Nassau in the Bahamas is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. Some of the best beaches in Nassau are on Paradise Island, including Cabbage Beach, Arawak Beach, and Paradise Beach. On the south side of New Providence Island, Adelaide Beach is popular for swimming. For a day trip to some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, consider visiting Athol Island, Rose Island, or Blue Lagoon Island.
Nassau is a popular cruise destination in the Bahamas. The busy Lynden Pindling International Airport also has direct flights to the United States, the United Kingdom, and many other countries. This makes the island a popular choice for travelers wanting to spend an extended vacation in the Bahamas.
Nassau is home to over 30 beautiful, white-sand beaches. Some are located near the cruise terminal, whereas others are on sandy cays and uninhabited islands just off the coast. With so many choices, deciding where to spend your time on the island can be overwhelming.
This article is a comprehensive guide to Nassau’s stunning sandy beaches. You’ll discover what the popular beaches on the island have to offer cruise passengers and vacationers. I’ll also uncover hidden gems if you want to spend a secluded beach day in the Caribbean.
Let’s dive in and learn about the best beaches in Nassau.
Introducing Nassau in the Bahamas
Nassau, located on New Providence Island, is the largest city and capital of the Bahamas. The popular cruise port is one of the busiest in the world, with millions of passengers disembarking from cruise ships annually. The island is situated 180 miles (290 km) southeast of Miami, Florida.
Nassau is a vibrant and bustling city known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and colorful culture. The cruise terminal is situated beside the downtown area, making it easy to explore the historical attractions of Nassau on foot. Popular attractions in Nassau are Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, and the Queen’s Staircase.
Junkanoo Beach is the closest beach to Nassau Cruise Port. From the terminal, it’s a 10 to 15-minute walk along W Bay Street. You’ll pass by the Nassau Straw Market, Pompey Square, and Woodes Rogers statue on the way. Junkanoo Beach is part of the larger Western Esplanade Beach area, which offers beachfront bars and restaurants.
Western Esplanade Beach overlaps with Junkanoo Beach and offers the same lively beach experience. Close to the cruise terminal and downtown Nassau, the long stretch of pristine sand contrasts beautifully with the shallow, turquoise waters. This popular beach can get busy during the peak season and when cruise ships are in town.
How to Choose the Best Beaches in Nassau
Choosing the perfect beach in Nassau depends on factors like safety, amenities, and accessibility. For example, not all public beaches have lifeguards, and some have strong currents. Therefore, you must be cautious when swimming or snorkeling. Or you may want to plan a beach day in a secluded spot away from crowds.
Here are some helpful tips on choosing the best beaches to spend your vacation or cruise day in the Bahamas.
Safety: Always prioritize safety when selecting a beach, particularly when traveling with young children. Look for beaches with lifeguards on duty, clear signage, and calm waters. Cable Beach, Cabbage Beach, Junkanoo Beach, and Paradise Beach are relatively safe beaches.
Amenities: Consider beaches with ample amenities such as restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. If you plan to relax in the sun, sun chairs, umbrellas, and food vendors are essential. However, if you want to spend an active day at the beach, look for ones with water sports rental services.
Accessibility: Choose beaches that are easily accessible. Junkanoo Beach and the beaches on Paradise Island are closest to the cruise terminal. On the other hand, Saunders Beach, Cable Beach, and Goodman’s Bay are easily accessible by car and have excellent parking facilities. Regular buses (jitneys) run to Cable Beach from the Cruise Port.
Beauty: Nassau beaches are famous for their stunning natural beauty. Some of the most beautiful beaches on the island are Love Beach, Cabbage Beach, and Blue Lagoon Island Beach. Caves Beach is a spectacular stretch of sand backed with limestone caves.
Proximity to Port or Accommodation: If you arrive on a cruise ship in Nassau, choose a beach close to the terminal. You can walk to Junkanoo Beach or take a short taxi ride to Cabbage Beach, or Paradise Beach.
If you are on vacation in Nassau, you will likely find a beautiful beach nearby. Or you can rent a car and travel to a secluded beach to unwind and enjoy peace and tranquility in the sunshine of the Caribbean.
Are Beaches in Nassau Free to Access?
