Hello, vacation!
If you’re reading this, you’re either thinking about escaping to a tropical Caribbean vacation, or you’re already on one.
Nassau, located on the island of New Providence in The Bahamas, is a perfect choice for a romantic Caribbean getaway. The Bahamas itself features so many different islands that it’ll almost feel like traveling to several vacation destinations in one.
Nassau (the capital) has the most opportunities for fun in one place. From gorgeous beaches and national parks to historic museums and art galleries, you won’t soon run out of things to do in Nassau. Additionally, you can easily take a boat from Nassau to most of the other islands of The Bahamas, making island-hopping in The Bahamas a completely achievable dream. Nassau is located especially close to Paradise Island, which can be accessed via the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge. For this reason, this article primarily discusses excursions near Nassau and Paradise Island.
Whether you’re looking for delicious food, nightlife, rich culture, or other adventures, it is safe to say you’ll want to tick as many of these 44 activities off your to-do list as possible.
There are lots of things happening in The Bahamas throughout the year. Some of the major events include Junkanoo (New Year’s Day and Boxing Day), Bahamas Carnival (May), the Bacardi Billfish Tournament (March), the One Bahamas Music & Heritage Festival in Nassau and Paradise Island (November), Independence Week (July), and the Great Bahamas Seafood and Heritage Festival (October). The latter of these events features traditional Bahamian seafood and a full dose of the heritage of the islands. Across The Bahamas, all the islands have separate event schedules, but themed activities mean that a lot of the events happen simultaneously.
For more detailed information on events in The Bahamas, check out our best time to visit The Bahamas post.
Along with a rich culture, The Bahamas is full of unique food experiences throughout Nassau and the other nearby islands. You don’t want to skip out on the rich cultural food experiences in Nassau. Between delicious fine dining restaurants, cultural food tours, cooking classes, and more, there is so much to experience in Nassau.
Some of our top activities for foodies include:
Location: Downtown Nassau, east of Nassau, or west of Nassau
Cost: Between $69 USD and $79 USD
Food lovers, this is your fix – a culinary tour in The Bahamas with just the right dose of entertainment! Food excursions like Tru Bahamian Food Tours can include stops at renowned bars and restaurants, as well as specialty food stores. You’ll get the best of history, culture, and Bahamian food as part of this exciting three-hour tour!
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: About $100-$150 USD
Café Matisse is in the center of Nassau and is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm - 3 pm and 6 pm - 10 pm. There’s a range of appetizing dishes you can try here from soups and pasta to meat dishes, as well as fish and seafood. Pizza is also available. This is one of the more popular restaurants in Nassau and proof of vaccination is required if you want to dine indoors.
Expert tip: Looking for a fine dining experience throughout your stay? Stay at any Sandals all-inclusive resort in The Bahamas and enjoy unlimited gourmet food, featuring varying cuisines. Sandals Royal Bahamian gives you access to 10 restaurants and Sandals Emerald Bay features 11 restaurants. A real treat!
Location: Palm Cay, Nassau
Cost: $150-200 USD
Pink Octopus Restaurant in Nassau is highly rated and has a vibrant atmosphere that'll be loved by anyone looking for a good time in Nassau. At this restaurant, you can enjoy casual dining and Caribbean cuisine. The food here has a Mediterranean twist to it, and you can enjoy your meal with expertly made cocktails, wines, spirits, or just some refreshing juice. The Pink Octopus works closely with local farmers to source local ingredients and supports Bahamian farms.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $100-$200 USD per person
Graycliff Chocolatier offers a unique, educational and fun chocolate making experience for guests who can’t get enough of the delectable treat. You can sign up for a tour of the factory, and you’ll learn how cocoa beans are transformed into amazing chocolate treats. There’s also a restaurant and giftshop at this location. Graycliff Chocolatier is open daily from 9am to 5pm daily.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Cakes start at around $7.50 USD
You might just feel the need to splurge on desserts to take back home with a visit to the Rum Cake Factory in downtown Nassau. The successes of the factory are attributed to George Bates from the UK who opened a cake shop in the Bahamas in 2000. Today, the rum cakes are so popular that they were recognized by the State in 2014 as the official Rum Cake of the Bahamas. Don’t miss out! Try some of the Cake Factory’s options which include Amaretto Cake, Banana Rum Cake, Chocolate Rum Cake, Cinnamon Rum Cake, Coconut Rum Cake, and more.
