Andros
Andros, the largest and least explored island of all the Bahamas, attracts visitors looking to experience an untouched, tropical environment. Its densely packed pine forests are filled with exotic botanical specimens, and lush wooded areas provide a natural breeding ground for a diverse array of birds. The 140 mile long Andros Barrier Reef, coveted by scuba divers and snorkelers for its spectacular aquatic life, runs along the Eastern shore. Whether a culinary journey, underwater exploration, or fishing strikes your fancy, a great place to start is at Fresh Creek, Andros Town. Stop by the Chickcarnies Hotel for some of the cracked conch. The Small Hope Bay Lodge offers free introductory scuba lessons, specialized diving excursions, and conducts fishing charters every day for bonefish, tuna, tarpon, and other various types of fish indigenous to the reef. As for diving, beginners might be more apt to snorkel the shallow reefs such as the Three Sisters, while diving experts tackle the "Over the Wall" dive. This excursion takes you 185 feet down to an underwater pre-Ice Age beach. All along the reef are natural phenomena known as Blue Holes, underwater channels of coral that emanate a light blue aura that can be seen from the surface.