Most beaches in Nassau are public beaches and free to access. The most popular free beaches are Junkanoo Beach, Cable Beach, and Love Beach. However, you may have to pay for amenities like beach chairs and umbrellas. Some beaches have private areas that belong to resorts, and you must buy a day pass to use the beach facilities.
Getting to Beaches in Nassau
Nassau offers a variety of transportation options and an improving road infrastructure, making it relatively easy to access most beaches. From the port, you can rent a car, hire a taxi, or take one of the jitney buses to reach beaches along the island’s north coast. Additionally, Paradise Island is just a short taxi ride away from the cruise port, providing convenient access to its famous beaches. The jitney buses provide an affordable and popular mode of transport, though they can have variable schedules and routes.
Map of Nassau Beaches
Explore the stunning beaches of Nassau with this detailed map, highlighting key locations around New Providence Island and its nearby cays. Use the map to plan your beach visits and find the perfect spots for relaxation and adventure.
The Best Beaches Close to Nassau Cruise Port
Several beaches in Nassau are close to the cruise terminal. For example, two beaches—Junkanoo Beach and Western Esplanade Beach—are within walking distance, and others are a 5-minute taxi ride away.
Let’s examine the top beaches in Nassau near the cruise ship terminal in more detail.
Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is the closest beach to the cruise port in Nassau. It only takes 15 minutes on foot to get there. The small, white sandy beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and shallow, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming. Here, you can enjoy various watersports, loud music, and plenty of fun.
Junkanoo Beach is close to downtown Nassau, making it an excellent beach for cruise passengers to enjoy a day without venturing far. Nearby attractions to the beach include Nassau Straw Market, various museums, and John Watling’s Distillery.
The beach offers various amenities, including bars, restaurants, massages, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. It’s the perfect destination for a fun and festive beach experience near downtown Nassau.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 0.6 miles (1 km)
- Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, water sports rentals, restrooms
- Atmosphere: Lively and festive, popular with tourists and locals
Western Esplanade Beach
Western Esplanade Beach overlaps with Junkanoo Beach and offers the same lively beach experience. Close to the cruise terminal and downtown Nassau, the long stretch of pristine sand contrasts beautifully with the shallow, turquoise waters. This popular beach can get busy during the peak season and when cruise ships are in town.
Western Esplanade Beach features beach bars, restaurants, and water sports rentals. It’s good to note that no lifeguards are on duty at the beach. However, its shallow waters are calm and relatively safe.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
- Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, water sports rentals, restrooms
- Atmosphere: Lively and active with plenty of activities
Cable Beach
Cable Beach is a family-friendly oasis with shallow turquoise waters and stunning white sand. The beautiful Caribbean beach gently slopes into the water, making it safe for swimming. This public beach is 2.5 miles (4 km) long, and its crystalline, shallow waters are ideal for a range of water sports and snorkeling.
Many travelers regard Cable Beach as one of the best in Nassau. Plenty of facilities are available, including beach chairs, umbrellas, restaurants, beach bars, and boat trips. Even on busy cruise days, the long stretch of sand never feels overly crowded. You can always find a secluded spot to relax and unwind.
Cable Beach is also home to some excellent resorts if you want to relax in luxury at the beach. Day passes often include beverages, food, access to swimming pools, showers, and a spot on the beach away from pesky vendors. Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or fun in the sun with the kids, Cable Beach has something for everyone.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 6 miles (10 km)
- Facilities: Beach loungers, umbrellas, water sports rental, beach restaurants and bars, luxury resorts
- Atmosphere: Relatively quiet and usually free from large crowds
Saunders Beach
Saunders Beach is a popular public beach that is free to enter. It’s a perfect place for a family-friendly beach day in Nassau. The pristine white sand beach has a gentle slope into sheltered waters, making it ideal for swimming. Lush trees and palms provide welcome shade in the hot Caribbean sunshine.