Location: West Bay Street, Downtown Nassau
Cost: Meals start at around $15 USD per person
Fish Fry events are popular in the Caribbean and come with an opportunity to indulge in fresh off-the-grill catches seasoned with local flair. Add conch fritters and a cold Bahamian Sands or Kalik beer into the mix, accentuated by music and dancing, and you’ve got yourself quite the visitor-friendly event. Locals enjoy this event too, and it's available every night of the week on West Bay Street.
If you are a big partygoer or are a big fan of nightlife, Nassau has no shortage of fun activities for you. The Bahamas is one of the rum capitals of the world, after all. Whether you are looking to try delicious cocktails, go on a rum distillery tour, or spend the night dancing in a nightclub, Nassau has the perfect mix of nightlife for you.
Here are some of our top activities for those that want to experience Nassau’s nightlife.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: $75-$100 USD
Bon Vivants is an artsy spot that happens to be the first cocktail bar in The Bahamas that is dedicated to the art and history of the craft cocktail. The term ‘bon vivant’ revolves around dedicating oneself to luxurious living. That is precisely what you’ll experience at this cocktail bar. The menu here is extensive and includes cocktails, mocktails, nibbles, and so much more.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $13.50 USD (adults), and $6.75 USD (children)
Sipping rum or cocktails in a pirate inspired place is always a good time, and the Pirate Republic Brewery does not disappoint. The team at Pirate Republic is proud to speak about their humble beginnings with a homemade 5-gallon brewing system. Miles from where they first started, they now run a business that has received two consecutive certificates of excellence from Trip Advisor (2017 and 2018). Pirate Republic was the first producer of craft beer in the Bahamas, so if you appreciate the work that goes into making craft beer, you’ll do well with a tour of this facility. Food, rum and cocktails are also available from the Brewery.
Location: West of Nassau & Paradise Island
Cost: Varies
Even if you’re not an avid gambler, you’re bound to appreciate the fast-paced ambiance and the happy winning feeling that will surround you once you step into any one of the casinos in The Bahamas. Once inside, you might as well try your luck.
At the Bahamar Casino, one of the Caribbean’s largest, there are 119 table games, over 1000 slot machines, and various other things to do, all available 24/7.
Atlantis Casino is also world-class, with over 700 slot machines and 85 game tables. There’s a hot seat daily from 10:30 am-4:00 pm with a winner every 30 minutes.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Varies
Señor Frogs is always a good time! This entertainment locale is near the cruise port and it is a cool place to have a drink and a delicious meal. “High energy and good vibes in a fun environment” are what you’ll find here. The entrance to this upbeat spot is so colorful that you simply can’t miss it. It's just past the Straw Market; thank us later!
Location: Nassau
Cost: Varies
Island House is a fun and casual location you can check out while in The Bahamas. This spot is a boutique hotel, and it is also a popular place to relax and socialize. There's a beach here, two restaurants, a café, a wine market, an art house cinema, a lap pool, a movement studio, squash courts, an art gallery, and a spa. This is one of those places you can spend the entire day and not run out of things to do.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Free
If sampling barrel-aged rum and touring an estate is your idea of a good time, you’ll be completely content with a tour of the John Watling's Distillery. This distillery is located near the Government House in Nassau on Buena Vista Estate. The property was constructed in 1789 and, today still maintains a timeless elegance that sets the right tone for a rum tasting tour. Tours are available daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Not only is Nassau known for it’s natural beauty — it also has tons of rich cultural history. There is so much to learn, see, and do. Fully immerse yourself in the island culture with Junkanoo Festival celebrations, famous landmarks, and historical museums.
