While there are many exquisite vacation spots, the Bahamas offers a unique combination of convenience, luxury and fabulous weather.

A Bahamian vacation is the perfect getaway for people of all ages, from small children to young adults to those who have long been retired. Boasting some of the most incredible diving and snorkeling in the world, you will also have access to pristine beaches, exceptional cuisine, luxurious spas and a relaxing vibe you just can’t get anywhere else.

What’s the best part? This paradise is not on the other side of the world. The Bahamas is just quick flight from most metropolitan centers in North America, and a mere 100km from Florida.

With perfect temperatures and a warm, calm breeze year-round, there really is no bad time to visit the islands. Consisting of over 700 miles and encompassing roughly 180,000 square miles (470,000 square km) of ocean space, the Bahamas offers many different opportunities for all vacationers.

We really can’t think of a reason not to embark on a Bahamas vacation, and below you will find the top eight reasons why the Bahamas should be on your radar of places to visit.

REASON #1: THE SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING IS EXCEPTIONAL
The Bahamas is one of the top destinations for those interested in diving or snorkeling.

Boasting thousands of coral reefs, blue holes and shipwrecks, all teeming with exotic sea life, you can spend days exploring the ocean waters. Another bonus is you don’t have to be an expert diver or snorkeler to partake in the fun. There are plenty of options for first-timers or those who just want to take it easy and peruse the shallow waters.

REASON #2: IT IS EXTREMELY CONVENIENT AND EASY TO NAVIGATE
The Bahamas might feel worlds away from the ordinary, but it is really just a stone’s throw from your everyday life. Most large cities in North America, particularly those on the eastern seaboard, are only a few hours away by plane. Nassau is major hub for airlines, so you won’t have trouble reaching the capital. It is then quick and easy to take smaller planes to nearby islands.

Direct flights to the Out Islands, such as Exuma, are also becoming increasingly common as the country continues on a path of national development.

The Bahamas is very comfortable with North American culture and the American dollar is interchangeable with the local currency.

REASON #3: THE STRAW MARKET IS CRAMMED WITH BAHAMIAN CULTURE
Another must-see located in Nassau, the open-air straw market has dozens of vendors selling everything you can imagine. If you are looking for great local arts and crafts and a chance to mingle with the locals, this is the place.

REASON #4: CABBAGE BEACH HAS TRANQUIL AND ROMANTIC SCENERY
One of the most popular beaches in the Bahamas, Cabbage Beach in Nassau is perfect for a romantic stroll along the soft, white sand, or a great place to let the kids build sand castles.

REASON #5: THE BAHAMAS IS ABOUT FAR MORE THAN NASSAU
There are more than 700 islands in the Bahamas. Most people only know Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, which is located on an island called New Providence. But there are many other exotic and exciting islands in this country, many of which have international airports. Exuma, for example, has more than half of the islands found in the entire country.

While the Bahamas is often seen as rather small, there is more to discover than meets the eye.

REASON #6: THE TROPICAL BAHAMIAN WEATHER LASTS ALL YEAR ROUND
One of the top reasons to visit the Bahamas is the weather. Regardless of the time of year, the Bahamas always offers perfect temperatures and a warm breeze.

REASON #7: PARADISE ISLAND OFFERS GLIMPSES OF CELEBRITIES
Atlantis, the largest resort in the Bahamas, is located on Paradise Island, just off the shore of Nassau. It is one of the most popular resorts in the Caribbean, boasting a water park, tons of restaurants, a movie theater and a casino. You may be lucky enough to run into celebrities, particularly at the exclusive One & Only Ocean Club, which is just down the street.

But the celebrity sightings don’t end there. The Out Islands are also very popular among the rich and famous because they tend to be quieter and more exclusive.

REASON #8: THE EXUMA CAYS LAND AND SEA PARK OFFERS UNFORGETTABLE SIGHTS
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is one of the most exceptional national parks in the world. Established in 1958, the park is the first of its kind and offers colorful coral reefs, blue holes, underwater caves, kayaking opportunities and shipwrecks. Additionally, the park provides a protected habitat for rock iguanas, sea birds, nesting turtles, sponges, rainbow colored fish and more.

If you are trying to decide whether or not a Bahamian vacation is the right move for you, stop right there. The Islands offer something for everyone, and there are so many things to do it won’t matter if this is your first visit or your fiftieth.

Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Grand Isle Resort & Spa and a clickable link back to this page.