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The Ultimate Nassau Bahamas Travel Guide (From A Local’s Point of View)

If you’re thinking of traveling to Nassau in The Bahamas, here’s a local’s guide to Nassau, Bahamas. Whether it’s crystal clear waters, relaxation, culture, authentic Bahamian food; here’s everything you need to know to start planning your trip.

What To Know Before Traveling To Nassau Bahamas

First off, Nassau is ONE island in an archipelago of over 700 islands, rocks and cays and if your discovery of The Bahamas starts there, that definitely shouldn’t be the end all be all. When flying to Nassau, the best airport is LPIA (Lynden Pindling International Airport) which offers both international and inter island transportation. The best time to travel would depend on the traveler but peak season usually starts around the winter months until the end of Spring break and off season starts during the spring/summer months more particularly around hurricane season.

The ideal length of stay can vary but I recommend a long weekend into a week (4-7 days) OR  you can definitely consider including Nassau as a stop if you’re on a Caribbean cruise.

Other things to note, currency used is 1:1 with the USD dollar (not a US territory) and you should also budget for VAT (value added tax) which is around 10% or greater.  I would recommend budgeting spending $50-100 dollars a day depending on your itinerary.

Where To Stay in Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re looking for a more luxury stay, check out the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar or SLS Baha Mar, The Island House and Ocean’s Club, Four Seasons. Budget friendly choices are Comfort Suites Paradise Island which offers a day pass per guest to Atlantis. Other budget friendly options are CourtYard By Marriott, Holiday Inn and more. For all inclusive resorts, check out the newly reopened Sandals Royal Bahamian, Breezes Resort & Spa, Warwick Paradise Island and Hotel RIU Paradise Island.

List of Hotels in Nassau, Bahamas (click names for links)

• Comfort Suites Paradise Island
• CourtYard By Marriott
• Graycliff Hotel
• Goldwynn Resort & Residences
• Breezes Resort & Spa (all inclusive)
• Colony Club Inn & Suites
• SandyPort Beach Resort
• The Island House
• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
• SLS Baha Mar
• Ocean Club, Four Seasons
• Sandals Royal Bahamian (all inclusive)
• Harbourside at Atlantis
• The Cove at Atlantis
• The Reef at Atlantis
• The Coral at Atlantis
• The Royal at Atlantis
• MargaritaVille Resort
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites 
• Compass Point Resorts
• RIU Palace Paradise Island
• Warwick Paradise Island (all inclusive)
• A Stone’s ThrowAway
• Orange Hill Beach Inn Hotel

If you opt for AirBnB’s, a few locations that are close to the beach and in reasonable distance to downtown Nassau are:

• Downtown Nassau
• Baha Mar Blvd
• Cable Beach
• Orange Hill Beach
• Nirvana Beach
• Saunders Beach
• Paradise Island

Transportation

Getting around Nassau is as easy as renting a car, scooter or hailing a taxi. Public transport is available in the form of jitneys/buses that run from about sunrise to sunset; bus fare is under $2 USD.  You can find updated taxi fares HERE . 

Where To Eat in Nassau, Bahamas

So in the sense of authentic Bahamian food, you most often have to leave the resort but there are some resorts that have Bahamian restaurants attached to them (i.e. Comfort Suites and Crusoe’s Restaurant). The most popular Bahamian delicacy is CONCH that’s prepared in many different ways . One of the most central, tourist friendly areas to find Bahamian food is Arawak Cay/Fish Fry area . Some of my favorite stalls/restaurants to eat at are:

• Deep Creek Restaurant

For authentic Bahamian breakfast, The Cricket Club (across the street from Arawak Cay) is a popular spot for locals (try different types of souse, boiled fish, stewed fish) and there’s always Nesbitts which serves my favorite hangover remedy/breakfast food:  sheep tongue souse with a side of Johnny cake. For conch salad, Arawak Cay is a popular spot but another one of my favorites is Dino’s Gourmet Conch Stand which is a little further down West Bay Street. For lunch, dinner; one of my favorites is Crusoe’s Restaurant over Paradise Island.

@bahamianista if you got a hangover, this will cure it for ya 😋 #souse #bahamianfood #caribbeantiktok #bahamianrestaurant #thingstodointhebahamas ♬ Bahamian Music – Sunshine Steel

Nightlife & Things To Do 

In terms of bars and nightlife, Covid restrictions are easing according to local news outlets to allow for more outdoor events but nightlife is definitely buzzing over Paradise Island and in the hotels. Some recommended spots are:

• Sky Bar Baha Mar
• Bond Night Club
• Monkey Bar (Baha Mar)
• Jazz Bar (Baha Mar)
• The Pub (Downtown Nassau)
• Senor Frogs

Subscribe to PinPoint Bahamas’ weekly newsletter where they outline varied events, festivals and things to do in Nassau, Bahamas.

Cultural Events, Festivals In The Bahamas

Important dates to remember would include both national Junkanoo parades held on Boxing Day (December 26th) and New Years Day. There’s also Bahamas Carnival as well.

My favorite beaches involve very little to no people and usually that can mean a beach further away from the resorts and bustling downtown Nassau, Bahamas. My top 3 are definitely Nirvana Beach, Orange Hill Beach and Love Beach but here’s a list of a few others.

• Goodman’s Bay
• Cabbage Beach (over Paradise Island)
• Saunder’s Beach
• South Beach (when tide is low)

Things To Do and See in Nassau, Bahamas

From tours to cultural sights and attractions , there’s a good amount of things to do in Nassau. Some of my favorites include going to see the famous swimming pigs in Exuma , boat trips to Rose Island or Pearl Island , food tours.

Historical Sites

• Pompey & Parliament Square
• Nassau Public Library
• Straw Market
• The Queen’s Staircase
• Fort Charlotte, Fort Montague, Fort Fincastle
• The Cloisters (Paradise Island)

Also check out this list of free and inexpensive things to do in Nassau Bahamas. 

What To Pack // Packing Essentials

When packing, it really depends on the time of year you’re going to visit Nassau. During the winter months, it’s advisable to travel with a sweater or two, long denim because the weather can often mimic South Florida weather and that means when there’s a cold front it’s sometimes dipping into the low 60s. However during Spring, summer months, its definitely hotter (upwards to the 90’s Fahrenheit). You definitely need sunscreen, a good pair of shades, a hat, durable shoes/sandals ( my favorite are Teva’s ) and  a fun waterproof electronic is necessary for underwater and beach pics like the Insta360 OneX2.

For any other tips regarding traveling to Nassau, Bahamas or for assistance with itineraries, check out my planning service below.

Happy planning!

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Eduardo Bringas

Thanks for the guide! It is very useful and nice! After COVID me and family need vacation in some lovely place like Bahamas!!!!

Bahamianista

No problem!

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Your Nassau Vacation

Lock in a Nassau vacation package and get ready for an awesome adventure. Well known for its beaches and lively atmosphere, there's lots to keep you on the move in this interesting city. If a sightseeing tour is part of the program during your trip to Nassau, stop by well-known attractions like Stingray City , Aquaventure and Cabbage Beach . Expedia will help you escape your daily routine. Tailor your vacation to Nassau to suit your style of travel, whatever that may look like.

The Latest Nassau Vacation Packages

Warwick Paradise Island- All Inclusive- Adults Only

Reviewed on Apr 19, 2024

Riu Palace Paradise Island - Adults Only - All Inclusive

Reviewed on Apr 22, 2024

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Margaritaville Beach Resort - Nassau

Reviewed on Apr 21, 2024

Goldwynn Resort & Residences

Reviewed on Apr 14, 2024

Where to stay in Nassau

Downtown Nassau

Downtown Nassau is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Pirates of Nassau Museum and Straw Market while you're in town.

Cable Beach

When in Cable Beach, you can plan a visit to Cable Beach and Lake Cunningham, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

When in Palm Cay, you can plan a visit to Yamacraw Beach and Ocean Club Golf Course, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

While Lyford Cay isn't home to many top sights, Clifton Heritage National Land and Sea Park and South Ocean are some notable places to visit nearby.

Chippingham

While visiting Chippingham, you might make a stop by sights like Junkanoo Beach and Saunders Beach.

Nassau Beach Vacation

If you're yearning for waterfront panoramas and salty sea breezes, don't look further than a Nassau vacation. You'll quickly discover on your trip to Nassau that taking time out to relax is just the done thing around here. You'll probably want to make a booking just a short stroll from Cabbage Beach (2 miles (3 km) away). But, the equally gorgeous Junkanoo Beach can also be booked in our Nassau packages if you need some different options.

Things You Should Know About Nassau

• Staying near the water means picture-perfect vistas and long, lazy walks along the shoreline at dusk. Look through our Nassau beach hotels and see what's available.
• Private vacation homes are also popular with many travelers here. Taste of Paradise and Villa North Winds Orange Hill are great examples of what you can expect from this type of accommodation.
• Dread repeatedly pulling your wallet out on vacation? We know how you feel. With most things taken care of, our All-Inclusive hotels in Nassau are the ideal solution.
• Want to know what Nassau has to offer? You can't beat local knowledge. As soon as you arrive, get chatting to one or two of the 227,900 people who live here. Check out our Nassau things to do page , too.
• Save a bundle on unforgettable experiences with our Nassau vacation deals. Visit Cabbage Beach, along with other major attractions, with the extra dollars in your wallet.

Nassau Essential Information

Nassau hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in nassau.

White sand, crystal-clear water and lively beachfront establishments have made this the go-to beach for visitors to the most populated island of the Bahamas.

Junkanoo Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Junkanoo Beach during your travels in Nassau? Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its seafood restaurants.

Straw Market

Chat with local vendors and shop for handicrafts and Bahamian souvenirs at this bustling market.

What to do in Nassau

Nassau: glass bottom boat, banana boat and snorkelling tour, nassau: jet ski adventure, nassau: swimming pigs, turtle viewing, snorkeling, and lunch, other vacations you might like.

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THE 10 BEST Nassau Tours & Excursions

Nassau tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Swimming Pigs, Boat Tour, Snorkeling, Beach Break Package

2. Swimming Pigs and Turtles 3 Island Excursion by Boat

3. Bahamas Adventure: Pigs, Reef, Turtles, and Beach with Lunch

4. Exuma Island Hopping & Swimming Pigs Tour with Lunch from Nassau

5. Swimming Pigs Encounter: Choose Morning or Afternoon

6. Bites of Nassau Food and Walking Tour

7. Bahamas Airport Transportation w/Free Grocery Stop-1 Way Private

8. Pearl Island Bahamas Snorkeling Experience and Lunch

9. SunCay Swimming Pigs Adventure with Lunch at Pigs Beach

10. Rum Tasting and Food Walking Tour in Nassau Bahamas

11. Exuma Powerboat Tour from Nassau with Swimming Pigs

12. KINDWalk — Nassau Historical and Cultural Walking Tour

13. Nassau to Exuma Full-Day Trip Experience

14. Pirate Jeep Sightseeing Adventure!

15. ATV Half Day City Tour in Nassau: Guided Tour With Free Samples

16. Rose Island Snorkeling Experience: Exploring Remote Beach & Reef

17. ATV Island Tour with Beach Break, Lunch, and Pick-up/Drop-off

18. Rose Island Private Beach: Swimming with the Pigs

19. Perfect Day - Swimming Pigs, Snorkel & Lunch

20. Bluefinn Charters Swim with the Turtles in Nassau Bahamas

21. Funky Jeep Adventure in Nassau

22. Nassau City tour that visits 7 attractions Nassau Bahamas.

23. Rose Island Bahamas Original Swimming Pigs and Snorkeling

24. Nassau's Half Day Bus City Tour: Guided Tour with Free Samples

25. Nassau Food and History Bus Tour

26. Rum Reggae and Rhythms Tour: Dancing and Cocktails

27. Bahamas Sunset Sail and Dine with Spectacular Views

28. Cabbage Beach Jet Ski Adventure

29. Transfer Service in Nassau Bahamas

30. Clear Kayak Drone Photoshoot in Nassau, Bahamas

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• SunCay Swimming Pigs Adventure with Lunch at Pigs Beach
• Exuma Island Hopping & Swimming Pigs Tour with Lunch from Nassau
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Pola Damonte / Getty Images

Nassau is the capital and largest city of the Bahamas and one of the top destinations in the Caribbean, so you know lots is going on here to amuse and entertain island visitors. The city blends all of the best aspects of a Caribbean adventure and you can truly experience it all in Nassau, from crystalline beaches to its rich history. Whether you're looking for something to keep the kids entertained or for an enriching cultural experience, you can find it all in Nassau. 

