The Islands of The Bahamas
Comprising 700 idyllic islands nestled in the glistening turquoise waters of the Atlantic, The Bahamas ought to be on your bucket list. This amazing archipelago offers a unique respite for those travel-hungry souls searching for sugar white and salmon pink beaches, strikingly exotic resorts and soul-stirring adventures. Seamlessly blending tradition, modern amenities, inspired cuisine, and fantasy-like experiences with a warm Caribbean welcome.
More than simply a family-friendly and bachelorette party destination, The Bahamas is also a complete paradise for romance. Imagine musical waves that lap at your ankles, the sweet floral scent of love in the air and lounging on a beach so secluded that it feels like yours and yours alone. No footprints, no crowds, no reservations for dinner. The Islands of The Bahamas are primed for glamour and mystique: thanks to its infinity pools, secluded cays and picture-perfect sunsets – a leading pick to tie the knot, celebrate anniversaries and enjoy unforgettable honeymoons.
The adventurous will find no shortage of compelling activities in The Bahamas, as the islands are full of opportunities to snorkel, dive, sail and fish. The potential for such a robust itinerary is one of the primary reasons why many Canadians prefer to vacation here. Come discover why It’s Better in The Bahamas. Visit our Website
Dining
They say the way to happiness is through the stomach, and Bahamian cuisine seems to have taken this adage to heart. Bahamian food is an eclectic combination of local flavours, Caribbean spices and good old-fashioned deliciousness.
The Bahamas offers many options for visitors to eat local food throughout the islands. While seafood is served around every corner, many restaurants also cater to more international cuisine for visitors with a more specific palate. The Bahamas offers many such elite and iconic restaurants. Some of the dishes you should check out include conch fritters, Bahamian peas ’n’ rice, guava duff and rum cake.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English.
Banks & Banking Hours: The Bahamas has a well-developed banking system that includes both local and international banks. Major banks include: the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Scotiabank, CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank, Fidelity Bank, Commonwealth Bank, and the Bank of The Bahamas. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, and most accept international debit and credit cards. Typical banking hours in The Bahamas are: Monday to Thursday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, and Saturday & Sunday: Closed. Note: Hours can vary slightly depending on the bank and location, especially on The Out Islands.
Currency: USD or Bahamian Dollars – Bahamian Dollars are equivalent to USD
Climate: Sub Tropical
Dress Code: The general dress code is casual and relaxed, especially for day-to-day activities and casual dining. For most restaurants, smart casual attire is appropriate, while more upscale venues may require resort elegant attire or more formal wear. When exploring the islands, you can wear comfortable clothing like shorts, lightweight pants, skirts, sundresses, t-shirts, and sandals.
Driving: Driving in The Bahamas is on the left-hand side of the road. Seat belts when driving a car in Bahamas are mandatory. The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, with the exception of a hands-free system. You can drive in The Bahamas with your valid Canadian driver’s license up to 90 days. If you intend to stay longer in the country, you must obtain a Bahamian driver’s license. You should carry an international driving permit.
Electricity: In The Bahamas, power plugs and sockets are oft type A and B. Adaptors are not required. The standard voltage is 120 v, and the standard frequency is 60 hz.
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Zone. Daylight Savings time is observed.
Activities
The Bahamas tops the list of Things to Do in the Caribbean. We offer 16 unique destinations filled with exciting experiences below and above water.
People-to-People: Participating Islands Include; Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Exumas, Andros, San Salvador, Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Cat Island, Nassau & Paradise Island.
The People-To-People Experience pairs inquisitive travellers with volunteer locals from ten different islands and all walks of life. This unique opportunity offers the chance to connect on a deeper level with those generous enough to open their homes and hearts to travellers like you. Depending on which island you are visiting, you could be paired with one of 500 local People-To-People Ambassadors. What you do from there is entirely up to you.
Read More
Nassau and Paradise Island – Arawak Cay
Hungry? Well, there’s no better place to get a bite of delicious authentic Bahamian food than Arawak Cay also known as the Fish Fry. There you can get the best of Bahamian seafood including the native delicacy conch. Thirsty for more? Try some sky juice or a Bahama Mama. Link to Fish Fry
Nassau – John Watlings Distillery
The John Watlings Distillery is located on the historic Buena Vista Estate in Downtown Nassau, Overlooking the harbour, and offering panoramic views.
You can take a free and self-guided tour of the estate, with the storehouse providing an intimate view of how the rums are bottled, the old-fashioned way, by local hands.
More than 1,000 aging white oak barrels fill the air with the angels share, the portion lost to evaporation during the many years the liquor rests in the barrels. Learn more
The Exumas – Swimming with The Pigs
Meet Exuma’s Adorable and Famous Swimming Pigs, This is one experience you simply can’t miss while you’re here.
