A Complete Travel Guide To Nassau, Bahamas (Updated 2026)

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas and a well known destination among travelers, and for good reason. Perfect if you love an adventure, or just want to sit in the sand and drink a pina colada, it is the quessentail vacation spot. In this guide to Nassau we will go over all of the best things to do, places to stay, tours to take, where to dine, travel hacks, and hidden gems in Nassau. Read on to discover your travel guide to Nassau, Bahamas.

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About Nassau

Safety - Overall Nassau and New Providence Island is safe to visit. However, most tourists stay in resorts and don't leave unless they are going to the airport. Downtown Nassau and the surrounding area can be a little dodgy, especially at night. I walked from Paradise Island To Nassau and felt very unsafe. If you are visiting Downtown Nassau go during the day and take a taxi to the city center. In terms of safety; beware of pickpockets and avoid walking around at night in Nassau. Paradise Island is pretty much all resorts so it is extremely safe.

Currency - The Bahamas has its own currency, The Bahamian Dollar. The exchange rate is one to one with the US Dollar. They take both USD and The Bahamian Dollar. Card are widely accepted in Nassau and all over New Province Island. You can pay with card, USD, or Bahamian dollar.

Plugs - You will find the same types of outlets in The Bahamas as you do in the United States (plugs type a & b).

History - Nassau, once known as the Republic of Pirates, is full of so much history. Nassau was established by English noblemen in 1670 but was overtaken by pirates in 1703. Pirates ruled Nassau for about 12 years before it was taken back in 1718 by the English. Read more about Nassaus history here.

Language - The language in Nassau is English with a cool Caribbean accent.

Best Hotels In Nassau

Luxury Nassau Hotels

Atlantis - Atlantis is easily one of the most popular and best resorts in Nassau. Atlantis has five hotels (The Reef Atlantis, Harborside Atlantis, The Cove Atlantis, The Royal Atlantis, and The Coral Atlantis). Each hotel is part of the same resort, but differs in price. Typically the least expensive hotel at Atlantis is The Coral and the most expensive hotels are usually The Reef and The Cove. Atlantis is the type of resort that you don't need to leave - home to a waterpark, shopping, restaurants, and a private beach.

The Ocean Club (photo above) - The Ocean Club is a Four Seasons resort located right next to Atlantis on Paradise Island. Popular for honeymooners and adults, The Ocean Club is perfect for a luxurious getaway in the tropics. At The Four Seasons Ocean Club you can enjoy two swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, private beach access, two incredible restaurants, ocean views, breakfast served daily, room service, and more.

Baha Mar - The Baha Mar is a luxury resort located right in Nassau. Complete with large comfortable rooms, six outdoor pools, twenty - three restaurants, beach access and more, you will find everything you need at Baha Mar! Baha Mar is a huge resort so keep that in mind when you are booking.

Middle Range Nassau Hotels

Ocean West Boutique Hotel - The Ocean West Boutique Hotel is a hidden gem in Nassau. If you are looking for a peaceful hotel without the hussel and bussel of the big resorts Ocean West is a great place to stay. With beach access, and outdoor pool, and more you will love your stay at Ocean West!

Graycliff Hotel - The Graycliff Hotel is located in downtown Nassau and will transport you into a different time. Once a mansion, The Graycliff Hotel has been made into a luxurious hotel with two swimming pools, a restaurant, and more!

Budget Nassau Hotels

Orange Hill Beach Inn - The Orange Hill Beach Inn is a great budget option in Nassau. Located on the outskirts of the city you will have an outdoor pool, beach access, and more at the quite Inn.

Sandyport Beach Resort - The Sandyport Beach Resort has everything you need for an island escape. Complete with three outdoor pools, stylish accommodation, two restaurants, beach access, a bar, and more, checkout The Sandyport Beach Resort!

What To Do In Nassau

Explore The Straw Market

Located in the heart of Nassau, The Nassau Straw Market is an open air market that sells all sorts of souvenirs. While the Straw Market is very touristy it is still worth checking out. Most of the items are made my hand, I loved seeing the wood carvings and chatting with the locals in the market.

The Straw Market is open daily from 7am to 5pm.

The Queen's Staircase

The Queen's Staircase, also known as the 66 steps, is a historical landmark in Nassau. Perfect for photos the Queens Staircase is a must visit in Nassau. The stair were carved from limestone in 1793 by an estimated six hundred slaves.

Not only is the Queen's staircase significant historically, it is enchanting. The lush greenery surrounding the steps will make you feel like you are in an Indiana Jones movie.

Go To The Beach

The main reason anyone goes to the Bahamas is to go to the incredible white sand beaches.

My favorite beach is Cabbage Beach. Located on Paradise Island, next to Atlantis, Cabbage Beach is a hidden gem. Cabbage Beach is so peaceful because of the lack of other beach goers and the tranquility of the water. There is a small beach shack just outside of the entrance were you can buy provisions for your beach day.

Junkanoo Beach is the most touristy beach in Nassau. Located right in Nassau, Junkanoo is popular with cruise guests. Although Junkanoo is stunning, I would opt for another beach as the crowds can be heavy.

