Bahamas Did You Know? | Fascinating Island & Culture Facts

1. Unusual - Quirky National Facts

The Bahamas is home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef system.
You can swim with friendly “pig beach” pigs on Big Major Cay — a globally famous quirk.
Nassau’s pastel government buildings were inspired by colonial-era styles.
Bahamian waters are so clear that visibility can reach over 60 metres on calm days.
The islands sit atop ancient coral platforms rather than volcanic rock.
Andros Island contains one of the largest collections of underwater blue holes in the world.

The Bahamas created the first fully digital government issue of a central bank digital currency — the “Sand Dollar.”
Bahamian scientists have contributed to major research on coral reef restoration.
The Bahamas pioneered early shark-tagging programmes, now used globally.
Junkanoo costuming techniques have influenced modern parade and festival design.
The islands have become leaders in sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

Public displays of swimwear are discouraged inland — proper clothing is expected away from beaches.
It’s illegal for civilians to wear camouflage clothing.
Sundays maintain a strong cultural association with church, family and rest.
Locals place great value on greetings; a friendly “good morning” is appreciated before conversation.
Driving is on the left, a legacy of British influence.

Sir Sidney Poitier, born in the Bahamas, became the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Lenny Kravitz has Bahamian heritage and frequently supports cultural projects on the islands.
Shaunae Miller-Uibo is a world-renowned Olympic sprint champion.
Ronnie Butler is celebrated as the “Godfather of Bahamian Music.”
Bahamian artists such as Amos Ferguson brought vibrant folk-art styles to international galleries.

The Bahamas is an archipelago of around 700 islands and over 2,000 cays.
Only about 30 islands are inhabited, giving much of the country a remote, untouched feel.
The Tongue of the Ocean is a deep ocean trench reaching dramatic depths near Andros.
Many islands have pink-sand beaches created from crushed coral and shells.
The climate is tropical year-round, with warm temperatures and clear water visibility ideal for diving.

Bahamian culture is shaped by African, Caribbean and British influences.
Music and dance play a central role in social life, especially during Junkanoo.
Community gatherings often revolve around food, storytelling and outdoor events.
Family bonds are strong, with multi-generational households common across the islands.
A relaxed, friendly pace defines everyday life — often referred to simply as “island time.”

Goombay, rake-and-scrape and Junkanoo rhythms form the heartbeat of everyday music.
Conch is a national staple, served fried, cracked, curried or as a fresh salad.
Straw markets remain an important part of Bahamian craft culture.
Brightly painted houses reflect the islands’ warm, colourful identity.
Local festivals celebrate independence, sailing, seafood and music throughout the year.

The Bahamas was the site of Christopher Columbus’ first landfall in the Americas (1492).
The islands were once a major hub for privateers and pirates, including Blackbeard.
Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution resettled in the Bahamas, shaping architecture and culture.
The country gained independence from the UK in 1973.
Historic forts such as Fort Fincastle and Fort Charlotte recall the islands’ strategic past.

Dean’s Blue Hole in Long Island is one of the deepest in the world, plunging over 200 metres.
Exuma’s watercolour-blue shallows are considered some of the clearest on Earth.
The Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera showcases dramatic contrasts between the Atlantic and Caribbean.
Clifton Heritage Park preserves Lucayan, Loyalist and African Bahamian history.
The Queen’s Staircase in Nassau is carved from solid limestone and remains a cultural landmark.