Bahamas Vacation Rentals: Homes, Beaches and Family-Friendly Stays

The Bahamas archipelago includes about 700 islands, from Nassau to Eleuthera and Exuma. Vacation rentals - from beachfront cottages to luxury villas - offer families more space and privacy than hotels. Visit mid-December to mid-April for peak season; hurricane season runs June-November. Book via marketplaces or local managers, check amenities and fees, and confirm travel logistics for your chosen island.

The islands and how to get there

What we call the Bahamas is an archipelago of roughly 700 islands and many smaller cays . The islands range from tiny uninhabited rocks to larger population centers like New Providence (Nassau), Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Exuma and Abaco. Bimini is the closest group to Florida - about 50 miles from Miami - making parts of the Bahamas accessible by short flights or private boats.

Commercial airlines offer direct service to Nassau and a few regional hubs, and inter-island travel is possible via small planes, ferries and private charters. Cruise ports also provide an easy sea option for many visitors.

When to visit

The most popular travel window runs from mid-December through mid-April, when temperatures are pleasant and the islands are busiest. If you want quieter prices and fewer crowds, consider late spring or fall, but remember hurricane season runs from June through November and can affect travel plans.

Why choose a vacation rental

Vacation rentals give families and groups space and privacy that hotels often can't match. Properties range from small beachfront cottages to multi-bedroom villas with private pools, docks and ocean views. Renting a whole home can be more cost-effective for groups, and it lets you cook, spread out and relax on your own schedule.

Many rentals sit directly on sandy beaches; Harbour Island (part of the Eleuthera district) is especially well known for its pink sand beaches. Whether you want a secluded villa or a compact cottage close to restaurants and marinas, you'll find a range of options.

Booking and practical tips

You can book through major vacation-rental marketplaces or local property managers. Read reviews, confirm exact location and amenities, and check cancellation and deposit policies before you pay. Be sure to understand any additional fees (cleaning, service or local taxes) and whether the property provides essentials like air conditioning, Wi-Fi and a secure water supply.

For families, look for properties with gated yards, child-safe pools or baby equipment. For boating, verify if the rental includes dock access and confirm fuel and mooring rules.

Final note

A Bahamas vacation rental can turn a beach trip into a relaxed, home-like holiday. Plan around the seasons, verify logistics for getting to your chosen island, and book well in advance for peak winter dates to secure the best properties.

1. Confirm the current official count of islands and cays in the Bahamas (the article uses 'roughly 700 islands and many smaller cays').