Wondering how the pigs got to Pig Beach? We don’t know for sure. Big Major Cay is uninhabited, and the pigs are not native to the island. Some say they were left by a group of sailors, who planned to come back and cook them. Or that the pigs swam over from a shipwreck nearby.
Wherever they came from, there are now about 20 pigs and piglets living the easy life, with daily visits from Bahamians and tourists. When you visit, be sure to get a selfie with the #swimmingpigs—they’re even cuter in person! Learn more
Staniel Cay – Thunderball Grotto
Thunderball Grotto is a fantastic underwater cave just west of Staniel Cay. The entrance is hidden underwater, but curious travellers can swim through during low tide and discover a world teeming with colourful tropical fish. Learn more
Grand Bahama Island – West End Ecology Tours
West End Ecology Tours based in West End, Grand Bahama Island can provide an educational snorkel experience that is pure and natural.
Your host Captain Keith Cooper offers something for everyone to enjoy whether you appreciate culture, native food, abundant marine life, or all of them combined.
Our signature program features, “The Stingray Experience Tour” that provides visitors the opportunities to safely interact with Southern stingrays in their natural element. The Stingray Experience is a once in a lifetime excursion and truly off the beaten path. Learn more
Travel Essentials
- Flight Info
- Entry Requirements
- Long Stays
- Getting Married
- Local Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
Flight Information
Take your pick of non-stop flights to a trio of warm-weather favourites – Nassau, Exuma, and Grand Bahama Island – and warm up to winter’s best getaway.
Nassau from Toronto:
Air Canada offers 2 flights per day (only one flight on Wednesdays) from December through April. During low season (May to November), daily non-stop flights are available.
Porter Airlines offers daily flights year round.
WestJet offers daily flights year round.
Nassau from Montreal:
Air Canada offers daily flights from December through to April. During low season (May to November), 4 non-stop flights are available.
Nassau from Ottawa:
Air Canada will offer a weekly flight on Fridays from Ottawa beginning December 18, 2026 through to April 2027.
Porter Airlines will offer twice weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays commencing November 7, 2026.
Nassau from Halifax:
Air Canada will offer a weekly flight on Fridays from Halifax beginning December 18, 2026 through to April 2027.
Nassau from Calgary:
WestJet offers weekly flights from Calgary on Saturdays from November to April.
Grand Bahama Island from Toronto and Montreal:
Sunwing (now WestJet) offers a year-round, weekly flight from Montreal on Saturdays
Sunwing (now WestJet) offers a year-round, weekly flight from Toronto on Saturdays
Great Exuma from Toronto
Air Canada from Toronto: on Sundays (November – April)
San Salvador from Montreal:
Air Canada charter flight operates each Tuesday to San Salvador (October to August)
For information on how to get to The Bahamas from other gateways, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Canadians
Canadian Citizens
Canadian visitors only require a visa if stays exceed more than eight (8) months. The individual, however, must have the following documents:
- A valid Canadian passport, with an expiry date that is NOT less than 3 months, after leaving The Bahamas (for direct travel) and NOT less than 6 months (if transiting through other countries such as the U.S.)
- A return ticket
Canadian Permanent Residents
Permanent Residents of Canada (formerly known as Landed Immigrants) may stay in The Bahamas for 30 days without a visa. They must travel with the following items:
- A valid passport from your country of origin of which the expiry date, after return from The Bahamas, must NOT be less than 3 months (for direct travel) and NOT less than 6 months (if transiting through other countries such as the U.S.)
- An original Canadian Permanent Resident CARD of which the expiry date must NOT be less than 3 months (for direct travel) and NOT less than 6 months (if transiting through other countries such as the U.S.)
- A return ticket
For visits exceeding 30 days, contact our nearest Embassy or High Commission.
All travellers to The Bahamas are required to complete and submit an Immigration/Customs Passenger Declaration Form. The form is now available online and is required for entry to the island. Visitors can access the form at https://www.besw.gov.bs/TFBSEW/registration/registrationPage.jsp
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Coming Soon
Getting Married
There are several requirements for obtaining a marriage license in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Here’s everything you need to know to be legally married :
- The couple must be in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas at the time of the application of their marriage license.
- If you arrive via cruise ship, you’ll be required to obtain a letter from the Ship’s Purser/Guest Services confirming that you have met the residency period by being in Bahamian waters for 24 hours.
- You need not apply for a licence if you wish to renew your vows.
- Couples may apply a day after their arrival and can be married once they receive their approved licence the day after application.
- Blood Test No blood test is necessary.
- Both parties must produce a valid passport, birth certificate, and photo ID. The parties must also produce evidence of the date of their arrival in The Bahamas. The Bahamas Immigration Card or entry stamp will suffice.
