8 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting the Bahamas

Looking for an adventure in the Bahamas? There is something for everyone from beaches and snorkeling to spas and nightlife. 

Visiting the Bahamas is an amazing experience, but like visiting any foreign country there are a few things that should be avoided so you can have the best trip possible. 

Read this guide and learn how to avoid these 8 common mistakes when visiting the Bahamas. 

1. Walking in the Dark By Yourself

Like almost any other place in the world, you should take precautions when going out at night. The best city attractions are usually well lit but there are darker deserted locations such as the beach. 

Be aware of your surrounding especially in Nassau because crime does increase after dusk. If you can avoid walking by yourself in the dark. Stick to heavily populated areas and walk with a group of people whenever possible. 

The Bahamas is a safe travel destination but it is a good idea to dress conservatively. Take a look at what the locals are wearing and follow their cues. Cover up after leaving the beach during the day. Some areas will even have a dress code you should follow. 

Be wary if strangers ask to buy you a drink and never leave your drink unattended.

Crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing or purse snatching are common. Always keep an eye on your things and never carry lots of cash with you.  

2. Expecting American Punctuality

Relax, you’re on island time in the Bahamas. The Bahamas are extremely laid back. If you are a type-A personality it may be difficult for you to adjust. It would be a good idea to lower your expectations. 

The food service may be slower than you are used to and tours and transportation may seem slow. Rather than getting upset it is best to just go with it.

Book earlier transport is you are worried about the time and you can always make an earlier dinner reservation too. 

3. Buying Marijuana or Other Drugs

Marijuana is illegal in the Bahamas and many Caribbean countries. Other illicit drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy can get you into serious trouble. 

A common complaint from tourists is that pot dealers walk up and down Bay Street and every bar in Nassau trying to hawk their goods.

You might find marijuana a common part of Bahamamian nightlife but do not make the mistake of thinking because it is commonplace it is legal.

If you are offered anything for sale or as a gift you would be wise not to accept it. The police are simply unable to arrest every dealer on the island. 

Many tourists are arrested for the possession of marijuana and other illicit drugs. This can result in jail time, deportation, or fine. 

If you are offered a joint or a bag of marijuana a polite no thank you will suffice and then you can steer the conversation toward a different subject. Bahamians are very friendly and will often interact with tourists.

Keep in mind they consider light teasing and joking to be a form of affection and most of them respect the visitors who visit their home. 

4. Staying at the Hotel the Entire Time

The Bahamas are far too beautiful to not explore. Yes there are many luxury resorts on the islands but the fun of going to the Bahamas is exploring the island and the life through the eyes of the everyday people. 

Walk along the beach, go shopping, or go to one of the many restaurants or bars. You’re in paradise! Take advantage of every minute and see the sites while you are there.  

5. Traveling During Holidays or Hurricane Season

Although the weather is perfect year-round in the Bahamas there are some times when traveling there should be avoided. The winter lows in the Bahamas average 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the summer temperatures range from the 80s to the 90s. 

Spring Break can seem like the perfect time for a Bahamian getaway but use caution. The hotels are usually priced much higher and wild parties are usually inevitable.

If you are looking for a relaxing vacation this may not be the time to travel to the Bahamas. 

Likewise the start of the Christmas season is also a busy time. Christmas and New Years coincide with the Bahamian street parade Junkanoo.

Many of the hotels are fully booked during this time and you can expect to pay higher prices. If you are trying to avoiding hoards of tourists perhaps the Christmas season isn’t the time for you to travel. 

Hurricane season in the Caribbean starts on June 1st and runs through November 30th. During this time the islands are at a higher risk for storms. The island of Grand Bahama, Andros, and Abaco are mostly the ones affected by hurricanes and storms.

Be sure to check the extended weather report and storm predictions before you book your trip. 

Recommended reading: Best Places To Visit In USA

6. Taking Rides in an Unofficial Taxi

If you need to use a taxi to get around while you are in the Bahamas you should avoid taking a taxi that looks unofficial. Also, it is a best practice to ask the driver about the fare and agree on a price before hopping into the taxi. 

Bahamian taxis do not use meters and negotiating a price can be a tricky matter. Negotiate the fare upfront. You can always ask your hotel how much the price should be before going to the beach.

Make sure your budget for traveling expenses such as taxis while you are in the Bahamas. 

7. Going on a Cruise to The Bahamas

Don’t get us wrong. We love going on cruises! But going on a cruise to the Bahamas is not the best way to see the island. Cruises only take you to Nassau and freeport and there is so much more to see. 

Taking a flight to the Bahamas allows you to experience the pink sanded beaches, the coral reefs and historic sites you won’t get to see on a cruise. 

8. Renting Recreational Watercrafts

Watersports are not regulated in the Bahamas. That being said some of the equipment you may come across for rent may not be in proper working order. There are no lifeguards to come to your aid if you have a problem. 

The United States State Department issued a travel advisory warning about, “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours.”

Many of these tours operate without proper certifications and they are not completely regulated. Avoid renting watercraft and water tours and you shouldn’t have any problems. 

Safety First When Visiting the Bahamas

The Bahamas is a very safe and tourist-friendly country to visit. The year-round perfect weather and beautiful beaches make it an enjoyable vacation destination. 

Avoid these 8 mistakes when visiting the Bahamas and you’re sure to have a safe, amazing trip that you’ll never forget. Looking for more lifestyle content you need? Be sure to check out more of our content!