Best Things to Do In Nassau
Embark on a journey to discover Nassau's treasured landmarks and hidden gems tailored for every traveler.
Nassau: Governor's Harbour
What is it?
A picturesque harbor area known for its pink colonial buildings and stunning waterfront.
Why you should go?
Governor's Harbour blends Nassau's colonial elegance with its vibrant marine life. The pastel pink of the Governor's House stands out against the azure waters, offering a quintessential photo opportunity. Embark on a leisurely walk along the harbor, explore the local shops, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the flamingos that occasionally grace the grounds. This area exemplifies the serene beauty and rich history that characterize Nassau.
Nassau: Versailles Gardens and French Cloister
What is it?
A tranquil garden and 12th-century cloister imported from France, situated on Paradise Island.
Why you should go?
Versailles Gardens and French Cloister offer a peaceful retreat from the excitement of Nassau. Nestled amidst the luxury of Paradise Island, the gardens feature manicured lawns, beautiful statues, and picturesque views. Couples often wander the paths, discovering the cloister's old-world charm, making it an ideal setting for romance or a quiet moment of reflection surrounded by the island's natural splendor.
Nassau: Blue Lagoon Island
What is it?
A private island offering dolphin encounters, pristine beaches, and lush natural landscapes.
Why you should go?
Revel in the tropical oasis of Blue Lagoon Island, where you can swim with dolphins and sea lions or lounge on tranquil beaches. Reachable by a scenic boat ride, this island paradise offers unrivaled marine animal experiences and recreation. Providing both adventure and relaxation, Blue Lagoon Island is a delightful escape that caters to a variety of preferences, all within the breathtaking ambience of the Bahamas.
Nassau: Balcony House Museum
What is it?
The oldest wooden residential structure in Nassau, now a museum depicting colonial life.
Why you should go?
Balcony House Museum stands as a testament to architectural resilience and Bahamian heritage. The museum invites visitors to step back in time, offering a glimpse into the daily life of past residents with authentically restored rooms and antiques. This historical gem provides an intimate portrayal of Nassau's colonial era, adding a tangible dimension to the city's rich historical tapestry.
Nassau: Graycliff Chocolatier
What is it?
An artisanal chocolate factory where visitors can tour, taste, and learn about chocolate making.
Why you should go?
Indulge your sweet tooth at Graycliff Chocolatier, a must-visit for chocolate lovers. In this scented haven, discover the chocolate-making process from bean to bar and witness artisan chocolatiers crafting exquisite confections. After touring, taste the luxurious chocolates and even try your hand at chocolate-making in a workshop. It's a flavorful experience that deliciously blends Nassau's flair with the world of fine chocolate.
Nassau: Fort Fincastle
What is it?
A historical fort perched atop Bennett's Hill offering panoramic views of the island.
Why you should go?
Fort Fincastle, built in 1793, stands as a sentinel over Nassau. This limestone fortification shaped like a ship's bow provides travelers with not only a history lesson but also some of the best vistas in Nassau, looking over the harbor and city. Its cannons and historic walls evoke the colonial times of strife and strategy, while local vendors nearby offer crafts and souvenirs, making it an engaging stop on any Nassau visit.
Nassau: Junkanoo World Museum & Arts Centre
What is it?
An interactive museum dedicated to the Junkanoo festival, full of vibrant costumes and artifacts.
Why you should go?
Immerse yourself in the pulsating heart of Bahamian culture at Junkanoo World. Here, the spirit of the traditional Junkanoo parade is alive year-round with workshops, music, and stunning displays of handcrafted costumes. Visitors can even participate in creating their own Junkanoo piece. It's an immersive experience that offers a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nassau's beloved cultural festival.
Nassau: Clifton Heritage National Park
What is it?
A scenic national park rich with cultural history, underwater sculptures, and nature trails.
Why you should go?
Clifton Heritage National Park offers a unique blend of nature and history. It’s home to sacred Lucayan Indian sites, historic plantation ruins, and the breathtaking underwater sculpture garden that snorkelers and divers can explore. Above water, the picturesque trails and beaches invite visitors to experience the serene natural landscapes. This tranquil getaway is a must-do for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Nassau: Cable Beach
What is it?
A renowned stretch of powdery white sand and clear azure waters, perfect for leisure and water sports.
Why you should go?
Cable Beach is synonymous with Nassau's luxurious side, offering five miles of pristine coastline. It's the ideal locale for couples and families to unwind or take part in numerous water activities such as jet-skiing and parasailing. The beachfront is dotted with resorts, bars, and restaurants, ensuring a day at Cable Beach is filled with relaxation, entertainment, and culinary delights.
Nassau: The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas
What is it?
A museum located in the historic Mountbatten House that displays artifacts from various eras of Bahamian history.
Why you should go?
Located in the heart of Nassau, The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas is housed in the beautifully preserved Mountbatten House and is part of the Graycliff complex. This museum takes visitors on a journey through time with its extensive collection that includes pre-Colombian relics, pirate treasures, and items from the colonial and modern periods. It's an intellectual adventure for visitors keen to delve into the rich tapestry of the island's past.
TOP-5 tours in Nassau for first time visitors
- Explore the "Historic Nassau" tour to learn about the city's colorful past, visiting iconic sites such as the Government House and the Queen's Staircase while uncovering stories that shaped the heart of the Bahamas.
