With more than 700 islands, planning a Bahamas diving experience can be somewhat overwhelming. Once you get your head around the fact that the Bahamas cover 100,000 square miles yet only 5,282 square miles of that is dry land, you quickly realize that the greatest portion of this island nation lies beneath the waves. Accept it: There's just no way to see it all in a single trip. To help you find the parts of the Bahamas diving scene that suit your aquatic desires best, we've put together this guide to nine of the most exceptional islands for diving. Whether you're looking for pulse-pounding shark action, bottomless blue holes, effortless drift diving or irresistible wrecks, it's simply a matter of choosing an island and naming your adventure.

From north to south, the Abacos stretch more than 120 miles, from Walker's Cay to Hole in the Wall. Sheltered harbors make this region popular for yachtsmen, and many North Americans have discovered this is a great place to have a holiday home. Still, the pace is laid-back and the scenery quaint. Don't expect high-rises or shopping malls — the Abacos feature a more leisurely way of life. There are several islands where dive adventures are easily arranged, including Marsh Harbour, Great Abaco and Green Turtle Cay. The wreck of the San Jacinto is a great dive off Green Turtle Cay, and a site called the Catacomb off Marsh Harbour is an intricate cavern system where shimmering shafts of light percolate through the ceiling of the caves.

Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas, in size if not population. With 2,300 square miles‚ Andros features lots of fresh water, beaches, mangrove trees and vast pine forests. Despite the beautiful setting, the island remains fairly undeveloped and sleepy —- but that's also one of the island's greatest appeals. For divers, there are numerous thrills to be had, including spectacular walls on the Tongue of the Ocean, heart-racing shark dives and incredible blue holes like Stargate, Guardian Blue Hole, Big Blue Hole, and Little Frenchman's Blue Hole.

The Biminis are the closest Bahamian islands to the United States — just 48 miles from Miami — and a popular getaway for divers and sportfishermen. But like the other Out Islands, the atmosphere is worlds away from the hustle and bustle of South Florida. Even though there aren't as many topside attractions here, divers will find plenty to keep them busy. The Sapona is a standout wreck — quite literally. Most of the ship is actually above water, and the photo opportunity of the giant propeller against the afternoon sun is reason enough to make the trip. Looking to go deep? Some of the walls off Bimini are at intense depths, with the best stuff — the overhangs, gorgonians and largest elephant ear sponges — located at 120 feet.