Try New Flavors With Tru Bahamian Food Tours

Learn about the history, the culture, and, of course, the gastronomy of the Bahamas with Tru Bahamian Food Tours . The cuisine of the islands comes from a tasty blend of influences from the Caribbean, the U.S. South, Africa, and the U.K. There's a lot more to sample than just seafood and jerk chicken, and relying on a local expert is the best way to make sure you're choosing the most authentic— and most delicious —eateries during your stay.

The most popular tour offered is the Bites of Nassau Food and Cultural Tour , a three-hour experience that brings guests to six different locations in Nassau, all of which are locally owned by small-business owners. Your guide will explain Bahamian history and point out the neighborhood street art in between bites, which include deep-fried conch (pronounced "konk"), steamed chicken with peas and rice, and a tropical rum cocktail.

Experience Local Wildlife at Ardastra Gardens

These gardens started as a breeding ground to rebuild the endangered flamingo population in the Bahamas, but today Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Centre is the only zoo in the entire country. The park is still best known for its resident pink flamingoes, but you can see over 130 species of wildlife around the premises, including wildcats, native rodents, and all types of tropical birds. Hand-feeding the lories is always a family favorite, but the daily flamingo parade is the highlight attraction as the birds march and turn in unison and on command.

Apart from the animals, you can also see some of the most dramatic foliage in the Caribbean at Ardastra. Vibrantly colored flowers are in bloom all year long, protected from the harsh sun thanks to the overhanging canopy of the mango trees. Ardastra is first and foremost a conversation center, so you can be assured that your visit is supporting the local flora and fauna.

Climb the Queen's Staircase

Michael Runkel / Getty Images

Climb the 66 steps connecting Fort Fincastle to downtown Nassau and you'll be moved by the sweat and labor it took slaves to carve the Queen's Staircase out of solid limestone. Built between 1793 and 1794, the stairs were later named in honor of Queen Victoria.

The stairs make a great photo op and of course provide access to historic  Fort Fincastle , which sits on the highest point of New Providence Island, Bennett's Hill. The fort is open daily for guided tours, but don't forget to tip your guides.

Go to Graycliff for Chocolate, Cigars, and More

Don't let the  Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant's  name fool you. There's a heck of a lot more going on here than just rooms and food. Sure, the accommodations in, and around, this historic colonial mansion are great and it's a real step back in time when you enter the hotel, but this Nassau attraction is so much more than just an inn and restaurant. Even if you aren't a guest of the hotel, you'll want to add this hotspot to your itinerary.

The Garzaroli family has transformed this hillside location in downtown Nassau into a virtual entertainment complex, complete with a chocolatier where you can sample and even make fine chocolate treats, and a cigar company where stogies are rolled by hand on-site and can be paired with rum tastings. There's also a pizzeria and a Bahamian heritage museum on the premises, and don't forget to ask for a tour of the Graycliff's amazing wine cellar , stuffed with more than 250,000 bottles.

Sample Rum at John Watling's Distillery

Nothing is more Caribbean than going to visit a local rum factory. Just steps away from the Graycliff Hotel and the iconically pink Government House, John Watling's Distillery  is set on the spacious Buena Vista Estate. Founded in 1789, it's a taste of the old Bahamas in the heart of Nassau. Speaking of tasting, you can sample Watling's small-batch barrel-aged rums, which come in single-barrel, "pale" (white), amber, and "Buena Vista" five-year aged varieties.

The distillery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tours to see how the rum is produced are completely free. But don't leave your wallet at home because you won't be able to leave without stopping in the distillery bar to try some of this local rum yourself. After all, you are on vacation, so feel free to indulge a little.

Take a Dive Trip at Stuart's Cove

Joi Ito / Wikimedia Foundation / CC by 2.0

The  Stuart's Cove  dive operation is located on the less-visited southwest side of New Providence Island, in a cozy cove that continually bustles with activity. Beginners get diving lessons while experienced divers suit up for open-water adventures—the latter including the opportunity to dive with wild sharks. Other options include snorkeling and SNUBA (a cross between snorkeling and SCUBA) .

Get Your Fish On at Arawak Cay

This  collection of eclectic beachside restaurants, huts, and bars  can be a little touristy as far as Caribbean fish fries go, but locals still turn out for fresh fish and conch fritters, cold Kalik beer, and music and dancing every night of the week. It's one of the best places on the island to try freshly caught seafood while paying a fraction of the price of what you would pay in upscale hotel restaurants. To snack as the locals do, Arawak Cay is an unbeatable location with several different options to try. For fresh fish off the boat with an even more authentic local vibe, try Potter's Cay under the Paradise Island Bridge.

Browse the Straw Market for the Perfect Souvenir

Walter Bibikow / Getty Images

Bahamians have been selling local handicrafts to Nassau visitors for decades, borrowing skills from the original craft to create baskets for carrying fruit and other goods. The tradition continues to this day at the Nassau Straw Market , relocated from its historic home a few years ago following a fire to a new building on Bay Street. These days, it's much more than baskets for sale—you'll also find t-shirts, wood carvings, beaded necklaces, and every type of island-themed souvenir imaginable.

As with many tourist markets, several stalls sell items that are mass-produced and imported from abroad. Shop around before you make a purchase and ask vendors if their goods are locally made, so you can support Bahamian business and also get an authentic handicraft.

Take a Day Trip to Rose Island

The laid-back Bahamas Out Islands (also know as the Family Islands) are a whole different experience than urban Nassau, and instant serenity can be found via a quick speedboat trip to Rose Island. This near neighbor isn't much more than a glorified sandbar, but there's just enough seclusion, beach, and shade to make for a perfect day-trip.  Sandy Toes  will get you there, serve you lunch and a welcome drink, and provide snorkeling gear. If you fall in love with Rose Island, ask about an overnight stay!

Shiver Your Timbers at the Pirates of Nassau Museum

Juliet Coombe / Getty Images

It may look like a tourist trap from the outside, but the  Pirates of Nassau Museum does an excellent job of telling the swashbuckling, sordid, and seductive tale of pirate history in the Caribbean. Nassau was a notorious pirate haven in the early 18th century, and the interactive exhibits at the museum transport you back to the year 1716, the heyday of the "Republic of Pirates."

Expect interactive exhibits, dioramas, displays of authentic pirate booty, and of course an exit through the gift shop. You'll also get a chance to lock your kids in the brigs—that alone could be worth the admission price.

Play at the Aquaventure Waterpark at the Atlantis Resort

There may be newer waterparks in the Caribbean, but Atlantis'  Aquaventure is still number one in our books for its cool Lost World theming and incredible aquariums, some of which you jet through on the park's waterslides. The most popular attraction at the park is the Mayan Temple waterslide, which includes a 60-foot drop and sends riders hurdling through an underwater tube surrounded by sharks. If you want something less thrilling, Dolphin Cay lets visitors splash around with dolphins or sea lions.

The easiest way to play is to stay at any of the Atlantis resort properties. The second easiest (and cheapest) is to get a room at the  Comfort Suites Paradise Island , right across the street, which also gives you access to all Atlantis amenities. A limited number of  day passes  to the waterpark also are available for Nassau visitors or cruise ship arrivals who aren't staying at Atlantis.

Go to the Beach, of Course!

Nassau has so many distractions you can sometimes forget that you came down here to relax on the beach . Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island and Cable Beach on New Providence Island are the best known, but you can also check out Junkanoo Beach in downtown Nassau for a lively beach scene that's close to the cruise port. 

Love Beach has a true beach-bar vibe at Nirvana, and Saunders Beach, just to the west of downtown Nassau, is where to go for some local flavor. Check out the food stands on weekends, set up as fundraisers for local charities.

Want a side of history with your beach drinks? Fort Montagu, built in 1741, sits at the end of Montagu Beach and it's the oldest fortification on the island. For supreme privacy, consider Yamacraw Hill Beach on the east end of New Providence Island (few tourists ever find this secluded spot). "Jaws: The Revenge" was a critically-panned movie, but the one good thing about it was that it included scenes shot on Jaws Beach, a quiet stretch of sand next to Nassau's Clifton Heritage Park.

Nassau Paradise Island. "History of Nassau's Pirates: The End of the Golden Age." Retrieved March 31, 2021

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June 12, 2018

The complete nassau, bahamas travel guide.

*Update September 2019: The Bahamas was recently affected by Hurricane Dorian. For more information on which islands were impacted, relief efforts, and how you can help, click here . 

PRESET COLLECTIONS USED IN THIS BLOG POST: GREEK ISLANDS COLLECTION , EUROPE COLLECTION

5+ DAYS — BEST TIME TO VISIT – MID-DECEMBER TO MID-APRIL IS PEAK SEASON WEATHER – TEMPS ARE WARM YEAR-ROUND, HURRICANE SEASON IS TYPICALLY JUNE THROUGH NOVEMBER GETTING AROUND – RENTAL CAR, MOTORCYCLE CURRENCY – US DOLLARS, MOST PLACES TAKE CREDIT CARDS LANGUAGES – ENGLISH NEARBY AIRPORTS – LYNDEN PINDLING (NAS)

Left to right from top: One of the beaches at Rose Island, aerial views of Rose Island, swinging at Sandals private island , Sandals private island at sunset, ‘stranded’ with our boat on Rose Island. 

Where to Stay

While there’s plenty to explore on-island, the place you stay in Nassau will dictate the experience you have. In addition to the popular all-inclusive resorts, there are options for laid-back hotels, boutique hotels or a house rentals. No matter where you end up, you’ll also want plenty of opportunities to try the local food and culture!

Hotels in Nassau

SLS Baha Mar – $$$ – We absolutely loved this newly-built hotel. Everything from the room (clean white, with nods to retro style), to the grounds (the poké food truck and daquiri stand were our favorite) to the service was impeccable. We also had our favorite meal of the trip here at their in-house restaurant, Cleo . Where I stayed.

Balcony views from our room at the SLS Baha Mar hotel .

The pool at the SLS Baha Mar.

Sandals Royal Bahamian – $$$$ – this was our first time staying at a Sandals resort! While an all-inclusive resort isn’t typically our go-to, Sandals’ private offshore island was definitely a highlight for its pristine beach. We also loved their oceanside restaurant, Gordon’s on the Pier . Where I stayed.

A sunset dinner at Gordon’s on the Pier at Sandals.

Swinging at sunset on Sandal’s Private Island.

Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant – $$$ – located in the heart of old town, Graycliff hotel is a historic colonial mansion with tropical gardens and pools that provide a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the island. Their wine cellar features over 250,000 bottles sourced from around the world, just a short walk from their on-site chocolate shop which offers lessons in chocolate-making. We got wonderfully lost exploring the grounds of this property! Where I’d stay next time.

The historical building that houses Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant .

The pool at Graycliff Hotel .

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort – $$$$ – transport yourself into luxury at this historic Four Seasons resort, which has played host to travelers and celebrities since 1962. It’s a unique and romantic property: we loved the stretch of white sand beach and the Versailles-inspired garden, complete with cloisters from a 12th-century French Augustinian monastery. Where I’d want to splurge.

Versailles Garden at The Ocean Club Four Seasons Resort .

