The Bahamas Ranked Among Top 10 Weekend Getaways in U.S. News and World Report Best Vacations Rankings
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Bahamas Ranked Among Top 10 Weekend Getaways in U.S. News and World Report Best Vacations Rankings
International destination recognised for accessibility, island diversity and exceptional accommodations for short stay travellers
NASSAU, The Bahamas, 2 September 2026 The Bahamas has once again earned global recognition for its tourism offering, ranking tenth among the Best Weekend Getaways in and Around the U.S. in the U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Vacations rankings.
Situated just 50 miles off the coast of South Florida, The Bahamas offers international travellers an effortless escape for a weekend or short stay. As of July 2026, more than 30 nonstop routes serve Nassau from nine source countries, with 22 routes operating year round. Direct air service also connects travellers to Out Island gateways including Abaco, Eleuthera and Exuma, allowing visitors to move from city to sand in as little as one to three hours or more, depending on their point of departure.
The destination was recognised for the qualities that make it especially appealing for short stay travel, including ease of access, a wide range of recreational experiences and high quality accommodations suited to two day and three day itineraries. U.S. News and World Report develops its rankings through expert analysis and traveller input, considering factors such as accessibility, activities, lodging, affordability and visitor feedback.
“This recognition confirms that The Bahamas is more than a premier seasonal beach destination. It is a year round choice for every kind of traveller,” said the Honourable Glenys Hanna Martin, Minister of Tourism. “With exceptional accessibility, a diverse range of tourism offerings and a world renowned tradition of hospitality, The Bahamas continues to distinguish itself within an increasingly competitive international tourism landscape.”
The Bahamas also ranked prominently in several other categories in the 2026 Best Vacations report, placing second for Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and fourth for Best Beaches in the World. The destination was also recognised among leading destinations for Best Beaches in the Caribbean, Best Summer Family Vacations and Best Destination Wedding Spots in the Caribbean.
“These accolades underscore the depth and diversity of The Bahamas tourism offering,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General. “From family vacations and luxury retreats to adventure focused travel and culturally immersive experiences, there is no place quite like it. The Bahamas is more than one island. It is a lifetime of them. We invite travellers to experience that for themselves.”
Beyond air connectivity, the breadth of The Bahamas 700 islands and cays, together with its 16 unique island destinations, gives short stay visitors the freedom to shape an itinerary around their interests. Travellers may choose luxury resorts and vibrant cultural experiences in Nassau, coastal retreats in Grand Bahama, or pristine secluded beaches across the Out Islands, making it possible to enjoy a meaningful island escape even within a weekend.
For more information about the U.S. News and World Report rankings, visit https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-weekend-getaways/.
For more information on travel experiences and planning a getaway to The Bahamas, visit www.bahamas.com.
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About The Bahamas
The Bahamas is home to more than 700 islands and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50 miles off the coast of Florida, the country offers travellers a quick and easy way to escape the everyday. The island nation also features world class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the Earth’s most spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to explore. See why It’s Better in The Bahamas at www.bahamas.com, and on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
Media Contact(s):
Rissie Demeritte
Director Global Communications
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
rdemeritte@bahamas.com
Bahamas USA
FINN Bahamas
Bahamasusa@finnpartners.com