A Fitness Lover's Guide to the Bahamas

Montagu Beach contains the oldest fort in the Bahamas, built in the 18th century to protect the eastern entrance to Nassau Harbour, and is one of the most popular fitness destinations. The shallow waters make it excellent for swimming and the long sandy shore is good for running laps. Also, fitness instructors run classes here regularly and for a small fee (usually about $5) you can join in. Once you’re done with your workout, vendors are usually around selling fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables year-round for a healthy post-workout meal.

Atlantis has by far the most complete fitness center in the country, and comes equipped with cardio and strength training equipment, spinning studies and Pilates classes. To complement that, Atlantis has a total of six tennis courts, three Har-Tru courts and three hard courts, a 25-meter lap pool, and its own basketball court with six hoops. Lastly, it comes with a relaxation lounge, steam chambers and full spa to help you relax after your workout.

Otherwise known as The 66 Steps, the Queen’s Staircase is both a major historical landmark and a great fitness spot for those looking for moderately intense exercise. The steps were created between 1793 and 1794 and where named in honor of Queen Victoria. Today, it is also used as a means of cardio. Most people can relate to walking up a long flight of stairs and feeling out of breath at the end – this destination takes that to the extreme.

Snorkeling is a great way to exercise while enjoying the country’s diverse wildlife. For those of you perhaps unfamiliar with the term, snorkeling is when a swimmer puts on a see-through mask with a breathing tube attached and swims while observing the animals underwater. Snorkeling in the open ocean current will provide you with a good amount of exercise while also being highly entertaining, as you get to witness the stunning marine life that the Bahamas has to offer.