrate your holiday at one of the most romantic places in Grenada. Thousands of tourists who have been to the Caribbean region find sun-kissed seashore of Grand Anse Beach the most lovable place. It features adventurous water sports and serene atmosphere near the seashore. Witness amazing rainforest, lakes, parks and nature reserve among others.
When to go?
February-April is the peak time to visit Grenada
Key information: Nearest Airport: Maurice Bishop International Airport (IATA: GND) Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar Languages: English, Grenadian and French among others Average Temperature: 23 °C – 32 °C
4. Abaco Islands – Bahamas
Can you imagine, how romantic sunrise and sunset are on secluded beaches? Come and relish at long-stretched beaches, marinas and navigable waters at Abaco Islands. You’ll find heavenly calmness served with an exceptional thrill in the Bahamas. Explore underwater caves and colourful coral reefs. Great Guana Cay, Pelican Cays and many Sea Parks can be your holiday goals.
Why Go To Abaco Islands
If you love watching underwater caves, Abaco Islands is for you. Colourful coral reefs and snorkelling across isolated white-sand beaches are truly mesmeric. Explore scenic beaches, harbours, marinas along with relaxed barrier isle and quaint town. Tahiti Beach, Elbow Cay, Man-O-War Cay, Green Turtle Cay and Hope Town are popular tourist places.
When to go?
December to April is the best time to visit Abaco Islands – Bahamas
Key information: Nearest Airport: Leonard M. Thompson International Airport (IATA: MHH) Currency: United States Dollar and the Bahamian dollar Languages: English Average Temperature: 18 °C – 32 °C
Known for sun-soaked beaches, Saint Thomas Island offers amazing snorkelling spots. Its calm and clear waters make gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea. Spend holidays across marine theme parks, touch tanks, ship ports and underwater observatories. It’s truly awesome with extensive leisure options. Experience horseback riding and scuba diving. Great food at high-end restaurants and shopping will make your holiday memorable. Admire the island’s panoramic views from Skyride aerial tram.
Why Go To St. Thomas
Let’s have a holiday at serene beaches popular for swimming, snorkelling and more. Relish harbour views and explore ocean-centric attractions like aquariums and others. Ride gondola to lookout areas. Magens Bay, Coral World Ocean Park, Blackbeard’s Castle, SkyRide to Paradise Point and Bolongo among others are major tourist highlights.
When to go?
December to March is the best time to visit St. Thomas – U.S. Virgin Islands
Key information: Nearest Airport: Cyril E. King Airport (IATA: STT) Currency: United States Dollar Languages: English, French and Spanish among others Average Temperature: 24 °C – 32 °C
Peppered with bars, nightclubs and casinos, Puerto Rico welcomes visitors to its capital San Juan. The city features iconic tourist spots, serene nature and modern amenities. Visit La Fortaleza Fort and enjoy sweeping ocean views from the rooftop. There’re several beachfront resorts making accommodation luxurious in San Juan. Museums and art galleries from Old San Juan guide visitors to the rich tradition of Puerto Rico.
Why Go To San Juan
To relish your holiday across beaches, seaside resorts peppered with amazing outdoor leisure options. Enjoy vibrant nightlife in cosy cocktail bars and others as well as witness citadels, forts, museums and Spanish colonial architecture from 16th-century among other wonders. Viejo San Juan, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristobal, Parque Isla Verde and La Fortaleza are some popular places in San Juan.
When to go?
December to July is peak travel time to visit San Juan – Puerto Rico
Key information: Nearest Airport: Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (IATA: SJU) Currency: United States Dollar Languages: English and Spanish Average Temperature: 23 °C – 30 °C
7. Montego Bay – Jamaica
Located on the north coast of Jamaica, Montego Bay is the capital of Saint James Parish known for beaches, coral reefs, protected waters, cruise ship ports and golf courses among others. It’s a beautiful Jamaican city with well-preserved Georgian architecture and several places comprising great day-out recreations. The city displays exclusive marine life where tourist can also enjoy shopping and nightlife like never before.
