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The Bahamas: sun, beaches — even pirates

Fresh seafood, warm sunshine and wave-kissed beaches. And just a short hop from the U.S. mainland. Why wouldn't you want to visit the Bahamas?
/ Source: The Associated Press

Fresh seafood, warm sunshine and wave-kissed beaches. And just a short hop from the U.S. mainland. Why wouldn't you want to visit the Bahamas?

Even at this time of year, that sweater you wear onto the plane can stay in your hotel room. Look for the "Weather" link on the left side of the page at Bahamas Guide for a glance at typical weather on the islands; the average daily high in March is 79 degrees. The site also provides helpful travel basics that include clothing and attire; along with beach wear, consider taking a rain jacket. Next, look under "Planning Your Trip" for an entry on budgeting, with previews of what you might expect to spend. The other sections in "Planning ..." can help you pick an island to visit, arrange your travel and pick a time of year to visit. (It's nice now, but summer is cheaper.)

Bahamas Guide also helps acquaint you with island food, from culinary styles to restaurants, and provides background and a few addresses for diving and fishing.

Stretch your travel budget by checking out "Current Hotels Deals" at the Ministry of Tourism, and then go back up to the top of the page and click on "About the Bahamas." That's where you'll find directories to places to stay on Nassau/Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island and the Out Islands, along with more "Deals & Packages." And if this trip is important for the two of you, they offer information on honeymoons and weddings. For a little persuasive eye candy, browse through the multimedia gallery, especially the shots of beaches and clear water at the Exuma Cays.

"About ..." is also where the ministry stacks detailed information on things to do on land and on water, from bird watching, gambling and spa visits to sailing, diving and fishing, along with some sparse information on beaches. And look for the shopping section to see if you want to set aside some cash for the island's famous duty-free shops. Then you should go back to the top of the page and read the essential details listed under "Before You Go."

Focus on Nassau/Paradise Island and drill down through "What To Do" until you find "Top 10 Reasons to Visit," running the gamut from beaches and swimming with dolphins to nightclubs and golf courses. And save a couple of minutes for the amateur photos and videos.

The Out Islands have their own charms, ranging from fancy resorts to quiet spots. They include tiny Harbour Island with its famous pink beach and Cat Island with rolling hills and hiking trails.

Grand Bahama has the city of Freeport, and numerous hotels, resorts, shopping and golf courses. And you can always try glass-bottom boat tours, deep-sea fishing and a tour of Ben's Cave in Lucayan National Park.

Thinking of taking the kids? Tell them about pirates. Visit the Bahamas Travel and Culture Guide and look for the link to pirate history, along with sections on history of the islands and the people.

What did other visitors think of the various islands or one hotel over another? Look for "Forums" at the Bahamas chapter of TripAdvisor to read opinions and see where some visitors had "the most phenomenal dinner." Then browse through visitors suggestions for activities including day trips and family pursuits,

Even if you're not old enough to be a member, AARP has useful visitors' information for the islands —  including guides to the island music and Bahamian rum. Take a look at "Travel Tips" for more essentials on etiquette, health, taxes, tipping and health issues.