Some of our top ways to experience the authentic Bahamian culture & heritage include:
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Varies
Taking part in the annual Junkanoo Festival is one of the most exciting things to do in The Bahamas. If you’re in Nassau, you’ll get to experience the best of the Junkanoo and all the cultural events that happen in the islands around the time of the festival. Junkanoo happens every year on New Year's Day and Boxing Day, and includes music, costumes, and cultural instruments.
This event takes place in the wee hours of the morning, and can also involve private parties at various locations. While it's free to stand up and watch the parade, you can pay about $16 USD to get a seat to watch from the starting line, or pay a little more if you want a seat closer to the judges, near the end point at Parliament Square.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: $10 USD (entrance fee)
Nature lovers will find their hearts at ease here – it is away from the busy Nassau streets, and if you let it, the lush, green Primeval Forest will completely consume you in a world of serenity. This is the prime place to enjoy the Bahama’s natural beauty.
You’ll find about 7.5 hectares of forest here, complete with tropical plants of all varieties, caverns, sinkholes, and other limestone formations. You can book a guided tour or walk around on your own as you explore the area that was officially named a national park in 2002.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: $10 for adults, $3 for children 3-11 (in USD)
You’ll find everything you’re looking for and more at the Clifton Heritage Park. Here, history and culture meet amazing views and stunning physical features. Once you arrive at this park, start by taking in the landscape, which includes wetlands, rocks, and white sand beaches, then progress to exploring the architecture of the Lucayan people who were the first inhabitants of The Bahamas.
Location: East of Nassau
Cost: Varies
You’ll be miles ahead in tropical fashion after a trip to Bahama Hand Prints. Here you’ll find authentic and handmade interior design fabric, readymade napkins and placemats, clothes, accessories, and more. The items here are perfect souvenirs for any member of your family, and trendy enough to be used in real life! Ask about taking a personalized tour of the factory.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Adults $18.50, children $12.25 (in USD)
The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas opened its doors in July 2014. This museum celebrates the history of The Bahamas in a remarkable way. You’ll leave this location with a better understanding of The Bahamas after exploring exhibitions and viewing fossils, relics, and some of the other treasures housed here. The Heritage Museum is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Location: Paradise Island
Cost: Free
There’s no short supply of beauty in Nassau and one spot that’ll leave you mesmerized is the Versailles Gardens. You’ll find flora and fauna of all colors under the sun here and an opportunity to explore the ruins of a 13th-century monastery that was imported into Paradise Island directly from France. Walk with a camera and be prepared for a blissful experience!
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Ranges from $5 to $10 USD
In The Bahamas, there are just so many beautiful islands to be inspired by. Given that reality, it isn't at all surprising the amazing creations local artists are able to conceptualize. One of the best places to view their work is the National Art Gallery in Nassau. This popular gallery can be found in an 18th-century great house known as Villa Doyle.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $1-$5 USD (entrance fee)
Though small, you’ll find no short supply of historical facts at the Pompey Museum. Set within Pompey Square, this museum’s surroundings are always lively with various cultural events taking place regularly. Inside the museum, there is a wide range of ancient artifacts and various media exhibits. The staff here is well informed and will be able to answer any questions you have on the history of The Bahamas.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Free
Queen Victoria walked here, and that fact is more than enough reason for the hundreds of people who flock to this location in downtown Nassau to take pictures and to see the staircase in real life. The 66 steps of the Queen’s Staircase connect Fort Fincastle to downtown Nassau, and they’re made of solid limestone. The Queen’s Staircase is said to have been built by slaves between 1793 and 1794 and was named in honor of Queen Victoria of Britain.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Adults $1, children $0.50 (in USD)
You’ll find a wealth of information on the history of The Bahamas at the Historical Society Museum. As part of this experience, guides share information about the impact of European colonization on The Bahamas, the pirate age, the Lucayans, useful medicinal herbs that can be found in The Bahamas, and more. One thing’s for sure, you’ll definitely leave more enlightened than you came!
