Does your Caribbean cruise include a day in port at Nassau, the Bahamas? Are you unsure how to make the most of your time during a cruise day in Nassau Port? This guide reviews the top activities and shore excursions for spending a day in the port. I’ll share top tips and recommendations so you can create unforgettable memories during your day in Nassau.
Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and a popular port of call on Caribbean cruise itineraries. Located on the island of New Providence, Nassau has just under 300,000 inhabitants. It’s a popular cruise port due to its rich history, beautiful beaches, stunning coral reefs, and a wide range of excursion opportunities.
What is the best way to maximize your time during your cruise day in Nassau? Please read on to discover all that Nassau has to offer cruise passengers.
Where is the Cruise Port of Nassau?
Nassau Cruise Port is located in the northwestern part of New Providence Island, one of the 30 islands that constitute the Bahamas. The cruise port is part of the Prince George Wharf and is also called Festival Place. Its proximity to downtown Nassau makes exploring the city and its attractions on foot or by taxi easy.
Up to seven cruise ships can dock at the Nassau cruise port, which makes the city busy in the high season. However, catching a ferry to one of the stunning islands close to northern New Providence is easy. It also only takes 35 minutes by taxi to get to the island’s western side to escape the masses of tourists.
Map of New Providence Island and Nassau
Arriving at Nassau Port on a Cruise
When disembarking from your cruise ship, you will see the iconic Arrivals Terminal Building, with its modern, awe-inspiring design. You can find authentic Bahamian food outlets in the terminal, an organized transportation hub, an amphitheater, entertainment venues, an art gallery, and green spaces to relax.
Arriving at the port of Nassau in the Bahamas on a cruise can be a hectic experience, especially if several cruise ships are in port. So, planning a tour, private guide, or shore excursion in advance is ideal. This way, you spend less time standing in line and more time exploring Nassau.
If this is your first time on a cruise in Nassau, then it’s probably best to arrange a ship-operated shore excursion. This is one of the safest and most reliable ways to spend an unforgettable day in the Bahamas. However, it’s good to note that they may be pricey and less personalized than booking a local tour.
For experienced cruisers, booking an independent, local guide or tour can give you the most authentic Bahamas experience. You can often arrange for a local guide to show you the historical downtown locations, drive to the best beaches, or spend a day on Paradise Island.
Related: How much does a cruise to the Bahamas cost?
Discovering Nassau Port, Bahamas
When leaving the port area, you will be on Bay Street, next to Nassau’s downtown. Many of Nassau’s historical sites are within walking distance of the port. These attractions include various fortifications, Parliament Square, the Queen’s Staircase, the National Art Gallery, museums, and the Nassau Straw Market.
You may get pestered by street vendors outside the terminal. However, this is typical for most port cities in the Caribbean. The vendors are only a mild nuisance near the terminal but usually stop pestering you when you walk downtown. Overall, the tourist areas in Nassau are safe for cruise passengers.
Exploring Nassau on a Cruise Day
As one of the most popular Caribbean cruise destinations, the capital of The Bahamas, Nassau, has plenty of things to do for visitors.
The coastline of New Providence has some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. There are ample opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottomed boat tours. For a luxurious experience, you could choose an all-inclusive beach club for your cruise day. Paradise Island is also a fun place to spend the day.
Is it Worth Getting off the Ship in Nassau?
It is worth disembarking at the cruise port in Nassau to experience authentic Bahamian culture. A new cruise ship terminal opened in Nassau in 2023, significantly improving the passenger experience. In the past, Nassau Port had a reputation for aggressive vendors trying to sell their wares. But now, certified vendors sell unique, locally produced crafts and products.
Getting Around Nassau From the Cruise Port
The major historical tourist attractions and beaches in Nassau are mostly accessible on foot. However, to get to other destinations, you can travel by taxi, pre-arranged shuttle bus, or local public transport. Here are more details about transport options for getting around Nassau.
Taxi
Outside the port, you’ll find plenty of taxis available for hire. According to the Nassau Cruise Port website, the taxis are metered. However, not all local cab drivers use the meters, so it’s best to confirm the fare before your journey. You may have to pay a surcharge if there are more than two passengers or if you have additional luggage. And don’t be surprised if the taxi driver wants the fare upfront.