Located just outside of Nassau is Goodman's Bay Park. Goodman's Bay Park is perfect for kids as the beach is in a bay so the water is calm.

Swim with Pigs

Swimming with pigs is probably the most iconic thing to do in the Bahamas. It is a must, I had an amazing time with the pigs on Exuma Island. The only way to see the pigs is by tour, but it is easy to get scammed! After researching a ton I found this small group tour to see the pigs and it was perfect. This tour is affordable and is small. We also got to snorkel!

Book your Pig Beach excursion here.

Fish Fry

Located on Awarka Cay the Nassau Fish Fry is the perfect place to try some traditional Bahamian food for an inexpensive price. The local market is open everyday except for mondays. You can see the fish being brought directly from the boats to the booths were they are cooked. Even if you are not a fan of seafood, the fish fry is definitely worth checking out!

The Fish Fry is about a 30 minute walk and 10 minute drive from downtown Nassau.

Visit Atlantis

Weather you are staying at Atlantis or just visiting, if you are on the island you must stop by this famous hotel. Atlantis is the perfect place to visit whether you are with kids or solo, there is so much to do. While at Atlantis don't miss the waterpark, outdoor aquarium, private beach, Marina Village at Atlantis, and more.

For the waterpark you will need to purchase a day pass. If you still want to visit Atlantis but you are on a budget you can go to Marina Village and walk around the marina to see the massive yachts.

Visit Balmoral Island 

Located is quick boat ride from Nassau, Balmoral Island is a hidden gem in the Bahamas. Enjoy the secluded island for a day by taking this tour. Balmoral Island is known for its crystal clear water, privacy, lovely pool and restaurant that only a few guests enjoy daily. It is kind of like your own private island!

Where To Dine Nassau

The food scene in Nassau is, honestly, not great. Everything costs a fortune and the food is mediocre, at least that was my experience. In terms of coffee and breakfast your best bet is eating at a resort or just getting starbucks. You can find good food for dinner it just may cost you. If you are looking for a fancy dinner go over to Atlantis and eat at one of their restaurants, I loved Nobu. I ate at Violas a fews of the nights because it was decent food for a good price.

Read Next - Bahamas on a Budget

Getting Around Nassau

If you plan on staying at an all exclusive resort in Nassau or Paradise Island the best thing to do is getting a taxi at the Nassau Airport and going directly to your Nassau hotel. If you are planning on explore more of the Island then renting a car is your best option. You can easily rent a car at the Nassau Airport. There is no Uber or Lyft in The Bahamas.

When To Visit Nassau

Overall the best time to visit Nassau is the winter and spring (December - April). The only problem with the winter and spring is that it is expensive as it is tourist season. I visited in late April, the weather was great and the prices dropped from the high season.

Avoid Nassau during the summer and fall months (May - November), as it is hurricane season.

Hidden Gems In Nassau

The Retreat Garden - The Retreat Garden is a stunning 11 acre botanical garden located in the center of Nassau. It is not well known and super peaceful. The Retreat Garden is full of palms, orchids, and unique + native plants.

Jaws Beach - Jaws Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in the Nassau area. Located on the western part of the Island - Jaws Beach is perfect for travelers looking for off the beaten path beaches in the Bahamas.

Nassau FAQs

Is Nassau part of the United States?

No. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, an island nation in the Caribbean.

Is The Bahamas in The Caribbean?

The Bahamas is considered a country in the Caribbean but it is technically located in the Atlantic Ocean, not in the Caribbean Sea.

Is Atlantis in Nassau?

Atlantis is located on Paradise Island. Paradise Island is connected to Nassau by a bridge. While technically not in Nassau, Atlantis is easy to get to from Nassau. If you are going to Atlantis fly into the Nassau Airport.

Is Paradise Island in Nassau?

No. The Paradise Island East Bridge connects the two islands so if you are staying on Paradise Island fly into the Nassau Airport.

Is Freeport in Nassau?

No. Freeport is north of Nassau and just off of Palm Beach Florida.

Does Nassau take American money?

Yes. The Bahamian dollar and US dollar are worth the same and vendors take both currencies.

Does Southwest fly to Nassau?

Yes. You can find direct flight to Nassau on Southwest Airlines for cities all over the United States.

Does Nassau have Uber?

No. If you are in Nassau plan on renting a car or relying on taxis.

Can I drink tap water in Nassau?

No. Buy bottled water or a filter.

What to do in Nassau for free?

Any Caribbean Island can get insanely expensive so it is always a great idea to factor in some free things to do. Some of the best free things to do in Nassau include The Nassau Straw Market, The Queens Staircase, or visit a local beach. Read my post all about The Bahamas on a budget for more affordable ideas!

A Complete Travel Guide To Nassau Wrap Up

Nassau is truly the perfect place for a beach vacation. With the white sand, clear water, so much to do, this little island is truly amazing. We hope this complete travel guide to Nassau, Bahamas helps you plan a lovely trip. If you liked this post I think you will love our post all about How To Do The Bahamas On a Budget, A Complete Guide To St. Thomas and A Quick Guide To St. John in the United States Virgin Islands.