Sunny weather, sandy beaches, exquisite reefs, shallow water, steady winds, and proximity to the gulf stream make the Bahamas an ideal choice for all manner of sports and outdoor activities . Islands like Bimini are rightfully regarded as great spots for fishing (especially for wahoo, tuna, barracuda, shark, grouper and snapper), while many Out Islands like Andros, Cat Island and Abaco are famous for their bonefishing - so named after the silvery catch. Likewise, the islands' shallow, calm waters have made sailing a popular activity, especially on New Providence, the Exumas, Abaco and Eleuthera.

Nearly every resort, hotel and lodge offers a full range of aquatic sports, including diving, snorkelling, boating, sea-kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing and swimming , with the cost often included in with accommodation.

Golf and tennis are provided at resorts and hotels on the major islands, with the best golf courses being located at Cable Beach in Freeport, and on Paradise Island. Biking, hiking and eco-tours are growing in popularity as well, and a number of operators specialize in trips to isolated spots throughout the islands. Birdwatching is a major draw, especially for seabird species like the rare Bahamian parrot on Abaco, and the flamingos on Inagua. There's also horseback riding at stables on New Providence and Grand Bahama.