Why Go To Montego Bay
If you’re fond of thrilling water-based sports like river rafting and snorkelling come to Montego Bay in Jamaica. It’s a city known for romantic places among honeymoon couples. Doctor’s Cave Beach, Doctor’s Cave Beach Club, Beach and snorkelling, Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay Cruise Port and others are major tourist hubs.
When to go?
December to May is the best time to visit Montego Bay – Jamaica
Key information: Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport (MBJ) Currency: Jamaican dollar Languages: English, Jamaican Creole and others Average Temperature: 21 °C – 32 °C
It’s always been amazing to spend holidays on a rugged Caribbean island and Martinique is a beautiful island. Lesser Antilles’ part Martinique exhibits French and West Indian culture and its distinctive influences. Fort-de-France is the largest city of Martinique Island with steep hills, modern shops and cafes across narrow streets and more. It serves delicious cuisine from French and Creole traditions.
Why Go To Martinique
Love hiking, art and architecture? This city has eruption site from 1902, botanical gardens with tree canopy walkways, bayside beaches and more. Mount Pelee, Jardin de Balata, Anse Mitan, Plage des Salines and Habitation Clément among others are popular tourist stoppers.
When to go?
December to April and June to August are favourable to explore Martinique – French Department
Key information: Nearest Airport: Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport (FDF) Currency: Euro Languages: French and English Average Temperature: 21 °C – 32 °C
Bonaire’s capital Kralendijk is known for its streets nestled with shops and colourful architecture dots. This Dutch island displays archaeological wonders and exceptional marine life. Sandy beaches, coral reefs and marine parks sheltering tropical fish among others offer perfect holiday goals.
Why Go To Kralendijk
For windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving, visit Kralendijk. Lac Bay, Sorobon Beach, Slave Huts, Bachelor’s Beach and Salt Pier among others are popular tourist highlights. Kralendijk includes scenic beaches where you can watch turtles playing.
When to go?
December to May is the best time to visit Kralendijk – Bonaire
Key information: Nearest Airport: Bonaire International Airport (BON) also known as Bonaire International Airport Currency: United States Dollar Languages: Dutch and English among others Average Temperature: 25 °C – 32 °C
10. Marigot Bay – Saint Lucia
A serene harbour area with resorts and recreation located on the western coast of Saint Lucia. Including Marigot Bay, the country houses reef-diving sites, volcanic beaches, luxury resorts and fishing villages. Its beautiful Marigot Bay is featured in Hollywood films. Experience hospitality and high-end restaurants and resorts. Enjoy kayaking and other water-based sports among other outdoor recreation opportunities. Always remember, helpful hints and tips from a trustworthy platform get the best out of your trip from easy St Lucia flights to pocket-friendly hotels.
Why Go To Marigot Bay
If you want to explore a beautiful bay with beaches, marinas and more. Search for easy flights to Saint Lucia and discover its bay and beaches. It features large bay with yacht docks and water parks famous for snorkelling. You can enjoy scuba diving, hot spring, hiking and scenic views from mountains. Have a bath at waterfalls and explore ornamental plants at nature parks.
When to go?
December to April is the best time to visit Marigot Bay – Santa Lucia
Key information: Nearest Airport: George FL Charles Airport (IATA: SLU) and Hewanorra International Airport (IATA: UVF) Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar Languages: English and French among others Average Temperature: 23 °C – 31 °C
11. Trois Ilets – Martinique
Tranquil Bay, eateries and comfort what else anyone needs on his holiday. Les Trois-Ilets is a beautiful town in Martinique located on the Caribbean island. It has a history of transformation with sugar plantation. You can witness the Pagerie Museum related to the first wife of Napoléon Bonaparte, Josephine and her family. It displays her childhood relics and letters from Napoléon Bonaparte. The city houses expansive sports hub, boutiques, restaurants, cafes and more.
