Sink Into Bliss: The Absolute Best Beaches in The Bahamas

The Bahamas is home to beaches for every mood, each with its own charm. From pink shorelines and palm trees, to silky white sands and turquoise waters, there's just so much to behold. There are over 700 islands in this tropical archipelago, so if you’re spending a week or less on any one of these islands, you’ll want to know which beaches are king.

Consider this your exclusive guide to the best beaches in The Bahamas.

Bottomless cocktails anyone? Book one of Sandals all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas to get your vacation started!

In this article on the Sandals Blog:

Four shortlists
Popular Bahamian beaches with animals

The best beaches in... Nassau, Exuma, Abaco, Andros, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Long Island, San Salvador, Cat Island, Berry Islands, Bimini, Rum Cay, Mayaguana and Inagua.

Beachside rules
Protect your belongings
Beach safety tips for the Bahamas
When to go?

Four shortlists

With over 2,000 beaches to choose from, The Bahamas is a true beach lover’s dream. To help you find your slice of sand, we’ve put together four shortlists, each ranking beaches in a different category. Some of the most striking beaches here aren’t always the best for snorkeling, while the ones most loved by U.S. visitors tend to be safer, easier to reach, but also a bit busier.

Bringing the kids along? Look for calm waters and soft sand without rocks. It’s a bonus if there are restaurants and restrooms nearby. Just keep in mind that family-friendly spots can be livelier, so they might not be your go-to if you’re after peace and quiet.

Now it’s over to you. Pick the shortlist that matches your vibe.

Most beautiful beaches in The Bahamas:

1. Coco Plum Beach (Exuma)
2. Lighthouse Beach (Eleuthera)
3. Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island)

Popular beaches amongst U.S. visitors:

1. Cable Beach (Nassau)
2. Junkanoo Beach (Nassau)
3. Cabbage Beach (Paradise Island)

Best beaches for snorkeling:

1. Gold Rock Beach (Grand Bahama Island)
2. Rose Island Beach (Rose Island)
3. Mermaid Beach (Abaco)

Best beaches for families with kids:

1. Blue Lagoon Island
2. Treasure Cay beach (Abaco)
3. Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island)

Popular Bahamian beaches with animals

Swim with the pigs: Big Major Cay (Pig Island)

The famous swimming pigs of The Bahamas are ready for your visit. Eager to find out what food you may be bringing with you, they will swim out to you as soon as the boat arrives. The ‘beach babes’ are friendly, funny and ready for a unique photo opportunity.

Chill with iguanas: Bitter Guana Cay

You’ve likely never witnessed a community of iguanas quite like the ones that can be found on this island. Described as somewhat domesticated, if you take a boat to Bitter Guana Cay, the iguanas will greet you by walking right up to you just as soon as you set foot onshore. They are curious, relaxed, and colorful!

Swim/walk with nurse sharks: Compass Cay

Swimming with sharks might sound terrifying to some, but when we’re talking about nurse sharks, you can breathe a little easier. Once you’re able to get over your fear, you’ll find yourself swimming with nurse sharks, which are for the most part, harmless. Many divers and snorkelers visit The Bahamas just for this experience.

Ride horses on the beach: Paradise Island

Horseback riding on scenic Caribbean shores is a dream that can be brought to life in The Bahamas. Feel the sea breeze as your horse steps through the surf. One of the best horseback riding expeditions in this territory can be found on Paradise Island, near the island of New Providence in The Bahamas.

Swim with dolphins: Blue Lagoon Island

Best beach for families with kids.

Swimming with dolphins is a vacation possibility in The Bahamas. One of the best tours on offer takes you from the Nassau Harbour to Blue Lagoon Island. Once there, you'll able to get up close and personal with friendly dolphins that will (if you’re lucky) perform neat tricks for you and treat you like one of their own! The dolphin swimming program takes about one hour including orientation.

The best beaches in Nassau / Paradise Island / Rose Island

Cable Beach (Nassau)

Most popular beach amongst U.S. visitors.

Cable Beach is the most popular beach in Nassau, and for good reason. Here, soft sandy shores meet calm, clear blue seas, perfect for soaking in the views or diving into water sports. If you’re in the mood for a jet ski ride to get your adrenaline pumping, this is the spot. It’s also an ideal place to sip on something refreshing, and simply relax. Cable Beach stretches for quite a distance, so take a little time to explore before you choose your spot for the day.

Insider Tip: If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort right on Cable Beach, all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Bahamian can be a great pick. Staying at this resort gives you access to a private island just off the shores of Cable Beach.

