Planning a trip to the Bahamas is fun. Here is a list of 5 "must see" islands. Be sure to take advantage of the awesome Bahamian vacation rental opportunities. Many have pools and for a little different and luxurious slant on your vacation, consider hiring a chef or guide to help you get great pictures and the most from your vacation to the Bahamas islands.

1- Cat Island, with it 206' elevation is known for it's rolling hills a beautiful scenery. Lush and green, Cat Island offers some fun hiking and swimming opps. Nosing around some of the old plantations like the Deveaux Plantation at Port Howe gives you a glimpse of the true history of the Bahamas as an important trading region.

2- New Providence. As the most populated and well known island, you'll find Nassau. Home of many fine resorts, Atlantis International Resort and Casino is the resort of choice by most tourists. It's structure and attractions rival those of many famous resorts anywhere in the world. You'll find old and new here; narrow quaint streets and historic buildings and modern structures to support the tourist trade.

3- Bimini is pretty much all about fishing. The closest island to Florida, Bimini is known for it's 20 or so fishing tournaments every year. If your passion is fishing, Bimini is the place for you.

4. The Abacos is a small island grouping covering about 100 miles. You'll find this a laid back and interesting stop.  Marsh Harbor is the largest town and is a popular diver destination. You'll love the clap-board homes painted in the beautiful pastels you see on the different Bahamian islands.

5- Andros Island, is just north of Abaco and is pretty big at over 100 miles long and 10 to 40 miles wide. With a population of just over 8100, there's a lot of room to roam. The 3 most known towns are Kemp's Bay, Fresh Creek and Nicholl's Town. It's easy to get a direct flight from either Miami or Nassau. You'll find lodging in the form of resorts and small tidy vacation rental homes.

Of course, no visit would be complete without considering Grand Bahama. As the 4th largest island, you'll find it a pretty busy city with a population of 50,000+ people. Hotels, Casinos, Shopping are what this island is about.   There is a lot to do here and you'll find some of the most pristine beaches in the Bahamas here. Another popular visitor destination is the Lucayan National Park.

Bahamas Islands vacations have a lot to offer. Nice people, beautiful beaches, clear water, fishing and diving.  I think the firt time you visit a vacation destination like Bahama, you sould hire an islands guide & take a lot of great pictures. To get the most from your vacation dollar, a Bahamas vacation rental is a great way to enjoy your stay and share expenses with other family members or friends.