what to do in Nassau, Bahamas
I've been to Nassau, Bahamas so many times and each time is like a new experience. There is so much to do there. It's one of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean by just about all cruise lines, so chances are that if you go on a cruise, you may be stopping here at some point.
Nassau is the capital of New Providence Island and is where 70% of the entire population of the Bahamas lives there. This city is vibrant and filled with warm, friendly people. Delicious food and maybe some of the most beautiful beaches await you here.
Here are some of the highlights...
Spend a day at Atlantis
Atlantis is located on Paradise Island which is a very short taxi ride, boat taxi, or bus ride away from the cruise port. Although most access to Atlantis is only through paid access, you are free to do a self-guided tour of the grounds to see the resort. There's a luxury shopping area and access to the casino, if that is your thing.
The most popular area of Atlantis is the Aquaventure Water Park. It is one of the Top 25 Water Park attractions in the world according to TripAdvisor. Day passes or excursions are available through cruise lines or directly through Atlantis. There are also day passes or excursions that give you access to the resort's beaches or it's aquarium.
Do a City Tour
There are many ways to do this. You can book a tour locally, book an excursion with your cruise line, or you can do it on your own, self-guided.
There are so many places that you can see that show the British culture and influence. Most tours include stops at Fort Fincastle, the Queen's Staircase (totally inspiring - built out of coral rock, these 66 stairs were constructed using hammers and chisels by slaves during the late 18th century), Fort Charlotte, and Fort Montagu. Other popular stops include the Parliament Building and the Government House. One of the best ways to see most of these stops is simply walking. But the more adventurous types can rent bikes, scooters, or jeeps, and tour almost all of the entire island.
Make it a Beach Day
This is not a difficult thing to do in Nassau! The difficulty comes from picking which gorgeous beach to go to!
Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is the closest to the cruise port and is completely free. You could take a taxi but it really is just a 15-20 minute walk. Because it is free, both the locals and the travelers mingle together. Also, because of the popularity of it, it can get crowded. So, get there early or walk down to the ends to get a good spot. There are vendors on the beach for jet skis, banana boats, kayaks, and more.
Cabbage Beach
Cabbage Beach is another free beach but takes a little more to get to it. It is the free beach that is directly behind Atlantis on Paradise Island. You can get there by taxi. Again, because it is free, it can get crowded. Get there early and bring cash. There are no public restrooms, so if you need to use the restroom, you may need to purchase something from a local restaurant or bar. Also, be sure to bring a towel, or be prepared to rent a chair or umbrella.
Cable Beach
Considered one of the best beaches in the Bahamas, Cable Beach is a stretch of about four miles of mostly private beaches. If you are okay spending a few bucks on your beach break, getting exclusive access to parts of the beach are well worth the costs. It is simply breathtaking.
Go to the Zoo
Ok, so this place is amazing! It is a short taxi ride or bus ride from the cruise port and is a must for families. It started out as a garden to increase the population of the native flamingos. Now, it has grown to a full zoo and observatory with over 200 animals! Ardastra is perfect for photo opportunities with rare or threatened species of animals.
Get some GOOD EATS
One of the best places to eat like a local is at the Fish Fry. it is a short taxi ride (about 10 minutes) from the cruise port and it is totally worth it. The food is amazing and there are so many seafood options!