Rose Island Beach (Rose Island)

Explore this small Bahamian island by boat (about 30 minutes from Paradise Island) and add some excitement to your vacation. Once you get to Rose Island, you’ll find stand out snorkeling on one side, and swimming pigs on the other! There’s also a beach bar, and plenty of lounge chairs to relax.

Love Beach (Nassau)

In Nassau, you'll be able to get to Love Beach either by bus (jitney) or taxi. Jitneys, the local name for buses, are the cheaper option, and drivers are usually happy to give directions and drop you close to your destination. Many people take a jitney to reach Love Beach, though a taxi will get you there as well.

Love Beach is known for its turquoise waters and soft white sand. Low-flying airplanes pass overhead regularly, making for quite a sight. Be sure to stop by the Nirvana Beach Bar for a cocktail or two. Convenient, scenic, and loved by locals, Love Beach is well worth the trip.

Also read: The 12 best beaches in Nassau - for more beaches in this popular vacation spot.

Jaws Beach (Nassau)

Is this sand or baby powder? You might find yourself wondering that the moment you step onto this spectacular stretch of shore. You may also question why such a peaceful beach carries the name of one of the most terrifying movies ever made. No worries, you’re unlikely to spot any sharks here. The beach was named in tribute to Jaws: The Revenge, which was filmed on location.

Bring your camera, because Jaws Beach is one of the most picturesque spots in Nassau. Standing here with the turquoise water at your feet, you’ll quickly see why it draws both locals and visitors. Plus, it’s not every day you can bask in the sunshine at a world-famous movie set. Tucked away in a more remote location, this beach is off the beaten track—and that’s exactly why locals love it.

Cabbage Beach (Paradise Island)

Cabbage Beach is the most visited beach on Paradise Island. If you visit this beach, you'll have access to a long stretch of sandy shore on the north coast. This place is prime location for well-known resorts and restaurants and can get crowded at some parts. However, the beach is long enough to find a quiet spot as well. Though the water can get rough at times, this is one of the most scenic beaches in The Bahamas.

Good to know: While on Cabbage Beach, keep an eye out for the flags that’ll tell you whether it’s safe to swim. This beach can be a great option if you're looking for water sports.

Junkanoo Beach (Nassau)

Famous for its Junkanoo celebrations which happen between December and January (annually), it’s quite appropriate that there would be a beach with the same name in The Bahamas. This beach offers plenty of beach bars and restaurants, often playing lively music. Junkanoo Beach has a lively vibe, perfect for people-watching and catching views of cruise ships as they dock in the port. Just a short walk from the cruise terminal, it’s easy to reach—but that also means it can get a bit crowded during peak season.

The best beaches in Exuma, The Bahamas.

Coco Plum Beach

Most beautiful beach in The Bahamas.

If a beach with swings set right in the shallow sea sounds like a dream, Coco Plum Beach in The Bahamas is what you seek. This beach is one of the most radiant in the Caribbean and a favorite for kite surfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. When the tide goes out, you can walk nearly half a mile across the sand in ankle-deep water. Many visitors use this time to collect the plentiful sand dollars. For families, Coco Plum Beach is ideal.

Tropic of Cancer Beach

Tropic of Cancer Beach is one of the most talked-about stretches of sand in The Bahamas. You’re practically guaranteed a good time when you spend the day at this Exumas gem. Once you get here, you’ll see right away why some people describe it as the most beautiful beach they have ever seen. And standing there, the only thing left to do will be to dive into waters bluer than you ever imagined.

Insider Tip: This beach is about a 15-20-minute drive from Great Exuma. It’s relatively quiet, so pack what you need.

Stocking Island Beaches

The Exumas are blessed with great beaches, and the beaches of Stocking Island are no exception. On this beach with crystal clear waters, you’ll get the unique opportunity to feed stingrays! If you can get past the fear that sometimes rises up, you’ll find that the stingrays are quite friendly. They may even swim right up to you! Some visitors choose to feed them bits of leftover conch, which can be sourced from caretakers. Though this beach is beautiful with lots of attractions, the stingrays are the star of the show!

Insider Tip: There’s often a good beach volleyball game happening on the beaches in Stocking Island. Don’t be shy to join in!

Highbourne Cay Beach

You may need reservations to visit this island, home to some of the most outstanding private beaches in The Bahamas. Highbourne Cay sits 35 miles southwest of New Providence Island and offers a well-kept marina along with upscale cottages. Because it’s especially popular with yachtsmen, bookings should be made before arrival. Highbourne Cay is also known as the gateway to the Exumas.

