Florida to the Bahamas

Video compliments of the Travel Channel

If you want to stay close to home but have an exotic locale in mind, a cruise from Florida to the Bahamas is just the ticket. Gobs of sun worshipers are drawn to the white sandy beaches; others can't resist Nassau's bustling street markets. Whatever the enticement, you'll be all smiles by the time you head back to port. Cruises from Florida to the Bahamas typically depart from Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. The main attraction is colorful Nassau, but there's fun to be had across the isles.

Nassau: With acres of fine ivory beaches and surreal ocean views, it's tempting to make your onshore excursion involve little more than a towel, a bottle of suntan lotion and an iPod. And we wouldn't blame you for it. But you may kick yourself later if you don't get off the lounge chair long enough to mingle with dolphins, explore the reef or soak up a little island culture.

The turquoise waters lend to more than stellar photo ops. In Nassau, it's all about the snorkeling. On Carnival cruises (www.carnival.com), you'll meet swarms of tropical fish on their own turf as you navigate the delicate reefs, learn about the island nation's history and spy on a few celebrity cribs courtesy of a catamaran snorkel trip. If you still want to view the undersea wildlife without donning a bikini, sign up for Royal Caribbean's Sunshine Glass Bottom Boat Tour (www.royalcaribbean.com) where you can take in the Nassau Sea Gardens from the comfort of a dry vessel. If you'd like to dive a little deeper into the culture and history of the port city, take Celebrity Cruises' Nassau and Paradise Island Tour (www.celebritycruises.com). You'll not only catch sites like Queen's Tower (one of Nassau's most popular spots) and Fort Charlotte, but you'll also swing by the famous Atlantis Resort for a peak at some dolphins.

Of course, there's also a lot to see and explore on your own. The Bahamas' Junkanoo Festival is the commonwealth's annual highlight. Akin to Mardi Gras, the popular parade features groups of more than 1,000 participants dressed around a theme, dancing and marching their way through town. Though the main festival happens December 26 and January 1 (Christmas vacation in the Caribbean this year, perhaps?), the Junkanoo Summer Festival (running from early June to late July) features the same activities and a few more surprises. For something a little more low key, check out the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, where Bahamian artists take center stage, but where you'll also find works by the likes of Winslow Homer. Those itching for some retail therapy can stroll through Nassau's historic district and the Straw Market where you'll unearth handmade goods from jewelry to guava jellies. If nothing else, at least get yourself a t-shirt to take back home.