Ocean views from Dune Restaurant and bar.

One of the many beautiful pools at The Ocean Club Resort .

Atlantis Paradise Island – $$$ – this oceanside resort has it all: bars and restaurants, a water park, golf course, casino, spa, and more. We had a blast visiting for the day to see the aquarium. It’s an iconic property that’s been known to attract celebrities such as Kevin Hart and Serena Williams since its opening 22 years ago.

View Additional Hotels in Nassau Paradise Island

Airbnbs in Nassau

Historic Nassau – $ – the most charming pink cottage a walk away from historic sites and downtown Nassau. Grand Suite #8 – $ – this quaint suite is great for traveling as a couple, 10 minutes from downtown. Luxury Beachfront Unit – $$ – a modern beachfront property, but the true draw is a private beach that’s steps away. White Beachfront Home – $$ – located in a quiet area on the western side of Nassau, steps away from the beach. Secret Garden Villa – $$$ – a nice retreat located on three lush acres of tropical gardens. Paradise Island Villa – $$$ – located in a beautiful gated complex walking distance from Atlantis Resort.

New to Airbnb? Here’s $40 off your first booking.

Where to Eat

Bahamian Cookin’ – this local spot is a must-try at some point during your trip. It’s simple and features classic Bahamian dishes, like conch fritters, cracked lobster, and steamed chicken.

Biggity – this family-owned restaurant was built by hand with repurposed wood and natural elements. Their menu is simple and healthy, with flavors that pack a punch. A must for a laid-back, cozy meal downtown.

Trying homemade specialties at Biggity in downtown Nassau.

Sippin’ fresh lemonade during our food tour in downtown Nassau.

Cleo Mediterraneo – one of our favorite meals of the trip, Cleo restaurant is located inside the SLS Baha Mar and features tapas-style mediterranean dishes. You’ll want to share — everything on the menu is so tasty!

Louis & Steen’s – recommended by a local on the island, this New Orlean’s-style coffee house is eclectic (read: purple cottage) and serves up typical cajun-style dishes and excellent coffee.

Graycliff Restaurant – this property is on our list twice for a reason! We didn’t get a chance to have dinner at this elegant restaurant, but we’ve heard it’s a real treat. At the very least, go for the atmosphere and wine selection alone.

Exploring the grounds at Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant.

Indoor seating at Graycliff restaurant.

Athena Cafe & Bar – though conch is not typically a ‘Greek’ dish, I was pleasantly surprised by the flavors at this no-frills Greek cafe. Perfect if you’re craving something filling while exploring Nassau’s downtown.

Social House – for fresh sushi, try Social House. Their lunch menu offers deals for the afternoon, or make it an evening and sample their small plates for an unforgettable experience.

Swim with the pigs – Unfortunately the weather was not on our side the day we were meant to swim with the pigs. But, this experience is not to be missed! If you’re staying on Nassau, the closest option is the Sandy Toes experience on Rose Island.

Visit the Atlantis Marine Habitat – the Atlantis property is huge and home to an amazing aquarium. You can buy day passes on their site to visit and explore for a day, which is also a great activity if you get hit with tropical rain.

Exploring the Atlantis Marine Habitat at the Atlantis hotel.

Go on a food tour – This is becoming a regular activity for Jacob and I when we travel, and I have to say it’s always one of our favorite parts of the trip. I’m always curious to see what places locals recommend and any excuse to eat is a plus. Tip: if you go on the food tour we went on , you’ll stop at Bahamian Cookin’, Athena Cafe, and Biggity.

Take a boat tour – as with most destinations, we loved exploring local islands off Nassau with a private boat for the afternoon. Don’t miss the turtles at Turtle Cay (tell your captain to take you!) and the sandy beaches of Rose Island for pristine water all to yourself. For a group boat tour with lunch included, check out this boat excursion .

Rose Island’s empty beach on our boat day.

Swimming with the turtles at Turtle Cay.

Explore the local shops – a lot of on-island artists are represented. We loved visiting Doongalik Studios and Craft Cottage , located next to one another. The studio features artist’s work on display and Craft Cottage has a variety of handmade gifts for purchase. I bought a hand-carved ornament here for my mother.

Chatting with Craft Cottage’s owner Fina about all the best local places to go on-island!

More Things to Do around Nassau

If you only plan one excursion while visiting, make it a boat trip to Rose Island ! It’s absolutely beautiful and untouched here, and we had the beach all to ourselves when we went. Getting out on the water and away from the crowds is amazing.

Where to Go

Clifton Heritage Park – You can snorkel at this beach park, which features giant underwater sculptures. Bring an underwater camera!

Montagu Beach & Fort – Take an afternoon to visit this public beach and surrounding area. You can visit historic Fort Montagu for $2 a person. Another highlight is the nearby fish market , which features fresh conch salads for sale (and lots of live conch!).

Inside Fort Montagu on Montagu Beach.

Conch shells at a local fish market in Nassau.

Bay Street – Explore the architecture in Nassau’s downtown by heading to Bay Street. There are local markets here, but we found them to be a bit too tourist-driven for our taste. The real highlight are the old buildings, and charming neighborhood spots like Biggity .

Local Beaches – Cable Beach is recommended by locals and visitors alike, and Junkanoo Beach is fun and upbeat. We stumbled upon one of our favorite stretches of sand when we went looking for a local SIM card for our phones. It just goes to show that it’s worth exploring parts of the island that no one mentions! You never know what you’ll find…

An empty stretch of beach we found nearby our hotel.

Lunch and drink shacks on Junkanoo Beach in Nassau.

What to Bring

• Light, breathable clothing – think linen pants, flowy dresses.
• A light jacket for the evenings and when it gets windy.
• A hat and plenty of sunscreen. Here is my favorite spray-on sunscreen (it’s coral reef friendly).
• A GoPro for underwater photos! A GoPro dome is also a must if you want to take underwater photos. Our travel photography gear post details out all the gear we use for underwater shots, and examples.

Final Notes

Like most tropical islands, summers can be warm and also rainy. Hurricane season is July to October and high season is November to April. We visited at the end of April and had sunny (but windy!) days, with spots of tropical rain. If you don’t mind crowds, head to Nassau during high season.

The majority of the shops and restaurants on the island take U.S. dollars and converters are U.S. standard, so don’t worry about either if you’re visiting from the states.

For more information on what to do, hotels , and other activities in Nassau Paradise Island, check out NassauParadiseIsland.com .

Pin me for later

A big thank you to the Nassau Paradise Island team for hosting us so we could capture the beauty of this island! As always, all opinions from this trip are our own.

I often get asked about my favorite beach destinations. If you’re looking for more sun and sand, head to our Cook Islands and Aruba travel guides for more inspiration.

10 Romantic European Destinations For Any Budget

I'M SELENA TAYLOR

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23 Comments

Jennifer Says

Where did you great those cute white pants with the brown buttons in your bio?

Wonderful suggestions! Exactly what I was looking for. Can’t wait to explore it myself.

Selena Says

Have a great time xx

Veronica Says

What time of year did you go ?

We went the first week of May.

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Nicole Says

I’m here now??‍♀️

Have the best time!

What area would recommend if you were to go the airbnb route (instead of a hotel) – want to be close to things to do/restaurants/bars etc. Less important to be somewhere very secluded. Thanks!

Downtown Nassau will be the most walkable, I’d search for something near Graycliff Hotel!

How did you get around?

We had a rental for this trip!

Rachel Says

So amazing and so excited to visit in May! What are your recommendations about best getting around the island? Thank you!

We explored with a car. 🙂

Elusma pharisien Says

Atlantic hotel Nassau Bahamas this is my vacation home for me and mpharisien my phone number is 202 704 8946 ,[email protected]

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I am taking a trip to Nassau and found this to be so incredibly helpful. If you remember, what private boat tour company did you use for your trip to Rose Island and Turtle Cay? Thank you!

Hi Emily – I’m so sorry, I’m not sure what the boat company was!

Here’s a link to a group trip to Rose Island (with lunch) if that’s of interest: https://www.getyourguide.com/nassau-l326/sandy-toes-full-day-beach-excursion-t16787/?partner_id=4Q28N9P&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-end&cmp=nassau-boat-trip

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Wooow, this pictures are so good! Which camera do you use?

Thanks Siri! These were all taken with our Sony A7RII. Here are more in-depth posts covering how we shoot photos & our camera recs!:

Camera/lens recommendations – https://finduslost.com/how-to-choose-the-best-camera-and-lens-for-travel-photos/ How we shoot & edit – https://finduslost.com/how-we-shoot-and-edit-photos/

Virginia Says

Bahamas is an incredible place to disconnect from routine. href=”https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/bahamas/nassau/melia-nassau-beach/index.html” title=”Nassau Beach – All Inclusive” target=”_blank”>In hotels as amazing as they are , who wouldn’t relax?. It’s really the perfect place if you like the beach.

So true! And if you like tasty food. 😉

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21 Secret Things to do in Nassau – Your Bahamas Itinerary

March 21, 2023

Discover secret things to do in Nassau, Bahamas, with a bright and bold serving of culture in the sun. Build your three day Nassau itinerary and fill it full of colour, character and cuisine.

Table of Contents

Alternative Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

Why you should visit nassau, bahamas.

Just a short flight from Miami, the clear waters and soft sands of the Bahamas attract plenty of beach loving visitors. But the islands themselves contain hidden history, warm hospitality, striking art and more besides. 

As the capital of the Bahamas and frequent cruise port stop, Nassau on Providence Island has all the bling you’d expect: casinos, world-beating restaurants, shopping centres and the like.

But you’ll also find plenty of secret things to do in Nassau, from dining with locals to chatting with artists. We even talk about those swimming pigs with sun lotion. 

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

The Best Time to Visit Nassau, Bahamas

The best time to visit Nassau is between November and April, although that is the peak season when costs will be higher. The hurricane season runs between June and November.

What to Know Before You Go

I’d highly recommend splitting your time between Nassau and one of the outer islands, like Green Turtle Cay , where the pace of life is completely different.

Nassau has more in common with the US than any other Caribbean island I’ve visited and you can expect plenty of stag and hen/ bachelor and bachelorette parties at certain hotels and venues.

Disclosure  – I visited the Bahamas as a guest of the Bahamas Tourism Board. As ever, as always, I kept the right to write what I like. Otherwise there’s just no point! If you book or buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers! Right, let’s get on with it! Secret things to do in Nassau await!

Nassau and the Bahamas: Background

The earliest known inhabitants of today’s Bahamas were the Lucayans, an Arawakan-speaking people with links to South America and the neighbouring Caribbean Islands.

However, written and recorded history begins with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, who named the islands San Salvador, before heading further west on his first “voyage of discovery.” 

By 1648, the first European settlement began and by the 18th century, the notorious triangular slave trade was in full flow: kidnapping people from western Africa and forcing them to work on the land in the Bahamas. 

The Pirate Republic

The history books show plenty of struggles between the various European governments at the time – at one point, they all gave up and stepped away. This ushered in the era of pirates and privateers, a Blackbeard reality tougher than the movies make out. 

While Britain lost the American War of Independence, it somehow gained the Bahamas in the process and a group of loyalists to the American-British cause set up a new settlement in New Plymouth in the Abacos. You can still visit today and feel as though you’re in a slice of Caribbean New England.

Elsewhere, the historic architecture is predominantly Victorian British, while the modern malls and gas stations have an All-American vibe. 

But the Bahamas have their own identity, of course. And you can step on and off the standard tourist trails and start to uncover the depth behind the Bahamas with these secret things to do in Nassau.

Where to Stay in Nassau: Baha Mar

Baha Mar i s a vast complex of three hotels in one. And, truthfully, as a lover of  boutique hideaways, I probably wouldn’t have chosen it myself.

