Discover what to do in Nassau, a city founded in 1670 by British noblemen who brought British settlers with them to New Providence, and has become the capital of the Bahamas and a top travel destination.
Nestled in the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal blue waters, the city is a paradise for anyone looking for a sunny tropical escape.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, exploring vibrant coral reefs, a history lesson, or enjoying the laid-back Caribbean vibes, there are plenty of activities in Nassau that will keep you busy and entertained.
On my 3-day trip to the Bahamas, I went exploring not only its capital, but also Paradise Island and Exuma, where I went swimming with the famous pigs on Pig Beach, and with sharks on Compass Cay.
From visiting historical fortresses to browsing bustling markets, snorkelling and exploring historic sites, here’s a guide to the 15 best things to do in Nassau.
Table of Contents
Planning a Trip to Nassau
Where is Nassau?
Nassau, originally called Charles Town, is the capital city of the Bahamas located on New Providence island.
The Best Time to Visit The Bahamas
The Bahamas can be visited all year round with temperatures ranging from 21C (70F) in the winter and 26-32C (80-90F) during the summer.
But there are two things to consider:
- The hurricane season lasts from June to November.
- The months with the most rainfall are May and June.
So, I would say that the best time to visit the Bahamas is from December to April. I went in July and the weather was good.
Where to Stay
I stayed at Coco Plum Resorts Bahamas and I don’t recommend it. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Nassau, or even on Paradise Island (the island just across New Providence), my suggestions are:
Nassau: 💰💰 Hillcrest 💰💰💰💰 Sandyport Beach Resort 💰💰💰💰💰 Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Paradise Island: 💰💰 Comfort Suites 💰💰💰💰Warwick Paradise Island 💰💰💰💰💰 The Royal at Atlantis and The Ocean Club
15 Best Things to Do in Nassau, Bahamas
1 – Cable Beach
Cable Beach is one of Nassau’s most popular destinations and home to several resorts and luxury hotels.
With miles of white sand beaches, it’s the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and doing a variety of watersports activities.
It’s also close to shopping malls, casinos, beachside bars and restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, making it an ideal destination for an action-packed night out or a weekend getaway.
2 – Straw Market & Downtown Nassau
Whether you’re visiting the Bahamas from a Caribbean Cruise or spending a few days in the city, you can’t miss the downtown as it’s one of the best things to do in Nassau near the Bahamas port.
The heart of the city boasts striking historic architecture from the colonial period, duty-free shops, fascinating museums, modern murals, and impressive monuments.
You can spend a half day exploring Downtown Nassau and taking in all its sights and sounds. Start off your visit at the Straw Market where you’ll find everything from handcrafted souvenirs made from straw to locally made jewellery and clothing.
Then head down Bay Street—the main thoroughfare—for more sightseeing and shopping opportunities plus restaurants serving delicious Bahamian cuisine such as conch fritters or cracked conch with coleslaw.
3 – Junkanoo Beach
If you’re looking for a nice beach in the Downtown area, Junkanoo, also known as Western Esplanade Beach, is the place to go!
This popular family-oriented beach located about 1 mi (20 min walk) away from the Cruise Ship Terminal is one of the most visited beaches in the Bahamas and attracts locals and tourists alike.
There are changing rooms, shower stalls, sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, Wi-fi, cafes, restaurants, etc. You can spend a half day basking in the sun, swimming in its warm waters, snorkelling and even experiencing horseback and pony rides.
4 – Heritage Museum of The Bahamas
For those interested in learning more about Bahamian culture and history, the Heritage Museum of The Bahamas is worth a visit!
It showcases artefacts from over 300 years of Bahamian history dating back to 1658 when English settlers first arrived on these shores! You will find colonial furniture pieces, pottery items and paintings depicting local scenes and landscapes.
The museum also hosts various workshops throughout the year where visitors can learn how to create their own traditional Bahamian crafts like basket weaving or wood carving.
5 – The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas
Housed in the historic Villa Doyle, a colonial-era home from 1860, the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is another museum in Downtown Nassau to put on your list.
It features a permanent collection on the ground floor, which includes paintings, drawings, photographs, and sculptural works dating from the turn of the 20th century to modern times. And hosts temporary exhibitions on the first floor.
The NAGB is open from Tuesday to Sunday and costs 10 Bahamian dollars. Free admissions for children under 12 years old.
6 – Prince George Wharf/Festival Place
This bustling and bright-coloured waterfront area is a must-see if you’re visiting Nassau!
Home to numerous shops selling souvenirs from The Bahamas as well as art galleries showcasing art from all over the Caribbean region. Here you’ll find everything from designer boutiques to local artisan stalls selling handmade items such as jewellery and souvenirs.
