6 Best Sights in The Abacos, Bahamas

This small beach at the southern tip of Elbow Cay is a popular boater's stop. The soft white sand is well protected from the close ocean cut by thick vegetation, a few barrier cays, and shallow water. This shallow area is popular for shelling, and, of course, simply relaxing and watching the tide rise. At low tide, the true beauty of this beach is revealed when a long sand spit emerges, perfect for picnics. It's great for young children, as the water on one side of the spit is ankle deep, stays calm, and remains warm. During peak season the beach can become a bit crowded. Amenities: floating bar and restaurant on calm afternoons. Best for: surfing; swimming.

This beach is world famous for its expanse of truly powder-like sand and breathtaking turquoise water. A hotel and upscale homes line the miles-long beach, but most of it is clear from development since the land is privately owned—and almost clear of footprints. Amenities: parking (no fee); Best for: sunrise; sunset; swimming; walking.

The beaches on Guana Cay stretch along much of the island's ocean side and are often only separated by rocky outcroppings. The sand here is slightly coarse and more of a cream color, with speckles of pink from wave-ground corals. Surfing is popular here, especially on the northern beaches. The North Side Beach, as it is known by locals, offers long, quiet walks. Amenities: none. Best for: surfing; walking; swimming.

A beautiful reef just 30 feet offshore makes this a perfect spot to go snorkeling. Just be careful as the seas can get rough that side of the island. The wide, sandy beach is also a great spot to go for an early morning or late afternoon stroll. Be sure to look out for sea glass. Public access is behind St. John's Methodist Church or through the graveyard behind Taylor Park. Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling, swimming, walking.

In a protected park, this is a great spot for snorkeling and diving on nearby Sandy Cay reef. The cay is small and between two ocean cuts, so the water drops off quickly, but its location is also what nurtures the pure white sand. If you get restless, ruins of an old house are hidden in overgrowth at the top of the cay, and they offer fantastic views of the park. Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling.

If shelling and solitude are your thing, venture 50 miles southwest of Marsh Harbour to the sleepy fishing village of Sandy Point. Large shells wash up on the sandy beaches, making it great for a stroll and shelling. The best spot for picking up one of nature's souvenirs is between the picnic site and Rocky Point. Well offshore is the private island Castaway Cay, where Disney Cruise Line guests spend a day. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; walking.