Bus
Public bus transportation is cheap and efficient. Known as “jitneys,” a bus stop is outside the port area. Prices start at $1.50 per person for a one-way trip. It’s essential to note that exact change is required to pay the fare, and you will pay when you exit the bus.
Shuttle bus
For a stress-free experience, you can book a private transfer shuttle bus. Pre-booking means the bus awaits your arrival, and you don’t have to wait in line. The buses are generally air-conditioned and have English-speaking drivers. They operate services to major resorts and Paradise Island.
Pedicab tour of historical sites in Nassau
One of the best ways to explore the historical sites of Nassau on a cruise day in the port is by taking a pedicab tour. You sit back and relax while a knowledgeable guide takes you on a ride, highlighting the rich history and culture of this vibrant city. Pedicab tours of Nassau last around two hours.
Historic Sites to Visit in Nassau on a Cruise Day
Nassau has a rich and colorful history, reflected in its architecture and historic buildings. After being established by the British in the 17th century, it was ruled by the Spanish and French before returning to British hands.
Parliament Square
Parliament Square is the closest historical site to the cruise pier in Nassau. The historic buildings showcase the island’s rich colonial past. The pink-painted buildings with white columns stand out against the backdrop of palm trees and clear blue skies. Government buildings include the House of Assembly, the Senate, and the Supreme Court.
After getting off the cruise ship in Nassau, you may want to take a leisurely stroll around Parliament Square. This is a great location to admire the colonial architecture, take photos, and soak up the Bahamian atmosphere. There is also a statue of Queen Victoria dating back to the 1900s.
After admiring the pink colonial buildings in Parliament Square, you could head west toward other popular historical attractions of downtown Nassau.
Explore historical fortifications in Nassau
Nassau is home to ancient fortifications that protected the harbor area. Most of these attractions are a short walk from the cruise port terminal building. The forts housed large cannons to keep pirates and other invaders at bay. Many historic attractions in downtown Nassau are free for entry or for a minimal charge.
Fort Fincastle
Fort Fincastle is a historic fort built on Society and Bennet’s Hills in 1793 to protect Nassau from pirates. Just a 15-minute walk from the terminal, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. The unique building is built in the shape of a paddle-wheel steamer.
You generally get to Fort Fincastle by walking up the Queen’s Staircase. Once at the top, you get stunning views of the entire island and harbor area. Guided tours are available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on a donation basis.
Fort Charlotte
Fort Charlotte is a historic British colonial fort located on a hill overlooking the harbor. The imposing fortification is situated a 30-minute walk west of Nassau Cruise Port. It’s the largest fort in New Providence and has spectacular views of Nassau, Paradise Island, and the harbor.
Tour guides provide fascinating information on the fort’s history. Check ahead before including this attraction on a tour of Nassau to ensure it’s open. Also, a living historical exhibit is held twice a week, showcasing 18th-century Nassau life. Here, you can imagine what life was like during colonial times. If you are there at noon, you’ll experience cannon firing.
Fort Montagu
Fort Montagu is one of three historic forts in Nassau dating back to the 18th century. It’s a 10-minute taxi ride east from Festival Place. The well-preserved limestone fort was crucial in protecting Nassau from invading Spanish forces. It had provisions for holding 23 cannons and 95 barrels of gunpowder. Now, only four cannons remain.
Fort Montagu, at the east end of the harbor, is the oldest standing fort on New Providence Island. A guided tour of the fort gives you insight into fighting during colonial times in the Bahamas. Tours are available daily.
Climb up the Queen’s Staircase
Climbing the sixty-six steps of the Queen’s Staircase is a must-do activity in Nassau. Next to Fort Fincastle, the steps provide a direct route from the historic fort to Nassau City. It’s worth climbing the staircase to enjoy the incredible views of Nassau and the harbor from the top.
A highlight of the Queen’s Staircase is the welcome shade it offers from the scorching Caribbean sun. Lush tropical plants and palms line the staircase, giving you a break from the sunshine. At this attraction, you are close to Fort Fincastle, several museums, and the Nassau Straw Market.