There are also plenty of cafes serving up traditional Bahamian food such as conch fritters or stewed chicken alongside live music performances from local bands playing everything from reggae to jazz – creating an exciting atmosphere that can’t be missed!
7 – Cabbage Beach
Located on Paradise Island near Atlantis Resort & Casino, Cabbage Beach is another great beach destination in Nassau.
This stunning stretch of sand offers crystal-clear turquoise warm waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and other activities like windsurfing or kite surfing.
It’s also close enough to downtown Nassau, and you can easily access it via taxi or bus for a full day out.
8 – Atlantis Hotel
While on Paradise Island you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the most well-known hotel in the Bahamas.
This ocean-themed resort built around Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape, offers family-friendly experiences and activities to please everyone. From over 20 swimming areas featuring distinctly unique pools, to animal encounters, fine dining, nightclubs, a world-class casino and much more.
Visiting Atlantis Hotel is one of the best things to do in Nassau for families and even if you aren’t a guest, you can enjoy some of its facilities and buy a day pass.
9 – The Swimming Pigs
While in Nassau, why not go swimming with pigs?
You can go swimming with these highly intelligent and social animals on five different islands in the Bahamas: Pearl Island, Rose Island, Grand Bahama, Harbour Island and Pig Island.
My suggestion is to go to the original Pig Beach, in Exuma, a stunning archipelago comprising 365 islands. I had a lot of fun swimming with pigs and sharks, feeding iguanas, snorkelling at Thunderball Grotto, etc.
There are several Swimming with Pigs Tours departing from Nassau. I recommend this one with flight included or this one by powerboat. Book your tour online in advance.
- Further read: Where to Swim with Pigs in the Bahamas
10 – Rum Distilleries
Visiting a rum distillery is one of the most unique things to do in Nassau, Bahamas. If you are into this classical Caribbean spirit and are a history buffer, you should not miss it.
My recommendation is to visit the famous John Watling’s Distillery, which is located just outside of Downtown Nassau and produces high-quality rum using traditional methods passed down through generations.
After touring their superb facilities, you can sample some of their products in their tasting room before heading out into town with your bottle of fine Bahamian rum!
11 – Fort Fincastle & Fort Montagu
These two fortresses were built in the 1700s as part of Britain’s attempt at defending its colonies from Spanish invasion.
They are now open for visitors who wish to explore the ruins, learn about their history, or simply admire the views from atop their walls.
While both forts can be visited within a short ride from Nassau city center, Fort Fincastle also offers spectacular views over the city skyline and harbour from its hilltop location.
12 – Queen’s Staircase
Next to Fort Fincastle is another unusual attraction in Nassau, Queen’s Staircase, carved by slaves into solid limestone rock during colonial times.
This impressive feat earned its name when Queen Victoria ascended these stairs during her 1837 visit to the islands. It remains an important symbol of freedom today and is a must-see when visiting Nassau Bahamas.
13 – Water sports
With miles of white sand beaches with crystal-clear warm turquoise water, there is no reason not to engage in some sort of water activities in Nassau!
You can go parasailing over Cabbage Beach, kayaking at Junkanoo Beach, experience Nassau’s Sea life on board a glass bottom boat (banana boat and snorkelling included), ride a jet ski, enjoy a sunset dinner cruise, etc.
14 – Junkanoo Festival
If you’re visiting the Bahamas during the holiday season, you can’t miss Junkanoo, a joyous Bahamian celebration that is replicated nowhere in the world!
Junkanoo, one of the Caribbean’s most spirited carnivals, has been celebrated for over 200 years. The wonderful parade is followed by colourful costumes, exuberant dance routines, a steady beat of whistles, cowbells, horns, and goatskin drums and overly happy people.
You can watch this celebration of Bahamian culture and history on Boxing Day, as well as on New Year’s Day, Independence Day (10th of July), and every Saturday in July. The largest Junkanoo celebration is on Bay Street, in downtown Nassau, but Bahamians across the 16 islands celebrate this joyful tradition.
15 – Blue Lagoon Island
If you’re looking for a more adventurous day trip from Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island is the perfect spot!
This private island offers secluded powdery white with crystal clear water and coral reefs, surrounded by lush vegetation where you can swim with dolphins or sea lions or take part in other interactive animal encounters.
There are also plenty of sun loungers available for those who want to relax with a cold beer or cocktail in hand and soak up some rays.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you will find it all in Nassau!
No matter what kind of experience you’re after during your stay here – relaxing on Cabbage Beach, visiting the Heritage Museum of The Bahamas or exploring Downtown Nassau, this trip will leave lasting memories that will bring you back.
So, pack your bags and come explore all that this beautiful Caribbean paradise has to offer.
Safe travel and have fun in Nassau.
Don’t forget to save these pins for later 😉
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