As 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 easy for intending holidaymakers to 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!
UPDATE: 2023/03/25 08:32 EST BY MARIA DICICCO
Bask In The Sun And So Much More: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Nassau, Bahamas
This guide was updated to reflect TheTravel.com’s latest Travel Guide format including additional images and reordering of content, a detailed explanation of how to get around once on the island, and how to spend the perfect day in Nassau.
Top Things To Do
Aside from the quintessential Bahamas vacation experience of spending the whole day at the beach, 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.
16 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.
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 a stone’s throw away.
Love Beach
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
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.
15 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.
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.
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Recommended Tour:
Morning Pig Encounter – Pigs can’t fly, but they do swim! -
Duration:
4 hours -
Cost:
From $199 USD per adult
14 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.
13 Book A Food Tour Of Nassau
Nassau, Bahamas
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.
12 Book A Rum Tour Of Nassau
Nassau, Bahamas
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.
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Recommended Tour:
Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour -
Duration:
3 hours -
Cost:
From $87 USD per adult
11 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 excellent 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.
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’s is the dive and snorkel king to choose.
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Recommended Tour:
Land and Sea Sightseeing Tour from Nassau -
Duration:
3 hours -
Cost:
From $149.99 USD per adult
10 Charter A Boat Tour In Nassau
Nassau, Bahamas
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.
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Recommended Tour:
007 Morning Half Day Boat Charter – Rose Island -
Duration:
4 hours -
Cost:
From $132 USD per adult
9 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 Turtle Cay and the gorgeous sandy beaches and transparent waters of Rose Island — the latter a quiet, more private island deemed among The Bahamas’ Out Islands’.
What’s more, Blue Lagoon Island is another 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.
8 Discover The Best Water Parks In Nassau
Nassau, Bahamas
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.
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.
7 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.
With its long and eventful history spanning many centuries, visiting Nassau’s historical landmarks make an enriching day itinerary for those looking for unique things to do on Paradise Island away from the beaches, water parks, and island tours.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 the House of Assembly, the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, The Bahamas Supreme Court, and the Senate. 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 on Paradise island and is perhaps 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
6 The Best Time to Visit Nassau, Bahamas
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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 summertime 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.
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.
5 Best Ways To Get Around Nassau
Getting To Nassau
Tourists can reach Nassau in multiple ways:
By Air
Naturally, one of the easiest ways to get to Paradise Island and its capital is by air; Nassau is well-served by international airlines from all over the globe, which offer direct and connecting flights.
Fortunately for visitors entering Nassau from the US, the city is a short flight away, with nonstop services available from many major US and Canadian cities.
Flights from main European airports and the UK also head to Nassau, with reasonably regular scheduled direct flights from London and big cities across Europe.
By Cruise Ship
Probably the most profitable amount of tourist influx to the island comes from inbound cruise ship passengers arriving multiple times per week.
Getting Around Nassau
Local Jitney Bus
The local jitney bus is roughly $1.25 per passenger per ride and drops people off at places like Potter’s Cay and Arawak Cay for the fish fry shacks and beaches. Fort Charlotte, John Watlings Distillery, and many of the attractions are all easily reached by this bus. In fact, the bus has a designated route, but passengers can flag down a bus whenever they seen one. Look for bus stop signs to find the designated pick up spots.
Taxi
Taxis are easily found driving around the touristy areas of town, however beware there are typically no meters or set prices. In some instances expect to pay much higher than expected, for instance $20 for a 5-10 minute drive is not uncommon. Expect to pay in cash. USD are readily taken.
Scooter or ATV Rental
Popular by the port area, there are many operators to choose from. Most rentals include day tours by operators like C&C Rentals, however visitors are also able to rent buggies, ATVs, cars and scooters for their own personal use around the island.
Note there are small tolls each way to cross the bridge with a vehicle to/from Paradise Island. There is no toll for pedestrians or bicycles.
Ferry/Water Taxi To and From Paradise Island
Bahama Fast Ferries and Paradise Island Water Taxi are both operating transportation vessels to get around the island.
On Foot or Bicycle
Most attractions are reachable within short distances, making walking or bicycling a very practical method for getting around.
4 Where To Eat In Nassau
Nassau, Bahamas
When it comes to delectable dining options in delightfully different settings, Nassau Paradise Island has something to tease every appetite and palate.
With celebrity chefs and fine dining establishments, casual al fresco, relaxed oceanfront cafés, seaside bar-and-grills, and great local eateries, eating in Nassau is one of visitors’ top pastimes.