Pompey Square
Pompey Square is a vibrant and historic square, only a short walk from the cruise ship terminal. It is named after Pompey, a slave who led a revolt against British colonial rule in the early 1800s. The slave auction in Nassau was located in this square.
Pompey Square on Bay Street is also home to the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation. However, you’ll also find several restaurants, shops, and water features if you want to cool off in the hot Caribbean sunshine. During some months, you can buy Bahamian art at the open-air market.
Visit museums in Nassau to learn about its history
For history buffs, downtown Nassau has several fascinating museums. These give unique insights into Nassau’s troubled past regarding slavery, pirate attacks, and Spanish invasions.
Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation
A visit to the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation provides a thought-provoking and educational experience during your cruise day in Nassau. Here, you can learn about the history of slavery in The Bahamas and the struggle for emancipation. The museum is in Pompey Square, which was once a marketplace where enslaved Africans were bought and sold.
Exhibits include artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that tell the story of slavery in The Bahamas and the fight for freedom. You’ll learn about Pompey, the enslaved person who led a rebellion on the island of Exuma. This key event influenced the passing of the Emancipation Act in 1834.
Pirates Of Nassau Museum
Visiting the Pirates of Nassau Museum in downtown Nassau offers an interactive experience into the world of piracy. Nassau was once a hotbed for pirates, and the shallow waters around the coast meant large warships couldn’t get close. The museum takes you back to the golden age of piracy in the Caribbean.
You are immediately transported to the 18th century as you enter the museum. You’ll learn about infamous pirates like Edward Teach “Blackbeard,” who once pillaged ships in the Caribbean. Interactive exhibits, weapons, treasure, and other pirate-related artifacts and displays are on display. To add to the interest, a replica pirate ship brings the stories of notorious pirates to life.
The museum also offers guided tours.
The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas
The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas provides insights into the ancient history and culture of the Bahamas before colonial rule.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Nassau cruise terminal, the Heritage Museum provides insights into the indigenous Lucayan people, a branch of the Tainos. Highlights of the museum include artifacts from the Lucayan and Arawak tribes and exhibits on slavery, piracy, and the struggle for independence.
Visiting the Bahamas’s Heritage Museum is ideal for a walking tour on a cruise day in Nassau. It is close to other historical buildings and the free Junkanoo Beach.
National Art Gallery of the Bahamas
The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located in the Villa Doyle, a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. The museum is in a yellow colonial mansion with white pillars and balconies. While touring the art gallery, you can admire its diverse collections and exhibitions of vibrant art. You can also explore the lush gardens.
Graycliff Hotel
The Graycliff Hotel is in a historic mansion built by an 18th-century pirate, Captain John Howard Graysmith. Now, it’s a five-star restaurant, ideal for a luxurious lunch on your cruise day.
Beyond its reputation as a premier dining destination, Graycliff offers more than meets the eye. Guests can witness the art of cigar rolling firsthand, adding a touch of old-world craftsmanship to their visit. Additionally, the Graycliff Chocolatier offers an interactive experience where guests can learn how to make their own chocolates, blending creativity with the indulgence of fine chocolate.
Blackbeard’s Tower
Blackbeard’s Tower is a historic landmark located 15 minutes by taxi east of the cruise port. It’s said that the famous pirate “Blackbeard” built a fort here, and the crumbling tower is all that remains. Unfortunately, the attraction is in a state of disrepair and not worth taking a special trip to see.
If you have limited time in port on a cruise day and want to take in historical landmarks, I’d recommend sticking to exploring the well-preserved forts in downtown Nassau.
Other Shore Excursions for a Cruise Day in Nassau
The historic capital of the Bahamas, Nassau, has plenty more to offer than historical buildings. Here are other excursions you can arrange during your cruise day in port.
Rum tasting at John Watling’s Distillery
No visit to The Bahamas would be complete without tasting locally-made rum. The John Watling’s Distillery is a short walk from the cruise ship terminal in the lush two-acre Buena Vista Estate. The distillery produces small batches of rum and is housed in a historic building dating back to the 1780s.
