The Bahamas will always come to mind when you think about living in your dream destination. Few other places can match the beauty of the Bahamas. The Bahamas offers so much to visitors. Every island has a different set of features, offering such variety to people that it is difficult to choose the best spot.

What are the best places to live in the Bahamas?

Places like Paradise Island, Abacos, Albany, Eleuthera Islands, Freeport, Arawak Cay, and many others rank among favorite spots. The natural and urban feel of such places make living in the Bahamas a truly spectacular experience.

Residents of the Bahamas will never run out of options to explore and indulge in different activities. We will cover many different places in the Bahamas Islands along with the main features that make them so special.

As a resident of the Bahamas Islands, I have explored almost all the different places. Whether it’s horse riding, diving, or simply enjoying the nightlife, I, along with my friends, have done it all. Together, we have collectively shared our experiences to put together this list of the best places to live in the Bahamas.

Paradise Island

Paradise Island is a beautiful place to live, with its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. There are many luxury hotels and resorts on the island, as well as restaurants and bars. The nightlife is also very good, with many clubs and bars open until late.

Paradise Island is also known for its Atlantis resort. Visitors and tourists will find plenty of recreational activities to do, like swimming with dolphins, going to the casino, or spending time at the water park. The restaurants offer mouthwatering dishes that you can enjoy while enjoying the fabulous sunset or just simply taking in the vibes.

Features of Paradise Island

What makes Paradise Island one of the best places to live in the Bahamas are its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, luxury hotels and resorts, world-class restaurants, lively nightlife, and its Atlantis resort. 

It is ideal for those people who like going on eco-tours, playing golf, and just hanging out with people from all walks of life.

New Providence

New Providence is one of the most populous islands in the Bahamas and is home to the capital city of Nassau. The island has a diverse population with people from all over the world. There are many different cultures and religions represented on the island.

The economy of New Providence is largely dependent on fishing and agriculture, along with rum exports. Because of its relatively huge population, there are plenty of job opportunities available too.

The island is also home to some of the best beaches in the Bahamas. New Providence also has a number of parks and nature reserves that are perfect for hiking, biking, or just enjoying the scenery.

Features of New Providence

What makes New Providence one of the best places to live in the Bahamas are its beautiful beaches, a tourism-heavy, bustling economy, diverse population, and parks and nature reserves. However, despite its natural beauty, its city life is what attracts people the most.

Abacos

Abacos is primarily known as the Bahamas’ boating capital. This place is perhaps a dream location for any boating adventurer or enthusiast. 

The Abacos are also known for The Catacombs, the ultimate fantasy of divers.

Both amateur and professional divers won’t be able to resist the temptation of enjoying the surreal underwater beauty.

Abacos also features the Elbow Reef Lighthouse, which is the oldest manned lighthouse in the world that has not been electrified. There are also six amazing national parks in Abacos. Moreover, if you are looking for a place to just sit back and relax, there are plenty of beach bars where you can enjoy the stunning views while sipping on your favorite cocktail.

Features of Abacos

What makes Abacos one of the best places to live in the Bahamas are its boating capital status, The Catacombs, Elbow Reef Lighthouse, and beautiful beaches with beach bars. Abacos is perfect for those who want to live an adventurous life with a touch of luxury. Since it isn’t as tourist-heavy as the other islands, people can enjoy a peaceful and quiet environment.

Nassau

Nassau is the largest city in the Bahamas and also its capital. Located at the very center, it is one of the most populous places to live in. 

Surprisingly it is also very safe, and there are lots of facilities available like a good transportation system and healthcare.

Nassau’s original name was Charles Towne and it has a beautifully rich culture and history to it. The most popular attractions in Nassau are: 

●     Its three major forts

●     The Anglican Christ Church

●     The Government House

●     The Nassau Public Library

●     The stunning government buildings located around the Parliament Square

Nassau also has various marine gardens on the eastern side of its harbor. People can ride boats with glass bottoms that provide a spectacular view of the underwater world. The climate is perfectly moderate all year-round, making it one of the best places to live in the Bahamas.

Features of Nassau

Nassau offers many amenities within arm’s length. There are many major hospitals, colleges, and universities available, making Nassau a perfect urban setting.

Albany

Out of all the luxurious spots in the Bahamas, few places can rival Albany in New Providence. It was founded by the Tavistock Group, Ernie Els, and Tiger Woods meant to give you the ultimate luxurious experience.

Features of Albany

Some of the features that make Albany one of the best places to live in the Bahamas are its golf course, stunning beaches, and world-class amenities. The place is perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful and luxurious environment.

Eleuthera Islands

Eleuthera Islands offer a perfect getaway spot for those who are looking for a slower, more peaceful life in the Bahamas. Eleuthera Islands have their characteristic pink sand beaches, which are simply stunning to look at.

This place is perfect for nature lovers as there are many different types of birds and animals that can be found here. The word Eleuthera means “freedom” in Greek, and it has truly been loyal to its name. 

There are also many different activities that people can enjoy on the Eleuthera Islands. There are plenty of golf courses, tennis courts, and even an equestrian center for those who love horses. There are also many different restaurants and cafes to choose from, so you will never get bored here.