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $13.50 for adults, $6.75 for children 4-17 (in USD)
The Bahamas has a rich pirate history that dates back to 1690. This was known as the Golden Age of Piracy. At the Pirates of Nassau Museum, you can learn all about this intriguing time in history for The Bahamas. The museum is interactive, and exhibits include Women Pirates, Marooned, The Infamous Blackbeard, The Quay Side, Woodes Rogers, The Flag Room, and more. There’s a gift shop at the museum where you can pick up some pirate-themed souvenirs.
Location: East of Nassau
Cost: $2 USD
There are a few forts to explore while in Nassau and Fort Montagu is the oldest fort still standing on the island. Like several other ancient buildings and structures in The Bahamas, this fort is made of limestone. It was built in 1741 and served an important function — helping the British keep Spanish invaders at bay. Tours of the fort are available from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Adults $5, children $2 (under 12) and seniors $3 (in USD)
Another historic attraction in Nassau is Fort Charlotte. This fort was built in 1788. On-site, there are 100 acres to explore, inclusive of dungeons, canons, tunnels, and more. The amazing views of Paradise Island from the fort are part of its appeal. While there, you can enjoy a bit of theatre too as actors dressed in 17th-century attire take guests back in time with first-hand portrayals of the fort’s history.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: Free
Much like Government House, the brightly colored buildings on Parliament Square are a popular attraction because of their stand-out appearance. The square features three pink and white buildings in Georgian colonial architectural style that were constructed in 1815. Today, the buildings primarily serve governmental functions: the House of Assembly, the Senate, the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, and The Bahamas Supreme Court. The historic Queen Victoria Statue is also located here.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $1-$3 USD (entrance fee)
At the top of the Queen’s Staircase in Nassau, you’ll find the old Fort Fincastle. This fort was built by Lord Dunmore in 1793. Visitors to Fort Fincastle can expect captivating views from Nassau’s highest point, Bennett’s Hill. Notably, the fort, much like the Queen’s Staircase, was built with limestone. The walls are 126 feet tall and there are a few replica canons on site.
Location: Bay Street, Downtown Nassau
Cost: Free (entrance fee)
In heart of Bay Street, you’ll find the much-talked-about Nassau Straw Market. This is a great place to pick up local handicrafts to take back home. The Straw Market has existed for decades, and, today, you’ll find a lot more than straw-inspired products. In addition to straw hats, baskets, and the like, you can find wooden sculptures, beaded jewelry, branded clothing, and other souvenirs.
Looking for more adventure during your Caribbean getaway? Luckily, Nassau is known for its beautiful outdoor activities and water sports. Adventurous visitors can embark on excursions like scuba diving, snorkeling, buggy tours, jet skis, and more.
Check out the beautiful marine life and natural beauty of the island with these fun activities:
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Adults $160 USD, children over 3 years old and under 48" tall $60 USD
With water slides, tipping buckets, and splash zones, the Baha Bay Waterpark offers a thrilling day of adventure for people of all ages. This water park includes body slides, rafting slides, and even free-fall slides. There’s a special area within this waterpark for smaller kids that includes pools that are a bit shallower. The Baha Bay Water Park is part of a resort and day passes can be purchased to enjoy this facility.
Location: Southwest of Nassau
Cost: $130-$440 USD per person
There probably isn't a better way to have a memorable vacation in The Bahamas than to go shark diving. There are a few companies you can sign up to do this tour with while in the country. A variety of shark species can be spotted while diving in The Bahamas including hammerheads, tiger sharks, bull sharks, lemon sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, and more. Nassau is an exciting place to go shark diving as is Grand Bahama.