Why Go To Trois Ilets
Witness slavery history in the Caribbean region while relishing your holiday at tranquil bay in an idyllic corner of the Caribbean region. Nothing can be more amazing than walking bayside beaches during sunrise and sunset. La Savane des Esclaves garden, Anse Mitan beach, Anse-a-I’Ane Bay, Mangofli and Plage de I’ Anse Mitan beach among others are major tourist highlights.
When to go?
December to April is the best time to visit Les Trois-Ilets
Key information: Nearest Airport: Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport (FDF) Currency: EURO Languages: English and French among others Average Temperature: 21 °C – 32 °C
12. Bridgetown – Barbados
A port city, Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados featuring British colonial architecture, Garrison from 17th-century and horseracing tracks. The city includes museums exhibiting Jewish history and a vast collection of artworks from local and international artists. Visitors admire its yacht club and serene beaches. It offers shipwreck dive sites, marine parks and other popular water-based outdoor activities.
Why Go To Bridgetown
Explore tranquil bay with beautiful beaches and marine parks. Witness world-class horse racing tracks and venues from 1845 along with several historical amazes. Bridgetown is also known for the exceptional architectural specimen. Carlisle Bay, Kensington Oval Barbados, George Washington House, Garrison Savannah Racetrack and Parliament Buildings among others are major tourist highlights.
When to go?
December to April is the best time to visit Bridgetown – Barbados
Key information: Nearest Airport: Grantley Adams International Airport (IATA: BGI) Currency: Bajan dollar Languages: British English and other West African languages Average Temperature: 23 °C – 31 °C
13. Roseau – Dominica
Dominica’s capital Roseau is located at the southwest coast of this Caribbean island nation. Organising a gateway can be economical when you book early before your departure as you can bargain for affordable flights to Dominica or find hassle-free accommodation in the city. You’ll find Creole architecture from 18th-century and known for crafts and fruit market during your stay in Roseau. Once a slave auction site, Roseau turns a popular cruise-ship stop. The city serves awesome break to visitors dotted with botanical gardens, museums, waters offshore and mountains.
Why Go To Roseau
People admiring cultural and geological relics find Roseau the best place to spend a holiday. Visitors love exploring nature parks, relaxing at serene lakes, hiking, hot spring and other outdoor leisure opportunities. The Old market of Roseau houses traditional complexes, eateries and shopping centres. Morne Bruce Garden, the Dominica Museum and Boiling Lake are some popular places to visit in Roseau – Dominica.
When to go?
November to March is the best time to visit Roseau – Dominica
Key information: Nearest Airport: Melville Hall Airport (IATA: DOM) Currency: East Caribbean Dollar Languages: English Average Temperature: 21 °C – 32 °C
14. Providenciales – Turks and Caicos
A famous water sports hub Providenciales includes many beaches, turquoise lagoons and marine parks dotted with tiny cays. Locals call this island Provo located in the Turks and Caicos archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Waterfront resorts and other accommodation in Turks & Caicos define the next level of luxury and comfort. With supreme natural beauty of the world kitesurfing, kayaking, snorkelling and other thrilling sports can your holiday goals at Providenciales.
Why Go To Providenciales
Dive into turquoise water or stroll along the white sandy beaches, this island serves a true luxury holiday escape with a charming blend of untouched nature and adventurous wonders. Visit the busy sports hub with marinas, shops & eateries. Grace Bay Beach, Long Bay Beach, Chalk Sound, Sapodilla Bay and Turtle Cove among others are popular tourist highlights of Providenciales.
When to go?
December to April is popular season in Providenciales tourism.
Key information: Nearest Airport: Providenciales International Airport (IATA: PLS) Currency: United States dollar Languages: English, Haitian Creole and Spanish among others Average Temperature: 23 °C – 32 °C
15. Tortola – British Virgin Islands
Find idyllic beaches, mesmeric ocean views everywhere you go in Tortola. Surfing on the largest atoll of the British Virgin Islands, visitors enjoy sweeping views of cays and bays. It’s blessed with powdery-white sands, shallow turquoise waters and endless beaches. Famous yachting hub from Road Town offers sailing boats. Its inspiring history and culture make you feel connected with locals. Enjoy shopping and eateries in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Why Go To Tortola
When you want so much leisure opportunities on your holiday – visit Tortola. Secluded beach in picturesque surrounds, volcanic summit in a national park and stunning bays with beaches and restaurants can be your holiday goals. Nanny Cay, Smuggler’s Cove, Mount Sage National Park, Callwood Rum Distillery, and Cane Garden Bay among others are some prime tourist spots in Tortola.
