We tend to think of an island paradise complete with resorts and crystal-clear seas when we imagine the Bahamas. But each island of the country is unique; one size does not fit all when it comes to this tourist hotspot!

Two of the most popular destinations are the capital Nassau, which is located on the island of New Providence, and the 365-island district known as Exuma. Both destinations have their advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for you involves weighing them up.

Keep reading to find out why you should choose Nassau, and why you should choose Exuma.

20 Choose Nassau: There’s A Bustling, Energetic Atmosphere

Both Nassau and the Exuma islands are worth seeing and have many advantages. One of the advantages of Nassau is that there’s an exciting atmosphere. It tends to be a very bustling and energetic atmosphere, which is ideal for some travelers.

19 Choose Exuma: It’s Quieter And More Relaxing

While Nassau is the more energetic destination in the Bahamas, Exuma is far more relaxing. According to one Trip Advisor reviewer, you should go for the Exuma islands if you want a quiet destination away from all the hustle and bustle. The Exuma islands are all about rest and rejuvenation!

18 Choose Nassau: There’s An Abundance Of Restaurants

One thing that there’s no shortage of in Nassau? Restaurants. The Bahamian capital is packed full of amazing places to eat, as it has to cater to the throngs of tourists that come through. You can have any cuisine you want here, from local fare to international dishes.

17 Choose Exuma: They Can Swim With Pigs

One of the best things to do in the Exuma islands? Swim with the pigs. Pig Beach is located in the Exuma islands and offers you the chance to get up close and personal with the gorgeous animals, and even jump in the water with them. What could be better?

16 Choose Nassau: It’s Super Easy To Get To

Being the capital of the Bahamas, Nassau tends to be the most convenient location in the country. It is super easy to get to from many places and you can directly fly into Nassau from a huge selection of airports.

15 Choose Exuma: They’ll Have The Chance To Get Up Close And Personal With Nurse Sharks

It’s not just pigs that you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with in the Exuma islands. You’ll also be able to swim with nurse sharks! Don’t let the name scare you, though. These small sharks are friendly and won’t try to eat you.

14 Choose Nassau: There’s A Fascinating Pirate Museum

If you’re interested in the history of the West Indies, then Nassau should be on your bucket list for at least one reason: the pirate museum. The city has a rich pirating history and you’ll be able to learn all about the buccaneers that pillaged and partied here in the museum.

13 Choose Exuma: They’ll Get To See Exumas Cays Land And Sea Park

Not only are the Exuma islands quieter and more relaxing than Nassau, but you’ll have more of a chance to be in contact with untouched nature. The islands are home to the Exumas Cays Land and Sea Park, where you will learn all about the local sea life.

12 Choose Nassau: They’ll Probably Meet New Friends Among The Huge Crowds

Another thing that Nassau does have over the Exuma islands? Crowds of people. While that’s not everyone’s cup of tea, it does mean that it will probably be easier to mingle with new faces and make new friends in the capital.

11 Choose Exuma: They Can Fly In Cheap From Florida

The Manual points out that flights direct to Nassau from the United States can be extremely cheap. If you’re based in Florida, flying to the Exumas is only a quick flight away and it might not even cost that much money!

10 Choose Nassau: They Will Teach Them How To Roll Cigars

According to Trip Savvy, one of the coolest things to do in Nassau is to take a class in cigar rolling. Is this a skill you’ll need in your life? Probably not. Is it super fun to learn and a great, once-in-a-lifetime experience? Heck yes.

9 Choose Exuma: They’ll Get To Stroll Along The Most Famous Sandbar In The Bahamas

The Exuma islands are home to the most famous sandbar in the Bahamas: The Mile-Long Sandbar. While it’s not the longest of its kind, it is the most famous due to its pristine views. This alone is worth visiting the Exumas for!

8 Choose Nassau: The Shopping Is Fantastic

One of the best things about going to the Bahamas is all the duty-free shopping that you’ll get a chance to do. And there is more shopping in Nassau than anywhere else. If it’s shopping opportunities that you’re after, Nassau is the place to go!

7 Choose Exuma: The Accommodation Options Are Varied

Another great thing about the Exuma islands is that the accommodation options are quite varied. Nassau is famous for being close to Paradise Island and its famous (adults-only) resorts, but the Exumas have different kinds of accommodation, from resorts to houses to Airbnbs.

6 Choose Nassau: They Can Visit The Historic Straw Market

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Nassau is the historic straw market, which draws in thousands of tourists. It’s definitely worth visiting Nassau just to go to the straw market, where you’ll be able to buy a wide range of locally made handcrafts.

5 Choose Exuma: They’ll Have The Chance To Get In Touch With Nature

At the end of the day, the Exuma islands offer a better chance to connect with nature than Nassau does. There are sea parks and swimming opportunities with a range of sea life (and land animals too—don’t forget the pigs!).

4 Choose Nassau: It’s Connected To Paradise Island

Most people come to the Bahamas to visit Paradise Island. And Nassau is connected to the famous tourist hotspot via a bridge. So if you want to check out Paradise Island, Nassau is a better place to base yourself than the Exumas.

3 Choose Exuma: The Locals Are Super Friendly

Many Trip Advisor reviews reveal that the locals are extremely friendly on the Exuma islands. That’s not to say that they’re unfriendly in Nassau, but those on the Exuma islands have a reputation for welcoming tourists and being approachable. That can make all the difference in a foreign country!

2 Choose Nassau: They’ll Never Run Out Of Things To Do

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, action-packed holiday, Nassau is the superior option. There are plenty of things to do, see, and eat. You’ll never get bored and you’ll never run out of attractions. Especially if you’re traveling as a family, there’s something for everyone here!

1 Choose Exuma: It Feels Like A Real Island Getaway

Staying on the Exuma islands is like staying in paradise. If you want the type of vacation that feels like a real island getaway where you can leave the world behind for a few days, choose the Exumas. You won’t be disappointed!