However, the place won me over with its rich cultural touches, like the art gallery and hidden walkways in the gardens. If you’re looking for loud casinos and rows of sun-loungers, you can find those too. But you’ll also find an understated elegance and an astonishing array of excellent restaurants and bars all in one place.

Staying at Baha Mar makes life easy when it comes to airport transfers and dining and so it’s perfect for travel with young children. Once checked in and freshened up, you can always leave the resort to find the secret things to do in Nassau.

• Check prices and availability for the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar here.

Secret Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

Your 3 day nassau itinerary.

I’ve designed this Nassau itinerary to form part of a week long trip, with half your time in Nassau and the other half elsewhere in the Bahamas. 

If you’re visiting Nassau from a cruise ship, pick one day from this itinerary, unless you have more time on shore. 

Day One – Arrive in Nassau

Most international flights arrive in Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport. If staying at the Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar, there will be a seamless transfer waiting for you (and possibly a singing pirate.) If not, arrange transport to your hotel or vacation rental.

Alternatively, if you’re wondering what to do in Nassau on your cruise, then focus on day two of this itinerary as that’s likely all you’ll have time for. Most cruises disembark onto Bay Street near the Straw market if that helps you to plan your route.

• If you’d rather a pre-booked transfer, then you can book on your mobile with Get Your Guide here and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Day Two – Rum, Crafts & History

If staying at Baha Mar, today’s the today to soak up the faux-French beauty of Café Madeleine, with fresh croissants and hot coffee for breakfast.

Then, to explore Nassau, it helps to have a driver but you can take individual taxis or book yourself onto a tour or excursion. 

I’ve given a rough overview of times but these clearly aren’t rigid. In the Caribbean, perhaps more than anywhere else in the world, it’s OK to go slow.

Bahama Hand Prints

Bahamian designed and made, the line of clothing and accessories at Bahama Hand Prints brings a sense of joy to its showroom. Be prepared for gorgeous colours in bright, enticing linen with links to the sea and the local community.

You’ll find it at the foot of the Paradise Island Bridge in the Island Traders Building. The shop is open on most days but if you’re lucky, you can take a tour of the small factory on weekdays and see how the prints are made. 

John Watling’s Distillery

If 11 o’clock is too early for rum for you then never fear, the John Watling’s Distillery is an historical attraction more than anything else. 

Imagine tropical gardens and century-old black olive trees and you’ll have an idea about the Buena Vista Estate in Downtown Nassau. 

To give you a sense of time, the John Watling’s Distillery began construction in the same year that George Washington became the first President of the United States in 1789. 

Guided tours take visitors around the house, showing antiques and prints that date back more than 300 years. There is also, of course, the chance to try the distillery rum.

As a poignant reminder of the years of brutality that took place, you can see a 200-year-old water well, carved out of the solid limestone by enslaved people. 

A visit here is not one of the most unique things to do in the Bahamas but it is a kind of hidden treasure. Beneath the well-oiled visitor machine, you’ll find heart amid the history (although that could be the rum talking…hic!)

12:00   pm       Lunch at Wild Thyme

For a beautiful place for a bite to eat, head to Wild Thyme, a restaurant with a sense of humour. Run by Lucia and Alex, Wild Thyme opened in 2017 and combines fresh organic food with cakes baked every day in house. 

It’s light, airy and I’d suggest you eat outside in the fragrant south-west facing garden.  Plus, if you can’t make it here for lunch, they also serve breakfast and dinner as well. Take your time, though. Nothing here runs fast!

Pirate Republic Craft Beer Brewing Company

Pirate Republic is the first and only craft brewery in The Bahamas. What began with a homemade 5-gallon brewing system in a kitchen became one of the best secret things to do in Nassau.

Inside, you’ll find talking pirates and enthusiastic owners. Take your time studying the ins and outs of the brewing process on the tour – or else just order a tasting line-up and chat with the pirates.

The Straw Market

You’ll find straw markets across the islands of the Bahamas, especially in the Family Islands, Paradise Island and Cable Beach, but the Straw Market in Nassau is one of the biggest and best organised. Weaving with straw is one of the oldest industries in the Bahamas. Straw weaving is considered one of the country’s oldest industries and you can find crafts and souvenirs to take home here.

Expect to bargain, though, and bargain hard. This isn’t a place where people enjoy browsers and photographers. 

Fort Fincastle  

Fort Fincastle is another one of those secret things to do in Nassau that links to pirates. Built on Bennet’s Hill, the fort was constructed from cut limestone in 1793 and its cloudy grey appearance was designed to protect Nassau and her harbour. 

Governor John Murray oversaw the project, an unusual design in the shape of a paddle-wheel steamer. 

If you’re visiting from Europe and running short on time, I’d recommend skipping the fort to make sure you leave time for the rest. 

The Queen’s Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase, hewn out of limestone rock by 600 enslaved people between 1793 and 1794, connects Fort Fincastle to Nassau city and some believe it formed an escape route.

The nickname comes from Queen Victoria, who reigned as the head of the British Empire between 1837 and 1901, and notably during the abolition of the slave trade in 1807. Perhaps coincidentally, the 66 steps correspond with the number of years she reigned.

Dinner: The People-to-People Experience 

Ah, this surely has to be one of the best things to do in Nassau! It is the absolute tonic to over-processed tourism and synthetic malls with plastic, packaged tat!

So, what is it? 

Well, it’s the chance to meet locals and have dinner in their home as a sign of hospitality. 

“Bahamians love any excuse for a party,” says one ambassador, and that;s the kind of thinking I love.

We met Mr and Mrs Lightbourne in their home, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, chirruping night crickets and starlight.

Henry, 67, showed us photos of his daughter and told tales about how his aunt had met the queen. 

We ate conch salad appetisers (a kind of ceviche in a shot glass) and garden salad with grilled lobster, fried grouper and coleslaw, peas and rice.

“We have a lot of influences from the Deep South,” said Henry. “After a lot of people fled to the Bahamas after the war.”

In between courses, we walk through the garden of fresh coriander, pineapple, coconut, spearmint, mulberry and spring onions.

And then the finale: guava cake and a Bahamian coconut duff.

Deeee-licious.

The People to People Project

The People to People project is run by the Bahamas Tourist Office and is completely free as a way to promote understanding and connection between locals and visitors. 

Or in other words: the real meaning of travel.

Day Three – Art, Education and Beaches

Even if you’re not staying in one of Baha Mar Grand Hyatt’s 1800 rooms, it’s worth visiting either here or Atlantis Paradise Island to witness the scale of ambition when it comes to hotel design here. These are villages, rather than hotels, with restaurants and cultural offerings to match.

Baha Mar has two offerings among many that I’d like to highlight for this list of secret things to do in Nassau: the activities for children and the Current Art Gallery. 

Local Art Gallery: The Current

The Current Gallery & Art Centre is one of my favourite secret things to do in Nassau, Bahamas. It’s one of the best hidden gems, if you’ll excuse the cliché. 

The Current runs artist residence programmes, provides a performing arts space, hosts art exhibitions where guests can chat with artists and has a permanent and variable art collection throughout the gallery and three hotels. 

And it focuses on local art and artists, encouraging both tradition and innovation.

As you can probably tell, I loved it!

The Kids’ Club

Now, I’ve seen many a kids club in my time as a travel writer but nothing that comes close to this. The Baha Mar Kids club offers cooking lessons, art lessons and marine biology exploration with starfish, flamingoes and more. There’s an aviary and a conservation and education centre and movie theatre. I mean, seriously! This is better than my entire childhood!

Dinner at Carna

Dario Cecchini, the world-famous butcher from Tuscany, believes that good butchery can make meat-eating sustainable. When cooked properly, nothing is wasted and everything is delicious: a premise he has championed since he took over his father’s family business in Italy in 1976. 

These days, he converts a steakhouse into a poetic, gastronomic feast in Carna and I can honestly say it’s the best steak I’ve ever tasted.

Day Four: Day trip to Rose Island & Swimming with Pigs

Hey! So, first off, let’s talk about swimming pigs. If you haven’t heard of it before, it doesn’t take long to realise that this a thing in the Bahamas.

Pink-snouted photos in turquoise water fill the airport arrivals hall and immigration queue – and every Nassau itinerary after that.

Yet the practice is not without its controversies, as most animal-related events are. 

The most popular place to swim with pigs is in Exuma on Pig Beach , not Nassau. But, you can take a day trip to Rose Island with Sandy Toes and swim with pigs there. 

I had a chat with the owners and the staff who work there and the pigs (Babe, Wilbur, Pumba, Larry, Mo, Ginger, Pepper and Spice) do seem to be very well looked after. The team apply sunscreen to the pigs and take care of their nutrition and health with regular vet visits and so on. They also limit the number of visitors who swim with the pigs at any one time and ask guests to treat them very gently. 

If you’re having trouble imagining how all this works, it happens like this: 

The Sandy Toes Excursion

Sandy Toes take a boat full of around 40 people from Paradise Island Ferry Terminal to Rose Island, where there’s a private beach with space for everyone. The boat journey takes around 25 minutes and there’s quite a party vibe with fruit punch and youthful enthusiasm. 

Once there, people spend the day on the beach and in the surf, with a BBQ and toilets provided. 

If you want, in groups of around 10, you can meet the pigs on the sand. If they go in the surf to swim, you can join them, but if they don’t, the staff won’t force them.

In the end, I decided against it. Pigs are pretty big and not all that toilet trained! It’s one of the first times in life I didn’t try something just to see what it was like, and you can make of that what you will!

Cocktails and Canapes

If you’re heading back to Baha Mar, don’t miss the sunset at the fabulous open-air Sky Bar.  I’d also recommend dinner at Shuang Ba, which serves high end Chinese cuisine fused with fresh Bahamian produce.

Think braised “black-gold” abalone and Chaozhou-style dumplings in ornate, darkwood-and-scarlet booths. Keep an eye out for the central marble masterpiece, too. It was quite the operation to bring it here from China!

Day Five: head to the other islands

If I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. I would really recommend spending time on the other islands in the Bahamas. Nassau is really well connected and you’ll discover a whole new view of life in this part of the Caribbean. 

I travelled to the Abacos and you can check out the account of Green Turtle Cay here. Other popular spots are Blue Lagoon Island, Eleuthera, Long Island and Cat Island.

More time in Nassau? Some more ideas…

Clifton heritage national park.

Through cliffs, dunes and rocky coastlines, the walking trails of Clifton Heritage National Park introduce visitors to more than just stunning landscapes. Here you’ll find heritage and education about three different groups of people who profoundly influenced the history of the Bahamas: the Lucayans, Loyalists and Africans.

Non-touristy things to doi n Nassau Bahamas at a Glance

Explore Nassau off the beaten path and go where locals go in Nassau.

• Enjoy dinner and conversation with the People to People experience. 
• Visit the Bahama Hand Prints company.
• Take in an exhibition and talk to local artists at The Current.

Junkanoo Beach and the Western Esplanade

Junkanoo Beach (also know as the Western Esplanade) merges into Arawak Cay and Long Wharf, the closest beaches to the cruise ship dock. As a result, it’s fair to say that the area receives its fair share of partygoers when the cruise ships are in town. 

But the rest of the time, you can also find locals with their families, horse rides and pony rides and the sight of those might ships heading in to dock. 

Free things to do in Nassau Bahamas

• Visit the Nassau Straw Market.
• Head to Junkanoo Beach. 
• Visit the Bahama Hand Prints company

Anywhere not to go?

Fish fry and over the hill.

It’s a matter of opinion, but the US travel advisory says this at the time of publication:

“Exercise caution in the area known as “Over the Hill” (south of Shirley Street) and the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau, especially at night.”

Walking Tours in Nassau

It’s reasonably straightforward to visit all of the top attractions in Nassau by either walking or taking a taxi.

But sometimes walking tours bring life to a destination. 

