14 Coastal Towns That Feel Like a Slice of the Mediterranean

5. The Abacos, Bahamas – A Caribbean Portofino

The Abacos, a chain of islands in the Bahamas, feel like a tropical version of Portofino with their pastel-colored waterfront villages, wooden fishing boats, and charming marinas. The towns of Hope Town and Marsh Harbour are particularly picturesque, where colorful colonial architecture, lush gardens, and sun-dappled cobblestone streets create a setting straight out of the Mediterranean Riviera. Unlike the party-heavy destinations in the Bahamas, the Abacos offer a slower, more tranquil pace of life, where you can wander through charming villages, explore tiny boutiques, and enjoy long, leisurely seafood dinners overlooking the harbor. The vibrant atmosphere of the towns is complemented by sailboats bobbing in the crystal-clear waters, reminiscent of a summer’s day in Capri or the French Riviera. Local traditions also echo Mediterranean coastal living, from open-air markets selling fresh conch and tropical fruits to evening strolls along the water as the sun sets in shades of pink and gold.