The beach is mainly deserted during the week and gets busier on weekends and public holidays. The beach is well worth visiting on your vacation or cruise day, as there are food shacks, restrooms, and a playground. You can easily get to Saunders Beach by taxi, public transport, or car.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 2.6 miles (4 km)
- Facilities: Picnic areas, playground, restrooms
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly and relaxed, ideal for a casual beach day
Goodman’s Bay
Goodman’s Bay is a tranquil beach located between Cable Beach and Saunders Beach. Compared to Cable Beach, the stretch of white sand offers a more peaceful experience. The shoreline is soft sand with crystal-clear waters protected by trees. Facilities at the beach include beach bars, restrooms, lounge chairs, and umbrellas.
Goodman’s Bay consistently ranks high in reviews of Nassau’s beaches. Access to the beach is easy and close to the parking lot. Families enjoy the beach for its excellent swimming opportunities in calm, shallow waters.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 4 miles (6.4 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, parking, beach chairs, umbrellas, dining options, swimming, boat rides
- Atmosphere: Quiet and serene, popular with families
The Best Beaches on Paradise Island
Some of the most spectacular beaches on Nassau are on Paradise Island, a beautiful island north of the cruise terminal.
Here are some of the best beaches on Paradise Island:
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is a stunning, family-friendly beach located on the famous Paradise Island, north of the cruise port in Nassau. The mile-long stretch of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters lined by palm trees makes you feel like paradise. The beach offers a combination of secluded and lively spots, and various water sports are available.
The public area of Paradise Beach has basic amenities like umbrellas and beach chairs. However, using the facilities at the nearby Atlantis Resort can be expensive. Therefore, if you are traveling on a budget, you should stick to the more popular beaches in Nassau.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 3 miles (4.8 km)
- Facilities: Beach chairs, umbrellas, water sports rentals; however, expect to pay high fees for the resort facilities
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and luxurious, popular with tourists
Arawak Beach
Arawak Beach is the least crowded beach in Nassau. This quiet, secluded hidden gem is on the most easterly point of Paradise Island. It’s the ideal location to unwind and relax on powdery white sand, listening to the soft waves of the Caribbean Sea. The beach only has basic facilities and no restrooms.
Arawak Beach is not as developed as other beaches on Paradise Island. However, this adds to its charm and raw beauty if you want an authentic Caribbean beach experience.
You shouldn’t confuse Arawak Beach with Arawak Cay, famously known as the Fish Fry due to the eateries that specialize in seafood, and that is located west of Nassau’s Cruise Port.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: Approximately 3 miles (4.8 km)
- Facilities: Limited amenities, nearby local restaurants
- Atmosphere: Quiet and local, great for a tranquil beach day
Smugglers Beach
Smugglers Beach is a hidden gem in Nassau, offering a secluded and tranquil beach experience on a vacation or cruise day. This beach is far from crowded tourist areas, and you can relax and unwind in peace. It’s popular with couples, single travelers, and anyone wanting a deserted getaway.
While amenities are minimal, the beach’s natural beauty and quiet atmosphere provide a perfect retreat for relaxation. It’s an ideal stop if you seek solitude and a connection with nature.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: Approximately 4 miles (6.4 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and tranquil with little to no tourists
Cabbage Beach
Cabbage Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque destinations on Paradise Island. The two-mile stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear azure waters is regarded as the best beach in Nassau. It offers plenty in the way of relaxation, water sports, sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming.
Despite its popularity, the expansive shoreline ensures you can always find a secluded spot to relax and enjoy the stunning views in the shade of swaying palm trees. Public access to the beach is free, making it an affordable option for visitors, and it is close enough to the cruise port in Nassau to spend an enjoyable cruise day.
Cabbage Beach is also an ideal beach destination for families. Despite lacking lifeguards, the tranquil, shallow waters and soft sandy bottom provide ideal swimming opportunities. There are also plenty of activities if you’re looking for fun at one of Nassau’s public beaches.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 2.5 miles (4 km)
- Facilities: Water sports rentals, scuba diving, parasailing, snorkeling, banana boats, nearby restaurants, and bars
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and bustling, great for activities and relaxation
Colonial Beach
Colonial Beach is a stunning stretch of white-sand shoreline and clear turquoise waters on Paradise Island. This hidden gem is free for public access and is rarely crowded, even on busy cruise days. The picturesque beach, with its swaying trees, makes you feel like you are in a tropical paradise.
