NASSAU, Bahamas, Feb. 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — The Islands of The Bahamas was recognized with 18 awards across nine categories in this year’s USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the Caribbean. The Bahamas claimed three number one spots for Best Caribbean Beach (Gold Rock Beach in Freeport), Best Caribbean Island for Romance (Green Turtle Cay in The Abacos) and Best Caribbean Restaurant (Graycliff in Nassau).

Among many winning features, The Bahamas was celebrated across categories for its white and pink sand beaches, translucent waters, authentic culture, delicious cuisines and distinct attractions.

“We are thrilled to have several of our islands and cays from Freeport to the Family Islands recognized by USA Today’s 10Best Awards,” said Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation’s Director General, Joy Jibrilu. “These awards highlight the natural beauty and authentic experiences that travelers can expect when they visit The Bahamas, whether diving, enjoying our pristine beaches or taking a romantic getaway.”

The 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the world’s best in food, lodging, destinations, travel gear, things to do and more. Nominees are selected by USA Today and 10Best.com editors and winners are determined by popular vote.

The Bahamian destinations, establishments and attractions that rank in the top ten are as follows:

BEST CARIBBEAN BEACH
The Best Caribbean Beach category highlights the world’s most spectacular stretches of sand on the islands of the Caribbean.

1.   Gold Rock Beach (Freeport)
3.   Stocking Island Beach (The Exumas)
9.   Tahiti Beach (The Abacos)

BEST CARIBBEAN ISLAND FOR ROMANCE
The Best Caribbean Island for Romance category highlights the best of the Caribbean’s romantic getaways.

1.    Green Turtle Cay (The Abacos)
9.    Cat Island (Cat Island)
10.  Elbow Cay (The Abacos)

BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT
The Best Caribbean Restaurant category highlights culinary gems ranging from fine dining to beachside seafood shacks serving up dishes to make the most discerning foodie swoon.

1.   Graycliff Restaurant (Nassau)
6.   Sapodilla (Nassau)

BEST CARIBBEAN BEACH BAR
The Best Caribbean Beach Bar category highlights the best places for travelers to sip a tropical cocktail while digging their toes in the sand.

2.   Staniel Cay Yacht Club (The Exumas)
4.   Pete’s Pub & Gallery (The Abacos)
7.   Chat ‘N’ Chill (The Exumas)
8.   Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill (The Abacos)
10. Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience (Freeport)

BEST CARIBBEAN RESORT
The Best Caribbean Resort category highlights the region’s leading tropical escapes offering powder soft sands, crystal clear waters, sumptuous accommodations and exquisite service.

3.     Grand Isle Resort & Spa (The Exumas)

BEST CARIBBEAN ATTRACTION
The Best Caribbean Attraction category highlights the things to see and do beyond the beach, from waterfalls and caves to ziplines and historic plantations.

4.     Clifton Heritage National Park (Nassau)

BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT
The Best Caribbean Golf Course category highlights the best courses on which to tee off in the tropical sun.

4.     The Abaco Club (The Abacos)

BEST CARIBBEAN DIVE SITE 
The Best Caribbean Dive Site category highlights the leading scuba diving destinations on the planet, from wreck dives to plummeting walls.

6.     The Andros Wall (Andros)

BEST CARIBBEAN RUM
The Best Caribbean Rum category highlights the Caribbean rum producers who have spent centuries perfecting the process of distillation, aging and blending the spirit.

7.      John Watling’s Distillery (Nassau)