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Plan Your Trip to Nassau: Best of Nassau Tourism

Nassau, New Providence Island

At 21 miles long and seven miles wide, Nassau is a small island that packs a punch thanks to clear skies, miles of brilliant beaches, and stretches of vivid coral reefs perfect for snorkelling. Cruises pulling into port are greeted by the pastel-coloured buildings that line the coast—an iconic view for all, but particularly the groups of travellers who visit by ship every day. Just 184 miles from Miami, Nassau still feels worlds away; and while it’s home to a number of luxe resorts and hotels, there's tons of local flavour, too. Grab some fried fish from one of the many food shacks in Arawak Cay, check out The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, and don’t miss the photo ops at Government House. If you're lucky enough to visit during the Junkanoo Festival, get ready for parades, costumes, dancing, and absolute Bahamian joy. More recs below.
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Essential Nassau

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How to do Nassau in 3 days

Secret beaches, an underwater sculpture garden, an all-inclusive resort, and more
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A family-friendly guide to Nassau

The tricky thing about family holidays is that it's hard to find a destination with something for everyone. We travelled to the Bahamas when my three children were toddlers, tweens, and teens, and it delivers for every age group. We've arrived by plane (there are so many direct flights into Nassau that you can avoid massive layover meltdowns) and by ship, and every time, the islands gave each of us the holiday we desperately needed.
Cheryl M, Boston, MA
  • The Coral At Atlantis
    4,756
    Our favourite place to stay in the Bahamas for a week is the one you've probably heard of over and over again. Atlantis has become a household name for a reason. It’s one of those properties you can spend ten days at and still not have enough time to do everything. The pools and beaches are great for all ages. No one minds your noisy, messy baby. Slightly older children will be exhausted by the water park and the incredible marine habitats, and parents will appreciate the numerous dining options and bars scattered throughout the property.
  • Marina Village
    306
    No matter how old my three children are, they always enjoy meandering around the Marina Village on Paradise Island, next to Atlantis. Live music often accompanies your stroll through craft shops and a top-notch ice cream parlour. On select nights, we watched the Junkanoo parade featuring performances by local Bahamians. If you're visiting from the cruise port or another resort, you can take a water taxi for about $4 per person.
  • Carmine's
    1,819
    Anytime we are in the Bahamas, we dine at the Italian family-style restaurant Carmine's, located in the Marina Village. The portions are large and meant to be shared. The best thing about Carmine's, besides the ravioli, is that the dishes are reasonably priced, which is only sometimes the case in the Bahamas. Since this restaurant is popular, be sure to book a booking to avoid waiting.
  • Baha Bay Water Park
    743
    We arrived on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship on our most recent trip to the islands. Since we had already been to Atlantis, we decided to try the Baha Bay Water Park in the Baha Mar resort. You can purchase day passes directly through the resort or the cruise ship. The best part of this water park is that there are cabanas that you can rent with access to a pool and Cable Beach. My husband and I lounged by the pool while our three teens relished the rides.
  • Cable Beach
    2,323
    When your family wants to hit the beach, Cable Beach is one of the most accessible options. The crystal-clear blue-green ocean views and the soft sand provide that Caribbean vibe you think of when daydreaming of the Bahamas. We took public transportation there from the cruise port, and the best part is that access to the beach is free. If you hop on the #10 bus, it's only $1.25 per person each way and about a 20-minute ride.
  • Junkanoo Beach
    2,123
    This beach is much smaller and more crowded compared to Cable Beach. But it's also only about a fifteen-minute walk from the cruise port. Junkanoo is a free public beach with an option to rent chairs or umbrellas. IIf you are short on time, this is a great option; otherwise, Cable Beach is worth the trip.
  • Straw Market
    2,264
    Located within walking distance of the cruise port is the infamous Straw Market. My daughters are artsy and crafty, so they appreciate the handmade Bahamian souvenirs you can find here. It's similar to a flea market with a variety of vendors, most of them local. Be sure to bring your negotiation skills to get the best price for your souvenir and have some cash (American dollars) on hand.
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Nassau travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Day Pass Options at Atlantis

Some travelers mentioned that day passes at Atlantis include access to the beach, pools, water park, and aquariums. The price for a day pass at Atlantis was historically about $150 per person per day. An alternative mentioned is booking a room at Comfort Suites Paradise Island, which offers passes for two days of full Atlantis resort access as part of the room rate.

Alternative Resort Day Passes

According to forum posts, other resorts like Margaritaville and Breezes on Cable Beach also offer day passes. Margaritaville day pass costs around $100 plus taxes, but the specifics of what's included weren't detailed. Breezes provides a more all-inclusive experience, although exact prices and details need to be checked on their official website.

Considerations for Day Pass Availability

Travelers have called out that the availability of day passes can be limited due to factors like hotel guest capacity and special events. It's recommended to check closer to your travel date or consider booking a room at the hotel for broader access and potential savings compared to individual day passes.

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Beach and Water Sports

According to forum posts, Nassau offers a range of beach and water activities. Travelers have mentioned enjoying calm beach waters suitable for young children at Cable Beach. Additionally, some users recommend water sports for solo travelers, highlighting the general popularity of water-based activities in the area.

Kayaking and Excursions

Some travelers said that kayak tours are available, with inquiries about combining such tours with nature walks. Furthermore, boat excursions with ramp access for elderly passengers were discussed, indicating tailored options for those with mobility concerns.

