For years, Reagan Cappello, 11, has split her time between New York and New Providence. Now she’s moving to the Bahamas full-time. Here’s what she loves most about this island paradise.
What I Love About New Providence
It’s a small island, but there is so much to see and do for kids and parents. The beaches are amazing, you can explore by boat, learn about the history, go on nature walks, swim, snorkel and eat the best food. As it is only 21 miles long by seven miles wide, it’s easy to get everywhere.
Best Bites
Bahamian food is really tasty. My favorite dishes are soft-shell crab, pea soup and dumplings, and conch fritters. The Arawak Cay Fish Fry is the best place to try local specialties. It is lively and very colorful. Sharkeez serves all sorts of food and is fun, too.
Prettiest Beach
Jaws Beach is where the movie Jaws: The Revenge was filmed. My sisters and I call it “Narnia,” since it is so beautiful.
Top Activities
Exploring off-road in a Jeep is cool. Don’t miss the Caves, the Cloisters and Fort Charlotte. We love Aquaventure water park at Atlantis. It’s also fun to go island-hopping. Blue Lagoon Island has the best snorkeling, and you can swim with dolphins and sea lions.
Best Side Trip
The nearby Gilligan’s Island is known as the most photographed island in the world. Its real name is Sandy Cay, but it was used as a backdrop on the famous TV show. It’s tiny and no one lives on it, but you can go there for a picnic and a swim.
Don’t Miss
Junkanoo is a street parade of colorful floats and people dressed in dazzling costumes and playing drums. My favorite one is on New Year’s Day in downtown Nassau. You can’t miss it!