A Tale of Two Bahama Vacations: Nassau vs. The Out Islands

Published on by troybook Category: General Thoughts

When most people think of a vacation in the Bahamas, turquoise waters and white sand beaches instantly come to mind — and rightly so. But what many travelers may not realize is that the Bahamas isn’t just one experience. With over 700 islands and cays, this tropical paradise offers two very distinct types of vacations: the bustling energy of Nassau, and the peaceful escape of the lesser-known Out Islands.

Whether you’re dreaming of shopping sprees and dancing under the stars, or long days of solitude and underwater adventures, the Bahamas has something to offer. Let’s explore the differences between these two types of Bahamian getaways to help you decide which one is right for you.

Nassau: The Heartbeat of the Bahamas

Nassau, the capital city located on New Providence Island, is the most well-known and most-visited destination in the Bahamas. With its international airport and frequent cruise ship arrivals, it’s also the easiest island to get to. But convenience isn’t the only thing Nassau has going for it.

What to Expect in Nassau:

• Activities & Entertainment: From jet skiing and parasailing to visiting historical landmarks like Fort Charlotte and the Queen’s Staircase, there’s no shortage of things to do.

• Shopping: Head to the Straw Market for local crafts, or explore luxury boutiques at Atlantis Paradise Island or the downtown district.

• Dining & Nightlife: Enjoy a wide range of dining options, from local seafood shacks to high-end restaurants. As night falls, the city comes alive with bars, lounges, casinos, and live music.

• Family-Friendly Resorts: Nassau is home to large resorts like Atlantis and Baha Mar, which offer something for everyone — including waterparks, golf, and spas.

Who It’s Best For:

Travelers looking for convenience, a wide range of amenities, plenty of social interaction, and a vacation that blends beach time with culture, dining, and nightlife.

The Out Islands: The Bahamas Off the Beaten Path

Venture away from Nassau, and you’ll find a completely different side of the Bahamas. The Out Islands — including Exuma, Eleuthera, Long Island, Andros, and many more — are where you’ll discover the untouched, serene beauty that the Bahamas is truly known for.

What to Expect in the Out Islands:

• Unspoiled Nature: Think empty beaches, clear blue waters, and starry skies. Perfect for those looking to disconnect.

• Adventure & Exploration: Try world-class fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking through mangroves, or beachcombing on miles of deserted shoreline.

• Authentic Island Life: With fewer tourists, you’ll get a taste of local culture and hospitality. Many accommodations are boutique inns, vacation rentals, or small eco-resorts.

• No Crowds, No Rush: Time slows down in the Out Islands. You’re more likely to encounter a goat in the road than a traffic jam.

Who It’s Best For:

Couples, solo travelers, or families seeking peace, nature, and a more intimate connection with the environment. Great for digital detoxes or anyone looking to escape the hustle of everyday life.

So, Which One Is Right for You?

The good news is — there’s no wrong choice. The even better news? You can experience both! Many visitors choose to spend a few days in Nassau enjoying the action, then hop a short flight or ferry to an Out Island for a more relaxed ending to their trip.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a beach lounger, the Bahamas can deliver a vacation that feels tailor-made for you. By understanding the different vibes of Nassau and the Out Islands, you can plan a getaway that fits your travel style, mood, and goals.

Tips for Planning Your Bahamian Adventure:

• Flights: Nassau has the most international connections. From there, regional airlines like Bahamasair and Western Air offer short flights to Out Islands.

• Ferries: Consider Bahamas Ferries for a scenic (and more affordable) journey to islands like Eleuthera and Harbour Island.

• Best Time to Visit: The Bahamas enjoys warm weather year-round, but the peak season runs from December to April. For fewer crowds and lower prices, visit in the shoulder seasons.

• Pack Accordingly: If heading to the Out Islands, pack for self-sufficiency — think snacks, reef-safe sunscreen, and any personal essentials.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Nassau and the Out Islands isn’t about better or worse — it’s about what kind of experience you’re craving. Do you want to be in the center of the action, or would you rather find your own private stretch of sand where the only sounds are the waves and the breeze?

Whatever your answer, the Bahamas welcomes you.

A Quiet Morning on the Perfect Beach

Published on by troybook Category: Impressions
A beautiful white sand beach, no crowd, Spanish Wells, the Bahamas

This morning I found the kind of beach people daydream about.

I wasn’t expecting much — just out exploring — when I came across this completely empty stretch of white sand. No crowds, no noise, no beach umbrellas in sight. Just soft, powdery sand underfoot and unbelievably clear, turquoise water stretching out in front of me. It looked like something off a screensaver, but real.