Expert tip: Try two-tank professional shark diving in Nassau. This tour spans around 3 hours and includes the cost of a dive tank, weights, and shuttle for diving.
Located: East of Nassau
Cost: Starts at about $600 USD (price varies depending on trip duration, size of the boat, etc.)
Deep-sea fishing is incredibly popular in The Bahamas. There are several annual competitions that make an event out of the sporting side of deep-sea fishing. While in Nassau, you can embark on a full or half-day fishing adventure where you can enjoy the popular pastime while taking in amazing coastline scenery. All you need to do is sign up for a deep-sea fishing tour, and once you’re ready, you’ll have an experienced crew on hand and bait and tackle ready to go!
Expert tip: Check out the ultimate guide for fishing in Nassau right here. You'll be reeling in big ones in no time.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Free
Who knew plane scoping could be romantic? It is in The Bahamas, particularly at the beach made for love. Love Beach is about 20 minutes from downtown Nassau, and it is away from the more crowded beaches in the city center. You can spend the day here taking in the natural ambiance, everything from natural jacuzzis to hammocks and cabanas. With a beer or cocktail in hand, you’ll have up-close views of some magnificent aircraft.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Depends on whether you have your own equipment or need to rent some out
Overall, Nassau is great for scuba diving, whether you’re a pro or it’s your first time. There are lots of locations to choose from on the various islands, some even offering opportunities to swim with sharks in The Bahamas … if you’re brave (you may also need to be open water certified) that is! There are several companies offering open water scuba activities, while others offer SNUBA. You can also try wall diving, which can be done using underwater scooters.
Expert tip: If you aren’t already, you can get certified to scuba dive on vacation at Sandals, and dive for the rest of your vacation (up to 2 tanks per day) for free!
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: $129 USD per person
A Nassau buggy sightseeing tour is a great way to explore the city. The Island Routes version of this tour makes it possible to learn about the caves in The Bahamas, explore Clifton Heritage Park, and visit Johnstone Beach where you can take a refreshing dip, explore, and even race around in your buggy. This tour ends with a stop at Sapodilla Restaurant where you can indulge in some scrumptious Bahamian dishes.
Location: Paradise Island
Cost: Prices vary in the low and high seasons from $129 - $169 for adults, and $94 and $118 for children (in USD)
The Aquaventure Waterpark is a 141-acre waterpark that features a range of waterslides, a mile-long river ride inclusive of rolling rapids and wave surges, a kids’ water-play fort, and 11 swimming pools. This waterpark has something to do for guests of all ages and it is also near the beach. While in Nassau, this is a cool place to spend the day with friends or family.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Free to access
Pictured: This pristine stretch of Cable Beach is just outside of one of Nassau's most popular all-inclusive resorts, Sandals Royal Bahamian.
A Caribbean vacation is incomplete without visiting at least one beach. Cable Beach is one of the best you'll find in Nassau! This beach has everything -- gorgeous white sand, crystal clear water, tons of water sports, and lots of shops, bars and restaurants nearby. While at Cable Beach, you’ll definitely want to try some water sports. Jet skiing is a great idea on this amazing beach, and you're bound to have the time of your life.
Want to find some more amazing beaches in Nassau? Beach hop at the 12 best beaches in Nassau, Bahamas!
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Free
Jaws Beach is where the celebrities go, or at least it was when the movie by the same name was being filmed in The Bahamas. Still today, thousands of people flock to these shores to see the scene of one of the most terrifying movies ever made. Things are a lot more mellow on Jaws Beach in real life and the sunsets are amazing as well!
Good to know: Apart from Jaws, there are many other films that were shot in The Bahamas, including some of the James Bond films!