Although amenities are limited, the beach is the perfect escape from the busy beaches near the Atlantis Resort. Its natural beauty and tranquility provide the ideal location to relax, unwind, sunbathe, and swim in peace.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: Approximately 2.5 miles (4 km)
- Facilities: Limited amenities
- Atmosphere: Serene and picturesque, ideal for relaxation
The Best Beaches in Nassau, The Bahamas
New Providence Island has many stunning beaches if you are on an extended vacation or want to venture farther than the cruise port.
Love Beach
Love Beach is a serene, picturesque stretch of pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation lining the shore. This spectacular mile-long beach has a vibrant coral reef close to the shore, making it perfect for snorkeling. It’s also less crowded than other beaches on the island’s northern coast.
Love Beach offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas, making it ideal for couples and those seeking solitude. Few facilities are available at the beach. You can usually rent a beach chair and umbrella, and there are hammocks, cabanas, and natural pools. Also, some parts of the beach can be somewhat rocky.
As its name suggests, Love Beach is a serene, romantic escape and the perfect destination for a laid-back day by the Caribbean Sea.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 12 miles (19 km)
- Facilities: Restaurant and bar and chair and umbrella rental
- Atmosphere: Quiet and serene, ideal for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling
Caves Beach
Caves Beach is ideal if you want to find the most secluded beach in Nassau. The stunning golden sand beach and its fascinating caves create a unique natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The beautiful beach and caverns provide a scenic backdrop and shelter from the sun or rain in the wet season.
This hidden gem west of Cable Beach provides the ideal getaway to relax in a secluded spot away from crowds of tourists. Visitors to the beach also say it’s one of the most underrated snorkeling spots in Nassau. There is only a Tiki hut at the beach; however, some restaurants are nearby.
Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beautiful sandy shoreline or explore the caves, this beach offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist spots.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 9 miles (14.4 km)
- Facilities: Limited amenities, natural surroundings
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and scenic, ideal for relaxing and exploring natural cave systems
Clifton Heritage National Park Beaches
Clifton Heritage Park is home to stunning beaches on the western shore of New Providence Island. A rocky shoreline and sandy beach are close to the park’s entrance. This area in the park features a mesmerizing underwater sculpture garden and statues. Snorkeling also lets you explore vibrant marine life in the coral reefs.
The peace and tranquility of the beaches in Clifton Heritage National Park are a welcome escape from other attractions that are usually overrun by tourists.
Other attractions near the National Park’s beaches include the Sacred Space at Clifton Pier, Pirate Stairs, Tiki Bar, and nature trails.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 17 miles (27 km)
- Facilities: Picnic areas, restrooms, historical sites, nature trails
- Atmosphere: Secluded and serene, perfect for nature and history enthusiasts
Adelaide Beach
Adelaide Beach is a hidden gem on New Providence Island’s southern coast. This unspoiled Caribbean beach is known for its serene, soft white sand, clear, calm waters, and lush vegetation along the shoreline. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and chilling in a tropical landscape.
Adelaide Beach’s remote location ensures a peaceful beach experience. Here, you can enjoy tranquility, calm, and magnificent sunsets. A unique feature of the beach is the sandbanks and seashells that appear at low tide. The beach is ideal for family vacations because it has shallow, calm waters.
The beach has minimal amenities, with a few local restaurants in the village offering affordable Bahamian dishes.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 14 miles (22.5 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Serene and unspoiled, perfect for solitude and nature lovers
Jaws Beach
Jaws Beach is a serene, picturesque, isolated spot on the western tip of New Providence Island. The unspoiled hidden gem has rocky protrusions, clear, calm, shallow waters, and a soft sandy shoreline, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. The vibrant coral reef is just offshore, where snorkeling lets you explore tropical marine life.
Don’t let the name put you off—you’ll probably never see sharks here. The beach got its name from the filming location of the movie “Jaws: The Revenge.” It’s worth visiting this beach to enjoy the Caribbean’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere away from the busier tourist areas.
