Air Canada this month celebrated its 70th anniversary of flying between Canada and The Bahamas. Here are some great things to see and do in this easy-to-reach island chain, known for its glittering beaches and achingly beautiful water.

Wander Nassau: Most tourists seem to stick to Paradise Island or the posh new Baha Mar development and miss Nassau altogether. But there’s so much more to see. There’s a ton of cool architecture all over the city and colourful markets. The National Art Gallery is a beauty, while the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation is a vital reminder of humanity’s cruelty. The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas has great historical displays in a protected, historic building. A meal there isn’t cheap, but Graycliff has some of the best food in The Bahamas. Their wine cellar is said to be the third largest private cellar in the world; a labyrinth of dust=covered bottles that has to be seen to be believed. They also have a rum and cigar spot. Better yet, spend the night and enjoy one of their unique rooms or their magnificent swimming pool.

Eleuthera: This is an utterly delightful Bahamian island; far enough away from Nassau to be interesting and different, but with a number of options for folks who want things to see and do. Glass Window Bridge is a marvellous place where the island narrows to a tiny span with a large open arch that allows big waves from the east to spill through into the calmer waters to the west. When the weather’s right, waves of deep blue water from the east pound the rocky coast with incredible fury. But, only a few feet away, the water is a cool green and glassy still. You’ll also find terrific views from an area called The Cliffs, where there are great hikes to be had. Eleuthera has some pretty good elevation changes, so the views can be quite dramatic. The new French Leave Resort from Marriott has lovely units, with access to a nearby beach. Their 1648 restaurant serves up tasty food, including coconut conch. Further south, Unique Village is a low-key but beautiful resort on a great stretch of coastline. Grab one of their colourful Muskoka chairs and settle in with a great book.

Blue Lagoon: This is a popular spot that’s best known for its animal shows, including dolphins you can swim with. That’s not my personal cup of coffee, so I instead wandered the nearby beach (I had it all to myself), lounged on a hammock in the shade of some palm trees and swam in the lagoon on a perfect fall day. They also have a playground in the water, inner tubes and kayaks. There’s an onsite restaurant and a nice bar next to the lagoon for when you feel the need for a tropical drink or a beer. It’s only a short boat ride from Paradise Island, and you’ll pass homes owned by the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Tiger Woods.

Long Island: If Eleuthera has too many people for you, try Long Island, another long, skinny island but with roughly 3,000 people; making it about a quarter the size of Eleuthera. You won’t find any swimming pigs here, but you will find long, lonely beaches and super-friendly locals operating small shops along the side of the road. Cape Santa Maria is a fine resort in the north end, with a lovely quiet bay out front. Stella Maris is further south and on the east side of the island, so expect rougher waves but perhaps more interesting terrain. The north end of the island has a monument to Christopher Columbus, who landed here in 1492. Long Island might best be known as the home of Dean’s Blue Hole, said to be the deepest blue hole in the world and a magnet for divers.

Paradise Island: it’s not for everyone, but there’s no denying the ongoing appeal of this massive development on the eastern edge of Nassau. I recently stayed at the Coral Towers and had a lovely room. The breakfast buffet at Poseidon’s Table truly massive, and very nicely done, with a wide variety of foods. They have a ton of great water slides, including the nearly vertical Leap of Faith, which sees folks slide down a very steep path outside a faux Mayan Temple. More to my speed was the Raging River, which is like a lazy river with giant jets that create big waves to push you along the course. Tremendous fun. I also loved the sandy lagoons, where you can go to escape the loud music Atlantis (and every other hotel these days) seems to blast over the public address system while you try to listen to YOUR music or read a book. Of course, you’re also on one of the best beaches in The Bahamas, so be sure to escape the resort and go for a walk or a swim.

Shopping and Eating; Marina Village is a lovely spot at Paradise Island that’s laid out as a small, pedestrian-only village. Shops and restaurants are painted in colourful, rainbow shades and there are plenty of nice spots to sit and relax. I had very good shrimp and grits on the patio at Frankie Gone Bananas and thoroughly enjoyed my burger at Village Burger Shack. I also loved the conch at McKenzie’s fresh conch, a legendary Bahamian spot in the village. After your meal, strong along the marina and admire the super-sized (and then some) yachts that folks have docked. Some of them are positively breathtaking. The new Baha Mar resort is gaining rave reviews for its dining and shopping experiences. There are more than 30 restaurants, lounges and bars to choose from.

Air Canada is celebrating its 70th anniversary of flying from Canada to The Bahamas. For further information, visit www.aircanada.com.