Location: Paradise Island
Cost: Free
You can find pretty much any waterside activity you can think of at Cabbage Beach, including waterskiing, parasailing, jet skiing, and opportunities for snorkeling. There are plenty of places near this beach to sit down for some ice-cold drinks too. As far as public beaches go in The Bahamas, you can’t go wrong with this location near the Nassau Harbour. There are lots of restaurants and shops near the beach as well.
Location: West of Nassau
Cost: Adults $20, children 4-12 years $12 (in USD)
There are a number of places in The Bahamas where you can go to see wildlife, but there are not many where you can see more than 150 different species in the same place. The Ardastra Gardens & Zoo is the only zoo in The Bahamas and it is set in an area with over four acres of lush vegetation. You can find everything from Caribbean flamingos and parrots to lemurs and pigs here. At this location, you’ll learn about wildlife conservation and get to watch the famous marching flamingoes in the Flamingo Arena.
Location: Downtown Nassau
Cost: $15-$40 USD per person (depending on what you order/drink/eat)
You’re guaranteed a good time at Junkanoo Beach, which is popular with both visitors and locals. There’s always entertainment to be experienced on the beachfront and delicious food on offer nearby at a relatively low cost. There are restrooms, changing facilities, and pretty much everything you’ll need for an amazing beach day. From this beach just a short walk from Arawak Cay, you will be able to see the cruise ships come and go!
Though Nassau is full of culture, delicious food, and fun nightlife, there are so many more places in the Bahamas that you can explore. Luckily, you can easily travel from Nassau to other top destinations on the islands in a short day trip.
Some of our top day trips that you can plan from Nassau include:
Location: East of Nassau
Cost: Around $219 USD per person
Whether you’ve been to The Bahamas or not, you’ve likely heard about the swimming pigs that have managed to charm many an audience, in and out of the region. You’ll need to take a boat from Nassau to the Exumas to meet them in person, which is quite the adventure in itself. Once you get there, you’ll find a family of pigs that swim out to meet you. Read more about the swimming pigs here!
Location: East of Nassau
Cost: Ranges from $75 USD (kids) to $119 USD (adults)
Experiencing the ‘Out Islands’ (islands other than New Providence) is a must while in The Bahamas. Nassau serves as the central point for the islands, which means you can take a boat or flight from there to get to most of the other islands in The Bahamas. Rose Island is a top choice for a day trip and can be accessed via speedboat. It is more or less a sandbar, but you’ll fall in love with its perfect tropical isolation. Plus, there is a thriving reef nearby that you can explore. Some tours here include lunch, a welcome drink, and snorkeling. There’s also a beach bar here that can supply all your needs throughout the day.
Location: East of Nassau
Cost: Ranges from $45 USD (kids) to $69 USD (adults)
Heading to Blue Lagoon is another interesting trip you can embark on while in Nassau. This is a private island known for its eco-friendly appeal and gorgeous white sand beaches.
Island Routes offers a swimming with dolphins tour that includes a roundtrip ferry ride to and from Blue Lagoon Island. There, you’ll be able to interact with dolphins, enjoy the beach, and dive into a tasty buffet lunch. This tour is about 4 hours and 45 minutes long. Don't forget to get a photo with the adorable dolphins before you leave!
When planning your ultimate Caribbean vacation, there are tons of excursions and exciting activities for you to choose from. No matter if you are looking for delicious food, culture, exciting water sports, or just a relaxing beach front getaway, Nassau has it all.
Pictured: At Sandals Royal Bahamian, guests are granted unlimited access to restaurants, (swim up) bars, pools, snorkeling, scuba diving and even a private offshore island. Eat and drink to your heart’s content, and enjoy the best of entertainment that only Sandals can offer.
If you’re looking to check off a few more things from your Bahamian bucket list, Sandals resorts have incredibly helpful staff that can provide you with local insight and assist with booking. They can also arrange transportation for you and answer any questions you may have. You’ll find that the Sandals Royal Bahamian and the Sandals Emerald Bay resorts are conveniently located with beautiful views of the ocean and plenty of fun activities.