The sun was already shining bright, but not in an overbearing way. It felt warm and welcoming, like the perfect kind of beach weather. A light breeze was blowing through some casuarina trees lining the edge of the beach, and the sound of their needles rustling was actually kind of relaxing. Between that and the waves gently lapping the sand, it was one of the most peaceful spots I’ve ever experienced.

Every once in a while, a seagull would glide by overhead, maybe hoping to spot something in the shallows. It didn’t feel out of place — just part of the scene. Down by the shoreline, a little group of sandpipers was busy running back and forth. They were fun to watch, just doing their thing, moving fast along the edge of the water with those quick little legs. It gave the beach some life without breaking the calm vibe.

I just stood there for a while, soaking it all in. No distractions, no schedule — just the sound of the ocean and the breeze. It was kind of crazy how quiet it was, but in the best way. The kind of quiet that helps you relax, clear your head, and be present.

Normally it would be rare to find a beach like this with no one else around, especially one this beautiful. But this is actually the norm for Spanish Wells. There was something about being completely alone in a place like that that made it feel even more special. I didn’t even feel like I needed to swim or do anything — just being there was enough.

This place reminded me how refreshing it can be to unplug and let nature do its thing. No notifications, no background noise — just fresh air, sunshine, and the ocean doing what it’s always done.

If you ever get the chance to find a beach like this, take it. Sit, breathe, and just enjoy it. It’s not about doing a bunch of stuff — it’s about letting the moment be what it is. Peaceful, simple, and kind of perfect.

Come visit Spanish Wells.

Spanish Wells Hotels

Published on by troybook Category: Accommodations, Spanish Wells
An Historic Home on Spanish Wells, Eleuthera

I have been seeing searches for “Spanish Wells Hotels” coming in to bahamabook. Spanish wells is fortunate enough to not have Cottage Spanish Wellshotels on the island, at least not large ones. Spanish Wells has not become a tourist trap, and I hope the government of the Bahamas never allows a large hotel chain to build there.

Rental Homes

There are a good number of homes for rent through the normal online booking channels.

Homeaway

Airbnb

A local booking site.

Harbourside Rentals

Rental Home Web Sites

Sail Beach

Villa Anna

Sea Blue Rentals

Boutique Hotels

Spanish Wells Yacht Haven and Resort is a boutique hotel with six guest rooms, one villa and a 30 slip all-weather marina. The property features a swimming pool, a restaurant & bar serving Mediterranean and Bahamian cuisine, and a shop. Also located on site are laundry facilities and showers for marina guests.

 

 

The Generation Gap

Published on by troybook Category: Restaurants, Spanish Wells
The Generation Gap Restaurant

The Generation Gap to me is a take on a traditional diner type restaurant. They serve good food cheap, and in large amounts. It is also a good place to sample traditional Bahamian food. The Peas-n-Rice is like my grandma used to make. There are quite a few other Bahamian specialties on the menu as well. I would suggest the cracked conch!

The Generation Gap is a dine in or take out kind of place. I don’t really like the dining room because it is kind of closed in feeling. The entrance of the restaurant has a few tables and a traditional eat-at counter that you’d expect at a diner. It’s fun sitting here in the morning eating breakfast while listening to the locals banter on about whatever is on their minds that day.

The deserts served here are pretty good. Careful though, the portion may induce diabetes. Most of the desert menu consists of cold no bake type deserts with the occasional cake as seen in the above photo.

Gap Facebook Page.

Bahamas Wireless Connectivity Explained

Published on by troybook Category: Spanish Wells, Technology
aliv cell phone network.

Modern technology is not only affecting our daily lives at home. It is also affecting the way we travel. Not too long ago one went on vacation while vernon at home wondered how the vacation was going, and if every one was safe and healthy.

Photos and live video can also be shared to your social media, letting family back home share in your vacation.

Now in any modern country there is no need to be disconnected from home.

Unlocked GSM Cell Phones

One simply needs to own an unlocked GSM phone. On arriving in the Bahamas for a few bucks one can obtain a local Bahamian number with voice access to the USA and Europe with out roaming costs.

In the video we talked about the iPhone, but in reality any GSM phone should work fine. If you would purchase a phone for this use, then I would suggest purchasing a quad band phone.

The following video pretty much goes through the whole process.

Shipyard Restaurant and Bar

Published on by troybook Category: Restaurants, Spanish Wells, Uncategorized
Shipyard Restaurant and Bar

The shipyard is one of the newest restaurants on Spanish Wells. This is a more upscale restaurant bent on changing it up from the fried food, local type food that has traditionally been served at the local restaurants.

The View

The View is definitely gourmet! I enjoy simply sitting on the deck, the food is a definite added bonus. On my first day on Spanish Wells we ordered the Smoked Fish dip, and a few beers. As we slowly consumed the food and drink I could not help being drawn to the sea, a mere 6 feet from where I sat. The swaying palms seemed to sing a sweet song of enchantment that would not permit us to leave.

