Andros Island

Swim with tropical fish, hike through forested parks and admire the surreal blue holes that Andros Island is famous for. This quiet paradise is larger than the rest of the Bahamas combined and is also the least developed. Escape the throngs of tourists that characterize the neighboring islands and enjoy nature. Andros Island is one of the premier dive sites in the world. Home to five national parks, it is a favorite destination for ecotourists, divers and nature-lovers.

Pack your hiking boots to explore the extensive network of trails crossing the Central Andros National Park. Walk through mangrove flats to reach stunning blue holes lining stretches of coast. The deep pools are home to fascinating ecosystems. Swim in the deep, cool water to get refreshed.

Join a scuba tour to dive amid an even broader range of flora and fauna. The deep Tongue of the Ocean channel off Andros Island’s eastern coast draws countless fish to feed. Swim past vivid corals and tropical fish on the Andros Barrier Reef, one of the largest reefs in the world. The Bahamas offers warm weather year-round, perfect for spending all day at the beach. Andros Island offers great kayaking, swimming and sunbathing on its seemingly endless stretches of isolated coast.

Try local cuisine in the small, friendly townships of Andros. Taste seafood caught just off the coast at a charming restaurant in Nicholls Town. Visit in summer to attend Crabfest in Fresh Creek or other popular seafood festivals.

Andros actually comprises three separate islands: North, South and Central Andros. Fly to one of Andros Island’s four landing strips. Rent a car from the airport to explore the 65 miles (105 kilometers) of roads that traverse the islands and take a ferry or charter boat between islands. If you don’t want to drive yourself, hail a waiting airport or port taxi upon arrival. They can take you to the guesthouses, hotels and beachfront resorts that are scattered across the islands.