Though there are minimal amenities, the beach’s unspoiled charm attracts visitors looking for a quiet, scenic location. Trees provide plenty of shade. However, you must bring snacks and drinks as no facilities are nearby.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 16 miles (26 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Quiet, scenic, and tranquil—ideal for relaxation and nature lovers
Pearl Beach
Not to be confused with the beach on Pearl Island, Pearl Beach on the island’s west coast is a wide stretch of unspoiled sand. Its remote location beside Jaws Beach means you can always find tranquility and serenity relaxing on the soft white sand or swimming in crystal-clear, calm waters.
It’s important to note that Pearl Beach does not have amenities. However, its isolated surroundings make it a perfect backdrop for relaxation, far from the crowds of tourists at the more popular beaches.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: Approximately 16.5 miles (26.5 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and serene, ideal for unwinding in the shade of trees
South Ocean Beach
South Ocean Beach is on the island’s southwestern coast. Its isolated location and pristine sand offer a serene and scenic retreat. The deserted beach’s crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Because tourists rarely visit the beach, you can enjoy a peaceful ambiance relaxing in the Caribbean sun.
Things to do near South Ocean Beach include playing golf, as the Blue Shark Golf Course and Albany Golf Course are nearby. If you’re looking for a more luxurious beach experience, the Albany Resort offers day passes and has excellent dining options. This gives you access to the private beach area, swimming pools, water park, and water sports.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 17 miles (27 km)
- Facilities: None
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and natural, ideal for a quiet retreat
Coral Harbour Beach
Coral Harbour is a serene, secluded beach on the island’s southern shore. The beautiful stretch of coastline has soft, powdery white sand, calm, shallow, crystalline waters, and shade from Australian pines and swaying palm trees. A small, unassuming development provides a range of amenities at the beach.
Things to do at the beach include horseback riding, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayak tours, and nature walks. After taking a dip in the beautiful Caribbean Sea, you can relax in a hammock and be refreshed by the cooling sea breeze.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 13 miles (20 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic tables, beach chairs, food and beverage vendors, water sports rentals (from the resort)
- Atmosphere: Tranquil and family-friendly, with a variety of activities to enjoy
Montagu Beach
Montagu Beach is a family-friendly public beach offering beautiful views of Paradise Island and Athol Island. This lovely spot features soft sand and calm, shallow waters. Several breakwaters protect the area from strong waves, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Palm trees lining the beach provide plenty of shade.
Amenities at Montagu Beach include showers, restrooms, and changing rooms. There is also a parking lot if you arrive by car. The beach is mainly unspoiled and offers an authentic Caribbean beach experience. You can also visit the historic Fort Montagu, adding a touch of history to your beach day.
Montagu Beach is also the departing point for catching the ferry to Da Pig Beach on Rose Island, where you can swim with friendly pigs.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 2 miles (3.2 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, parking, picnic areas, food vendors
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly and historical, perfect for a relaxing day
Yamacraw Beach
Yamacraw Beach is a peaceful, uncrowded beach on the eastern shore of New Providence Island. The stunning beach is around 0.5 miles (0.8 km) long and has powdery, soft, white sand, the clearest waters on Nassau, and a gentle slope to enter the water. The beach’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a great escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.
At Yamacraw Beach, you will find basic amenities, including restrooms and parking. You should bring your own drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment to fully enjoy a relaxing beach day of swimming and sunbathing. Additionally, you can explore the nearby bonefish flats, offering excellent opportunities for seeing local marine life. Several popular restaurants are conveniently located close to the beach for when you get hungry.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 8 miles (13 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms
- Atmosphere: Quiet and tranquil, ideal for relaxation
The Best Beaches on Islands and Cays Near Nassau
Stunning uninhabited islands, cays, and inlets surround New Providence Island. It is possible to arrange excursions to many of these spectacular islands if you want to spend a day relaxing on secluded beaches in the Caribbean.
Balmoral Island
Balmoral Island is a private island destination known for its pristine beaches and luxurious amenities. Located just north of Cable Beach, the stunning island beaches offer white sandy shores, clear, calm waters, and fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Activities at the beach include swimming with dolphins, lounging under a cabana, and dining options.