Features of Eleuthera Islands

What makes Eleuthera Islands so special are its stunning pink sand beaches, diverse wildlife, and different recreational activities. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and settle down in a more peaceful environment.

Arawak Cay

Arawak Cay is a small island located in Nassau. It is mostly famous for its dining and nightlife options. Arawak Cay has many different seafood restaurants that offer fresh and delicious seafood.

The most popular dish here is the conch which is a type of shellfish. You will also find many bars and clubs here where you can enjoy live music and dance the night away.

Apart from its dining and nightlife options, Arawak Cay also offers stunning views of the city skyline. You can also find many different types of shops here selling everything from souvenirs to local arts and crafts.

Features of Arawak Cay

Arawak Cay is well-known for its dining and nightlife options. It is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy fresh seafood and live music. The views of the city skyline are also simply stunning.

Freeport

Freeport is the second-largest city in the Bahamas. It is located on the island of Grand Bahama. Freeport is a popular tourist destination as it offers many different activities and attractions.

Some of the most popular attractions in Freeport are the International Bazaar, the Garden of the Groves, and the Lucayan National Park. There are also many different beaches that people can enjoy here.

The climate in Freeport is perfect all year-round, making it one of the best places to live in the Bahamas.

Features of Freeport

The Lucayan National Park is hands down the most attractive feature of Freeport. Hiking around the park will reveal exotic flora and fauna. This place is also a mecca for bird watchers.

Lyford Cay

Lyford Cay is a small island located in the northwestern Bahamas. It is known for its luxury homes and private beaches. Lyford Cay is a gated community, ensuring complete privacy and security for its residents.

This club is only open to members and their guests. Some of the amenities offered here are a golf course, tennis courts, and a spa. The Lyford International School was established in 1962 and has an internationally renowned baccalaureate program. Other prestigious schools include Windsor and the St. Andrews International School.

Lyford Cay is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a more luxurious and relaxed lifestyle.

Features of Lyford Cay

The most attractive feature of Lyford Cay is the luxurious feel in its very air. The place is a popular choice for celebrities that are or have been living there, including Sean Connery and the Bacardi family. 

However, such famous names should put you off as Lyford Cay welcomes everyone warmly. Lyford Cay is generally preferred by those who want a laid-back, luxurious country club lifestyle along with an excellent education system.

The Exumas

The Exumas are perhaps one of the most famous places in the Bahamas and deservedly so. It is split into three different sections; Exuma Cays, Great Exuma, and Little Exuma. Each of these areas has a unique specialty that separates it from others.

The Exuma Cays have a more luxurious vibe to them, characterized by the private homes and the tropical beauty. The Great Exuma and Little Exuma have a relaxed environment, perfect for carefree life.

The Exuma International Airport located in Georgetown, the capital of Exumas, has direct flights to various metropolitan cities like Atlanta, Toronto, and Florida.

Features of The Exumas

The most attractive feature of The Exumas has to be its natural beauty. There are many different activities that people can enjoy here, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and sailing.

Harbour Island

Harbour Island is just 2 miles from Eleuthera Island. Despite its relatively small size, its spectacular beaches, famous for their pink sand, draw visitors from all over the world.

While most of the islands in the Bahamas are quite modern, Harbour Island has a rich history going back to the 1700s. People can tour the island and see so many different features and communities dotted all over the place.

There are endless opportunities to have fun in Harbour Island. People can go fishing, diving, or even horseback riding; Harbour Island has it all.

Features of Harbour Island

Harbour Island is such a compact place that you won’t see many cars around. Besides, the natural beauty of the place makes walking a much more desirable activity. You can also rent golf carts for a whole day to explore Harbour Island.

Cat Island

If the name Cat Island brings to mind a lot of cats at the Island, you would, sadly, be mistaken. However, to make up for your disappointment, Cat Island does offer an experience unique to all the other Islands in the Bahamas.

This is an island with a very laid-back atmosphere and friendly people. You can go snorkeling or diving here or simply enjoy the view from the beach. There are many small coves and bays to explore as well.

It got its name from a pirate named Arthur Catt. In all the Bahamas, the highest mountain point is located on Cat Island, making it perfect for hikers. Cat Island offers stunning views of the seas while you enjoy a relaxing drink on the beach and enjoy the sun.

Divers, in particular, will also find Cat Island irresistible as it is home to the wrecks of many ships.

Features of Cat Island

The most attractive feature of Cat Island has to be its unspoiled natural beauty. The island is also home to a number of historical sites, which makes it perfect for those who love learning about the past.

Long Island

Long Island is, as the name suggests, one of the longest islands in the Bahamas. It is also one of the most diverse ones, with a wide range of activities and attractions to keep you busy.

For instance, you can visit the Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s deepest blue hole. You can also explore the caves on the island or go hiking in the mountains.

If you love adventure, you can go zip-lining or even skydiving. Long Island is also home to some of the best beaches in the Bahamas.

Features of Long Island

The most attractive feature of Long Island has to be its wide range of activities and attractions. There is something for everyone on this island, whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to relax on the beach.