• Here is a 90 minute walking tour from Nassau with Viator

In Summary: Secret Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas

Everyone knows that the Bahamas are beautiful. But this collection of secret things to do in Nassau brings out the traditions, history and modern-day life of this extraordinary capital city. And the Bahamas itinerary helps you to organise your time.

 Enjoy your trip to the Bahamas!

More About Travel in the Caribbean

• Brilliant things to do in Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• Bring Barbados home with grandma’s Bajan Recipes
• The Truth About Slavery in Barbados
• Should you go inside a Bri-Bri Village in Costa Rica?
• The Shocking Story of Green Turtle Cay for Americans
• What are the best things to do in Nassau to avoid the crowds?
• The best Caribbean islands for solo female travel.
• What to pack for the Dominican Republic
• The best food in the Dominican Republic
• Why you should travel to the Dominican Republic with kids

19 Things To Do In Nassau: Complete Guide To Basking In The Sun And More In The Bahamas

A s the bustling capital city of The Bahamas, Nassau offers an idyllic blend of urban excitement, historic and cultural attractions, diverse restaurants and bars, and natural beauty in the form of white-sand beaches with a glistening turquoise ocean. Located on New Providence island, Nassau also boasts many of the best all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas, as well as fantastic shopping opportunities and epic nightlife in the city’s nightclubs.

What’s more, the place is also well-connected to other Bahamian islands and a wide range of incredible tourist activities and attractions, ranging from island hopping and swimming with those adorable Bahamas pigs to fishing, sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving on some of the best reefs in the Caribbean. With so much going on in this island paradise, it's an essential destination for any Bahamas travel guide , but holidaymakers may feel baffled by all the attractions and tourist activities in Nassau.

Fortunately, for those unsure how to spend a vacation in Nassau, this in-depth guide to the Bahamian capital city answers all questions travelers may ever need to ask. From the ideal time to visit Nassau and what there is to do and see to the top beaches, hotels, and restaurants — and more — welcome to the ultimate guide to the capital of The Bahamas!

Related 12 Things To Do In San Salvador: Complete Guide To This Unique Hidden Gem In The Bahamas

UPDATE: 2023/09/17 18:16 EST BY DYLAN MYERS

What To Do When Traveling To Nassau, Bahamas

Sandy beaches, blue skies, luxury resorts, and colorful cuisine are just a few of the endless offers when visiting Nassau, Bahamas, making it every vacationer's dream destination. This update refreshed the Nassau travel guide, expanding on fascinating things to do such as scuba diving to underwater sculpture parks, wandering through the 'Versailles of the Bahamas,' discovering historical forts and attractions, and so much more. Wanderlusters should read on to find all the info to bolster their ultimate Nassau, Bahamas travel guide.

Top Things To Do

Aside from the quintessential Bahamas vacation experience of spending the whole day at Nassau's most beautiful beaches , tourists will find a plethora of other activities and attractions with which to fill the rest of their getaway.

From relaxing to adventurous, there’s something amazing in and around Nassau for every type of traveler to experience.

For beach bums seeking further shores, stomach-growling foodies, curious history buffs, and binocular-and-camera-wielding wildlife enthusiasts, these are some of the best attractions in Nassau.

Visit Nassau's Beaches

Granted, there are around 17 picture-perfect paradise beaches in this part of the Bahamas, all of which are unique and beautiful in their own way.

However, with their powdery sands, vibrant blue ocean, and paradisiacal atmosphere, these five shores are notable tourist favorites, consistently ranking high among the top beaches in Nassau for visitors seeking sublime samples of sun, sand, and sea.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Festival in The Bahamas is one of the nation’s most energized parties, taking place around the new year annually. If visitors miss the event, Junkanoo Beach is the next best thing.

• This entertaining beach always has something going on, which is excellent for the more eccentric beach bums seeking fun flair during their day by the sea — but not so ideal for folks in search of peace and quiet.

Visitors falling into the former category will have the time of their lives at this sunny spot, with its lively atmosphere and entertainment roster, as well as plenty of nearby places to grab excellent grub.

Cabbage Beach

No, there aren’t cabbages growing on this sunny shore, but there is almost every kind of water sport imaginable.

As one of the most popular beaches in The Bahamas (which enjoys a convenient location near Nassau Harbor), Cabbage promises a boatload of fun, from water-skiing and parasailing to jet-skiing, snorkeling, and so much more.

With all that water fun comes hungry bellies, and fortunately for calorie-starved beach bunnies, this spot boasts a lot of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Related: Big Major Cay In The Bahamas Is Where You Can Swim With Pigs, And Here’s What You Can Expect

Cable Beach

Cable Beach is always cited as one of the best beaches in Nassau. Clean shorelines, impeccable sand, and crystal-clear water make this beach a top-rated spot among residents and visitors alike.

Its tropical beauty isn’t the sole reason for its popularity, though; this beach is effortlessly close to many of the most upmarket resorts in the Bahamas, with the likes of Sandals Royal Bahamian, one of the most affordable Sandals Resorts , only a stone’s throw away.

Unsurprisingly, one of the world’s most romantic destinations features a lovely seaside spot with a name like 'Love Beach’.

Loved-up couples and honeymooners are known to kindle their romance and enjoy quality time together on this beautiful beach, with its pretty and private ambiance resulting from its superb location away from downtown Nassau’s popular beaches.

Jaws Beach earned its name after it appeared in the iconic Hollywood blockbuster movie Jaws . Given its fame, it can see a few more people than other beaches.

However, seeing what this legendary stretch of sand is like in real life, not on the big screen, is always a top activity in Nassau.

While it was a dramatic spot in the film, in reality, it’s another stunning Bahamas beach worthy of Instagram pics.

Related: 10 Best Things To Do In Or Near Freeport, Bahamas

Swim With The Pigs In Nassau

There are many reasons to choose Exuma over Nassau , and swimming with pigs is one of them. Even though this activity is synonymous with Exuma, it still remains one of the best attractions Nassau has to offer its guests, as it’s still within reasonable proximity to the capital.

One of the closest pig-swimming options for those staying in Nassau is the Sandy Toes experience on the famous Rose Island on Exuma.

A true bucket list item, the famous swimming pigs of The Bahamas are absolutely adorable, melting the hearts of visitors with their hilarious personalities and cute piggy antics.

• These creatures are indeed curious and full of awe for visitors, eagerly swimming up to arriving boats as people come to spend the day with these four-legged pink-and-brown-hued swimming island-dwellers.

Related: From Nassau To Exuma: Travel Options To Pig Beach

Many pigs even hang around humans on the beach and in the water in the hopes they’ll receive food gifts, which many Bahamas pig tour operators will recommend people bring.

The trip to see the Exuma pigs is also convenient; visitors take a powerboat from Nassau to the Exumas — a journey that takes only about an hour and a half each way.

• Recommended Tour: Morning Pig Encounter - Pigs can’t fly, but they do swim!
• Duration: 4 hours
• Cost: From $199 USD per adult

Book this tour

Visit The Atlantis Marine Habitat

The Atlantis Paradise Island is also home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat. This enormous aquarium houses 14 lagoons, eight million gallons of ocean water, and over 50,000 aquatic creatures in over 250 marine species.

The establishment also showcases daily scheduled marine life feeds, which visitors can watch. Check out the Marine Habitat page on the Atlantis Bahamas website for more information.

Day passes are available for tourists who want to enjoy all the attractions and offers at Atlantis but aren't staying at the on-site resort.

• Day pass prices: Vary by date and season
• Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Book A Food Tour Of Nassau

Food tours in Nassau are the ultimate activity for foodies! Many are available, but top-rated favorites include the Bites of Nassau Food & Cultural Walking Tour , which combines food and drink with art, history, and culture.

Don’t forget about the Downtown Nassau guided walking food tour, Sites & Tastes of Downtown Nassau , enabling visitors to eat as the local people do and see plenty of sights along the way.

Book A Rum Tour Of Nassau

To complement a Nassau food tour, a rum-tasting experience makes the perfect pairing. The Rum-Runner’s Passage is a top rum tour in Nassau, taking participants on a journey through a time when The Bahamas’ pirate-plundering and rum-running dominated the islands.

In addition, John Watling’s Distillery offers a popular tasting tour, granting an insight into the Buena Vista Estate and its barrel-aged rum, which guests are welcome to sample.

• Recommended Tour: Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour
• Duration: 3 hours
• Cost: From $87 USD per adult

Go Snorkeling And Scuba Diving In Nassau

Nassau is in no short supply of snorkeling and scuba operators, with whom beginners and seasoned divers can explore some of the best dive sites in The Bahamas.

With its calm, clear, and shallow sites, Nassau (and The Bahamas in its entirety) is one of the world's best places for beginners to learn to scuba dive .

Some snorkel and dive centers in Nassau have been around longer than others and have thus achieved a solid reputation among residents and tourists — one being Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas , which offers scuba diving trips, dive courses, snorkeling tours, snuba, and even epic Nassau shark diving.

Located on the southwest side of New Providence Island, Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas originally opened up shop in 1978. Since then, the operation has become Nassau’s leading full-service dive center and provider of water-based activities.

Related: Can You Dive Dean’s Blue Hole? Not Without Knowing This

As such, if exploring the best dive sites Nassau Bahamas has to offer (not forgetting others nearby, such as the famous Tiger Beach — one of the world's top shark dive sites !), Stuart Cove is the dive and snorkel king to choose.

• Recommended Tour: Land and Sea Sightseeing Tour from Nassau
• Cost: From $149.99 USD per adult

Charter A Boat Tour In Nassau

Booking a private boat tour in Nassau is the ultimate experience if funds are no concern. From fishing trips and beach exploration to snorkeling escapades, exploring Nassau by charter boat is one of the island’s finer things.

Among the chartered boat trip operators is First Strike Charters , which offers numerous excursions ranging from adventurous to relaxing.

• Recommended Tour: 007 Morning Half-Day Boat Charter - Rose Island
• Cost: From $132 USD per adult

Go Island Hopping In Nassau

Scheduled and private island hopping tours in Nassau are available, many of which cater to all budgets, too. Numerous stunning islands with breathtaking beaches, superb snorkeling, and extraordinary encounters with marine life draw island hoppers into booking such a trip.

Noteworthy spots include:

• Rose Island: gorgeous sandy beaches and transparent waters, a quiet, more private island deemed among The Bahamas’ Out Islands’.
• Blue Lagoon Island: jaw-dropping private island accessible from Nassau. Thanks to its eco-friendliness, the island’s beaches are famed for being immaculate and untouched, where dolphins and turtle sightings just off the coast are a common occurrence.

Related 15 Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts In The Bahamas Worth Every Penny

Discover The Best Water Parks In Nassau

Waterparks in Nassau are perfect for a family day out chock-full of excitement. In particular, Aquaventure Water Park on Paradise Island is among the most popular, where water slides, pools, and a lazy river await some fun under the sun.

• Prices: Day pass rates vary by date and season
• Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Baha Bay Waterpark Nassau is also worthy of a visit; this beachfront water facility boasts everything kids and young-at-heart grown-ups could dream of from a water adventure, including a lazy river, a wave pool, water slides, a surf simulator, young child and toddler pool zones, and even an elite beach club.

• Prices: Day passes from $160 per adult, $65 per child
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 6 PM

Visit The Top Historical Attractions In Nassau

With all the best Paradise Island beaches, top Nassau restaurants, water activities, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences out of the way, it’s time to take a trip down memory lane and discover the historic sites in and around the Bahamian capital.

For those looking for unique things to do on Paradise Island, but who are tired of beaches, water parks, and island tours, the Bahamian island boasts a long and eventful history spanning many centuries, making visiting Nassau’s historical landmarks an enriching day itinerary.

From colonial times to pirating stories of the Caribbean, the following historic sites in Nassau are fascinating and will provide visitors with a glimpse into the country’s hefty history.

