Grand Bahama Island's vast pine forests evoke the wild charm of France's Landes region. While Freeport and Lucaya shine for shopping, casinos, and golf, the island's true magic unfolds in its natural wonders.
At Lucayan National Park, paddle through mangroves spotting striped grouper, then reach the powdery white sands of Gold Rock Beach, a Pirates of the Caribbean filming site. Picnic under the pines, swim in crystal-clear waters, explore caves once inhabited by Lucayan Indians, and discover "bush medicine" rooted in African traditions with an expert guide. Aloe, lemongrass, and gray mangrove still heal fevers, infections, and pains in fishing villages like West End, Eight Mile Rock, and McLean's Town.
Dive with sharks for an adrenaline rush or swim with dolphins in their natural habitat at the UNEXSO center. The Bahamas' porous limestone forms a labyrinth of sinkholes, galleries, and caves—an aquatic paradise dotted with 600 shipwrecks amid sponges, gorgonians, moray eels, and barracudas.
The roots plan: Savor peas 'n' rice (rice with veggies and spices) in West End's colorful spots, a former Prohibition-era smugglers' haunt.
The charm plan: Intimate dinner at Pier One on Port Lucaya Marina, followed by Bahamian music at Count Basie Square.
The charming plan: Pelican Bay, steps from UNEXSO on the marina. www.pelicanbayhotel.com.
The family plan: Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach 3*, an all-inclusive retreat amid pines and ivory beaches. www.vivaresorts.com.
Consult the Bahamas Tourist Office for tailored advice on islands matching your vibe—lounging, diving, golf, or nature—and budget. 113-115 rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris. Tel: 01 45 26 62 62.