The distillery offers free tours so you can experience the rum production process. You can also try signature Bahamian cuisine in the Red Turtle Tavern. You can sit on the deck outside and enjoy the lush gardens and Caribbean sun.
Some food and rum-tasting tours also include John Watling’s distillery. In addition to enjoying various rum samples, the tour may consist of tasting chicken wings, boozy candies, and Bahamian wine. Before booking, it’s a good idea to check what’s included on the rum-tasting tour.
Cloisters and Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island
Cloisters and Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island offer peace and relaxation on a cruise day in Nassau Port. Just a short taxi ride from the terminal, these beautiful gardens provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the cruise ship crowds. The Medieval ruins feature lush landscapes, tropical flowers, white marble cloisters, and terraced gardens.
The Cloisters were initially built in France in the 14th century and later dismantled and brought to the Bahamas in the 1960s. The gardens offer picturesque surroundings, excellent photo opportunities, and stunning views of Paradise Island. Opening times vary, so check ahead if you want to include the gardens in your cruise day itinerary.
Shop at the Nassau Straw Market
Shopping at the Nassau Straw Market is a popular activity for a cruise day in port. Just a 6-minute walk from the terminal, you’ll find a bustling marketplace selling a range of goods. You can also find purses, hats, bracelets, shirts, and magnets.
Cruise passengers love shopping at the Straw Market in Nassau due to its proximity to the port. Additionally, you’ll find that the vendors are friendly and willing to bargain. So don’t be afraid to haggle to get their best price.
The market is ideal for picking up souvenirs on your way back to the ship after a walking tour in downtown Nassau.
Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center
The Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center is a unique attraction in the Bahamas. It is a small bird sanctuary, wildlife rehabilitation center, and zoo. This hidden gem is located near Fort Charlotte, just a short drive from the port, and offers you a great chance to get up close and personal with various exotic animals.
One of the highlights of the Ardastra Gardens is the opportunity to see the world-famous marching Caribbean flamingos. You can also feed playful parrots, observe boa constrictors, and interact with native wildlife.
In addition, the gardens have stunning tropical flowers, including orchids, bromeliads, bougainvillea, hibiscus shrubs, and tropical vines. The Ardastra Center provides a fun and educational day out for the family.
The Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center is located in the heart of Nassau, just an 8-minute taxi ride from the cruise port. However, the gardens are not always open, so check their opening times beforehand.
Bahamas National Trust’s Retreat Garden
You can escape the commotion of the cruise ship crowds by spending some of your day in the Retreat Garden. This stunning park is an 11-acre tropical garden featuring over 90 palm tree species. You can walk through paths lined with lush foliage and vegetation, oblivious to the fact that you’re in a busy cruise port.
This peaceful oasis is located a 10-minute taxi ride from the terminal building. Here, you leave the hustle and bustle of downtown Nassau, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. You can observe exotic birds in their natural habitat and admire the tropical shrubs, trees, and plants.
You can arrange a guided tour to learn more at the Retreat Garden. The park is only open three days a week, so it’s wise to check beforehand if it’s open when you’re in port.
Food Tour in Port at Nassau
Food tours in Nassau are popular with cruise passengers who want to experience genuine Bahamian cuisine. Here is a brief overview of some of the options available:
Food walking and rum tasting tour in downtown Nassau: Get to sample local rums, enjoy time in a pirate-themed pub, and try conch fritters.
Lunch adventure on Rose Island: Some operators offer travel by luxury powerboat to Rose Island to enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine, swim with pigs, and go snorkeling.
Walking food tours take you to pre-approved eateries, where you can try Bahamian mac’ n’ cheese, conch fritters, truffles, and specialty cocktails.
Some guided walking tours include a traditional Sunday lunch, rum cocktails, and local wines, and tell about the city’s rich history.
Arawak Cay (Fish Fry)
For cruise travelers seeking an authentic taste of Bahamian culture and cuisine, a visit to Arawak Cay, famously known as the Fish Fry, is a must when in Nassau. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, this vibrant area offers a culinary adventure that encapsulates the spirit of The Bahamas.