Find the best historical attractions when visiting Nassau below:

Witness The Queen’s Staircase & Fort Fincastle

The Queen’s Staircase — often referred to as ‘the 66 Steps’ — is held up by an interesting story. The stairs were carved out of solid limestone by slaves between 1793 and 1794, crafted to serve as a direct route to Nassau city from Fort Fincastle.

According to rumors and historical accounts, Queen Victoria of Britain once walked the steps, which were named in her honor.

Today, visitors can see the staircase and take photos of the site, where the encompassing vegetation creates a scenic backdrop.

At the top of the Queen’s Staircase is Fort Fincastle — indeed, one of the most impressive old forts in Nassau out of the main three, which also features replica canons.

• Built in 1793, the stronghold was erected by a former governor of The Bahamas, Lord Dunmore.
• Situated on Bennett’s Hill — the highest point in Nassau — the vistas from Fort Fincastle a worth the trip alone.

Related: Snorkel From The Beach In The Bahamas At This Beautiful Cove

Explore Fort Charlotte

Sitting on 100 acres of land, Nassau’s Fort Charlotte was built in 1788 and houses all sorts of medieval features people normally only read about in history books and fantasy novels.

Think cannons, tunnels, and dungeons — which visitors get to see in real life — and this place delivers some impressive photo ops.

Hiring a local guide is a great way to visit Fort Charlotte when traveling to Nassau, and a guide can help ensure the grounds are open for exploring.

Montagu Beach & Fort

This is a public beach with a beautiful surrounding area full of things to do and see. The historic Fort Montagu is definitely worth a visit and costs around $2 or so per person for admission.

Once visitors have explored the fort, the nearby fish market is a fantastic (and tasty) experience, where fresh conch salads and droves of live conch are available for purchase.

• Fort Montagu Entrance: $2 per person
• Note: Cash only

Enjoy easy and free parking just outside Fort Montagu.

Related: This Bahamas Island Has Been Confirmed The Safest As Of 2022

Waltz Through Parliament Square In Nassau

Parliament Square in The Bahamas is, quite possibly, one of the country’s most famous areas. Dotted with numerous of the island’s recognizable pink and white government buildings, this part of Nassau, with its Georgian architecture dating back to 1815, is indeed beautiful to the eyes.

Facilities of note include:

• House of Assembly
• Office of the Leader of the Opposition
• Bahamas Supreme Court

Nassau’s Parliament Square is also home to a historical (and sizable) statue of Queen Victoria.

Discover The Beauty Of The ‘Versailles Gardens’ In Nassau

As mentioned earlier, The Versailles Gardens is a unique medieval garden and one of the best things to do on Paradise Island , if not the most interesting thing to do in The Bahamas, overflowing with rich flora and fauna and deep-rooted in history.

Also referred to as ‘the Paradise Island Cloisters’, this spectacular place is compared to the Versailles Gardens in Paris. The site’s twelfth-century monastery also sits within the ground, which guests are also welcome to explore.

Most visitors can wander Nassau's Versailles Gardens in anywhere from ten to twenty minutes, and it's an excellent stop for a stroll or snapping some lovely photos.

Visit The Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

Located in Pompey Square in Downtown Nassau, the Pompey Museum may be small, but it contains a wealth of interesting exhibits and information on the country’s past, making it a great resource for people hoping to learn more about The Bahamas’ history.

• Hours: Monday - Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM | Thursday, 9:30 AM - 1 PM | Closed Sundays
• Entrance: $3 per adult
• Location : Bay Street, in front of George Street

Check Out Clifton Heritage Park

Clifton Heritage Park in the Bahamas is a supreme choice for learning about the history and culture of the country while experiencing first-hand what made the place as it is today.

History, culture, nature, and beauty abound, possibly rendering the park one of the unique attractions in The Bahamas for visitors looking to learn about much of the country in one place.

The terrain comprises rocks, wetlands, and white sandy beaches, as well as the impressive ancient architecture of the Lucayan people, who were the very first inhabitants of The Bahamian Islands.

Even snorkeling is on the cards at this park; in fact, with its giant underwater sculptures (seriously, bring a camera), Clifton Heritage Park may be one of the best places to snorkel in the Bahamas in terms of uniqueness.

• Snorkeling Tours: $90 per person
• Duration: 45 minutes to one hour

Explore Bay Street In Downtown Nassau

Bay Street is one of the best places in Nassau for markets, architecture, and people-watching. Many local markets hustle and bustle, while the old buildings invite some beautiful photo opportunities.

Visitors will also find a few good spots to eat and enjoy a drink, too, with the above-mentioned Biggity being one of them.

Bay Street is about 6.5 miles long but is one of the few streets in Nassau with proper sidewalks bordering the street, making for a great stroll to take in all the colorful Bahamian chaos and shopping.

Shiver Ye Timbers At The Pirates of Nassau Museum

The pirate history of The Bahamas is always a topic of interest, even among folks not so history-inclined. Given The Bahamas once had the largest crop of pirates in the Caribbean, one of the most fascinating ways to learn about the islands’ illustrious pirating past is to check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum .

• Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM | Saturdays & Sundays, 9 AM - 3 PM
• Price: $14 per adult

Treasure troves of remarkable exhibitions and displays are housed within the establishment, divulging the fascinating stories of the country’s illegal maritime affairs that once posed huge problems for the Caribbean.

Guests can explore the site by themselves or enjoy a guided tour from an animated pirate, and when they’re done, they can check out the gift shop for some pirate-themed booty.

Related: What’s At The Bottom Of Dean’s Blue Hole? & More Answers

The Best Time to Visit Nassau, Bahamas

• Best Time to Go to Nassau: November to April (peak tourist season, but the best weather)
• Nassau Hurricane Season: June through November

Similar to many tropical islands in this portion of the planet, the summer is warm and humid and can see rainfall — albeit sporadic, mostly. Typically, hurricane season in Nassau runs from July to October, while the high tourist season spans from November to April.

Related: How To Plan The Best Bahamas Cruise, During The Best Month To Do It

Peak season usually sees the best weather in the Bahamas, with the sunniest, clearest skies and less chance of rain. It’s also windier during this time, making the tropical heat a little more bearable, thanks to a cooling breeze.

However, as with most peak tourist seasons, flights and hotel prices soar, and crowds are much denser.

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With the lure of a big city and the ease of tropical utopia, Nassau is considered by many as, well, paradise. Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, is a bustling metropolitan hub full of culture! Nassau is pure euphoria, with stunning beaches, delicious restaurants, unique shops, and nightlife. Everything you need to enjoy paradise.

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Breakaway Central

Pool Parties

Beach Activities

Themed Night Events

Amazing DJs

Your trip includes.

Admit it, booking flights is the worst. That’s why we do it for you. All Flights are booked with major airlines so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. We do all the work, all you need to do is show up, oh and don’t forget your passport!

We know that the hotel you stay at plays a huge role in your overall trip experience. That’s why we invest our time scouting and inspecting all hotels for our programs. We strive to ensure each property has the highest quality standards, and amazing amenities tailored towards traveling students. Each hotel is located in a safe and convenient area so you and your friends can easily explore.

Games, Contests, and Activities

There’s never a dull moment during the day as we organize tons of activities, games, and contests. Play a game of beach volleyball,  get your float on in the pool or get a little competitive and enter into the King and Queen of the Beach competition to win the crown. Oh, and did we mention we also have daily contests for your to chance win some dope prizes.

Volunteer Abroad

We recognize our social responsibility to give back. That’s why, every year we work alongside local communities to contribute to long term sustainable development.

Our volunteering program is popular among our travelers looking to make an impactful difference in community development and conservation efforts while seeing new countries and experiencing different cultures. Get ready to change someone else’s life as well as yours. 

Have a question? Swing by our info desk, the hub of all the information you need for your trip. This is your go to hot spot for your daily check-ins, sign-ups for excursions and events and more.

This is the place to be during the day. Our Breakaway resident DJ and team will be hanging out somewhere central, playing music, playing games and having a time! Make sure to stop by and hang!

Access to Exclusive Night Events

We’re just going to say it, we throw the BEST parties. From theme nights to paint parties we know how to have fun! Our events are definitely not to be missed, great venues, awesome Djs and unparalleled good vibes.

Social Media Team

Let’s be real, paradise is the best backdrop for pictures. It’s just a fact. That’s why we hire the best travel photographers and videographers. Our media team will be there those perfect candid moments.

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For over 30 years, students have chosen Breakaway Beach to celebrate their graduation with an extraordinary senior trip.

Our trips spread joy and spark an appreciation for travel, culture and friendship. A big part of our success is our knowledgeable, enthusiastic and hardworking team.

We're constantly growing, so if you're passionate about youth travel and want to join a group of like-minded people and plan a senior trip with us, we want to hear from you! Take a look at our job openings listed below.

Vacations in The Bahamas

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• There are loads of types of vacations in The Bahamas and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $845; Family vacation $771; Romantic vacation $909; Luxury vacation $1,573; Budget vacation $388.

Why should you book a vacation package to the Bahamas?

When should you book a vacation package to the bahamas.

Summer temperatures in the Bahamas routinely reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit, with hurricane season running roughly from July to October. High season is from November to April, when Bahamas flight and hotel rates will be most expensive. Cheap Bahamas vacation packages, and less crowded beaches, can be found from May to June.

Where should you stay in the Bahamas during your vacation?

For any vacation type in the bahamas:.

Bahamas travel deals make the island paradise more affordable any time of year. Lounge by the outdoor pool or venture onto the private beach at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau, while you're close to the city and its urban pleasures, including the historic district. At just eight miles from Nassau International Airport, a taxi or car rental is your best bet for a transfer. Stay in your own villa in the quiet seclusion of the Sunrise Beach Club resort. Located just across the bridge from Nassau on Paradise Island, it's a half hour taxi ride from Nassau airport.

For family vacations in the Bahamas:

You'll find family friendly accommodations and amenities at the Atlantis Paradise Island-Coral Towers Hotel, where each room has a balcony overlooking the garden scenery, blue seas, or the Atlantis waterscape park. It's just a 20 minute taxi ride from Nassau Airport. There's plenty of watery fun to be had for the whole family at the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina in Alice Town, including a pool and game area along with the beach and marina. Taxis are readily available to take you from Bimini Airport on South Bimini island to the ferry dock. From there, it's a short water taxi ride to the resort on North Bimini island.

For romantic vacations in the Bahamas:

The Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort is perfect for couples, with its own private offshore island, and sophisticated European style accommodations and service. The all-inclusive resort can arrange to make your airport transfers a luxury experience in a Rolls Royce or Mercedes Benz. Bahamas trips to the Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island offer you an escape from the everyday, featuring sleek modern furnishings in an all-inclusive, adults-only resort. It's located on Casino Drive on Paradise Island, about a 15 minute taxi ride from Nassau Airport.

For luxury vacations in the Bahamas:

Enjoy the luxury of Coco Plum Resort, near famous Cable Beach, where an upscale experience comes with a relaxed island vibe. Located on New Providence Island, it's about a 20 minute drive from Nassau Airport. Enjoy the opulence and beauty of the Pink Sands Resort, located on Harbour Island. You'll stay in a beachfront bungalow, with transportation to and from North Eleuthera Airport included in your room rate, with water taxis available for other destinations. Bahamas vacation packages can bring a luxury holiday well within your reach.

For budget vacations in the Bahamas:

Surfers Manor in Eleuthera Island Shores, Gregory Town, offers comfortable rooms with a colorful tropical decor, just a short walk from the famous Surfer's Beach and Hatchet Bay Caves, where pirates could be found in centuries past. The hotel offers a shuttle from North Eleuthera Airport, about 15 miles away. Stay in the charming colonial Pelican Bay at Lucaya, with its own pool next to the beach. Located in Port Lucaya, Freeport, on Grand Bahama Island, it's a short taxi ride from Grand Bahama Airport. Bahamas travel packages give you the best prices.

