The PokerStars Caribbean Adventure and PokerStars Players Championship are under two weeks away. If you're going, you're no doubt already scouting out which events to play. There'll be plenty of poker to keep you busy. But, you'll be in The Bahamas. Don't forget to plan for some island fun.
Check out my list of five fun activities to get the most out of your Bahamian trip.
#1 - Swim with pigs
Only 25 minutes from Nassau sits a wildlife sanctuary and experience unlike any other. You'll find Royal Peacocks, curly tail lizards, ocean reef life, and the stars of the show, The Bahamas Swimming Pigs.
The full-day excursion includes a scenic boat ride from the mainland, a private beach, a full lunch, a snorkeling tour, a hammock garden, a beach-side bar, and swimming with the pigs that were raised there from babes! From your private island, you could also rent kayaks or treat yourself to a beachside massage.
Several places offer swimming with pigs, but the one that's closest and features tame pigs raised and cared for in captivity is at Rose Island. If you're looking for a relaxing, fun experience that's tough to find anywhere else, Rose Island and the Swimming Pigs need to be on your to-do list.
Website: https://www.sandytoesbahamas.com/swimming-pigs/
#2 - JetSurf, Seabob, and AquaKart around the ocean blue
If you're going to the Caribbean, you're probably planning on spending some time in the water. Why not mix some adrenaline with your seawater to get the blood pumping?
Show off on a JetSurf, which are jet-propelled surfboards that go over 30mph. Take in the sights on a Seabob, electric watercraft that go up to 12mph above or below the water. Or fly around on an AquaKart, water-riding go-karts that skirt across the water at up to 45mph and are exclusively available in The Bahamas.
Website: https://www.jetwavzbahamas.com/
#3 - Enjoy a rum and food walking tour
If you like to partake in an alcoholic beverage or two while on vacation, you can't go to the Caribbean without thinking about rum. With plenty of rich history in its streets, take advantage of a local guide's knowledge while tasting rum and food along the way.
The tour I'd recommend takes you to four spots; Smuggler's Beer Garden for some buccaneer history, the Hillside House art gallery, the Graycliff chocolatier, and John Watling's distillery. You'll enjoy rum cocktails, rum-infused chocolate, conch and lobster fritters, and boozy rum cupcakes, all while taking in the sights and sounds of downtown Nassau.
Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Nassau/Nassau-Rum-and-Food-Walking-Tour/d420-6558RUM
#4 - Experience thrills and chill with a day at the waterpark
The beautiful beach is at your front door, but the man-made waterpark at Baha Bay is worth your time. Spread over 15 acres and adjacent to Baha Mar, you could easily spend a whole day at the recently built park.
For thrill-seekers, there are dueling water coasters, towering water slides, and a free-fall drop over the Baha Bay lagoon. A little more chill, "The River" takes you through a quarter-mile-long river journey. It starts off chill and relaxing, then picks up with some rapids that take you through island foliage. If you're bringing little ones, there are plenty of kid-friendly areas like Turtle Beach and Stingray cover.
The best part: If you're a guest at Baha Mar resort, admission to Baha Bay is included.
Website: https://bahabay.bahamar.com/
#5 - Stroll Versailles Garden and French Cloister
A perfect place for quiet contemplation and meditation, the legendary Versailles Garden walk is worth checking out.
Featuring an impressive collection of 13 stone and bronze statues, the gardens are a picturesque setting for great photo ops. You'll ascend to a sight of fine white marble cloisters that overlook the beautiful Nassau Harbor.
Take a break from the poker felt to take a trip through these idyllic pastures. Connect with the combination of both natural and man-made beauty of the gardens.
Website: https://press.fourseasons.com/oceanclub/trending-now/versailles-garden-walk/
The combined PCA and PSPC events run from January 22 through February 3, 2023. Pack the sunglasses alongside your card protector, and be ready for memorable island fun both on and off the felt.
