Fun things to do with kids in the Bahamas

For families seeking adventure and panoramic views, a hot air balloon ride is a thrilling activity. Several operators in the Bahamas offer hot air balloon rides that take families over the beautiful islands, providing stunning views of the landscapes and coastline. The experience is serene and awe-inspiring, and kids will be captivated by the height and beauty of the journey. It’s a unique way to see the Bahamas from above and create lasting memories.

The Abaco Islands offer a quieter, less developed environment perfect for families. The islands are home to pristine beaches, wildlife, and charming settlements. Kids can explore the sandy shores, go shell collecting, or take boat tours to nearby cays. The Abaco Islands also offer opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and nature walks, making it a great destination for families looking to enjoy a more laid-back experience.

The Blue Hole is a natural wonder located in Andros Island. Families can kayak or paddleboard in the shallow waters of the Blue Hole, which is surrounded by mangroves and rich marine life. It’s an exciting activity that lets kids get up close to the area's diverse ecosystem. The calm, turquoise waters and unique surroundings make this a memorable outdoor adventure.

The Clifton Heritage National Park offers families a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and history of the Bahamas. The park features trails, beaches, and historical sites like the ruins of a plantation and old slave dwellings. Kids can enjoy nature walks, picnics, and learning about the rich history of the Bahamas. The park is also a great spot for bird watching, making it a good educational outing.

The Bahamas Miniature Golf course offers a fun and challenging experience for kids and families. Set in a tropical garden, the course features creative landscaping, fountains, and tricky obstacles. Kids will enjoy the chance to compete with family members or practice their putting skills. The course is suitable for all ages, making it a great spot for a lighthearted, fun outing for the whole family.

Atlantis Paradise Island is home to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean. The Aquaventure Water Park offers kids an exciting array of water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. There are age-appropriate attractions for younger kids, as well as thrilling slides for older children and teens. Beyond the water park, Atlantis also features a large marine habitat where kids can learn about aquatic creatures like sharks, rays, and turtles. It’s a great place for families to spend an action-packed day.

Located on Grand Bahama Island, Lucaya Beach offers calm, shallow waters perfect for children to play and swim. The beach is surrounded by resorts and amenities, making it easy for families to spend the day lounging and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. There are also various water sports activities available for families to try, including paddleboarding and kayaking. It’s a great place for a relaxing, fun-filled day by the ocean.

The Exuma Cays is home to crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an excellent location for snorkeling with kids. Many family-friendly tours take you to shallow reefs where kids can snorkel and spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and starfish. The calm waters and safe environments make it a perfect choice for young adventurers to safely explore the underwater world.

The Bahamas has a rich history and vibrant culture that families can explore at various museums and galleries across the islands. Kids will love the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, which features colorful artwork and exhibits related to the Bahamas' heritage. Many museums offer hands-on activities, and local artisans often conduct workshops where kids can learn how to create their own crafts. This activity provides a creative and cultural experience for kids and their families.

Blue Lagoon Island is a perfect destination for families with young children. The island is home to beautiful beaches, shallow waters ideal for kids to swim, and animal encounters. Kids can meet dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals during interactive sessions. The island also offers family-friendly activities like water sports, paddleboarding, and a large water park with slides and pools. It’s a full day of fun for the entire family, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Cabbage Beach, located on Paradise Island, is another beautiful and family-friendly beach. The beach is known for its soft sand and clear, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for young children to safely swim, build sandcastles, or play. There are also water sports and rental options available, so families can enjoy activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. The beach is less crowded, giving families more space to relax.

In Nassau, the Pirate's Museum offers more than just exhibits. Families can join in a treasure hunt throughout the museum, where kids can solve riddles and search for hidden clues while learning about pirate lore. The interactive experience keeps kids engaged while they learn about the history of pirates in the Bahamas. This exciting activity is perfect for young explorers who love a good challenge!

Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island offers families a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty. The park features a beautiful beach, along with an extensive network of walking trails through mangrove forests and limestone caves. Kids will enjoy the opportunity to walk through the park’s “Pine Forest Trail,” where they can spot wildlife like birds and lizards, and explore the famous “Ben’s Cave,” one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world. The park is perfect for families who enjoy nature and hiking.

For families interested in Bahamian history and culture, the Bahamas Historical Society Museum in Nassau is a great educational stop. The museum offers exhibits that cover the history of the Bahamas, from its early indigenous inhabitants to its colonial past and independence. There are kid-friendly exhibits with engaging displays that make history come to life. It’s a fun and informative way for kids to learn more about the Bahamas’ heritage.

Thunderball Grotto, located on the Exuma Islands, is a must-see for families who love adventure. This underwater cave system is accessible by boat and is perfect for a family snorkeling excursion. Kids will be fascinated by the underwater world, with vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish swimming around. The grotto became famous from the James Bond movie Thunderball, adding a bit of cinematic magic to the experience. The calm waters and shallow depths make it an ideal spot for families with young children to snorkel.