Arawak Cay is a lively strip dotted with colorful shacks and eateries, each serving up an array of Bahamian delicacies. As a cruiser, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood dishes like conch salad, grilled snapper, and lobster, all seasoned with local spices and flavors. The atmosphere at the Fish Fry is electric, with friendly locals and the rhythms of Bahamian music creating an immersive dining experience.
Aside from the mouthwatering food, Arawak Cay offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of Nassau residents, away from the tourist-centric areas. You can interact with local vendors, learn about the island’s culinary traditions, and maybe even pick up a recipe or two. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours off the ship, allowing you to soak up the culture and cuisine of The Bahamas in a relaxed and festive environment.
Getting to Arawak Cay from the cruise port is easy, with taxis readily available to take you there in minutes. It’s advisable to visit during the early afternoon or evening, when the area is most lively. Remember to bring cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.
Day Excursion to Atlantis Paradise Island
One of the best ways to enjoy a range of activities on your cruise day is to book a day pass at Atlantis on Paradise Island. The resort is a short taxi ride from the cruise port. The day pass gives you access to the following:
- Aquaventure water parks
- Dolphin Cay
- Dig aquarium tour
- Al fresco dining
- Shopping
- The Atlantis Lagoon
- Various marine habitats and exhibits
- Over five miles of white sand beaches
Atlantis is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving if you don’t want to travel too far from Nassau while in port. You can see coral, reefs, sea turtles, manatees, and sharks up close.
Fun Water Activities For Your Cruise Day in Nassau
Shore excursions in Nassau include various fun water activities, such as boat trips, snorkeling, scuba diving, and even swimming with pigs. Let’s look in detail at some ideas for spending a day in port in Nassau.
Fun day excursion aboard a Catamaran
A catamaran excursion while in Nassau lets you marvel at the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Several tour operators have kiosks in the terminal building. The catamarans typically have spacious decks and comfortable seating, providing a smooth sailing experience in warm ocean breezes.
Depending on the catamaran tour, you could be offered the following activities:
- Snorkeling in coral reefs and observing tropical marine life and sea turtles
- Sunbathing
- Swimming with pigs at Rose Island
- Lunch onboard
- Open bar
Some catamaran excursions also offer the opportunity to visit secluded beaches or nearby islands. These tours provide a more private and relaxing experience away from the throngs of crowds in Nassau on cruise day.
Marvel at marine life snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea
The Bahamas is a paradise for snorkelers, boasting crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, and even shipwrecks. Plenty of snorkeling excursions are available. Your cruise line or third-party vendor may offer combo tours with snorkeling and other activities.
One of the best snorkeling locations in Nassau is Stuarts Cove, located in the south of the island. Shore excursions include transport, which takes 30 minutes. Here, you can explore Nassau’s famous coral reefs and shipwrecks and marvel at colorful tropical fish. You can also swim with peaceful, calm sharks.
Snorkeling day excursions take between 2.5 and 5 hours, depending on the location and activities on offer.
Scuba diving with sharks at Stuart Cove’s
Swimming with sharks is a thrilling experience on offer at Stuart Cove’s. If you are a certified diver and want to feed sharks, this excursion is for you.
The shark diving trip includes swimming with sharks in their natural habitat on the first dive. On the second dive, you get the unforgettable experience of kneeling on the sand bottom and feeding sharks. The sharks get up close but are never threatening.
Spend the day in paradise at Blue Lagoon Island
The idyllic Blue Lagoon Island, also called Salt Cay, is located north of Paradise Island. This stunning private island is home to Dolphin Encounters, where you can swim with these playful marine creatures. Other ways to spend your day at the Blue Lagoon include a Segway safari tour, snorkeling among sharks and stingrays, and lunch.
Many day excursions to Blue Lagoon Island include shaded hammocks, inflatable tubes, a beach grill, paddleboards, kayaks, and games. However, checking with the tour operator about what’s included is best.
Swim with pigs at Rose Island
Swimming with pigs is one of the most unusual activities for a cruise day in Nassau. The 20 or so pigs reside on Rose Island and love the warm Caribbean waters as much as tourists do. After a 30-minute boat ride to the island, you get to interact with the friendly and adorable pigs.
