Bahamas Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Nassau
- Currency
- Bahamian Dollar (BSD $)
- Best time to visit
- December to April delivers ideal dry, sunny weather; hurricane season runs June to November, with peak risk around September.
Visa requirements
Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, UK, and many other countries enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days with a valid passport.
Getting around
Taxis, rental cars, and jitney buses serve the main islands, while inter-island flights and ferries connect the wider archipelago.
Safety
Tourist areas and the Out Islands are generally safe, but parts of Nassau (especially 'Over the Hill') and Freeport see higher crime. Stay in well-traveled areas, secure valuables, and exercise caution at night.
Tipping customs
A 15% gratuity is often added at restaurants and resorts; otherwise tipping 15% is expected for service.
Travel tips
The Bahamian dollar is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, which is accepted everywhere. Resorts and Nassau take cards, but the Out Islands often need cash. Inter-island travel is easiest by small plane or fast ferry.