- Two witnesses, who are at least 18 years old, must sign your marriage licence. If it’s just the two of you, witnesses can be provided.
- The fee for a marriage license is $120, inclusive of one certified copy of a marriage certificate. Extra marriage certificates are available at $20 each.
Requirements For Single
- If single and getting married for the first time, affidavits of singlehood are required.
- A notary public authorized to administer oaths in The Bahamas can issue these. You will need to submit this document as proof that you have never get married before while applying for a marriage license.
- If you prefer, then you can make this declaration in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas with a notary public or an attorney at law.
Getting Married in The Bahamas Requirements: Divorced
- If either party of you has been divorced, then a certified copy or original final decree must be produced.
- However, where applicable, your final divorce decree must be valid, certified, translated (into English), and notarized as proof of your divorce.
Cultural/Annual Events
The Junkanoo Rush
Feel the tempo of a joyous Bahamian celebration. Months of preparation—the making of costumes, the late-night practices—culminate in a night of music, dance, and a little healthy competition. When clocks strike midnight, and Christmas turns into boxing day, Bahamian families head for Bay Street.
Junkanoo brings out the colour inside of every Bahamian. For months they work, creating costumes, rehearsing dances, practising music routines. All of it building to competition on Boxing Day. And make no mistake, the sweat and sacrifice isn’t work. No, this is all passion stirring a pot of playful contention between families and friends.
Grand Bahama Island
Goombay Summer Festival
The annual Goombay Summer Festival is held every Thursday in July. This festival showcases cultural elements such as Junkanoo rush-outs, rake and scrape, quadrille dancing, authentic cuisine and crafts.
Held each July, Taino Beach
Exuma
National Family Island Regatta
Hundreds of sailors participate in this much-anticipated event for local and international fans of sloop sailing. Boaters prepare year-round and some of the top A, B, and C class boats will race.
Onshore activities throughout the day include vendors serving succulent Bahamian dishes, a kiddie corner featuring face painting, characters, a magic man, and a bouncing castle.
Music is a major component of the regatta, and at night a variety of Bahamian entertainers will be showcased at the site, in addition to Junkanoo performances by major local groups.
Held each April, Elizabeth Harbor, George Town, Exuma
Eleuthera
Pineapple Festival
Eleuthera boasts of the sweetest pineapples in the world! Years ago, the pineapple was in abundance on the island and was exported all over the world. Today pineapple farmers are trying their best to ensure that the pineapple crop continues to grow and thrive on our island.
The annual Pineapple Festival is a celebration and appreciation to all the farmers who work and toil so hard to harvest our sweet, juicy, delicious pineapple every year, despite the odds.
This event is a time for descendants and visitors to come together and enjoy good company, and entertainment. Native food, desserts, and beverages will be on sale.
Held each June, Gregory Town, Eleuthera
Abaco
Regatta in The Abacos
Regattas in The Abacos is a vibrant celebration of events that features a colourful array of sailboats and powerboats competing in exhilarating races along the crystal-clear waters of the Abacos Islands. Amid the stunning backdrop of turquoise seas and white sandy beaches, visitors and locals come together to enjoy thrilling competitions, live music, delicious Bahamian cuisine, and a festive atmosphere. These regattas are a perfect blend of sporting excitement and cultural immersion, making them a must-attend experience for anyone looking to embrace the true spirit of the Abacos.
Held each June, The Abacos
Cat Island
The White Marlin War & Caveman Slam
The White Marlin War & Caveman Slam on Cat Island is a ground-breaking 2-in-1 tournament scheduled from April 14 to 16 at Hawk’s Nest Resort & Marina. This unique competition will integrate billfish release and cumulative meat-fish weight categories, making it a distinctive offering. We are particularly thrilled to host one of only two white marlin tournaments in the Caribbean.
Held each April, Hawk’s Nest Resort & Marina
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of The Islands of The Bahamas observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Monday, January 12, 2026 – Majority Rule Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Friday, June 5, 2026 – Randol Fawkes Labour Day
Friday, July 10, 2026 – Independence Day
Monday, August 3, 2026 – Emancipation Day
Monday, October 12, 2026 – National Heroes Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical & Dental Information
The Islands of The Bahamas have hospitals located on multiple islands. Hospitals located on islands serviced by direct Canadian carriers are as follows:
Nassau, Paradise Island:
Princess Margaret Hospital
Shirley St, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +1 242-322-2861
Doctors Hospital
1 Collins Ave, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +1 242-302-4600
Grand Bahama Island:
Rand Memorial Hospital
East Atlantic Drive, Freeport, Grand Bahama
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +1 242-350-6700
Exuma (Georgetown):
The Exuma Family Medicine Clinic
Queens HWY, George Town, Bahamas
Hours: 9am – 5pm (Monday – Friday)
Phone: +1 242-524-4085
San Salvador:
Cockburn Town Community Clinic
Cockburn Town
Hours: 9am-5pm (Monday – Friday, except public holidays)
Phone: +1 242-331-2105/6
EMERGENCY DENTAL CARE SERVICES:
Nassau & Paradise Island:
Island Dental Centre: PH 242-328-1756
Universal Dental Centre: PH 242-322-1939
Comfort Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry: PH 242-323-4270
Premier Dental Group: PH 242-605-3368/3369
Freeport, Grand Bahama:
Sunrise Smiles: PH 242-823-8275 OR 242-801-6373
Easy Dental Care: PH 242-688-7844 OR 242-807-6804
Great Exuma:
Easy Dental Care, Moss Town: PH 242-810-7844
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is a hyperbaric chamber located in Lyford Cay, on New Providence Island. Learn more.
