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£1 BSD 1.36
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Weather & climate
Weather in Bahamas
Bahamas
30°
Overcast
Sat
23°
30°
Sun
24°
29°
Mon
27°
27°
Tue
26°
28°
Wed
27°
27°
Thu
26°
27°
Fri
26°
27°
SPF level in Bahamas
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Bahamas
What British travellers need to know
You can stay for up to 30 days without a visa in The Bahamas.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure date.
You may need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if travelling from a country listed as a transmission risk.
You must declare any goods that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty upon arrival.
If you have a US ESTA, time spent in The Bahamas counts towards the 90-day ESTA limit.
Good to know:
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement.
Visa extensions are possible up to a maximum of 8 months, but overstaying can result in a fine, detention or deportation.
Safety in Bahamas
Tips when travelling
Bahamas is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
There have been armed robberies, sometimes fatal, in tourist areas, so avoid walking alone outside main areas and beaches, especially after dusk.
Crimes like theft and sexual assault increase during local regattas and festivals, so secure your valuables and do not leave drinks unattended.
Swimming at night or at dusk puts you at a higher risk of shark attacks, even in shallow waters close to resorts.
Be careful when renting jet skis and other water sports equipment, as many operators are unregistered or use poor quality equipment.
While same-sex relations are legal, showing affection in public may receive unwanted negative attention, as it is uncommon.
Bonus tips:
The risk of petty theft and pickpocketing increases during crowded local events, so keep valuables in a safe place.
Penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs are severe, and you could face a substantial fine, deportation, or imprisonment.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Bahamas
A UK driving license is valid for up to 3 months. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
no motorways
Urban speed limit
48 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Health in Bahamas
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including potential evacuation. Check if your policy covers activities you plan to participate in, such as water sports.
No vaccinations required
Medical facilities in the Bahamas are generally good, especially in Nassau and Freeport, but can be expensive. Ensure you're up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue fever and Zika virus are present. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and stay in screened or air-conditioned rooms. Tap water is generally safe in major tourist areas, but bottled water is recommended elsewhere.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and larger establishments, but smaller businesses may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
Tipping in Bahamas
Tipping is customary in the Bahamas for various services. A service charge is sometimes automatically added to bills, so check before you tip.
Restaurant
15-20% if service is not included. Check the bill, as some restaurants automatically add a 15% gratuity.
Bar/Café
15-20% if service is not included.
Taxi
15% of the fare.
Hotel Porter
1-2 BSD per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BSD per night.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price, depending on the quality of service.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in the Bahamas. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and roaming packages. EU roaming regulations no longer apply post-Brexit, so standard international roaming rates will apply.
Local SIM
5 GB for 40 BSD (~£32)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in Bahamas
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, resorts, cafes, and some public areas, particularly in tourist hotspots.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi access is generally good in tourist areas, but may be less reliable in more remote locations. Mobile data is an alternative if you need consistent access.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Bahamas
Country code
+242
To call the British High Commission in Nassau, you would dial 00 1 242 322 7047 from the UK.
The country code for the Bahamas is 242. When calling from abroad, dial your country's exit code, followed by 1, then 242, and finally the local number.
Languages in Bahamas
UK Embassy
British High Commission Nassau
British High Commission, Goodman's Bay Corporate Centre, West Bay Street, Nassau, The Bahamas
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Airports in Bahamas
Beaches in Bahamas
Frequently asked questions
British citizens don't usually need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. However, you must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, and proof of onward travel.
The Bahamas is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, petty crime, particularly theft, can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and secure your valuables. Violent crime is more prevalent in certain areas of Nassau; check local advice.
The best time to visit the Bahamas is generally from mid-December to April. The weather is drier and temperatures are pleasant, usually in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-29 Celsius). This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices.
Light, breathable clothing is ideal for the Bahamian climate. Pack swimwear, t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses. For evenings, consider light trousers or a skirt and a shirt. If you plan to visit religious sites, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Bahamians are generally friendly and welcoming. Politeness is valued, so use 'please' and 'thank you.' Tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20%), for taxi drivers, and for other service providers. Public displays of affection are generally acceptable, but topless sunbathing is illegal.
Bahamian cuisine features seafood prominently, especially conch (pronounced 'konk'), which is served in various forms like salad, fritters, and chowder. Other popular dishes include grilled fish, lobster, peas 'n' rice, and macaroni and cheese. Try local specialties at 'Mom and Pop' restaurants for an authentic experience.
Taxis are readily available in tourist areas, but agree on a fare before you start your journey. Jitneys (local buses) are a cheaper option in Nassau and Freeport. Rental cars are available, but driving is on the left. Ferries and domestic flights connect the different islands.
Be wary of unsolicited offers from strangers, especially those offering tours or assistance. Confirm prices before accepting services. Use ATMs located in reputable establishments to avoid card skimming. Be aware of inflated prices in tourist areas and compare prices before making purchases.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.