Where to stay in The Bahamas

The bahamas vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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A day in Nassau, Bahamas: What to do while your cruise is in port

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

The territory of the Bahamas includes 700 islands and 2,000 rocks and cays spread across 100,000 square miles of the North Atlantic Ocean. Technically, it's not part of the Caribbean region . It is, however, a warm-weather destination on the edge of the Caribbean and shares many of its cultural traditions, cuisine and music.

When it comes to oceangoing vacations, the Bahamas can accurately be described as the industry's leading destination, with the capital city of Nassau being cruising's number one port of call. In 2019, the Bahamas hosted 5.43 million cruise visitors, more than any other global cruise port, and it greeted nearly 1 million more travelers than Cozumel, Mexico, the next most-visited port. Indeed, the modern cruise industry's first itineraries in the 1970s focused on three- and four-day Bahamas sailings from Miami .

The archipelago's spectacular natural environment features brilliant blue skies, warm temperatures and exceptionally clear waters. But Nassau, located on 112-mile-long New Providence island, is also a metropolitan center full of modern amenities and impressive African, Caribbean and colonial cultural and historic sites.

Paradise Island, positioned immediately to Nassau's north, has large hotels and all-inclusive resorts that offer day packages for cruise visitors, providing access to premium golf (at the Baha Mar resort ), casino gaming (at Atlantis) as well as restaurants, shops and nightlife.

Not surprisingly, Nassau is a staple port of call for a wide variety of operators. Carnival Cruise Line , Disney Cruise Line , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean all sail here, as does luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises, premium cruise operators Celebrity Cruises and Oceania Cruises and budget operator Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. All of those lines will call at Nassau in 2021.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter.

3 things TPG loves about Nassau

• "Sun and fun" activities
• Historic and cultural attractions
• Distinctive cuisine

What we could do without

Nassau is on an island within a vast archipelago. Many products are necessarily imported and that means prices, including meals at restaurants, can be high. Nassau can also feel a bit "touristy" at times, as the Prince George Wharf cruise ship dock can host as many as five large cruise ships at once. On busy days, cruise travelers are ubiquitous around the downtown area.

Related: Which cruise brand is best for you?

Nassau basics

Nassau is extremely popular as a warm-weather getaway destination that's closer to the U.S. Atlantic Coast than most Caribbean basin countries. As a plus, while technically not located in the Caribbean, Nassau and the Bahamas offers the same splendid sunny skies, brilliant blue waters and amazing culture and traditions.

On the small island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas archipelago. The port is normally a bustling affair, as disembarking guests walk from the pier to Bay Street, parallel to the water, and the downtown shopping area where you'll find tour guides and Jet Ski, beach and watersports excursion operators, taxis for hire, scooter rentals, craft and souvenir shops, and hair braiders.

Nassau's nearby Paradise Island district offers beaches, restaurants and shops as well as the Atlantis megaresort, which is among several properties offering day packages for cruisers in search of a daylong all-inclusive experience. The good news is that, with a little preparation, it will be easy to find the right Nassau activity to fit your personal vacation style.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

Arrival details

Cruise ships visiting Nassau dock at the Prince George Wharf within short walking distance of Bay Street and the downtown district. Passengers who are booked on excursions arranged by the cruise line will find providers staged in areas leading from the dock. Private operators, including those who booked tours with guests separate from the cruise line, will be found beyond the first group.

Time zone: The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time.

Language: English is the official language.

Currency: The Bahamian dollar is equivalent to the U.S. dollar. Both are widely accepted, and generally, it's not necessary to exchange money. If you want to exchange money, you can do so aboard your ship, although you can usually obtain a better rate at a local bank or ATM. Several banks are located on Parliament Street, a short walk from the cruise terminal. Numerous ATMs are also found around downtown.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

How to get around

On foot: Many of Nassau's historic sites and the Bay Street retail district are within walking distance of the cruise ship pier and the downtown area. Bay Street is lined with shops, restaurants and bars, and cruisers so inclined can spend the day strolling the area. Just put on your sneakers, disembark your ship, take a few steps and start exploring. There are also ferries to nearby attractions and it's also possible to rent a car or motor scooter.

By taxi: Taxi operators are staged around the Prince George Wharf area. Taxis are not metered, so always negotiate the fare before entering the vehicle.

By bus: Nassau's public buses are known as jitneys and offer a thrifty and convenient alternative to car rentals or taxis. The jitneys cost around $1.25 per person and stop at popular spots, including Cable Beach (see below).

Related: Disney Cruise Line review — Sailing Disney Wonder

Top sights and shore excursions

Nassau is a surprisingly diverse port. Beach lovers and travelers who enjoy water sports, diving or snorkeling will find a wide variety of excursions and activities to suit their tastes. Nassau is also filled with historic sites and shopping opportunities. Yet visitors are missing out on genuine colonial-era history if they don't also spend time exploring the historic architecture and attractions located steps from the cruise pier. You can book excursions through your cruise line or independently. And, don't forget that the Chase travel portal offers excursions bookable with cash or Ultimate Rewards points.

Here are some favorite pastimes for cruisers visiting Nassau.

Historic sites

Nassau's history is closely tied to the Caribbean pirate era of the 17th and 18th centuries, when the town served as a pirate sanctuary until 1718 when British Governor Woodes Rogers expelled the buccaneers. Today's downtown district offers 20 square blocks featuring architecture and monuments dating to this compelling era, most within walking distance of the cruise pier.

As a result, visitors can take a DIY-approach to exploring Nassau with help from the Bahamas.com website. Or, book a cruise ship excursion highlighting historic forts, Bahamian cuisine, "land and sea" programs, private island experiences and even Junkanoo-style music and dancing.

Historic sites near Prince George Wharf include Parliament Square, which houses the Bahamas' House of Assembly, the Senate Building and Supreme Court in pink pastel colonial buildings. A statue of Queen Victoria erected in the early 1900s also stands at the site.

The Queen's Staircase or "66 Steps" are framed by lush gardens and link downtown Nassau with Fort Fincastle. Ascend to the top of the staircase to reach Fort Fincastle, constructed in the late 1700s atop Bennett's Hill. Sweeping views from the fort's bluffs encompass downtown Nassau, the harbor and the cruise ship dock.

Bahamian culture was also shaped by Africans who arrived in the territory as slaves from Sierra Leone and other West African nations. Other Black people traveled to the Bahamas directly from Africa, Bermuda and Haiti, some enslaved by ex-British loyalists from Georgia and South Carolina, and others as ex-soldiers who won their freedom fighting for the British during the American Revolutionary War.

Several historic sites around Nassau recognize this influence, including Adelaide, Fox Hill and Gambier. These three historic villages were settled by liberated Africans in the 1800s and still maintain their African heritage. Cultural and sightseeing tours to these villages can be arranged. Nassau's Pompey Museum features a permanent exhibit on the African experience in the Bahamas.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Sun and fun: Water sports

Nassau offers a multitude of activities focused around the archipelago's beautiful blue waters and magnificent natural environment. Just about every conceivable water sport is available to Nassau visitors via cruise ship excursion. This includes sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and encounters with sea lions, dolphins, stingrays and pigs (yes, swimming pigs ).

Other cruise ship tours feature glass-bottom and jet boat excursions, catamaran sailings paired with reef snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and exclusive beach days with private cabanas.

While the luxurious Baha Mar resort on Nassau's Cable Beach does not offer day passes, savvy and sybaritic cruisers will reserve a room for the day for access to the property's premium facilities and amenities, including a private beach and beach club, motorized and nonmotorized watersports, a series of pools with shaded lounge chairs, cabanas and waterfall features. You can use 20,000 World of Hyatt points to book a day at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar . Or, spend 10,000 points plus $140. You can start earning points for your next vacation with the World of Hyatt Credit Card.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

The British Colonial Hilton Nassau is another Nassau resort where you can use points. Spend 50,000 Hilton Honors points for a night's stay (which you'd use as a day room). You can earn points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card or Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. Both cards offer hefty welcome bonuses, 130,000 and 150,000 points, respectively, after you meet the required spend of $2,000 within the first three months of account opening for the Surpass and $4,000 in the first three months of account opening for the Aspire. The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

You can also look for a resort offering day passes .

ResortPass is currently selling day passes to the SLS Baha Mar for $100 per adult and $50 per child or $400 per Bungalow Pool Cabana or Baha Bay Beach Club Cabana that accommodates up to four people. You can also book day passes at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau for $100 per adult and $50 per child or $325 for a beach cabana accommodating up to four people.

Nassau's nearby private islands offer a premium beach experience within a 15- to 20-minute ferry ride. Most cruise lines offer shore excursions to Blue Lagoon Island, but travelers can also book a visit through a travel advisor or on their own online. The excursion tends to be popular and does sell out, so be sure to reserve early in your voyage or before you leave home.

At Blue Lagoon, cruisers can swim in a calm lagoon, enjoy kayaking, water-biking or snorkeling tours, play with water toys like floats and inner tubes, or simply relax in a beach hammock under coconut palms. Blue Lagoon offers a gift shop, changing rooms, restrooms and shower facilities.

Balmoral Island, Pearl Island and Sandy Toes also offer private-island experiences near Nassau.

Cruise travelers whose ships arrive early in Nassau may want to take the approximately one-hour drive to Stuart's Cove, where they can experience snorkeling, diving and swimming with sharks.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Best beaches in Nassau

There's no shortage of great beaches in and around Nassau. In addition to the nearby private-island beach experiences, there are several local beaches within walking or short driving distance.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is approximately a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, offering travelers an inexpensive and convenient way to enjoy some sun and fun. You can normally see your cruise ship from the nearby beach, and vendors selling buckets of ice-cold Kalik and Sands beer (the local favorites) can be found lining the beach. Don't forget to bring your towel; chairs are available for rent chairs from vendors. Some will package a bucket of beer with chairs and an umbrella.

Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride away from Nassau just over the bridge that spans the islands. While beautiful. the beach's waters can be rough at times and the beach itself does not offer many amenities. However, locals parade up and down the beach offering chairs for rent and beverages sale. A long walk down the beach will bring visitors to Atlantis, where they can pose for their prerequisite Instagram shot.

Related: 7 tips for visiting Atlantis on a budget

Cable Beach

Cable Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Prince George's Wharf and is accessible via taxi. A cheaper alternative is the No. 10 bus, which charges around $1.25 per person. The 2.5-mile-long beach is often described as Nassau's best, but it's one of hundreds across the Bahamas distinguished by bleach-white sands and remarkably clear blue waters. Cable Beach is home to several top Nassau resorts and offers a full array of watersports activities.

Other top Nassau beaches

Montague Beach is situated east of the Paradise Island Bridge and is home to a historic fort constructed in the 18th century. The beach promenade is a popular hangout on weekends and public holidays, with local vendors offering delicious local food and drinks. The beach is also a preferred spot for wading and picnicking.

Delaporte Beach is west of Cable Beach near the former plantation village of Delaporte. East of Nassau lies Saunders Beach, also popular with visitors and locals, and known for its beautiful twilight views.

The beach at Goodman's Bay features recreational facilities for children and is popular among joggers and exercise enthusiasts. Sandyport Beach is connected by a small bridge to the Venice-like resort Sandyport development near Cable Beach.

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Where to eat and drink

True to its Caribbean traditions, the Bahamas' indigenous cuisine combines flavorful spices with fresh tropical fruit and seafood. Whether found at a lively outdoor market or gourmet restaurant, Bahamian gastronomy is filled with island flavor.

Local favorites

Conch fritters: A Bahamian delicacy (and fortunately bountiful in local waters), the queen conch forms the basis of the territory's undisputed favorite dish. Conch fritters are bite-sized flakes of conch meat fried in batter seasoned with goat pepper, hot sauce and sea salt, plus common Bahamian vegetables.