Big Major Cay (Pig Beach)

This beach isn’t known for swimming as much as it is for its swimming pigs. They are absolutely unforgettable! From the moment you approach this beach in a boat, you’ll find that the pigs swim out to greet you. It’s quite an exciting moment, and second to no other experience in The Bahamas. There are pigs of all ages, and you might even be able to watch as the keepers on the island care for and feed them.

The best beaches in Abaco, The Bahamas.

Great Guana Cay

Locals love this spot on long weekends, and visitors are starting to catch on. The draw is a beach bar and grill, clean shores, and calm waters. Great Guana Cay, the largest cay in the Abacos, has built a reputation as the best of both worlds. You can find a relatively private stretch of sand here, along with amenities to keep you comfortable all day.

Winding Bay

This island is famous for its 18-hole championship golf course, but just as appealing are its beaches, known as a prime spot to encounter sea turtles. You might not even need to snorkel to catch sight of these native creatures. Often, they can be spotted bobbing in the seagrass just off shore. If calm waters and a quiet stretch of sand are what you’re after, Winding Bay is an excellent choice.

Treasure Cay Beach

Don’t judge a beach by its name, except when it comes to Treasure Cay. What an absolute find! This mesmerizing beach will have you wondering why you took so long to plan a beach vacation in the first place! Now that you’re here, waste no time in falling in love with its crystal-clear waters and silky white sands. At low tide you’ll be able to walk across the sandbars and find perfect spot for shelling!

Tahiti Beach

Located on Great Abaco Island, and not to be confused with the French Polynesian Island, Tahiti beach has an irresistible appeal. For one thing, there’s a floating restaurant and bar, and to top that off the water here is warm, shallow, and perfect for floating around or tanning while submerged in the ocean. When the tide is out you may even encounter sand dollars and starfish!

Mermaid Beach

Mermaid Beach on Great Abaco Island is a diver’s dream – particularly divers trying out snorkeling or scuba diving for the first time. At Mermaid reef, located just off Mermaid Beach, you can spot a variety of fish species, as well as lobsters and rays. The reef is located in a shallow protected area, and people who snorkel here think the fish are especially friendly, as they literally swim to you. This may be because they’re used to being feed by adoring strangers, but one thing’s for sure, you can see a lot in a short space of time when snorkeling off Mermaid beach!

The best beach in Andros, The Bahamas.

Kamalame Cay Beach

Kamalame Cay is known as the beach where socialites and celebrities sip and play all day. Guests can book bungalows on this 97-acre private island and take advantage of miles of deserted beach. Kamalame is getting more popular as an island getaway as it continues to be sustainably developed by the owners. Many celebrities have been spotted here including Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem, Mick Jagger, Emma Watson, and Karolina Kurkova. Notably, Serena Williams spent some time on this island while on honeymoon!

Best beaches in Grand Bahama

Gold Rock Beach

Best beach for snorkeling.

Part of Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island, Gold Rock Beach is described as being “as pretty as a postcard”. This enticing beach is notorious for being one of the filming locations in The Bahamas for 'Pirates of the Caribbean'. While you’re unlikely to run into any pirates on your trip there, that’s all the better. You’ll leave rested and completely unwound.

Famous Movie Shot Here: Pirates of the Caribbean!

Fortune Beach

Fortune Beach in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island is a great place to start any beach hopping expedition. The only drawback is that once you get here, you might not want to leave. Islanders say the beach got its name after a multi-million-dollar shipwreck was discovered here. In any case, the water is calm and shallow, making it a good choice whether you want to relax or explore. Fortune Beach is located just about five miles from Port Lucaya Marketplace.

Taino Beach

The azure waters of Taino Beach might just steal your heart. This scenic beach really is as beautiful as they come. During your beach day here, you can choose from a range of activities including jet skiing, parasailing, or simply swimming in the warm waters of the Caribbean. With the possibilities wide open, it's one of those spots you simply must explore while in Grand Bahama.

Best Beaches in Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse beach on Eleuthera Island is the definition of serenity. Kick back and watch the waves lap against the shore as you regain clarity, peace, and parts of yourself long forgotten in the chaos of everyday life.

A 4x4 may be required to reach this beach, as the road can be quite rugged. Once you arrive, you’ll see it’s worth every bump in the road, especially when the first sweet-smelling sea breeze greets you at the shore. If you’re heading to Lighthouse Beach, bring everything you’ll need for the day, including food and a cooler filled with drinks on ice.

French Leave Beach

French Leave Beach is one of the lesser known pink sand beaches in The Bahamas. It's just the place when you really want to soak up some sun and enjoy outstanding views. Even with the refreshing Atlantic breeze blowing across this beach, don’t forget to apply your sunscreen. French Leave is relatively quiet, so you’ll want to walk with everything you’ll need for your time there.

