The Bahamas is a beautiful Caribbean paradise known for its stunning azure waters, white sandy beaches, and bright tropical climate. Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas located on New Providence island, is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. From historical sites to gorgeous beaches to exciting water adventures, there are endless things to see and do in Nassau for an unforgettable tropical getaway.
Explore Downtown Nassau and Visit Historical Sites
Downtown Nassau has a vibrant atmosphere with colorful colonial buildings, historical structures, and bustling street markets. Some must-visit historical attractions include the 18th century Government House, Parliament Square, Columbus Statue on Prince George Wharf, and Pompey Museum honoring an enslaved African who became a freed man. Other notable sites are the Queen’s Staircase carved out of solid limestone by slaves in 1793 and Fort Fincastle offering panoramic views of the city.
Relax on Spectacular Beaches
Nassau is surrounded by beautiful beaches with powdery white sand and clear shallow waters perfect for swimming, lounging, or beachside fun. Popular beaches include Cable Beach lined with resorts and restaurants, Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island ideal for water sports, and the less crowded Junkanoo Beach near downtown Nassau. Spend a day soaking up the sun, enjoying water activities like paddle-boarding, or grabbing a drink at a beachfront bar.
Explore Paradise Island
Paradise Island linked by bridge to Nassau is home to many resorts, hotels, beaches, casinos, and luxury shopping spots. Don’t miss visiting the world-famous Atlantis Resort spanning over 141 acres with water park rides, swimming with dolphins programs, and huge aquariums. Other key attractions on Paradise Island are Cabbage Beach, Paradise Beach, Paradise Island Golf Club, and Paradise Island Bridge.
Go Snorkeling and Diving
With its crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs, Nassau offers incredible spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. some top spots are the shallow reefs of Stuart Cove, the plane wreck and shark dive sites, Dean’s Blue Hole- the deepest in the Bahamas, and the James Bond Wrecks off New Providence Island. Snorkel or dive to enjoy swimming alongside tropical fish, turtles, corals and even sharks!
Enjoy Water Sports
Nassau offers endless options for water sports enthusiasts. Have fun kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, parasailing, knee-boarding or wakeboarding. For a real thrill, try water sports like fly-boarding where jets under your feet propel you up to 30 feet in the air. Popular spots for water adventures include Cable Beach, Cabbage Beach, Goodman’s Bay, and Athol Island.
Play Golf at Top Golf Courses
With nearly 365 days of sunshine, Nassau is a golfer’s paradise with many acclaimed golf courses. Tee off at Ocean Club Golf Course with terrific ocean views, Cable Beach Golf Club, a tropical 18-hole course, or the Championship Golf Course designed by Jack Nicklaus. paradise Island Golf club has an 18-hole course with elevation changes offering fun challenges.
Go on Exciting Boat Tours and Charters
From sailing to powerboating, numerous boat tours in Nassau allow exploring the area in exciting ways. Sit back and relax on catamaran cruises to Rose Island or Harbour Island. Go fishing, sightseeing or swimming with sharks and stingrays aboard guided tours. Custom private charters are also available for boating to secluded beaches, snorkeling sites and small islands around Nassau.
Shop and Dine at Arawak Cay
Arawak Cay, a popular hub minutes from downtown Nassau, features a row of colorful restaurants, bars, shops and stalls along the harbor. Sample local Bahamian dishes like conch fritters, grilled snapper and tropical drinks in a lively atmosphere. Shop for souvenirs, art, and handicrafts. Don’t miss trying Goombay Smash at one of the rustic waterside bars!
Visit Craft Markets for Local Shopping
Nassau has great spots to shop for unique handicrafts, souvenirs, homewares and art. Head to Straw Markets to browse stalls filled with handmade products, colorful textiles, bags, jewelry, toys and more. Visit the Potter’s Cay Dock where local artisans and vendors sell items in a series of booths near the cruise ship port area.
Experience Local Culture at Junkanoo Festival
Junkanoo, the national festival of Bahamas, is celebrated with parades, costumes and music across Nassau and Paradise Island. Check dates and watch incredible costumed dancers, cowbell ringers, drummers, and floats march down Bay Street. Exhibits at the Junkanoo Museum showcase vibrant costumes and artifacts from past festivals throughout the year.
Conclusion
With its sunkissed beaches, coral reefs, historical attractions, luxury resorts, golf courses, and shopping, Nassau offers endless options for an unforgettable tropical getaway. The city’s vibrant culture, exciting activities, delicious cuisine and friendly hospitality make it a wonderful Caribbean destination. Soak up the island vibes and make magical memories exploring these top things to do in Nassau, Bahamas!
FAQ:
Q: Where is Nassau located?
A: Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas located on the island of New Providence in the Caribbean Sea.
Q: How do I get to Nassau?
A: You can fly directly to Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau from many major US cities. Cruise ships also frequently stop at Nassau’s cruise ports.
Q: When is the best time to visit Nassau?
A: Late spring and early summer are ideal with warm sunny weather. November to April is peak tourist season with higher prices.
Q: What currency is used in Nassau?
A: The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD) but US dollars are widely accepted in Nassau.
Q: What is the drinking age in Nassau?
A: The legal drinking age is 18 years in Nassau, Bahamas. However, some clubs have a minimum age requirement of 21 years.