While Balmoral Island is known for its beautiful scenery and inviting waters, it receives mixed reviews from visitors. Common issues include long and uncomfortable transportation, overcrowded facilities, and high costs not matching the value. While some enjoy the beach experience, others find it underwhelming and overpriced. It’s important to read recent reviews and do your own research, as reviews are personal opinions.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 6 miles (9.6 km) and a short boat trip
- Facilities: Beach cabanas, restaurants, water sports, dolphin encounters
- Atmosphere: Exclusive and luxurious, ideal for a day of relaxation and adventure
Blue Lagoon Island Beach
An excursion to Blue Lagoon Island is one of the best ways to swim with dolphins in Nassau. This stunning tropical paradise features pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Reefs off the shoreline provide some of the best snorkeling opportunities in Nassau.
Blue Lagoon Island offers unique experiences, such as dolphin and sea lion encounters, an inflatable aqua park, beach sports, paddleboards, kayaks, and underwater scooters. It’s a fantastic destination for families, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to relax on secluded beaches.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 4 miles (6.5 km)
- Facilities: Snorkeling, restaurants, bars, dolphin encounters, cabanas, restrooms, secluded lagoons
- Atmosphere: Relaxing with plenty of fun activities available
Pearl Island Beaches
Pearl Island is one of the most picturesque private islands near Nassau. The small island has two pristine beaches, easy access to crystal-clear waters, and protected coral reefs. Here you can relax in the sun listening to the lapping sea. Or you can snorkel on the vibrant reefs to explore stunning marine life.
Other facilities at Pearl Island include kayaking, paddleboarding, restaurants, and bars. You can also explore the island’s rocky coastline, admire the lighthouse, or unwind on an isolated beach under a cabana.
Despite its beautiful scenery, Pearl Island receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights its stunning beauty, clean facilities, and enjoyable activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Visitors also appreciate the friendly staff and the overall relaxing atmosphere.
However, some criticisms include issues with crowded facilities, limited food options, and the island feeling too commercialized. A few guests mentioned the high cost relative to the experience offered. Overall, it’s a beautiful spot but may not meet all expectations.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 8-mile (12 km) boat trip from Nassau (30 minutes)
- Facilities: Snorkeling, dining options, cabanas, beach chairs, paddleboards, kayaks, swimming
- Atmosphere: Quiet and relaxed
Beaches on Athol Island
Athol Island beaches are the perfect destination in Nassau if you want to swim with pigs. The best way to get to the private island is by booking an excursion. This usually includes snorkeling in protected sea gardens and spending time on one of the stunning island beaches.
Snorkeling at Athol Island lets you experience vibrant marine life like stingrays, nurse sharks, and colorful coral fish. However, the highlight of the tour is the interactions with the island’s friendly pigs at Pigs Beach.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 25-minute boat ride from Nassau
- Facilities: Swimming, snorkeling, restaurants, bars, boat trips
- Atmosphere: Fun and friendly
Beaches on Rose Island
Rose Island is a captivating private haven with a stunning 11-mile (18 km) stretch of pristine white shoreline. This picturesque island has an incredible coral reef, lush vegetation, and some of the clearest waters in the Bahamas. It’s the perfect paradise island escape for sunbathing, snorkeling, or unwinding in a beachfront hammock.
Other activities on Rose Island include kayaking, beach sports, paddleboarding, and a small bar. Day excursions to the private island usually include a welcome drink, buffet lunch, and access to water sports. Guided snorkeling tours take you to the best spots to explore marine flora and fauna.
- Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 25-minute boat ride from Nassau
- Facilities: Hammocks, cabanas, snorkeling, water sports, beach activities, and restrooms
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and lively, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation in secluded spots
The Best Nassau Beach Resorts
Nassau boasts some of the best beach resorts in the Caribbean. These resorts offer luxurious accommodations, access to pristine beaches, and a range of activities for all types of travelers.
Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island
Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is one of the most popular resorts in Nassau. This fun-filled resort includes a water park, golf course, bars, and restaurants. It also features a vast marine habitat for sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and manta rays. Guests have access to three natural beaches spanning five miles (8 km) in length.
At Atlantis Resort, you can enjoy:
- Water sports such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and paddleboarding
- Aquaventure Water Park with slides and a lazy river
- Dolphin Cay for swimming with dolphins
- Casino
- Golf course
Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Goldwynn Resort & Residences
Goldwynn Resort & Residences offers a luxurious and intimate beachfront experience in Nassau. Located at Cable Beach, not far from the cruise port, this upscale resort features a private beach, fine-dining restaurants, and swimming pools. You can relax under a cabana, attend yoga classes, or snorkel in the crystal clear sea.