The Menu

Is a bit more pricy than the other restaurants on Spanish Wells but it is definitely good for at least one visit during the stay.

Shipyard Menu

 

Facebook Page

 

Villa Anna

Published on by troybook Category: Accommodations, Spanish Wells
Villa Anna

Villa AnnaVilla Anna is a second floor apartment, giving you complete privacy.  You have your own spacious deck from which to enjoy beautiful sunsets each night.

Villa Anna is located in a quiet central street, close to everything, especially the beach! Your apartment is nestled in a beautiful tropical garden with a private entrance.

A short walk will take you to restaurants, stores, and boat rentals. You can rent a golf cart or use the bicycles provided to tour the island. The Island of Spanish Wells is 2 miles long, and it is attached by a bridge to the less inhabited Russell Island.

There are two bicycles, beach towels, 2 lounge chairs and an umbrella for your use. It’s a slow 2 minute easy walk to a long secluded beach.

Onsite Swedish massage available ,child care, if you need a break, and Kayak rentals $15 a day. There is one Stand Up Paddle board for your use.

The Beach

The Accommodations

  • Accommodates 4 guests
  • 1 Bedroom
  • 1 Bathroom
  • 2 Beds
  • Kitchen
  • Internet
  • Essentials Provided

$100.00 per night.

Airbnb Listing

Facebook Page

Bullseye Bonefishing

Published on by troybook Category: Fly fishing, Spanish Wells, To Do
Bullseye Bonefishing

Shaw Underwood of Bullseye Bonefishing has spent his entire life boating and fishing the waters around Spanish Wells. His skill Bone fish on a flybecomes evident very quickly as he pilots his boat from one fishing spot to the next in pursuit of the “ghost of the flats.”

The Challenge

Fishing for Bonefish is challenging in the best of conditions because the fish is extremely spooky. They are hunted by both predators of the sea, including shark and barracuda, while having to keep an eye out for the osprey from above. Add to this that the bone fish feed in very shallow waters, sometimes mere inches deep, and you have for yourself a combination of circumstances that produce a very skittish fish. Hook up on one and you realize very quickly why you’re fishing with an 8 weight rod.

The Gear

Shaw provides top notch gear including Loomis rods equips with Hardy reels and custom tied flies. No need to haul gear, just show up.

The saying “Your only as good as your equipment” is definitely the case when chasing bonefish. Our 2016, 18 foot flats boat is The Bossman TailSpotter. The TailSpotter is a new generation of technical poling skiff designed with shallow water tournament fishing & guide captains in mind.

Book a trip with Bullseye Bonefishing today at. https://bullseyebonefishing.com

Salt and Peppa’s Spanish Wells Dive

Published on by troybook Category: Restaurants, Spanish Wells
Salt and Peppa Menu

The Restaurant

Is mainly a take away, but has seating in the rear under a tent. They serve true Bahamian food and as a result it is Salt and Peppa Restaurant, Spanish Wellswhere the locals grab a bite on the run.

Virginia Parks is the owner operator of Salt and Peppa’s. She has a passion for good food and it shows in the food she serves through her window. Virginia calls Salt and Peppa a “Dive.” I must say this dive serves great food. For sure it is not your everyday restaurant. These kinds of places do attract me, I must say.

Another delight served at this small restaurant is the fresh “limeaid” which is lemon aid made from local limes. Limeaid is really refreshing and a personal weakness of mine. When you buy a “limeaid” keep your cup, they do refills at a reduced price.

Salt and Peppa MenuEverything I tried on the menu during my stay, I would order again. There are not too many place I’ve been that I could say that about.

Enjoy and say Hi to Virginia from bahamabook!

Budda’s Snack Shack

Published on by troybook Category: Restaurants, Spanish Wells
Budda's Snack Shack

Budda’s Snack Shack and Liquor Store is a local outdoor, family friendly restaurant and bar. Bahamabook was told that Friday nights this is a happening place. The place to go to meet the locals.

The menu at Budda’s includes Bahamian food, American food and some Chinese. Prices are reasonable between $7.00 and $20.00 per entree.

The Feel

Budda’s just feels comfortable, like the kick off your shoes and prop your feet up comfortable. A family can sit and relax while the kids do what kids do, and the adults can sit at the bar if they wish to hob nob with the locals. The locals are a friendly but at first reserved group. One they get to know you a bit they are warm and engaging, fun to talk with.

Budda’s started the restaurant as a food truck in a customized school bus. To this day the kitchen is run from the school bus.

Budda's Snack Shack