Peas and rice: Referred to locally as "peas n' rice," this traditional Caribbean dish, prepared in local Bahamian fashion, features deep brown pigeon peas and white long-grain rice seasoned with tomatoes, onions, thyme, tomato paste, goat pepper and salted pork or bacon. The ingredients combine to provide the rice its signature brown coloring.

Johnny cake: Made of flour, milk, butter, sugar and baking powder, this breakfast food is more bread than cake, with a texture that combines dense bread with a slightly sweet cake. As with other staple dishes, Johnny cakes are found around the Caribbean, with the Bahamas version traditionally baked in a large round pan until lightly browned then sliced and served in wedges.

There are a handful of Nassau food experiences visitors should definitely target during their day in port, from the casual to the exclusive. They include:

Potter's Cay conch shacks

The Potter's Cay conch shacks can be found beneath the high-arching bridge that connects Nassau to Paradise Island. Adjacent to lively fruit markets, the brightly colored conch shacks feature nearly 40 chefs in different shacks cooking fresh conch dishes in myriad ways.

Besides being a great place to sample an authentic Bahamian lunch featuring the freshest conch fritters and local dishes, the Potter's Cay shacks are a great place to interact with locals, other visitors and the chefs themselves as they chat about the day's catch and argue over a game of dominoes.

Check first with a local or with a frequent Bahamas visitor (like a travel advisor) to determine which stall is the best for the day. With 25 years in the same location, McKenzie, a former conch fisherman turned restaurateur, is a local celebrity among Potter Cay purveyors, with a shack positioned as the first on the bridge's west end.

Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant

About a 15-minute walk or a brief taxi ride from the cruise port, Graycliff Hotel is in a historic mansion whose extensive grounds were once an 18th-century pirate's headquarters. A visitor can spend an entire day exploring the property, which features one of the world's largest private collections, chocolate-making and cigar-rolling facilities, art galleries and craft shops.

The highlight, however, may be the hotel's five-star restaurant, an elegant eatery with a menu combining continental and Bahamian traditions. The sumptuous restaurant features four air-conditioned dining rooms and a garden dining area, with each room decorated to reflect the Graycliff's origins as a private home.

In keeping with its atmosphere, the dress code is strictly enforced at Graycliff Restaurant with required lunch attire described as "elegant casual."

Related: Are drinks packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Where to shop

When you're shopping in the Bahamas, look for souvenirs like:

• Original paintings, carvings and craftwork
• Handmade garments in bright tropical colors
• Wood carvings

Nassau's Bay Street retail district is steps of the cruise ship dock, but there are a few hidden shopping spots just a short taxi ride away.

Virtually adjacent to the cruise port is Festival Place, an outdoor bazaar featuring 45 vendors selling crafts, food and drinks. It's ideal for folks seeking last-minute souvenirs and gifts just before they depart aboard their ship and for arriving passengers in search of shopping close to the port.

Once an open-air affair, Nassau's long-running Straw Market is located in the center of the retail action on Bay Street and also offers Bahamian gifts, crafts and souvenirs. Bay Street also features a proliferation of high-end, designer stores selling luxury goods including apparel, jewelry, cosmetics and fragrances.

It's also possible to take a taxi to reach Nassau's best-kept secrets when it comes to hand-crafted, original art and crafts, plus apparel and home goods:

Bahama Hand Prints

Established in 1966 by artists Helen Astarita and Berta Sands, Bahama Hand Prints (near the corner of Ernest Street and Okra Hill) offers "bold and brilliant" designs across a wide range of garments, accessories and home furnishings. Many of the colorful and contemporary objects still use the duo's original designs.

Alannah and David van Onselen, who purchased the company in 2018, have retained Helen and Berta's signature style and the shop's collection of vintage designs, while new print designs have been added to the catalog. All products are developed in-house, crafted by the shop's talented sewing team and visitors are encouraged to drop in at the factory, speak with the staff and watch the printers at work.

Craft Cottage Bahamas

Craft Cottage Bahamas is the premier showcase for locally made home décor, glassware, jewelry, soaps, clothing and artwork in Nassau. On the grounds of the Doongalik Studios & Art Gallery in Eastern Nassau, the charming shop and gallery features a diverse and eclectic array of Bahamian-inspired items and emphasizes traditional crafting techniques.

The facility is housed in a traditional Bahamian-style home that shares the grounds with a variety of local Bahamian artists who also use the property to work on their own art and products. The shop offers an extensive and impressive array of handcrafted jewelry, painted glass, straw bags and accessories including homemade soaps and bath products.

Related: 12 giant ships that are packed with fun features

Bottom line

While Nassau sometimes gets a bad rap as a "touristy" port of call and is often inundated by cruise travelers, the Bahamas' capital city is actually a diverse port with an impressive array of historic attractions, a variety of beach experiences, distinctive cuisine and extensive shopping opportunities. Nassau's Caribbean flavor, warm temperatures and beautiful natural environment have made the port a staple on cruise itineraries.

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This Gorgeous Island in the Bahamas Has Ultra-exclusive Hotels, Fresh Seafood, and the Largest Concentration of Blue Holes in the World

How to plan a perfect trip to Andros Island in the Bahamas, including where to stay, what to do, and when to visit.

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The largest of the Bahamas’ 30 inhabited islands, Andros encompasses 100 miles of clear coastline, abundant wildlife, and an intricate underwater system that sits close to the third-largest barrier reef in the world. But despite its size, the island, composed of North Andros, Mangrove Cay, and South Andros, has plenty of unpopulated stretches, without a cruise ship or all-inclusive in sight. Instead, visitors can expect deserted beaches and flats that make the destination the bonefishing capital of the world.

As the gateway to a deepwater basin called the Tongue of the Ocean, diving in the sweeping Andros Barrier Reef is one of the best things to do in the Bahamas , alongside exploring the largest concentration of blue sinkholes in the region (and the world).

The island’s colorful capital, North Andros, is home to a Seminole Indian population that specializes in woodwork and hand-dyeing cotton Androsia fabric. And in Central Andros, historical sites include the over century-old St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the dive-ready Blue Holes National Park.

There are also accommodations for every type of traveler, from private island hideaways to world-renowned fishing lodges. In fact, Andros’ hotels are as desirable as the island itself: Both Kamalame Cay and Caerula Mar Club landed on Travel + Leisure 's list of favorite Caribbean resorts in 2023 .

If you time your visit right, you can even attend one of the annual events, like June's All Andros Crab Festival and May’s Red Bays Snapper Tournament , where the island’s native Seminole Indians compete in basket-weaving and fishing competitions . “Andros is a truly wonderful place. It’s a remote location nestled on the western side of the Bahamas, where you can enjoy great fishing and food,” says Cheryl Bastian, owner of Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay. “Androsians are hospitable and their greatest wish is for you to enjoy your stay.”

Here’s how to do just that on Andros, including where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Andros is home to the most blue holes in the world, accessible both inland and offshore. 
• Indulge in a private island jaunt at the ultra-exclusive, 96-acre retreat of Kamalame Cay in North Andros. 
• Pair the quintessential Bahamian conch with a Kalik beer at seaside Shine’s Conch Shack.
• Head to North Andros, the only western settlement that’s home to the descendants of the Seminole Indians of Florida. 
• The island hosts fun events like the All Andros Crab Fest come summer.

Best Hotels and Resorts  

Courtesy of Caerula Mar Club

Caerula Mar Club 

The beachfront Caerula Mar Club features 18 warm-toned rooms and four villas on the remote South Andros — home to about 2,000 residents. There are two on-site casual eateries — Driff’s Beach Bar and Switcha — plus Lusca, a Caribbean-inspired fine-dining establishment. The passion project was envisioned by HGTV's Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, who describe the hotel as “barefoot luxury.”

Kamalame Cay 

This 96-acre private island haven has 22 rooms and suites that include a mix of cottages, bungalows, and Balinese-style beach houses. Guests receive their own golf carts to explore the island, as well as get access to water sports like kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. Plus, the property is coveted for its prime location near the Andros Barrier Reef. 

Small Hope Bay Lodge 

Located in Central Andros, Small Hope Bay Lodge overlooks the Andros Barrier Reef, offering world-class diving, including shark and night dives. The 21 all-inclusive rooms sit directly on a beach that's just 15 minutes from wall dives and deep, open drops. The lodge is also a mere six miles from the popular Cousteau and Captain Bill’s Blue Holes. 

Swain's Cay Lodge

The Bahamian-owned Swain's Cay Lodge in Mangrove Cay is a favorite for bonefishing and aquatic adventurers. Owner Cheryl Bastian is happy to coordinate excursions, including picnic lunches and wildlife spotting. As for its culinary assets, the on-site Reefside Restaurant & Bar offers beachside dining.

Tiamo Resort 

Accessible only by seaplane or boat, this 14-room resort on South Andros offers luxury accommodations and French-inspired cuisine. Raise a red flag and a butler will come to your thatched-roof villa just steps away from the beach. Surrounded by 125 acres of nature preserve, the eco-chic resort also has activities such as reef fishing, diving, and wakeboarding.

Best Things to Do

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Delve into world-class scuba diving.

The Andros Barrier Reef is the world’s third-longest barrier reef, teeming with vibrant marine life that can be viewed on dive excursions for more than 130 miles. With a large concentration of blue holes and caverns, you won’t have any trouble discovering the rich reef system and landscapes below. 

Try deep-sea and fly fishing. 

Known as the bonefish capital of the world, Andros is home to a collection of natural flats, particularly on the north and west side of the island. Catch and release a bonefish or fish for bigger game like yellowfin tuna and barracuda. “Our fishing product is resilient, and the avid anglers who travel worldwide come back again year after year to seek the thrilling adventure of the bonefish, tarpon, and elusive permit,” says Bastian. 

Explore national parks.

Andros has five protected national parks, including West Side National Park, which stretches more than 1.5 million acres with dense mangroves and a nursery habitat that’s critical to the bonefishing ecosystem. There’s also the Blue Holes National Park, home to 40,000 acres that include freshwater reservoirs and blue holes. 

Discover the blue holes.

There are more than 180 of these natural wonders on the island, and some popular spots include the Stargate Blue Hole, El Dorado, and Benjamin’s Blue Hole. Many hotels and diving sites also offer tours into these underwater relics. 

Best Restaurants  

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Shine’s Conch Shack

This popular seaside shack is owned by Ornald "Shine" Greene, a bonefishing guide who's happy to tell a story or two about the island. During certain times, you’ll even catch fishermen loading their catch of the day and taking it directly to the restaurant. Make sure to order the conch or ceviche, best washed down with an ice-cold Kalik beer.

Brigadier's Restaurant  

This scenic restaurant has over-water seating on a pier at Dream Villas in Central Andros. The menu features both Bahamian and American cuisine, including cracked conch and chicken fettuccine. Enjoy the soothing sound of waves in this casual, alfresco setting that specializes in fresh seafood.

Millie’s Takeaway

For a taste of South Androsian food, head to resident Millie’s restaurant. Here, visitors can enjoy conch burgers, Johnny cakes, and a number of other Bahamian foods. You can take your food to go and enjoy it on a nearby beach. 

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Andros for good weather is mid-December to April, but it’s important to note this is also the high season, which sees more crowds and higher prices. The summer months of June and July feature big festivals, like the All Andros & Berry Islands Regatta and All Andros Crab Fest. 

How to Get There 

Airlines such as Aztec Airways, Makers Air, Titan Air, and LeAir Charter offer weekly flights directly to Andros Town Airport (ASD) from Nassau, Bahamas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To get to San Andros Airport (SAQ) in North Andros, book a flight on Western Air from Nassau, or Aztec Airways from the U.S. LeAir flies to South Andros Airport (TZN). 

How to Get Around

Rental cars and vans are available, with prices starting at $85 per day for the former and $120 per day for the latter. Note that some companies may require a deposit. There are no buses or other forms of public transportation on Andros. Taxi cabs are readily available at each airport on arrival.