If you've ever dreamed of making the first footprints on the beach of a truly secluded tropical island, you'll have your chance on Half Moon Cay, Holland America's own private island in the Bahamas. Swim, snorkel and sail till the beat of a steel-drum band summons you to the beach party and buffet. Cast off your everyday cares on sunswept beaches as you play the day away.

Arguably the island with the best shopping and the best beaches. Shop duty-free Charlotte Amalie 'til you drop. Or dive into the beach scene at beautiful Magens Bay, Coki Point, or Turtle Cove, nesting ground of the endangered hawksbill sea turtle.

Tortola is an island you'll want to explore in a bathing suit and a sarong. The beaches are numerous, but if you must choose only one, make it Cane Garden Bay, snow-white and lapped by azure seas. Be sure to snorkel at "the Baths" on Virgin Gorda—a collection of boulders that nest in white sand and create an underwater labyrinth.

Although Christopher Columbus stopped in the Bahamas in 1492, the Spanish weren't the first Europeans to permanently settle here: the British were. They built forts to protect towns from marauding pirates and left a lasting legacy of British manners and mannerisms. While you're here, try your bargaining skills at the Straw Market. Or choose an historic tour, ride a submarine, sail a catamaran, pet a dolphin or try your luck in a world-class casino.