From classic French and Italian to Asian fusions and traditional Bahamian cuisine — the latter of which is a delectable blend of British, Spanish, and West African flavors — Nassau has the right to claim it houses some of the best restaurants in the Bahamas.
Out of them all, here’s a sample of some of the best places to eat in Nassau, ranging from high-end dining to authentic local Bahamian outlets.
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Arawak Cay Fish Fry:
the best place in Nassau to eat and drink on a budget, serving up freshly grilled fish and an array of delicious Bahamian dishes, as well as some music and dancing for entertainment and a lively island atmosphere -
Mogano:
keeping it simple but oh-so-tasty, this restaurant offers taste-bud-teasing dishes from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and more -
Bahamian Cookin’:
this local food joint is simple yet packs a punch with its classic Bahamian food, such as cracked lobster, steamed chicken, and conch fritters -
Biggity:
a family-owned restaurant built entirely by hand with repurposed wood and natural building materials. With a simple and healthy menu full of dishes oozing flavor, this eatery is a classic spot for enjoying a laid-back meal in downtown Nassau -
Café Matisse:
easily one of the best Italian restaurants in Nassau -
Cleo Mediterraneo:
as mentioned, Cleo is the in-house restaurant at SLS Baha Mar, serving up Mediterranean dishes and share-worthy tapas -
Graycliff Restaurant:
part of the hotel mentioned above with the same name boasts a beautiful atmosphere, a delicious menu, and an outstanding wine selection, according to many patrons. -
Social House:
an excellent eatery offering lunch menu deals and evening dining. According to reviews, the fresh sushi at this spot is top-notch -
Island Brothers:
a cozy French café and restaurant in authentic brasserie-style for foodies who enjoy refined flavors. Offering tropical twists on the traditional dining experience, this establishment is one of the more unique joints in Nassau -
Sapodilla Restaurant:
high-end dining is the order of the day at this Bahamian restaurant, which offers incredible food and unbeatable service. The place’s outdoor Kamalame Bar, with its comfy outdoor seating, and the piano champagne lounge are also a hit with visitors who enjoy life’s finer indulgences. Reservations are usually required in advance to bag a space at this spot! -
Athena Cafe & Bar:
a personality-rich Greek café providing very filling meals (as well as Greek spins on Bahamian delights) in downtown Nassau -
Louis & Steen’s:
a New Orleans-inspired coffee house cooking up sumptuous Cajun dishes and tip-top coffee -
Kyma Seafood Grill:
This Greek and Latin fusion outlet boasts an extensive menu and upmarket ambiance, which Mediterranean cuisine fans particularly enjoy -
Señor Frogs
: an eccentric, high-energy spot full of fun, good food, and drinks, where the party continues throughout the day and evening. Located conveniently close to Nassau’s historic center, this is a great place to pop in for a bite and some refreshing beverages -
Pink Octopus Restaurant and Bar:
Caribbean cuisine with Mediterranean influences is served up in this casual waterfront outlet, which many consider to be somewhat of an off-the-tourist trail spot -
Green Parrot:
Local people and visitors to the Bahamas love this establishment. The eatery’s humble beginnings also make it one of the more interesting, authentic places to eat delicious Bahamian cuisine The restaurant’s location on East Bay Street also provides a treat; it overlooks the Nassau Harbour, enabling dining with a view amid a warm, welcoming atmosphere
3 Where To Stay In Nassau
The question of ‘where to stay in The Bahamas’ is all-encompassing; however, it becomes much easier to answer when the intended destination is narrowed down solely to the capital.
Although there’s no lack of attractions and activities in Nassau — with easy access to most areas via taxi or vehicle/motorcycle rental — where vacationists choose to stay will ultimately decide their experience when holidaying in the Bahamian capital.
Luckily for visitors, there’s accommodation for every type of traveler; there are plenty of popular Nassau all-inclusive resorts, as well as charming boutique hotels, more laid-back lodgings, and even vacation home rentals and Airbnbs ranging from upmarket villas to budget rooms.
Some are more expensive than others, but there are options for travelers with less cash to splash, too, so long as they opt for more basic accommodation.
Still, whatever one’s budget and preferences, here are a number of top-rated hotels in Nassau starting from the most expensive to those on the lower end of the price range.
The Ocean Club — A Four Seasons Resort
The luxury, historic Four Seasons resort has been hosting tourists and even celebs since 1962. The property exudes European charm, with its Versailles-themed garden that houses cloisters from a twelfth-century French Augustinian monastery.
While this is certainly one of the most expensive complexes to stay at, if finances are no problem, why not splurge and indulge at one of the island’s most famous resorts?