Scuba Diving and Swimming with Pigs

Travelers have called out specific activities like scuba diving, although one post noted a decline in the quality of diving over the years. Moreover, swimming with pigs is a highlighted activity, with recommendations for specific tour operators that offer this unique experience.

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Amenities Overview

According to forum posts, Baha Mar resort offers a variety of amenities including multiple pools with some reserved for adults, a water park, a casino, and common facilities such as sunblock and water stations near the pools and the beach. The property also features several restaurants and shops, adding convenience and variety for guests.

Accommodation Specifics

For many users, the three hotel brands within Baha Mar—Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood—provide distinct experiences. SLS offers a private adults-only pool, whereas Rosewood is known for a more upscale experience. Grand Hyatt is highlighted as more family and business-oriented, often catering to convention attendees.

Leisure Activities

Some travelers said that Baha Mar is positioned on a beach with artificial reefs for snorkeling, enhancing the aquatic experience right at the resort. Additionally, Baha Mar is described as having vibrant nightlife with options for live music and other entertainment, ensuring a lively atmosphere for guests.

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Jitney Routes and Operations

According to forum posts, the #10 jitney is popular among tourists, running east and west along Bay Street from Compass Point in the west to downtown Nassau in the east. It operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and there is no set schedule, but they run every few minutes.

Fare and Payment Method

Travelers have called out that the fare is $1.25 per person, payable in cash with exact change. Payment is made as passengers disembark, not upon boarding.

Additional Information

Some travelers noted that jitneys are private and may stop anywhere along the route to pick up or drop off passengers. While there’s no air conditioning in some jitneys, they are a frequent and convenient option for getting around during daytime hours.

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Weather Patterns

According to forum posts, Nassau's weather is very localized, meaning it can be raining in one area and sunny just a mile away. Showers are generally short-lived, moving on quickly. Rain is often forecasted but tends to occur in brief, localized bursts rather than prolonged downpours.

Seasonal Weather

Some travelers noted that Nassau experiences a range of weather conditions depending on the season. The winter months may bring cooler temperatures and occasional storms, whereas the summer months are hot and humid, often accompanied by afternoon thundershowers. September and October are noted for being the peak hurricane season.

Daytime and Nighttime Conditions

Travelers have mentioned that the weather during the day can vary, with overcast mornings often clearing up to beautiful, sunny afternoons. Nighttime temperatures can be cooler, and some visitors from cooler climates have found evenings in Nassau chilly enough to warrant light sweaters.

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Restaurant Recommendations

According to forum posts, several travelers recommend restaurants across New Providence Island and Paradise Island. Some highlighted options include Social House for sushi and Asian cuisine, Saltyz for casual seafood dining, and Katsya at the Baha Mar Resort for Japanese dishes. Additionally, Chleo at the Baha Mar Resort offers Mediterranean cuisine, and the Pirate Republic Brewery downtown is noted for its local beer.

Local Cuisine

For those interested in local Bahamian food, Goldie’s Conch House at the Fish Fry is frequently mentioned for its fresh conch salad and cracked conch. The Cricket Club is another local favorite, particularly known for its Steam Conch dish. Both venues are praised for their authentic Bahamian culinary experiences.

Additional Dining Options

Travelers have called out Ichiban for excellent sushi and the Daiquiri Shack for the best fresh fruit daiquiris. These spots are recommended for their quality and proximity to popular areas like Cable Beach and downtown Nassau.

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Family and Kid-Friendliness

Some travelers have expressed that Atlantis is more kid-friendly due to its extensive marine life exhibits, which can be a significant draw for families with young children who enjoy sea life. On the other hand, Baha Mar is often seen as more adult-oriented, with amenities that may appeal more to couples or families with older children.

Cost and Amenities

According to forum posts, Baha Mar generally appears to be less expensive than Atlantis, offering newer facilities and a less crowded environment. However, Atlantis provides unique attractions like a large water park and multiple beaches, which can justify its higher cost for some visitors.

Beach and Location

Travelers have called out that Baha Mar is located on Cable Beach, which is preferred for its nicer conditions and calmer waters compared to the beach at Atlantis. Additionally, Baha Mar's proximity to the airport and downtown Nassau, accessible via the #10 jitney route, makes it a convenient option for those looking to explore the area.

Overall Experience

For many users, the choice between Baha Mar and Atlantis comes down to personal preferences related to the atmosphere, activities, and the specific experiences they want from their Nassau stay. Those seeking a modern, sophisticated environment with fewer children might prefer Baha Mar, while families looking for dynamic water activities and marine explorations might find Atlantis more appealing.

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General Overview

According to forum posts, Atlantis in Nassau offers a variety of features including a large water park, multiple marine exhibits, and an extensive aquarium. Travelers have highlighted the property's multiple beaches and pools, creating a diverse and entertaining environment.

Accommodations and Dining

Some travelers mentioned that Atlantis provides a range of accommodations from standard rooms to upscale villas. The resort is known for its numerous dining options, ranging from quick bites to luxurious restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Entertainment and Activities

Forum posts indicate that Atlantis is equipped with a casino and provides various entertainment options such as a movie theater, comedy shows, and live performances. Additionally, there are activities like tennis and shopping available, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.

Additional Amenities

Travelers have called out specific amenities such as the Dolphin Cay, known for its dolphin interactions, and Marina Village for evening strolls and shopping. Atlantis also offers services like a kids' club and various lounges for adults.

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