Insider tip: There's little to no shade on this beach, so walk with a beach umbrella!

Cotton Bay Beach

Cotton Bay Beach is located on the southern coast of Eleuthera. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, this beach is ideal. Just over a half mile away you’ll find the Cotton Bay golf Club. Cotton Bay Beach is also located near the seaside town of Rock Sound.

Ten Bay Beach

The road to this beach is half the adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Ten Bay Beach, you might want to arrive by boat, as even 4-wheel drives can struggle here. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find a secluded spot with some truly spectacular sunset views. Shaded by plenty of trees, this long, winding beach is just right for a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Surfer’s Beach

Hang-ten, or simply just hang out on this beach of sugary white sands. Just two miles south of Gregory Town, the surfing experience at Surfer’s Beach has been compared to that of some of the best locations in Hawaii. This beach is best for strong swimmers, or people who just want a cool place to chill.

James Point Beach

James Point is long, wide and definitely worth a visit. On this beach you’ll find a historic shipwreck, and if you’re willing to walk a few yards, a natural Jacuzzi rock formation, and another private beach! James Point sits along the Atlantic side of central Eleuthera, just north of the little settlement of James Cistern.

Plum Creek Beach

Plum Creek located in Deep Creek, South Eleuthera, is one of the lesser known beaches in The Bahamas. Here you’ll find calm and shallow seas at low tide, and waves that sweep across the main road during high tide. On the upside, there’s some great scenery at Plum Creek which sets it apart from other more popular beaches in the area.

Insider Tip: You’ll need to schedule a visit to this beach when the tide is low, as the road tends to get flooded with water during high tide, making passage impossible in some cases.

Best beach on Harbour island, The Bahamas.

Pink Sands Beach

There are many miraculous things waiting to be discovered in this world, and among these is Pink Sands Beach in The Bahamas. This gem of a beach on Harbour Island is an absolute dream. It’s incredibly popular with honeymooners, and with regular vacationers seeking a convenient beach spot. To get to this beach you’ll need to walk down a short dirt path through the trees. Once you set foot on its shores, you’ll find little shops selling snacks and drinks to cool you off.

The best beach in Long Island, The Bahamas.

Cape Santa Maria Beach

Long Island in The Bahamas is famous for its outstanding beaches. As the best beach on Long Island, Cape Santa Marie is the most highly-rated. You won’t be able to stop your jaw from dropping once you get here, but what you will have control over is how quickly you’re able to get suited up on the island, where the clear blue seas await.

Columbus Harbour Beach

You guessed it; Colombus Harbour Beach has something to do with Christopher Columbus. As island history would have it, Colombus passed through this area on his inaugural journey to the “New World.” What he would have found on that journey, was a beautiful beach, about a mile long, with shallow waters, soft white sand, and just the right amount of privacy. This tranquil beach is popular with honeymooners, or people who just want a beach that's off the beaten path.

The best beach in San Salvador, The Bahamas.

East Beach

East Beach is the perfect place to discover the freedom the islands bring while in The Bahamas. It’s somewhat secluded, which many visitors love. Another part of the appeal is that there's just so much to take in visually, with diving (snorkeling or scuba) a real possibility. Go with a group and make the most of your private beach escape.

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to pack drinks and food!

Half Moon Beach (Half Moon Cay)

Half Moon Beach is just the right spot to relax and sink into island time. The water is clear and warm, the shore is clean, and the sand feels like it was made for bare feet. This is a sure recipe for the most amazing beach day. Half Moon is located on the tiny Half Moon Cay, a private island used mainly by cruise lines. Here you can rent out a beach chair and lounge on the sand, or swim with the stingrays.

The best beaches on Cat Island, The Bahamas.

Shanna’s Cove

If you’re a fan of deep-sea fishing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding, a trip to Shanna’s Cove may be just right for you. Though this beach is relatively secluded, there’s a restaurant and bar where you can indulge while you wait for a picture-perfect sunset. Shanna’s Cove is also great for honeymooners!

Fernandez Bay

Your search for paradise ends at this hidden jewel in New Bight, Cat Island. Here you’ll find amazing views, sand dollars, a bar and restaurant and other amenities close by. Cat Island is located in central Bahamas, and while on island, it’s worth taking some time to explore Mount Alvernia, the nation’s highest point which rises to 206 feet.

Insider tip: Walk with bug spray!

The best beaches on the Berry Islands, The Bahamas.