The National Trust Nature Reserve on New Providence Island is a fantastic place for kids to learn about local conservation efforts and Bahamian wildlife. The reserve includes a variety of ecosystems, from salt marshes to forests, where kids can observe birds, plants, and other native species. There are guided tours available that provide educational insight into the island’s environment and ecology. It’s a peaceful, nature-filled activity that’s perfect for families who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration.

The Bahamas offers some of the best fishing in the world, and many charter companies offer family-friendly fishing trips tailored to kids. These tours provide fishing gear, expert guidance, and a chance to fish for a variety of species like snapper, grouper, and tuna. Kids will love the thrill of reeling in their catch, and the experience provides a fun way to introduce children to the sport of fishing.

The Andros Barrier Reef is one of the largest coral reefs in the world and offers an incredible snorkeling experience for families. Kids can explore the vibrant marine life, including colorful fish, sponges, and corals. The waters here are typically calm, which makes it suitable for families with young children who want to discover the wonders of the underwater world in a safe and controlled environment.

Nassau’s Pirate Museum offers an exciting and educational experience for children interested in the swashbuckling history of pirates. The museum features interactive exhibits, including artifacts from pirate ships, old maps, and stories of famous pirates who frequented the Bahamas. Kids can participate in treasure hunts, explore the museum’s pirate ship replica, and learn about the island’s pirate history. It’s a fun way for kids to engage with the Bahamas’ rich history and mythology.

The Queen's Staircase in Nassau is an iconic historical landmark that offers a bit of history and outdoor fun for families. The staircase, carved into limestone, consists of 66 steps leading to the top of a hill where families can enjoy scenic views of Nassau. It’s a bit of a climb, but it’s manageable for older kids and a great way to introduce children to the island’s history. The area around the staircase also features lush gardens and historical landmarks to explore.

For families staying at the Atlantis Resort, the Funky Fish Kids’ Club offers a variety of activities designed specifically for children. From arts and crafts to treasure hunts and watersports, the Kids’ Club provides a fun-filled experience for children. The activities are supervised by trained staff, allowing parents to enjoy some time to themselves while their kids are entertained and engaged in exciting activities.

Stingray City, located in the North Sound of Grand Cayman, is another great spot for families. Kids can safely swim with friendly stingrays in shallow waters while being guided by experienced instructors. The rays are used to human interaction, making the experience safe and fun for children of all ages. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to learn about stingrays while having a hands-on experience with these gentle creatures.

Ardastra Gardens is an excellent spot for families to experience the wildlife of the Bahamas. The zoo features a variety of animals, including flamingos, parrots, and reptiles. Kids will love feeding and interacting with the animals, especially the famous marching flamingos. The garden is beautifully landscaped, and there are opportunities to learn about the conservation efforts to protect the island’s native species. It’s an educational yet fun experience for children of all ages.

A cooking class is a great way to get kids involved in learning about Bahamian cuisine while having fun. Several resorts and local chefs offer cooking classes where families can make traditional Bahamian dishes such as conch fritters, Bahama Mama cocktails (without the alcohol for kids!), and local seafood. It’s a hands-on activity that also provides a delicious takeaway—perfect for families who want to bond over food and learn about local flavors.

Cable Beach is a beautiful stretch of shoreline on New Providence Island that’s perfect for families. The gentle waves and calm waters make it ideal for children to swim and play. There are many family-friendly resorts along the beach, offering amenities like shallow pools, kid’s clubs, and shaded areas. The beach is a great spot to relax, build sandcastles, or take a scenic walk while enjoying the stunning views of the turquoise waters.

The Garden of the Groves is a family-friendly botanical garden on Grand Bahama Island. It offers a serene environment for families to explore lush gardens, waterfalls, and ponds. Kids will enjoy walking along the nature trails, visiting the wildlife area where they can see iguanas and exotic birds, and discovering hidden gems within the garden. There are also interactive nature exhibits and opportunities for family photos, making it a peaceful and educational stop for families.

The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park offers an amazing family adventure where kids can experience both land and sea. The park includes beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. Families can take boat tours to explore the area’s cays, snorkel with tropical fish, swim with sea turtles, and even visit “Pig Beach” to see the famous swimming pigs. It’s a fantastic way for kids to enjoy the natural beauty of the Bahamas and learn about marine conservation.

The famous swimming pigs of Exuma are a must-see for families visiting the Bahamas. Kids will love the chance to meet and swim with these friendly pigs on a private island. The pigs swim right up to the boat and enjoy interacting with visitors. The experience is not only fun but also educational, as kids can learn about the pigs’ unique lifestyle and the history of the island. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that the whole family will never forget.

Located in Nassau, Turtle Reef offers shallow, calm waters where kids can snorkel and see sea turtles, fish, and other marine creatures up close. The area is safe and accessible for children, making it a fantastic family activity. You can either book a tour or simply rent gear and head to the reef on your own. It’s a great opportunity for kids to experience marine life in a safe and exciting way.