At Goldwynn Resort & Residences, you can indulge in:
- Spa treatments and wellness programs
- Gourmet dining experiences
- Beachfront infinity pool
- Fitness center and yoga classes
- Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding
Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is a luxurious resort located at Cable Beach in Nassau. This sprawling resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring multiple pools, the Caribbean’s largest casino, an 18-hole golf course, and a range of dining options. Guests also have private access to a pristine beach with palapas and lounge chairs.
Activities at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar include:
- Water sports such as snorkeling and paddleboarding
- ESPA spa treatments
- Access to the beachfront Baha Bay Water Park with water slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator
- Casino
- Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course
Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 5 miles (8 km)
Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, Bahamas
Margaritaville Beach Resort promises a serene yet luxurious escape with options ranging from laid-back and relaxing to action-packed. Located near the Cruise Port in Nassau, the resort at Junkanoo Beach features a thrilling water park, full-service spa, fitness center, and several dining options.
The beautifully designed rooms and suites offer stunning ocean views and a panorama of nearby islands with lush greenery and white sandy beaches, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence.
Activities at Margaritaville Beach Resort include:
- Water sports and beach activities
- Fins Up Water Park with slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator
- Luxurious spa
- On-site restaurants and bars
- Live entertainment
Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Rosewood Baha Mar
Rosewood Baha Mar offers a luxury beach experience on the pristine white sands of Cable Beach. The resort lets you relax in luxury with stunning views over the Caribbean Sea. Luxurious amenities at the resort include various swimming pools, world-class dining options, a casino, spa, golf course, and an art gallery.
Activities at Rosewood Baha Mar luxury resort include the following:
- Water sports and snorkeling
- Luxury spa
- Multiple fine-dining restaurants
- Private beach access to Cable Beach
- Golf at the Royal Blue Golf Club
- Poolside and beach cabanas
- Access to Baha Bay Water Park
Distance from Nassau Cruise Port: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)
Nassau Beaches FAQs
Is it safe to walk around Nassau, Bahamas?
Walking around Nassau is generally safe, especially in well-populated areas like downtown and Paradise Island. However, exercise usual travel precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings. Also, don’t flash cash or wear expensive jewelry.
What are the risks of walking along a public beach in Nassau or Paradise Island (Bahamas)?
Public beaches in Nassau or Paradise Island are generally safe. However, always keep an eye on personal belongings, as petty theft can happen. Also, stay well-hydrated and use sunscreen to minimize the risks of sunburn and dehydration. Also, pay attention to warning signs about jellyfish or strong currents.
Does Nassau have good waves for surfing?
Nassau is not typically known for large surfing waves. However, during stormy weather, you may get good waves and moderate swells at Yamacraw Beach or Cabbage Beach. However, surfing opportunities are few and far between.
Where can I find the best nightlife near the beach?
For the best nightlife experience, head to Cable Beach or Junkanoo Beach. These areas offer a variety of bars, clubs, and beach parties. The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island also features numerous nightlife options, including a casino, bars, and nightclubs.
Are there beaches suitable for romantic getaways?
The most popular beach in Nassau for couples is Love Beach. This romantic getaway features swaying palms, soft white sands, clear waters, and a secluded atmosphere. It’s also a peaceful and intimate setting for relaxing and watching stunning tangerine sunsets over the Caribbean.
Are there any pet-friendly beaches in Nassau?
Cabbage Beach and Love Beach are the two pet-friendly shorelines in Nassau. These beaches are rarely crowded, and you can enjoy time with your furry friends in relative peace. However, be aware of sand flies and stray dogs. Always check local regulations before taking your pet to other beaches.
What are the best beaches in Nassau for sunset views?
For the best sunset views in Nassau, head to Love Beach, Cable Beach, or Cabbage Beach. As the sun goes down, you can enjoy stunning views as the sky turns orange and red hues over the crystal-clear waters. Many sunset cruises start from Cable Beach.
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