A chain of islands off the coast of Florida and northeast of Cuba, the Bahamas cover an area slightly smaller than the state of Connecticut. Due to its proximity to the United States, the islands are popular stopping points for cruise ships, yachts and warm-weather seeking East Coasters.

The Bahamas has the world's third longest barrier reef and about 14. 5% of the world's coral can be found in its waters. The islands are made entirely of calcium carbonate, which is mainly produced or precipitated by the organisms of coral reefs. There are no rivers in The Bahamas.

Most notable, however, is that each island has its own diversity that continues beyond geography, carrying through to the heart of The Bahamas, the Bahamian people. You’ll find it in its heritage. In its culture. And in its humble pride. These are The Islands Of The Bahamas. Population: somewhere north of 305,000.

With 700 islands sprinkled out over 100,000 sq. miles of ocean, The Bahamas offers the largest assortment of vacation spots of any tropical destination. Islands are circled by cays (pronounced “keys”). Some cays are surrounded by uninhabited rocks. Which island or cay is right for your vacation? Well, you won’t know until you know more about our 14 main islands that serve as hubs for the remaining 686 islands.

Must Eat - No matter where you visit, make sure to look for the national dish, raw or fried conch, and wash it down with the national beer, Kalik. For harder stuff, don't overlook Bacardi rum, produced in a factory south of Nassau and open for tours.