Imagine a place where the water is so crystal clear it can be seen from space, enveloping pristine beaches and lush coral reefs. This is the Bahamas archipelago, a destination that uniquely combines adventure and elegance through the "Barefoot Luxury" concept, where nature is always the protagonist. A true paradise for water activities, especially scuba diving.
The Bahamas are a true sanctuary for divers, whether beginners or experienced. Water visibility is impressive year-round, with temperatures ranging from 23-24°C in winter to 29°C in summer. The archipelago is home to some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean, such as the Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest in the world, and several areas protected by the Bahamas National Trust. Nassau, the capital located on the island of New Providence, is an ideal starting point for exploring these underwater treasures.
A world leader in diving and a pioneer in safe shark encounters since 1985, Stuart Cove's Dive Bahamas offers unique and well-organized experiences, and it's no wonder the company collaborates with renowned filmmakers. "In fact, don't be surprised if you run into Stuart himself at the dive center base. Even though he's a global icon and a stunt double in countless Hollywood films, he often goes diving with tourists," says André Valentim, Stuart Cove's representative for the Latin American market.
According to Valentim, the best diving spots in the Bahamas are:
Goulding Cay, a private island located in the north of the Bahamas, ideal for beginners, with shallow waters and longer dive times;
Runway Wall, in New Providence, a place where you can swim with the famous sharks, a memorable experience; and
Porpoise Bends, in New Providence, is a vibrant reef teeming with marine life, perfect for divers of all levels.
Shipwrecks off the west coast of New Providence are true underwater time capsules.
Another excellent option for divers is the Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort, which features a PADI® 5-star dive center and offers scuba diving certification courses in an all-inclusive, adults-only setting. The property offers daily dives at a rotation of up to 10 different sites, ensuring guests always experience new underwater landscapes.
Other accommodation options for divers include Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham and Taino Beach Resort & Clubs, both in Freeport, Grand Bahama, which offer diving experiences for all levels.
Those looking for all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas will also find options for divers, such as the adults-only RIU Palace Paradise Island and the Breezes Resort & SPA Bahamas, located on Cable Beach, Nassau.
In addition to underwater experiences, the Bahamas offers idyllic landscapes on land. Beaches like those in the Exumas surprise even the most experienced travelers with their indescribable turquoise waters. To make the most of everything the destination has to offer, a stay of at least seven nights is recommended, with the possibility of extra days to explore some of the islands.
It's worth remembering that if you plan to dive multiple times on consecutive days, it's advisable to wait at least 12 hours before taking a flight. Another advantage of New Providence is that its dive sites are spread across the island, allowing you to continue your activities even when the wind changes.
Whether exploring reefs, shipwrecks, swimming with sharks, or simply relaxing by the sea, the Bahamas offer an unforgettable experience for those looking to be in direct contact with nature.
And to make the experience even more accessible, travelers can take advantage of a special promotion to the Out Islands: bookings of 4 to 6 nights at select hotels include a free roundtrip flight between Nassau and the islands, while stays of 7 nights or more guarantee two free flights. The promotion, available through travel agencies in Latin America, is valid for bookings through June 30 and travel through October 31, 2025. This could be the perfect opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in a true paradise.
Source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investment and Aviation.