After feeding the pigs and swimming with them, you can grab a drink and some snacks, chill out in a hammock, or take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters. This excursion typically lasts around four hours and includes a boat ride to and from Rose Island.
Aquaventure Water Park
The Aquaventure Water Park offers a thrilling and fun-filled way to spend your cruise day in port in Nassau. Located on Paradise Island in the Atlantis Resort, Aquaventure has everything you could hope for from a water park. It has many exhilarating water slides and attractions.
Here are some of the attractions on offer while spending your day at Aquaventure:
- Swimming pools
- Floating down a lazy river
- Private cabanas
- Eight thrilling water slides
- Tube rides
- Private beaches and stunning azure waters
- Variety of dining experiences
To enjoy Aquaventure Water Park, you must purchase a day pass to the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.
Glass-bottom boat tour
Several tour operators offer glass-bottom boat tours to experience the stunning sea gardens around Nassau. Some boats have an underwater observatory with 360° views where you can observe tropical reefs and coral fish. Depending on the tour, complimentary snacks and drinks may be available. It’s also possible to find boat tours that include snorkeling.
Pearl Island
On your day in port at Nassau, you can quickly escape to Pearl Island, a serene getaway just a short, roughly 20-minute boat ride away, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This private island has pristine beaches for sunbathing and swimming, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling tours, and an iconic lighthouse offering breathtaking views.
With the VIP Beach Escape package, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, enjoy guided snorkeling to explore the underwater world, and savor a delicious Bahamian lunch. For those seeking an added touch of luxury, private cabana rentals are also available.
Pearl Island ensures your visit is comfortable with comprehensive amenities, including clean facilities and beachside bars. It’s an ideal shore excursion for experiencing the beauty of the Bahamas efficiently and luxuriously, making the most of your limited time in Nassau.
The Best Beaches in Nassau
Relaxing on white sand beaches and swimming in the crystal clear blue waters of the Caribbean are among the top activities to consider during your cruise day in Nassau. The beaches in the Bahamas offer beautiful views and calm waters. Many also offer water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides.
Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is a public beach within walking distance of the Nassau Bahamas Cruise Terminal. It is a 10-minute walk along Woodes Rodgers Walk. Junkanoo Beach offers pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. There are also beach bars, restrooms, and water sports rentals.
Its proximity to the port makes it popular with cruise passengers. The beach features a lively Caribbean atmosphere with music, food, and local vendors. It’s also close to the Straw Market and several museums in downtown Nassau. However, the beach can get crowded on cruise days.
Cabbage Beach
Situated 6 miles (9.6 km) from the Nassau cruise terminal, Cabbage Beach is a stunning Caribbean beach. It’s known for its soft sands and calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also offers uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea. Amenities include beach chairs, umbrellas, showers, and restrooms.
Additionally, jet skis, banana boats, and kayaks are available for rent. Because it’s close to beach resorts on Paradise Island, it can get busy during the height of the cruise season from November through May.
Cable Beach
Situated 5 miles (8 km) from the Nassau cruise terminal, Cable Beach stretches over 2 miles with powdery white sands and calm waters. You can enjoy its stunning azure waters, beachside bars, and ocean views. Facilities at the beach include loungers, umbrellas, and water sports rentals. This beach tends to be quieter than beaches closer to the cruise terminal.
Cave Beach
Cave Beach is located on Paradise Island and offers a secluded setting away from the crowds of cruise passengers. It features natural caves and limestone formations that are easy to explore. Limited facilities are available, so bringing your own supplies is recommended. Cave Beach is perfect if you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path beach experience in the Caribbean.
Many visitors say that the coral reefs at Cave Beach are some of the most stunning and underrated in the Caribbean.
Love Beach
Love Beach is a hidden gem 25 minutes by taxi from the Nassau cruise terminal. In addition to its soft sands and crystal-clear azure waters, the beach is home to 40 acres of stunning protected coral reefs. During cruise days, you’ll find it’s less crowded than other popular beaches in Nassau.
Facilities are limited, but you can rent a beach chair and umbrella. Some resorts are nearby and offer all-inclusive day passes.