Sandals Royal Bahamian
An upscale, all-inclusive luxury resort on a stunning private offshore island. The couples-only retreat features a pristine beach, high-end accommodations, a sublime pool, a spa center, and a beautiful ocean-side restaurant — Gordon’s on the Pier.
This exquisite property is rather pricey, but for those blessed with a bottomless wallet (or who’ve saved for a few years in advance for the ultimate vacay), it’s worth every penny — according to most Sandals Royal Bahamian reviews, of course.
SLS Baha Mar
This is a classic luxury Nassau hotel set on a white sandy beach, but it’s a little more laid-back compared to many other upmarket accommodations. The chic hotel comes with excellent service, crisp, clean rooms, and a superb in-house restaurant named Cleo as well as two other fancy eateries.
The resort also boasts two outdoor pools, one of which has a bar, as well as a gym, a spa, a gold course, a nightclub, and a casino.
Atlantis Paradise Island
This splendid and sprawling resort by the ocean offers everything guests could ever desire (as well as celebs who’ve been known to stay at the property), including lots of bars and restaurants, a casino, a spa, a golf course, and even a water park. With plenty to do and see away from the gorgeous beach and pools, guests don’t even have to leave the premises if they don’t feel the need since — though leaving the comfort of one’s accommodation to explore the island is still recommended!
Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant
Set in the enchanting old town of Nassau, the four-star boutique Graycliff Hotel is an old colonial mansion complete with sublime decorated pools and tropical gardens and pools in its picturesque grounds. Located just minutes from popular Nassau sites, such as the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas and West Esplanade beach, the property finds itself ideally situated for guests intending to get out and about to discover the local area. The on-site restaurant, wine cellar, and casual steakhouse are also highly rated, sauna, and gym.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
On the more affordable end (but still very comfortable, clean, and beautifully situated), the two-star Holiday Inn in Nassau is a casual hotel with bright rooms, some of which boast scenic ocean views. The property is located just across from Western Esplanade Beach and is a mere 12 minute-walk from Fort Charlotte and nine minutes away on foot from Nassau Straw Market. For guests, this relaxed and unpretentious hotel offers an outdoor pool and also complimentary breakfast.
2 What To Know About Nassau: Other Nassau Top Tips For Tourists
- Many of the most popular sites and attractions in Nassau are in the downtown area — including the cruise port.
-
Transportation in Nassau
is widely available and convenient. Visitors can get a rental car, hire a motorcycle, or take taxis to get around Nassau and Paradise Island as a whole - Most places in Nassau accept US dollars as currency, as well as credit cards.
- Everyone in Nassau speaks English, and local residents are friendly
-
As of 20 September 2022, COVID-19 testing is no longer required to enter The Bahamas, regardless of vaccination status. Still, travelers are advised to check the
Travel Updates page on the official Bahamas website
to see if any new rules have been implemented.
1 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Nassau
From beach days to fish fry cays, Nassau has plenty of culture, history and dining to delight every type of traveler. Visit historical places reminiscent of Nassau’s British rule, take a rum tour, or venture out to remote beaches on a buggy or ATV. Whatever the pleasure, Nassau offers it all. Start the day strolling through history, an afternoon with cold Kalik beers in hand and conch-based treats at one of the many fish shacks, and end the evening with a dip in the ocean and a nice dinner.
FAQ
Q: What airport do you fly into for Nassau Bahamas?
Lynden Pindling Intl Nassau (formerly Nassau International Airport) is the airport most airlines fly into. It’s the largest airport in the Bahamas and situated 10 miles (or 13 kilometers) west of Downtown Nassau on New Providence Island.
Many top-rated airlines that fly into the Bahamas serve Nassau’s airport, so lack of availability is rarely ever an issue. A toll bridge connects Paradise Island to New Providence, costing just a few dollars to cross and taking less than 10 minutes to reach Downtown Nassau by taxi or car.
Q: Is there a boat to Nassau?
Arriving by boat and cruise ship is also a popular way to reach Nassau, thanks to the island’s harbor and the numerous top-rated cruise lines sailing to The Bahamas.
Most cruise ships visiting Nassau dock at the Prince George Wharf, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the famous Bay Street and the downtown district of Nassau.
Several cruises depart from Miami and stop in Nassau, typically ranging from three to six nights. While there is no direct ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Nassau (there is one from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Bimini, however), some services do leave from Fort Lauderdale Cruise Terminal and arrive at Nassau via Freeport Harbor, which takes about 13 hours in total — including transfers.
Q: Do you need a passport to go to Nassau?
All visitors must present a valid passport when traveling to Nassau (as with any part of The Bahamas). Tourists may also be required to show evidence of their anticipated departure from the country.
