Bahamas
Caribbean • BHS
Last updated: October 12, 2026
The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class luxury resorts. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation on pristine white-sand beaches and exciting water-based adventures like snorkeling and diving.
Visa Requirements
Citizens from many countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, can enter the Bahamas visa-free for tourism for stays up to 8 months.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity remaining
- Confirmed return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Completed Bahamas Immigration Card
Popular Attractions
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: A protected area famous for its incredible water clarity and the opportunity to see the swimming pigs.
Atlantis Paradise Island: A sprawling resort complex featuring an extensive water park, aquarium, and marine habitat.
Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island: Renowned for its unique, soft pink sand that creates a stunning backdrop for photography and relaxation.
Lucayan National Park: This park on Grand Bahama features beautiful nature trails, mangrove forests, and an extensive underwater cave system.
Cable Beach: Located in Nassau, this popular beach is known for its calm waters, luxury hotels, and vibrant local dining scene.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress conservatively when visiting churches or government buildings to show respect for local norms.
Greet locals with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' before starting a conversation, as it is considered polite.
Avoid wearing swimwear or beach attire anywhere outside of the beach or pool areas.
Tipping is customary in the Bahamas, with 15% being the standard for restaurants and hotel services.
Be aware that the pace of life is 'island time,' so expect service to be relaxed and unhurried.
Safety Tips
Stick to well-lit, populated tourist areas, especially when walking at night.
Keep your belongings, including passports and cash, in a secure hotel safe rather than carrying them around.
Use only registered taxis or transport services recommended by your hotel.
Be cautious when swimming and observe all flag warnings at beaches to avoid dangerous currents.
Maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash in public.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, including MMR, DTaP, Polio, and Varicella.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who have not received a booster in the last 10 years.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are not immune to measles, mumps, or rubella.
View sourceTetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is important for overall health.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to potential mosquito-borne diseases, use repellents and nets.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for older adults and those at high risk of complications.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases; use repellents and nets.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to all countries in the Caribbean.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Ensure adequate protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis for all travelers.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
Drink only bottled or boiled water and ensure food is cooked thoroughly to prevent diarrheal illnesses.
Follow safe eating and drinking habits to avoid common travel-related infections.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent diseases like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya transmitted by mosquito bites.
Use repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in places with air conditioning or window screens.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent, protective clothing, and mosquito netting to prevent vector-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water precautions to prevent diarrheal diseases and foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked food.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended annually for all travelers during flu season.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure basic immunity against common diseases.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might need medical care or have sexual exposure.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illness by consuming only safe food and water.
Drink bottled, boiled, or chemically treated water. Eat only cooked food served hot.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers to protect against contaminated food and water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Medication for traveler’s diarrhea
Source: CDC
In case of severe gastrointestinal issues.
Consult a healthcare provider.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceInfluenza
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers during flu season (October to April).
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19 during travel.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid foodborne illnesses, travelers should practice safe eating and drinking habits.
View sourceRabies (if risk exists)
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or who may come into contact with animals.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insect bites, such as dengue fever.
View sourceOther region-specific vaccines (e.g., Rabies)
Source: CDC
Consider rabies vaccination for travelers planning to engage in outdoor activities or interact with animals.
View source