Planning a trip to The Bahamas? Your itinerary should absolutely include a stop in Nassau. The Bahamas’ most populous city is the cultural, culinary and commercial heart of the island nation. And here you’ll find fun and excitement for everyone.
What are some must-do activities in Nassau? From rum tastings, to lazy beach days, Nassau offers the best of the best in Bahamas experience.
So whether you’re stopping over during a Bahamas yacht charter, or you’re staying at one of Nassau’s incredible resorts, these are 10 activities you must do before you leave.
- Sample the Seafood at Arawak Cay
A trip to the Bahamas isn’t complete without trying local seafood. And the best place to go is Arawak Cay. Located just across the cruise terminal from Nassau, Arawak Cay hosts nightly fish fries – you have to try conch fritters! – and live music always seems to be on tap.
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Soak Up the Sun at Cable Beach
Nassau and nearby Paradise Island are home to some of the most specular beaches in the Caribbean. Which one is a must-see? Head to Cable Beach. Located a few miles west of Nassau’s downtown, Cable Beach is renowned for its soft white sand, upscale resorts, and beautiful sunset views. Plus, it’s quiet. The beach provides a respite from the crowds in Nassau.
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Visit the Rose Islands
The Bahamas is home to more than 2000 islands and cays. But a few of the most beautiful are the Rose Islands. And they’re located just a short boat ride from Nassau. That’s why the Rose Islands are a favorite destination on Nassau yacht charters.
The Rose Islands offer the perfect counterpoint to the bustle of Nassau. These uninhabited islands provide a quiet haven, including dozens of miles of untapped beaches, tiny beach bars, and uncrowded coral reefs to explore.
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Take the Family to Aquaventure Water Park
Any trip to Nassau wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Atlantis, the sprawling resort, casino and entertainment complex on Paradise Island. And Aquaventure is one of Atlantis’s best attractions. The super-cool park features a Lost World theme, and numerous waterslides and rides. It’s perfect for kids! Plus, the swim-up bars and aquariums make it fun for the whole family.
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Swim with Dolphins at Blue Lagoon Island
Located just three miles off the coast of Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island is a natural haven and the perfect place for an afternoon in the sun. The island provides access to private beaches, watersports, snorkeling and hiking. Yet, the real draw is Dolphin Encounters. The island is the home to the animals of Dolphin Encounters, and during a visit, you can elect to swim with dolphins or meet with the sealions.
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Experience History at Clifton Heritage National Park
Interested in Nassau’s history? Plan a visit to Clifton Heritage National Park. Located just outside of Nassau, the park offers a chance to experience the island’s cultural and natural history. Here, you can hike, snorkel and enjoy the secluded beaches. Plus, the on-site ruins and cultural exhibits provide a chance to learn about the Lucayans, the Loyalists and Africans settlers of New Providence.
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Try the Rum at John Watlings Distillery
A trip to the Bahamas wouldn’t be complete without sampling some local rum. And if there’s one place to do it, it’s the John Watlings Distillery. Located near downtown Nassau, the distillery is housed on the beautiful Buena Vista Estate, which was built in the 1700s. The distillery produces small-batch rums and vodkas, and it’s a great place to visit for a tasting, tour or to pick up a case of Bahamian rum.
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Climb the Queen’s Staircase
During your stay, you might plan a trip to the old military outpost Fort Fincastle. And if you go, be sure you stop at the Queen’s Staircase. This 600-foot staircase was hand-carved into the limestone in the late 1700s. It’s the perfect place for a photo op – the lush forest makes a beautiful backdrop – plus, it’s right on the way to Fort Fincastle, another Nassau must-see.
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Shop for Souvenirs at Straw Market
Looking for locally produced arts and crafts? Head to the Straw Market in Nassau. It’s one of the best souvenir markets in all of the Bahamas. Here, local artisans sell woven straw goods, including baskets, hats, mats and more crafted from straw. Plus, there’s also lots of great T-shirts, jewelry, and other island souvenirs.
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Browse Bahamian Art at the National Art Gallery
Want to inject a little culture into your vacation? The National Art Gallery is the perfect destination. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, the gallery is the largest collection of Bahamian-produced art anywhere in the world, and features artwork in nearly every medium.
Nassau is one of the Bahamas best destinations, as it offers access to every type of activity. Whether you want a historical tour, a day at the beach, or a nature hike, you’ll find at that and more in Nassau.