In addition, there is a decompression chamber available at Club Med Columbus Isle on San Salvador.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from Canada.
Airport Services
Nassau / Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS): Learn More
- Accessible parking in the short-term parking lots
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access are placed throughout the terminals
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators and ramps are available
- To assist those with hidden disabilities, LPIA offers extra assistance through a Sunflower Lanyard visual cue. Learn more.
Grand Bahama International Airport
Freeport, Grand Bahama (FPO)
Work has begun on a new airport; no details on facilities are yet available. Currently, the airport offers the following:
- Wheelchair ramps
- Wheelchair accessible bathrooms
- Wheelchair accessible ramp when embarking/disembarking the aircraft
- Wheelchair accessible parking
Exuma International Airport:
George Town, Exuma (GGT)
Although work has begun on a new airport adjacent to the existing airport, we do not have details yet on the upgraded facilities that will be available; here are the current details:
- Wheelchair ramps are available
- Wheelchair accessible bathrooms are available
- Currently, the Exuma Airport (GGT) is a small airport with limited facilities. Learn more
San Salvador International Airport:
Cockburn Town, San Salvador (ZSA)
This is a small airport with limited facilities however the following are available:
- Wheelchair ramps
- Wheelchair accessible bathrooms
- There are no stairs at this airport
Transportation:
Nassau/Paradise Island: Courteous Transfers & Tours offers private transportation for those with physical disabilities and include WC accessible vans for both airport transfers as well as sightseeing. Email: courteoustaxibahamas@hotmail.com; Phone: 242-468-3900
Freeport: Transportation and tours can be arranged by contacting Forbes Charter Services. They do offer a modern fleet of vehicles for transportation.
Exuma: There are no wheelchair accessible transfer vehicles. Larger taxis will fold collapsible wheelchairs and store these in the trunk of their car for transport. Transportation and tours can be arranged by contacting Mr. Ranae Culmer by phone at (242) 345-0232, or via email: ettlimited@outlook.com
San Salvador: There are no wheelchair accessible transfer vehicles. Larger taxis will fold collapsible wheelchairs and store these in the trunk of their car for transport. Transportation and tours can be arranged by contacting Mr. Clifford & Mr. Buno Fernander by phone at (242) 331-2676 or via email: clifford_fernander@hotmail.com
For Accessibility information at hotels located in The Islands of The Bahamas please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
Sustainability
Sustainability Commitment
Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), The Bahamas has embraced six overarching objectives that we believe will promote continued prosperity while protecting the planet. Here are the six tourism projects currently underway:
Life Below Water: The Bahamas is committed to protecting biodiversity and marine life, and to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. Project: Coral Reef Rescue Network PADI Certifications.
Responsible Consumption and Production: Across our 16 islands and thousands of cays, The Bahamas is aligned with the UN’s goal to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns (this includes single use plastic bans). Project: Establishment of the national Environmental Management Standard.
Climate Action: The Bahamas is dedicated to taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Project: Mission for Mangroves launched in Grand Bahama, and the Grand Bahama Island Solar Farm.
Decent Work and Economic Growth: The Bahamas is unswerving in its dedication to promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Project: The Andros Cluster Project – Ongoing with capacity building workshops; cluster formalization and continued business support. Launch of Nature Guide Certification Programs and the Andros Ecotourism Collective Website.
Industry Infrastructure and Innovation/Education: The Bahamas supports inclusive and equitable quality education and the pursuit of lifelong learning opportunities for all. Projects in pipeline: Andros Visitor Centre; Nature Trails/BAMSI Green Campus /Sustainable Tourism Field Station; IDB Program –Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Mobility Services (NP).
Sustainable Cities and Communities/Life on Land: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. Project: Destination Stewardship through Mission for Mangroves, Bahamas Plastic Movement, Bahamas Caves Research Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, The Audubon Society and The Bahamas National Trust.
New projects in the areas of Waste Management, Nature Trail Development and Climate Action are being introduced.