Shelling Beach

Shelling Beach is a quiet sweep of sand and sea. Located on Great Harbour Cay, the largest of the Berry Islands, this beach is calm on most days. This beach location is best if you’re looking for a more serene beach day, with impressive views that'll make your vacation photos shine.

Insider Tip: Try to avoid heading to this beach on rainy days as you may have trouble navigating huge puddles.

Dannenberg Beach

Named after Doris Dannenberg, a Wisconsin woman who owns a second home on the island, Dannenberg Beach is as inviting as it is private. Doris received island fame for her community outreach efforts, which included teaching arts and crafts to local children. Pretty much everyone else you’ll find in this area is friendly and welcoming, so you can be assured of a hospitable beach environment once you go. This beach is quite secluded, so bring everything you’ll need for the day.

Insider Tip: There are lots of cool diving locations in the Berry Islands including The Hoffmann’s Cay Blue Hole, Mama Rhoda Reef, and the Great Stirrup Cay.

The best beach in Bimini, The Bahamas.

Radio Beach

Whoever was charged with responsibility for naming beaches in The Bahamas surely had a grand time going about it. Radio Beach, located in the Alice Town area of Bimini is a true charmer. Serene and beautiful, this is undoubtedly the best beach in Bimini. Perfectly peaceful, you’ll find friendly locals, food kiosks and amazing sunsets!

The best beach in Rum Cay, The Bahamas.

Picnic Bay Beach

Like the name suggests, Picnic Bay is popular with locals and visitors looking for a quiet picnic location. Picnic Bay is quiet on most days, but livens up on public holidays. Families with children will appreciate the calm and shallow waters here, and the excellent visibility, which adds to its snorkeling appeal.

The best beach in Mayaguana, The Bahamas.

Northwest Point Beach

To say that this island is remote is an understatement. In 2010, the population on the easternmost island of Mayaguana was 277! As of 2022, there are just about 208 people living on this island. All of that to say, if you take a trip to Mayaguana Beach, you'll have the beach pretty much all to yourself. Mayaguana is a popular location for snorkeling, exploring and picnicking.

The best beach in Inagua, The Bahamas.

Morton Salt’s Beach

Located on Inagua Island in The Bahamas, at Morton Salt’s beach you’ll find plenty of relaxation in the hammocks, gazebo and cabanas on the beach front. This beach got its name because it was developed by the Morton’s Salt Company, as a community outreach effort. Today it is popular for snorkeling, beach parties, and other social events.

Insider tip: While on Inagua island visit the National Park where you can find wild donkeys and flamingos!

Beachside rules?

Beaches are overall a liberating space, but while on vacation there are a few things to keep in mind which can make your holiday that much smoother. Unlike some beaches in the United States, there are very few beach rules in The Bahamas, but here are some things you should know.

• Don’t litter. You can find trash cans on most beaches, but if you don’t, take your trash with you.
• Some beaches do not allow skinny dipping. Find out from your local resort or tour company ahead of time.
• Some beaches near resorts or residential areas may have rules about amplified music on the beach. Use your discretion.
• Don’t take away conch shells or other forbidden items without seeking permission.

Protect your belongings

It can be hard to keep an eye on your belongings when all you want to do is make the most of your time at the beach. Here are a few ways to stay worry free during your beach vacation:

• Leave your valuables at home.
• Travel with just as much cash as you need.
• Whether you’re on a secluded or more crowded beach, be aware of your surroundings.

Beach safety tips for The Bahamas

• Use sunblock.
• Be aware of safety signs.
• Do not swim while intoxicated.
• Don’t go to secluded beaches alone.
• Be aware of rip currents.
• Stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion
• Always swim in jet ski free zones.
• Encourage kids to wear beach shoes on rocky beaches to prevent injury.
• Steer clear of beaches populated with jellyfish to avoid being stung.
• Be aware of Sea-thimble/Sea lice season (small jellyfish) in the Bahamas in the months of April until July.

So, when's the best time to go to The Bahamas?

Picture: The private offshore island at Sandals Royal Bahamian. The best part? All drinks are on us!

The best time to visit The Bahamas for perfect beach weather is in the high season, which is between the months of December and mid-April. If you plan to travel during the high season, it's best to book two or three months in advance to ensure availability of both flights and accommodation.

The shoulder season is the next best time to go (May through July). You’ll find less activities on the island during this time, but more chances of securing your first choice of accommodation with less congested resorts.

The low season is from August to November. Low season travel is ideal if you want to head to the islands during a more low-key period that's also less crowded.

All in all, there’s no bad time to travel to The Bahamas to check out its best beaches. Choose the time that works for both you and your partner (or travel crew!), and you’ll be well on your way to the vacation of a lifetime!