Best Things to Do on a Beach Vacation in the Bahamas

• Celebrate Junkanoo - It is a celebration of Bahamian culture! Local artists, food carts, live music and a spirited carnival. It is on Tuesdays and Fridays in the Marina.

• Aqua adventure parks at Atlantis and Baha Mar - Family-friendly water activities for all ages, with slides, pools, and splash pads.

• Beaches - With mile-long secluded beaches that run along the resorts, or more public options, they all offer spectacular views, clear water and beautiful shells.

• Cabanas - If you are looking for a more luxurious quiet type day, you can reserve a cabana that comes with a food and drink credit, and enjoy your loved one in a more secluded atmosphere.

• Island Hopping - The Bahamas is made up of over 700 islands. Set aside a day or two to explore other islands.

• Casino - Both Grand Hyatt and Atlantis have casinos where you can spend the night pressing your luck and possibly winning to be able to come back again!

• Shopping - Take a taxi downtown and shop the local shops, and pick up some duty-free items to take home!

• Book the spa - Need some alone time or couples massage? Carve out some time to enjoy the spa at these resorts.

Day Trips from the Bahamas

Pieces of 8 Tours - Whether you choose to swim with the pigs, feed black rock iguanas, swim with the nurse sharks or visit one of the world's top beaches, you can't go wrong with Pieces of 8. They are so kind and professional it is worth every penny!

• Todd English's Olives - It has something for everyone and is open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It accommodates large families and groups very well and even offers a private dining experience.

• Fish by Jose Andres - A place to celebrate a special occasion if you love seafood! It is definitely an upscale experience with a down-to-earth feel.

• The Village Burger Shack - Hungry after a long day in the sun or want a casual family-friendly dinner? This is the place... great burgers and milkshakes.

• Marina Pizzaria - Still in your bathing suit and hungry for lunch or a snack before dinner? Grab a slice or a whole pizza to go! You won't regret it, it's the best bang for your buck around the Atlantis property on Paradise Island.

• Marcus Fish + Chop House - Weekend brunch, daily lunch and dinner all set with ocean views. Visit the rooftop bar for a more casual experience or make a reservation and watch the sunset and enjoy local Bahamian flavors. I personally don't love seafood but had an amazing fried chicken and biscuits meal.

• Shuang Ba - Authentic Chinese flavors including a once in a lifetime Peking duck entree that is carved tableside. They only make so many a day so don't miss out, you won't regret it!

• Cafe Madeleine (French Coffee & Bakery) - Inside Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, you can grab a delicious morning coffee and pastry for a reasonable price and sit by the pool or beach and start your morning off in heaven.