Saunders Beach
Saunders Beach is a popular public beach in Nassau, and it is less crowded than Junkanoo when cruise ships are in port. Located 2 miles from the Nassau cruise terminal, Saunders Beach offers a beautiful stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It has artificial coves for safe swimming, a playground, showers, and restrooms.
You can spend your cruise day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the calm waters, or snorkeling along the nearby reef. A shopping plaza is nearby if you need to pick up snacks and drinks. You can also reach the beach by catching the number 10 bus from downtown.
The Best Beach Resorts in Nassau
One of the best ways to spend a luxurious day on the beach in Nassau is by booking a day pass at one of the beach resorts. Here are some of the best options for an all-inclusive beach day:
Margaritaville Resort Hotel
The Margaritaville Beach Resort is one of the closest hotels to the cruise port terminal. It’s a 10-minute walk away. A day pass gives you access to several pools, a private beach, turquoise waters, a waterpark, and a lazy river. It’s important to note that you must purchase food and drink separately.
To help you relax, you can upgrade the pass to include various types of massages and all-day spa access.
RIU Palace Beach Resort
RIU Palace Beach Resort is a luxurious all-inclusive hotel on Paradise Island. The resort’s day pass gives you access to unlimited lunch, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a fitness center, swim-up bars, swimming pools, and poolside lounge chairs. There is also a grill station serving authentic Caribbean jerk food.
Baha Mar
One of the most luxurious beach resorts in Nassau is the Baha Mar Beach Club. With the day pass, you can access lounge seating, a private cabana, free Wi-Fi, food, and drinks from the restaurant. You can also enter a private beach and infinity pools in the crystal blue sea.
Next to Baha Mar is the fun-filled Baha Mar Waterpark. However, you must purchase a day pass to the waterpark separately. This spectacular park has slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, raft rides, a surf simulator, and the only water coaster in the Caribbean.
Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas
Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas Resort is an adult-only, all-inclusive resort offering day passes for cruise passengers. The deluxe day pass gives you access to a private lagoon, swimming pool, open bar, complimentary food, free Wi-Fi, lounge chairs, and a fitness center.
Visiting Nassau on Cruise Day: FAQs
Here are answers to questions many tourists ask before visiting Nassau on a Caribbean cruise for the first time.
What language do Bahamians speak?
English is the official language of the Bahamas. So, English is widely spoken throughout the islands, making it easy for you to communicate. Additionally, you may hear Bahamian Creole—a dialect incorporating African, Spanish, and English elements.
What’s the best time to visit Nassau in the Bahamas?
The best time to book a Caribbean cruise to the Bahamas is from December to April. Known as the dry season, Nassau has warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall at this time. Also, gentle sea breezes mean it never feels too hot. This climate is perfect for outdoor activities and beach excursions.
What currency is accepted in Nassau, and should I exchange money before arriving?
The Bahamian dollar (BSD or B$) is the official currency in Nassau, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas. Generally, there is no need to exchange money before arriving at the port.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Nassau, or should I carry cash?
Most tourist establishments in Nassau accept credit cards. However, carrying some cash for small purchases is a good idea, especially in case some places don’t accept cards. Cash is also helpful for tipping, especially as some museum and fort tours are free, and the guides depend on tips.
Is it customary to tip in Nassau, and if so, what is the recommended amount?
Tipping is customary in Nassau, similar to other Caribbean destinations. Many restaurants add a gratuity of 15% as standard. So, it’s up to your discretion to leave more for outstanding service. You can give a 10-15% tip for other services like taxis and tour guides.
Is it safe to explore Nassau on foot, or should I opt for organized tours?
Nassau is safe for tourists, and pushy, sometimes aggressive vendors no longer plague the terminal area. However, stick to the prominent tourist locations in downtown Nassau. You can book an organized shore excursion or hire a local guide to show you around for extra safety.
Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of to respect the culture of Nassau?
Respecting local customs and etiquette is essential in Nassau. Bahamians are friendly and rely on tourism. But they are also more laid-back. So try not to get frustrated or anxious if service is slower than expected. Also, remember that vehicles drive on the left. So, always check both ways before crossing the street.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency in Nassau, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Bahamas also has a tourist police force specifically trained to assist visitors. Be sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and keep important documents and emergency contacts easily accessible.
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