When to go?
December to April is the best time to visit Montego Bay – Jamaica
Key information: Nearest Airport: Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (IATA: EIS) Currency: United States dollar Languages: English, French Creole and Spanish Average Temperature: 20 °C – 31 °C
Every traveller aims for every holiday to be exceptional. The Caribbean for sure is vibrant and diverse, crafted for a wonderful holiday. It’s one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the world offering visitors the chance to do a bit of sightseeing.
Imagine pristine stretches of white sand, cerulean waters and gently swaying palm trees. Thanks to its rich cultural and natural influences where no two islands are the same. Explore some of the best reefs, try dive sessions and witness an exciting range of cultural experiences that you can easily add to your holiday. There is a luxurious break awaiting in the Caribbean for those who want something different.
Is the cold getting on your nerves? Maybe the little fireplace you have is not helping much. Well, there is only one thing to do – escape to the tropics by booking cheap flights to the Caribbean. Speaking of tropics, nothing can be compared to the Caribbean warmth and the open sunrays. These Caribbean hotspots offer warmth year-round winter season.
St. Bart’s
St. Bart
Offering a shield to the cold, the wonders of St. Bart’s comprises the finest beaches, top-notch spas, modish restaurants and several resorts. The picturesque snap-shots of the bejewelled island are not only a treat to the eyes, but also to the soul. The turquoise, calm waters offer a few activities to visitors. Escape towards the lush palm trees with a hitch and enjoy relief from the year-end cold climate.
St. Martin
St. Martin
An enjoyment between two diverse islands can prove to be fabulous. St. Martin offers a French culture in the north and a Dutch atmosphere in the south. The choice is up to you totally. Both these places brim with opulent resorts, luxury shopping and undying nightlife.
Curacao
Curacao
Curacao allures you with black and blue. The after-dark nightlife adds to your vacation when you relish the fervour of blue liqueur. Snorkelers will surely have a gala time in Curacao.
Tortola
Tortola
Winters would hate coming towards this popular tropical heaven. A large part of the British Islands, Tortola offers hiking, volcanic sites and beaches to-die-for. It is one of the top destinations to get tanned and enjoy the golden sun.
A lot more to come
Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman
Listed as one of the renowned places in ‘1000 places to see before I die’, the Grand Cayman is a treasure trove for beach bums and underwater explorers. The island is approximately 22 miles long and 8 miles wide. That is enough area to soak the warmth up.
Barbados
Barbados
Barbados is the most sought-after winter spot that offers thrill on two vast ocean surfaces – the Caribbean and the Atlantic. You can enjoy golf, touring botanic gardens and lush plantations.
Jamaica
Jamaica
Home to Blues and Jazz festival, Jamaica also offers a bit of culture along with your Caribbean getaway. You can also visit museums, art galleries and attend dance classes.
St Lucia
St. Lucia
Hope you do not mind adding a bit of volcanic excursion to your Caribbean getaway. Pitons are the two steep mountain peaks situated on the west coast of St. Lucia. Dotted with luxury resorts, immaculate beaches, hiking trails leading to rainforests, St. Lucia is a gem of the Caribbean that should not be missed.
Belize
Belize
Situated on the eastern Atlantic coast of Latin America, Belize sizzles with beaches and rainforests. Visitors can have an adventure of their life by exploring Mayan ruins and dive to admire the Belize Barrier Reef.
With the Caribbean weather pattern hovering over the islands, the peak season is December to April after the hurricane season in September and October. This is the perfect time to book Caribbean flights from Crystal Travel and say goodbye to the frigid climate back home. Let the planning begin…