- The "Cultural Tastes" audio tour will guide you through Nassau's culinary landscape, highlighting eateries where you can sample authentic Bahamian flavors and learn about the local cuisine's rich heritage.
- Take the "Nassau Art Trail" tour showcasing vibrant street art and galleries, a perfect blend of education and visual splendor catering to art aficionados and casual observers alike.
- Discover Nassau's lush flora and exotic fauna with the "Nature and Wildlife" audio tour, which includes visits to the Ardastra Gardens and prime bird-watching spots.
- The "Beach Lovers" tour is an audio guide to the island's best beaches, detailing the unique characteristics of each and offering tips to find your ideal spot for sun, sand, and sea.
Fun things to do in Nassau with kids
Nassau is an enchanting destination for family vacations, brimming with activities that delight children of all ages. First on the list is the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park, where thrill rides, splash areas, and marine encounters offer an entire day of excitement and fun. Kids can also become young explorers at the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre, where they’ll marvel at the famous marching flamingos and can feed playful lorikeets.
Another great spot is the Pirates of Nassau Museum. This interactive museum provides a fun-filled adventure into the world of pirates, complete with a replica pirate ship and a treasure hunt that will keep the youngsters entertained while they learn about the island's swashbuckling history. These attractions are just a glimpse of the fun things to do in Nassau with kids, promising laughter-filled memories that will last a lifetime.
Things to do in Nassau with family
A family escape to Nassau offers a spectrum of engaging and educational attractions bound to enchant both the young and the young at heart. Embrace the wonders of marine life at Dolphin Cay, where interactive experiences with dolphins and sea lions await in a state-of-the-art habitat. For families looking to combine learning with leisure, the Nassau activities extend to The Pirates of Nassau Museum, an immersive space that brings the island’s pirate history to life with interactive exhibits and a full-scale pirate ship.
An ideal complement to the thrills of pirate tales is a visit to Cabbage Beach, renowned for its powdary sands and crystalline waters. This tranquil retreat provides ample opportunities for families to bask in the sun, build sandcastles, or splash in the gentle waves. Engaging, entertaining, and relaxing—these are the experiences that define Nassau for families seeking a destination with diverse appeals.
Free things to do in Nassau
Nassau is not only a destination of sun, sea, and sand but also a place where visitors can enjoy a wealth of experiences without spending a cent. The Queen's Staircase, also known as the 66 steps, is a marvel of engineering and history. Carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century, it is a poignant landmark nestled within a lush tropical enclave.
Just a stroll away is the changing of the guard ceremony at Government House, performed with pomp and pageantry. This tradition offers a glimpse into the colonial heritage and ceremonial customs of The Bahamas. Nassau also boasts an array of stunning public beaches such as Junkanoo Beach, where the island's natural beauty can be enjoyed with a backdrop of local music and the rhythm of Bahamian culture. These free attractions invite travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Nassau's history and vibrant community life.
Cheap things to do in Nassau
Exploring the beauty and culture of Nassau doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas welcomes art lovers with a minimal admission fee and offers insight into the vibrant artistic expression of the islands. Here, visitors can witness a myriad of Bahamian art pieces from historic to contemporary times.
For a minimal cost, the Heritage Museum of The Bahamas located in the historic Mountbatten House, invites history buffs to journey through time amid artifacts from different ages, including Lucayan, Colonial, and Pirate eras. Additionally, the bustling Nassau Straw Market presents a feast for the senses and an opportunity to haggle over hand-made Bahamian crafts, perfect for souvenirs that won’t break the bank.
These cost-effective Nassau activities provide enriching cultural experiences and the chance to take home a piece of The Bahamas without splurging on vacation expenses.
Things to do in Nassau for couples
Nassau is the picture-perfect escape for couples seeking romance and shared adventure. Taking a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island provides a serene atmosphere to enjoy each other's company amidst stunning European-inspired statues and architecture.
For a romantic excursion, couples can embark on a sunset cruise, gliding along Nassau's coastline as the sky transitions into a canvas of fiery hues—a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. And no couple's retreat to Nassau would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine. A candlelit dinner at a beachside restaurant offers the chance to savor fresh, gourmet Bahamian dishes to the sound of gentle waves.
These delightful Nassau activities epitomize the charm and allure that make the island an idyllic destination for lovebirds from around the globe.
Things to do in Nassau at night
As darkness falls, Nassau's nocturnal allure comes alive with a variety of activities for night owlen. One of the city's highlights is the vibrant nightlife of the Atlantis Casino. Here, couples and groups alike can indulge in games of chance, enjoy live entertainment, and revel in the electric atmosphere.
For a taste of local flavor, the cultural phenomenon of the Junkanoo Beach Club comes to life at night, featuring authentic Bahamian food, music, and dancing under the stars—a true feast for the senses. Lastly, no evening is complete without a leisurely walk through downtown Nassau. The historic streets light up after sundown, offering a picturesque setting to explore local shops and stalls, indulge in sweet Bahamian desserts, or simply enjoy the balmy tropical night air.
These after-dark attractions offer unique perspectives of Nassau, ensuring that visitors experience the full breadth of entertainment and culture this Caribbean gem has to offer.