With 700 islands and cays and some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere on the planet, it’s not surprising that the Bahamas is filled with terrific resorts. But while the destination is perhaps best known for larger hotspots on the “main” island of New Providence like Atlantis and the Baha Mar, venture beyond Nassau and Paradise Island and you’ll discover some boutique jewels, from character-filled beach hotels to adventure outposts to private escapes.

We’ve brought you 10 Bahamas resorts to consider for your next Bahamas vacation, with an emphasis on smaller properties that marry beauty, adventure and authenticity.

Fernandez Bay Village, Cat Island The Out Islands of The Bahamas are a world unto themselves, and Cat Island is a classic Out Islands destination: rugged and beautiful, sparsely populated and incomparably serene. For decades, it’s been home to Fernandez Bay, a beloved, unpretentious beachfront resort that is a throwback to the Caribbean hotels of yore, with endlessly warm service, great food and true toes-in-the-sand rooms. This is a dreamy place, simple and wonderful, one you’ll want to come back to year after year.