Ever since Columbus landed at San Salvador in 1492 The Commonwealth of the Bahamas has been a very popular tourist destination. Whether you spend your whole trip on one island or enjoy many as part of a cruise, you will certainly enjoy your Bahamas vacation. With the great beaches and fun activities you certainly won't be bored.

There are plenty of things to do with your kids, and special tours, boats and water sports for adults. You will come to understand why George Washington called the Bahamas "The Isles of perpetual June". However you spend your Bahamas vacation, you will create memories that last a lifetime.

While in the Bahamas you will have the opportunity to enjoy many aspects of Island culture. This is a mix of African and European influences resulting from its long history of colonization and piracy. One thing you should experience is the unique form of celebration known as Junkanoo.

This is an energetic and colorful parade similar to Mardi Gras or Carnival. Participants wear bright costumes and dance rhythmically to cowbells, drums and whistles. Because it is rooted in the early tradition of slaveholders giving slaves several days off at Christmas to celebrate with their families, you will most likely find Junkanoo during this time of year on most of the islands.

However, many islands also offer a Junkanoo summer festival during June and July. You and your kids will enjoy the festive atmosphere and have lots of stories about your Bahamas vacation.

When you travel to the Bahamas with your kids you'll have a great time. While they won't find pirates like Blackbeard these days, there are still so many fun and educational opportunities that they won't care. Take your kids on historical tours but make sure they get to experience things like banana boat rides.

Kids will also have a lot of fun experience Island cultural events like fish fries. Of course, traditional kid fare like mini golf is also available on some of the bigger islands. If you need some adult time, most large hotels have babysitters and kids clubs too. A Bahamas vacation can be just the ticket for family fun.

While tours are a staple of any traditional destination vacation, you will find many options in the Bahamas. There are so many things to do you will never be bored. You can go on organized tours that highlight the history of an island or you can find self-directed tours by horseback. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

An incredible way to enjoy the unique flora and fauna of the Islands is to take an eco-tour. Some tours will take you to locations to watch dolphins swimming free. Whatever you want to get from your Bahamas vacation, you can find tours that exceed your expectations.

When most people think of the Bahamas, they envision pristine beaches and clear water. This area is renowned for having the clearest water in the world with visibility of over 200 feet.

You can spend your whole trip relaxing on the beach but you would be missing out if you didn't take your adventure into the water. Visitors return year after year to enjoy the amazing scuba diving in these waters. In some of the outer islands you'll need to arrange for your own equipment and tank refills.

No trip to the Bahamas would be complete without getting on a boat. From kayaks to large charter boats you can find a wide variety of ways to get out on the water. One option is to rent your own boat to explore the islands and cays.

You can also charter special cruises such as a booze cruise. Joining other tourists in a fun island hopping cruise tour is a fantastic way to spend a day on your Bahamas vacation.

You are sure to find exactly what you are looking for in the Bahamas vacation. Whether you want high octane adventure or just to lounge on the beach there are plenty of choices.

With over 700 amazing islands to choose from you and your family will have the trip of a lifetime. No where else will you find such clear waters and hospitable people. Your Bahamas vacation will truly be the trip of a lifetime.